Loving advice for my teenaged daughter

2012-01-31T20:50:00.000-06:00

Learning how to treat my now adult teen has been a chore for me. I have spent my whole life teaching her things so she will be prepared when she became an adult, and now that she has, I still find myself in the same teaching mode. She tells me "mom, I remember that you taught me that already" so I guess I have done my job. Although I don't feel that a mom's work is ever finished, I know that she is now on her own and will be doing most things on her own. I miss having my darling daughter here with me, especially during her high school years. Living those high school years was so much fun. Aside from the studying for tests and all the homework, things went rather smoothly. My daughter was a joy, and I miss her dearly. I find that now with her gone, I no longer have anyone to discuss things with, or take shopping with me, but I am learning how to be an empty-nester. I still have her horse close by that I go and visit, but I will be so happy when my daughter comes home to visit...and that should be soon...but it won't be a long visit because she will be leaving to her next duty station. Enjoy your teen daughters while they are still at home, because once they leave, there's a big change in your life.

Helping Your Adult Teen With Money

2012-01-24T07:03:00.000-06:00

Ok, so they turn the big 18....what does this mean? They are adults. Well, yes, and no. What I mean is, that when a person becomes 18, they are legally an adult. Society says so. However, I know that just because you turn this magical number, doesn't always mean that you are ready to jump into the adult world. What about checking and banking? What about credit cards? A place of your own? How about all those bills that go along with moving out and being on your own? I think that a large number of 18-yr olds get out into the world and are not really ready to jump in head first, so it's really important that they learn as much as possible before they turn 18. Most high schools offer "life" classes, which is really good....but have you sat down with your teen and talked to them about these kind of things? With my daughter, I made sure that I taught her how to go out and apply for a job, opened up a checking account and explained to her how to use it, and not only that, I taught her how to save some of her money as well. For teens, and actually for a good many of us, saving is hard, and sometimes next to impossible. Start with a small amount to see if it works. My daughter hasn't tried to get a credit card yet, so it's all good for now, however, I know that the day will come, and she has already started out good by getting her cell phone in her own name and keeping up with the bills. Maybe that's a decent start. If you haven't sat down with your teen to talk about money and the future, maybe now is the time !

My Darling Daughter and Christmas Holiday

2011-12-08T19:01:00.000-06:00

Now that my teenaged daughter has gone into The Navy, things have definetly changed around here....no longer am I having to wait up at night for my darling daughter to come in late.... no longer do I have to worry about her getting up and leaving for work on time, however, I miss my daughter so very much.! I now have an empty nest. It is quiet around here. Now I have the worry of a mother worrying over her grown child. Waiting to hear from her and wondering if she's okay in her new life. I am a proud mother. I feel that my daughter was well equipped to enter the adult world. Actually they told her in boot camp that she was very mature for her age and that she would go very far in life because she was very good in the things that she accomplished. You don't know how happy that made me to hear that. We still have her horse, Miss Frenchie, and are trying to keep up with everything while she's gone...but she will get to come home for Christmas and I am so glad about that. This is going to be a very special Christmas indeed.

My Daughter Is Now A Navy Sailor

2011-11-15T22:15:00.000-06:00

I can't believe that the time has finally come....my daughter, my baby, my teenager is now a Navy sailor. She finished boot camp in just a little under 8 weeks. The waiting was terribly hard on me, but I knew that she was doing what she wanted to do in life...she wanted something different...she wanted to be able to help others through her work by going into the Navy and being a hospital corpsman (medical) and now she has completed boot camp and now in training for her hospital corpsman job. I am proud as can be. The PIR (graduation) was exceptional. She did very well in her training and had the honor of carrying her division's flag. She was right up front and when they called liberty, all the parents and families rushed to the drill hall floor to be with their sailors. This experience has been up and down for me because during her boot camp weeks, I was unable to call her when I wanted to, wasn't able to see her and just had to wait on her letters and very infrequent calls. She has accomplished something big in her life and is now onto the next phase of schooling and learning. She will have a wonderful future, and that makes me very proud !

Halfway Through Boot Camp

2011-10-17T06:14:00.000-05:00

Well, we are a little more than halfway though the waiting period of boot camp and I am still missing my daughter. I have gotten a few letters, and a couple of phone calls, but terribly short in length....I am very much looking forward to getting to go and see her graduate. I never thought that these long weeks of waiting would be so dramatic. This is nothing similar to a child going off to college, because even though they are far away, you can still talk to them over the phone whenever you want....text and get frequent visits from home. With boot camp, you do not get to call them....you must wait for the Navy to allow them to call you and write you. My heart has ached for just the chance to talk to my darling teen. It seems like she did things in a small lump of time. She graduated in June, turned 18 in August, and then left in Sept. Time flew so quickly, and reminds me of how very little time we had before she left. Children sure seem to grow up too fast....

