Confessions of a teenager's overbearing cousin...

"Susan Chechi, I feel sorry for your future children." This was the comment made by my 15-year-old cousin, Leslie as we drove to the mall yesterday in search of the perfect prom dress for her older sister. I love the fact that Ashley and Leslie are growing up because now I can rest in the passenger seat as one of them drives, I can make them run mindless errands for me, and they are old enough to watch more movies than just rated PG. These things make my life a lot easeir. However, it's difficult to actually see them growing up. It's almost painful. I still remember gagging as I attempted to change Ashley's diaper when she was 2 and peering at Les through the glass window of the Newborn Unit when she was born. So, it's just weird to accept the fact that they are both taller than me, (which means I have to look up to them if I don't wear heels), that guys talk to them and they talk to guys, and they wear more sophisticated clothes than I do.

I'm forever yelling at Leslie for wearing clothes that make her look older. She rolls her eyes, which is so typical of teenagers today. Bleh. But shopping for a prom dress for Ashley took the cake. How and why do these little girls fashions include plunging necklines, bare backs, and peak-a-boo mid-drifts?!? They should be banned from highschools everywhere! "This looks okay, right?" This was the question asked by Ash in reference to the gold beaded dress with a neckline that basically went down to her naval. Okay, maybe I exaggerate just a tad. But, I've never worn anything that shows so much cleavage in my 30 years of life! I looked at her mother waiting for outrage. "It's okay," my aunt shrugged. I was outraged. This was sheer lunacy. I grabbed Ash by the shoulder and spun her around to reveal her bare back. Finally, my aunt gave the appropriate answer. "No, mola." Thank Heavens!

I think both girls were ready to escort me home in a straight jacket and muzzle by the end of the night. Ash did find a pretty dress...that I somewhat approve of. It's a lovely shade of green with silver beadwork. Of course it's strapless and shows a bit of cleave, but I guess I'll deal. However, I have taken it upon myself to find her a nice shawl that will cover her up a bit. ;)