Okay, before you jump down my throat about the title of this piece, please keep in mind that I fully recognize two things: 1 - use of the term “nerd” is totally inappropriate and demeaning in many regards and 2 - I should be so lucky as to have a quote/unquote nerd for a son. A boy who’s smart, kind, responsible and well mannered. Uhm, yeah…I get these things, but it doesn’t make my slight disappointment any less real.

So, here’s the situation. I own, manage, create and generally breath all things modern, stylish and cool for kids. That is currently my role in life and I relish it (most of the time). So the fact that my child is essentially poo-pooing my lifestyle leaves me a bit taken back. Yes, I should be supporting his individuality. Yes, I should be allowing him to find his own path. Yes, I should be…blah blah blah. Uh huh. I should be, but when all he wants to do is wear a navy polo with khaki pleated shorts and cut his long wavy surfer ‘do down to a proper young republican’s coif…I get a bit irritated. Seriously? Have we taught you nothing about being awesome? We actually suggested playing hookie one day during the school year and choir boy responded with…”no, thank you…I don’t want to miss math.” Most parents develop angst over how their child will rebel (pierced body parts, tattoos, long hair). Me, I shudder at the very mention of math club.

Ok, I’ve said it. It’s out there. Yes, I know I’m going straight to hell.