Still Awaiting My Daughter To Graduate Boot Camp

2011-10-04T21:25:00.000-05:00

It's been a solid 2 weeks now and my darling teen is still in boot camp...this is gonna be a long and lonely ride. She will be graduating next month, which is a good thing, but I miss her terribly. Meanwhile, Miss Frenchie is being well taken care of and family is visiting her about 3 times a week. My daughter's room is quiet: no music or tv blaring from within and I am not having to worry about her getting home at night...I still miss her. I am extremely proud of her for doing something that means so much to her. I will be very excited for graduation next month.!

My Daughter's In Boot Camp For The Navy

2011-09-25T09:11:00.000-05:00

My daughter went into Navy boot camp last week and I am a proud mother..and excited and nervous for her all in the same ball of wax. I wasn't expecting to get her box of civilian clothes back after only a few days but it was good, a very good feeling. For a moment, I wanted to cry, because there were my daughter's things all together in a box: cell phone, shoes, clothes...but a very happy moment, indeed.
Being a mother of a daughter in boot camp in NOT an easy thing. I am anxiously awaiting the next step in her journey, which is a form letter that will tell me when she is going to graduate boot camp and her official address to write her at. For now, I have no communication and it's a very difficult time for me. Oh, I am sure that she is doing fine, but for me, I really miss being able to see her beautiful face every day or talk to her throughout the day. On the other side, I don't have to worry about what time she's going to come in at night or what she's planning on doing for the next several days. She is safe and sound. How can any mother be any prouder?

My Daughter Will Be Leaving For The Navy Soon !!!!

2011-09-13T09:15:00.000-05:00

With only a week to go, my darling teenaged daughter will be going off to the Navy....and I am sad, but happy at the same time. I am trying to spend every last minute that I can with her before she goes to boot camp....because while she's there, I will not be able to call her, only write. She will call me, but only when they allow her to, and it's going to be a long 2 months for me. Lucky, for me, that she will be graduating right at Thanksgiving time and I will once again get to visit with her. We decided to go to the mall yesterday, something that I rarely do, and we were only there for about 30-45 minutes when she got a phone call. Most of the times, it's texts she gets but this was an actual phone call....and it was the Navy recruiter office. They told her that the Chief wanted to see her for her 1-week visit and they wanted her right then and there....she was with me in my car, and didn't give us any time to get her back home so she could drive up to the office, so they came and picked her up from the mall....needless to say, I felt very alone once she left, knowing that this is going to be her future.....I went home. The meeting went well, everything's going great and she will be leaving on Monday to start her MEPS for leaving. I am saddened because she is my baby, the last one out of 5, already grown children... I have never had an empty nest, having my first born when I was 18....and now at the age of 54, I will finally be called the "empty nester". I am happy that she is going to have a great future, serving with the Navy, also helping them being a hospital corpsman, but sad at the fact that I will miss my baby girl being at home. What can I say? I am a very proud mother.

The Days Are Going By Very Fast

2011-09-06T11:06:00.000-05:00

Now that my daughter has turned 18, and graduated high school....next step is the Navy. ... and that will happen in exactly 2 weeks....yes, she will leave for boot camp. I am excited for her, but nervous at the same time. This daughter of mine is my baby. She is going to be a hospital corpsman, which is similar to a Doc, or Medic....and I am extremely proud of her. We made a check list of the things that she needs to get done before leaving and mostly everything is done now. Her signing up for the Navy has been very up and down for me, as a mother...and the hurry up and wait mode the Navy has doesn't help. I pray that things go smoothly for her, and I am gonna be sitting by the telephone to get her calls. Boy, children really DO grow up fast...don't they?

Almost 18

2011-08-12T22:01:00.000-05:00

Well, two more little days, and my daughter will be an official adult. Of course, I have told her that just because she turns 18 doesn't mean that she gets to stay out any later or act as if she's living on her own. She's a good girl. I am truly going to miss her when she goes to boot camp...and we have less than 40 days now. I am confident in the fact that I have taught her as much as possible before going out into this big old world, but since she's my baby, I am having feelings of wondering what an empty nest is going to feel like. Not one peep from her father since right after her graduation.

Frenchie Has Been Relocated!

2011-08-09T09:22:00.000-05:00

Getting my daughter's horse, Frenchie, moved to a location closer was a very difficult chore, indeed. Everything was lined up, and I even paid for the first 2 days of the month, even though we moved out before the 5th. I wanted to be fair and correct. We got there, and our previous owner handed me our coggins papers for the move..With Frenchie on a lead rope, we brought her out to the trailer. She would not go in. I, in the meantime, talked to the helping hand who does all the feeding and such.. He told me what they had changed her food into, and showed me how much food she gets, which was good because the previous owner would not tell me, even though I asked her. She came from behind us, was very angry that he told me what I wanted to know, but I didn't let her bother me. When I asked her for a handful of feed to help get our horse loaded, she refused. I told her that since I paid her for the whole day, and it was only morning, couldn't she help me. Again, she refused...and told me that she didn't have enough feed. So, what did that mean? Would our horse have gotten skinny because she was short on feed, if I had left her? I begged with her again, and she finally gave us a small amount. With that, we were successful at getting Frenchie loaded and trailored to her new home. She has been there a good week now and I am very pleased. Frenchie is eating, and at that, it's a better quality feed. I am paying more for board, but that's okay. I am happy, I am content, and am so glad it's done. Now, Frenchie is doing wonderfully...Thank God for that miracle.

