And all that teen Jazz angst!

My wonderful brother sometimes complains that I don't write enough about his First Nephew. So, here is a post all about ASid and "All that Jazz”!

Last evening, I was busy making dinner and ASid wondered if he could play some music on the TV. He really meant a YouTube video on TV. I was like sure! So, he played a Jazz video.

In the middle of it, my brother called. Since I had to tend to the oven and the stove at the same time, I handed the phone to ASid. My brother asked about his exams as this is exam week for TDSB high school students, and then the conversation shifted to music. ASid got excited and shared with his uncle that he is listening to Jazz these days and how he regrets giving up his piano lessons and clarinet courses. It was a very revealing and grown up conversation, and I was quite impressed with how reflective ASid sounded.

I was obviously listening to both sides as I put the phone on speaker before I passed it off to ASid. This kid loves his privacy and yet he is a little oblivious sometimes. It is a sweet little trait if Momley gets a wee bit of benefit out of it on occasion!

After the call ended, Craigley walks in. He wanted to know what ASid was listening to. ASid indicated that it was Jazz Instrumental. Craig wondered if ASid would like to know the Greats in Jazz?! ASid didn't seem too interested. Craigley kinda expressed his disappointment and at the same time commented on the quality or lack thereof to what ASid was listening to. To which, ASid responded with "I don't care!"

What a different conversation. I could understand Craigley's perspective as he has impeccable taste in music that ranges from Classical to Contemporary and everything in between. Perhaps he wanted to share his immense knowledge with his son?! Whatever the reasons are, sometimes it is best to appreciate whatever culture a child shows without trying to culture them.

I guess my brother just did that and I realized how far he had come from the 15 year old boy who listened to "head banger" music with his best friend Olly! To be honest, that drove me crazy then and yesterday, ASid's music drove me a little crazy as well! 

However, I didn’t/don't complain and there are no hurt feelings; the kid is happy and I walk away with a tale. I am totally acing this parenting thing...for now. As one famous last line went, "Tomorrow is another day".

Note: It is not like I choose to write more about one boy over the other. They inspire me to write about them as they react and reflect in their own lives. I am that proverbial fly on the wall who gets to watch and document.