Is it EVER going to get easier?

I am sitting here contemplating how I am going to deal/handle with yet another “drama” with my daughter. Just when I think there’s hope, the mask comes off and here comes reality smacking me in the face.

I just grounded my daughter.

I had to think about what type of punishment would really get her attention since I feel I have done everything possible to try to work with her. She is a month away from turning thirteen and the phrase “she’s just a kid” is not working in my household anymore.

It is apparent that it’s giving her the idea that she is untouchable and won’t have to suffer any serious consequences. Now don’t get me wrong this isn’t the first time she has been grounded, but I don’t think she takes her punishment or me seriously.

So my measures this time are really to hit her where it hurts. I have had the talk, taken away the phone, prevented outings, no electronics, etc. etc. it’s all been done, but she still finds the need to be sneaky, disobedient, and have a slick mouth. I consider myself a pretty strict parent anyone who knows me personally would tell you I don’t take crap from my kids. But I have always had an open forum for communication with both my girls. My ten-year old doesn’t seem to have the same issue her older sister does. These two couldn’t be more different. I get it there is still time for my little one to show out but it isn’t the case right now.

I will let her know exactly what she is grounded for, why, and for how long. She will have to do a lot of work to regain my trust and show me the wonderful young girl I know she can be and once was before all the distractions took over. It won’t be easy but I have faith in both her and myself and hopefully 2016 will be a better year for both of us.

I am hoping this punishment really lets her know that Mami isn’t playing, and she has used up ALL her lifelines with me. It doesn’t mean she won’t ever get in trouble again or make mistakes, but there is a line I must draw. She is definitely showing me if I don’t nip this in the bud now thirteen will only be the beginning of me loosing my mind. Plus with her having a younger sister I need her to see Mami is not going to just sit around and let us run this house. I am the BOSS and I am perfectly okay with them knowing that. This is my job as their MOTHER…

So parents of preteens and teenagers, I ask you. “Is it EVER going to get easier?” And has your child brought you to that point where you knew the punishment needed to be a real good one?