<p>Scottie - Welcome to cc. Sounds like you are in good shape. And, to be honest, SATs and Latin Honors and AP Calc BC are all important too:). And a sport if he is so inclined. Or theater. Or coastal cleanup. Or whatever gets him off the sofa...But I do imagine you already know this. Enjoy.</p>
<p>Wellspring also welcome and thanks for the comment.</p>
<p>Having had 2 kids finish high school and launch into college, I'll pass along my pearls of wisdom:</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Find a mutually acceptable physical way of showing your love and support. My husband and son had a special handshake; I would give my son a back and neck rub when he came home from school (it was a chance for him to unwind, and often led to great conversations about his day).</p></li>
<li><p>Patience is a virtue - especially when the hormones (both kids' and moms') are raging. Remember that a gentle answer turns away wrath.</p></li>
<li><p>Encourage your son/daughter to try new activities and new opportunities - and don't be disappointed if he/she decides to cease an activity (playing an instrument, or a sport) in favor of another activity. </p></li>
<li><p>Enjoy the journey - and don't listen to those naysayers who tell you that the next fours years will be terrible. For our family, they were the most rewarding and meaningful times as we saw our kids set off on the adventure of self-discovery.</p></li>
</ol>