For Better or For Worse by Lynn Johnston for December 13, 2017

it’s not easy for me coming from Washington (the state, not the District of Columbia) when trying to visit relatives in Arizona

My teen years were much easier – I wouldn’t look good no matter what, so the pressure was off.

Ah, one of the most important things to a teenager or a pre-teen is (and always has been) looking good! It may be one of the few things that never change!

I’m pretty sure he’s ready for an attitude adjustment.

Looking good Mike,now you need a selfie-stick!

Wait ’til he meets the girl next door… attitude flip + conflicted feelings.

At least he has good self esteem – I knew deep down in my bones that I was an ugly SOB when I was a teenager, with no hope for improvement – and sure enough 30 years later it hasn’t got any better!

We never had to go ANYWHEREfor Christmas, all our relatives were in town and I could walk to their houses in 10 to 15 minutes(on the outside)so it wasn’t a ‘big deal’. In fact, one set of aunt and uncle left strict instruction for me to call them on Christmas morning so they could come to our house.

Some day you’ll weep because Gramma doesn’t muss your hair any more, Michael.

I was happy wearing jeans and t-shirts during my teen years. All the other girls were into wearing short skirts and midriffs that broke school code.

I really didn’t care too much about my appearance. Just had my own interests. Wasn’t interested in fashion of any kind. Mom couldn’t understand that. I am still that way. I keep my hair at the approximate length I find easy to manage. Don’t get new clothes at the drop of a hat. Good thing I was male instead of female.

On the farm, nobody cares about their appearance, so you can just forget all about personal grooming.

Release Michael, you unctuous sow!!!!!!!!!

Enjoy your stay.