Mimi, your description of your son made me laugh. This is my world every day! Although the boys usually smile a little more at school as opposed to when they are with their parents. It keeps me young, but I am ready to admit that I am glad this is my last year.
Veronica, thanks for the kind words about the Marines. I have accepted it, obviously there is nothing I can do, but I'm still pissed about it! He is very happy, and definitely didn't do it for politcal reasons, but it's really hard for anyone around to here to understand. The military is seen as an option for losers and it's a very anti-war atmosphere. I spent most of my teenage years protesting on the Boston Common. so you probably get my drift. I just want him to finish school, but now he is talking about getting into the intelligence unit, which would require a reenlistment. The longer he stays in, I think it will be harder for him to go back to civilian life. I think he really doesn't know what he wants to do; of course, I look back and think maybe he is trying to still erase his past image as a wimpy little Jewish boy! I mean, when he was little, he sucked at sports and his brother was great. It wasn't until he started cycling in 8th grade that he started turning into a super fit person. He also has the "teacher" gene and has done a lot of work with kids. I always envisioned him teaching high school history, which is a real passion for him.
Sorry about my rant, but this is something I can't really discuss with anyone, except my husband.

Robyn