This post will serve as a dual purpose, so first…
The Lesson
When a child is born, I would dare say that the parents are not thinking about when the day will come that the child graduates from high school. Actually, it often feels like the child will be a needy, young child for a long, long, long time.
That isn’t the case.
Children grow up SO FAST!!!
Because children grow up so quickly, it is vital that parents spend time teaching them all kinds important information. Things like:
- how to balance a checkbook
- why you strive for a good credit score
- what to do when you get the flu
- what traits are important in a companion
- how it feels to be loved
…And a million other things.
Teaching our children this information and helping them learn skills that will assist them to be fiscally responsible adults is not only great for the child and parent, but also good for the country.
Today Is Historic
For many reasons it was important that Alyssa buy a different car and it was getting down to crunch time. This weekend Alyssa found the right car at the right price. The big question was, “Will Alyssa qualify for a reasonable loan by herself without a co-signer?”
After much negotiation over the last couple days between Alyssa and the car dealer, today Alyssa and I exchanged the following text messages. With each photo, you have to read from the bottom to the top. Obviously, I took pictures of my cell phone. The messages with the blue envelope are from Alyssa to me and the messages with the check mark next to it are from me to Alyssa.
Alyssa’s loan was approved WITHOUT a co-signer because she has established perfect credit! That is wonderful, but the next message was heartwarming.
That one sentence, “I’m so proud of myself!” spoke volumes. As a parent, I always wanted Alyssa to feel proud of her accomplishments. The last couple years have been hard, but Alyssa has worked a full-time job, house sit, dog sit and babysit to help her become more independent. For only being just barely 19 years old and with all the struggles we have been through, I think she has done a wonderful job!
After she signed all the paperwork, Alyssa sent me a picture of her new car.
And this is why you take the time with your children to teach them! They will grow up with the skills to help themselves accomplish goals and feel empowered to do so with the knowledge they have acquired while growing up.
Alyssa, I know I have told you over and over this evening that I am so very proud of you, but I just want to say it again. I AM SO PROUD OF YOU for working hard toward your goals and dreams. I AM SO PROUD that you took the initiative and researched and negotiated everything yourself. You will always remember today and that wonderful feeling of accomplishment. I pray that you will find success with all your goals and that all your dreams come true. I love you immensely.
P.S. I’ll have to tell everyone in another post about why there is tape stuck on my cell phone. LOL
Sounds like you did a good job with your daughter! I have a two year old and am going to work to teach him to be responsible. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you, Drew!!! Don’t blink too fast or your 2 year old will be 19 years old!!!
Congratulations to Alyssa & you – you both have a right to be very proud! I have no doubt that you both will always remember this as a wonderful day!
No doubt about it Alyssa is WONDERFUL, BEAUTIFUL and INTELLIGENT! However, she is all those things, because of the great parenting skills, your great genes, and all the love and time that you invested into her! 🙂
Thank you very much, Joan. {{{hugsss}}}
Congrats Alyssa! Buying your first car on your own is a HUGE achievement!
Your mom taught you well. Keep that head planted squarely on your shoulders and you will go far
Thank you, Teresha!!! She is still on Cloud 9! I’m so happy for her!