Friending Mom

You've seen her blurry profile shot on Facebook's "People You May Know" tool. You've also spotted her friend request, but ignored it.

Then, there is the online message she sent you this morning: "Honey, are you keeping up with your laundry?"

Mom is on Facebook.

The harsh reality usually requires four processing stages:

1. Anger
Expect the territorial rage that comes with having to share your turf. There's a slight possibility of insomnia induced by a fear that Mom could acquire more digital friends than you.

2. Anxiety
This comes when you realize your Facebook page requires a complete overhaul to comply with your pristine daughterly image. You cancel parties and spend your leisure time doctoring photos.

3. Altruism
Just when your bitterness has peaked, you start to feel sorry for Mom. She's drowning in "How well do you know me?" quiz requests and she doesn't know how to make it stop. You put your differences aside, sit down for a tutorial session and let the healing begin.

4. Acceptance
Mom is immersed in enough Poke Wars to make it clear she's not going anywhere. It's not an ideal setup, but you vow to make it work. As long as she doesn't approve another friend request.

See, it's that simple. And if you need additional support, check out this new blog, Oh Crap. My Parents Joined Facebook. (via Scanner)