Moving Our Horse

2011-08-01T06:22:00.000-05:00

Having a horse is a wonderful thing, however, as of late, I am having a great deal of frustration. We're having to move our horse because my daughter is leaving. I need to move our horse closer to me. Having her about 25 minutes away right now isn't going to work anymore and since she's been there, we have never been late on a boarding payment., and have always told the boarding lady that we would be moving our horse when my daughter moved. No contracts involved and all during the year, we reminded her about the upcoming move. So, I called the lady yesterday and she went bullistic on me. She argued with me about moving her, stating that she had plenty of young girls who would lease her and she could stay there as she has been. After talking things over and much thought, we decided to still move her because that's what we've always wanted to do. This lady was so darned mad at me that when I told her our decision, she was very mean and rude to me...and when I ended our conversation, I told her " thank you" and that I appreciated her...her answer was " I bet you do". My question is, why do people have to be so mean? I know that she's going to miss the money, but this was a decision made along time ago. My daughter went to the the barn last night to get her personal belongings and discovered that some of the younger girls there have been using her new saddle without permission and her bareback pad, leaving it out and not putting it back into her things. We were appalled. I have always taught my daughter never to borrow things without asking, and to always put things back the way they were found. Tomorrow will be moving day, and I will be very glad.

Granddaughter's Upcoming Quinceanera

2011-07-22T22:48:00.000-05:00

I have a granddaughter who will be having a quince in about a year and 4 months. Right now, believe it or not, is the time to start planning. First of all, at this stage of the game, it's too early to pick out a dress, because of course, you want it to fit....but you CAN start planning on colors, themes, start a notebook with ideas of how many people you will be inviting, writing down their names so you can get a head count on how big of a place you will need to rent for the upcoming event. Most event locations like to have a year notice, especially if it's a place that gets booked up quickly. Plan on calling around places in your area, remembering that you need to be able to have the quinceanera in a location that's not too far from your home area so that your daughter's friends will all be able to attend. Once you get your notebook started, keep track of how much the event locations are charging, write it all down, even how much the deposit is. If you and your daughter can come up with a theme for the quince, you can start looking around for decorations on sale. I suppose I will once again start getting ready to help, especially since I went through one just nearly 3 years ago with my own daughter (the youngest).

Boot Camp Coming Up Quickly

2011-07-15T22:05:00.000-05:00

Time is creeping quickly by, and my darling daughter is embracing the shorter days until it's time for boot camp. What is there to love about boot camp? The yelling, being told what to do? Perhaps it's just only the beginning to a new life for her, the learning of how to work well in a team of others and discipline. Oh, discipline, there's something that she knows about. Her growing up years have been about being frugal, how to save money, but also getting the things that she wants in life even when it's a want, and not especially a need. Boot camp experience will teach her things that she wants to learn. In fact, she's very eager to learn more. She wrote a paper for a school project that she gave to me to read....I teared up just reading how she felt that she had experienced a great 4-years of high school and that she wanted to make a difference in her life by helping others and that is why she chose to be a hospital corpsman in the Navy. My little lady has grown up so much. I just can't express to you how very proud of her I am. I will be going to see her graduate from boot camp when it's over, and I just know the tears will be flowing. I am a very proud mother.

A Teenager Growing Up

2011-07-05T23:13:00.000-05:00

Where has the time gone? It seems like yesterday that I brought her home from the hospital. Tiny and petite, sweet and loving. My daughter used to be extremely shy for a long time, until the last two years in high school. I don't know if her having a horse and jumping in competitions helped, or it was the fact that her brothers and sisters got her out of her shell of quietness, but she's not quiet and shy anymore. High school is done, and I might add, senior year seemed to be the best year of them all. Quicker than lightning, and soon she will be 18, actually next month. My baby will be an adult.
I don't know if it's the fact that she's the baby, having already raised 4 before her, or if it's the fact that she will soon go into the Navy, and will be out seeing the world, but I feel like time has flown. I am not sure how I am going to deal with an "empty nest." Most of my friends have already experienced that empty nest years before me, and in fact, my oldest grandchild IS already 18. Sounds wierd, I know, but very true. Very soon, boot camp will begin, and my darling daughter will spread her wings and experience the world..... I will soon be able to say that I am a proud mother of a sailor in the Navy.

Frenchie, My Daughter's Horse

2011-06-25T14:37:00.000-05:00

This is my daughter's horse, Frenchie. She's been with her for several years now, and my daughter has really spent alot of time with her in training. They are certainly a team. My daughter will be going to the Navy soon, and miss Frenchie will have to enjoy some of our grandchildren and friends during the time she's gone. I pray that my daughter will get stationed somewhere that she will be able to take her there so that she can still ride her and give her the attention that she is so used to getting, but I just don't know at this time, what's going to happen next. High school is over with and although my darling daughter works part time, she still spends a great deal of time with her horse. Frenchie has been a wonderful addition to our family because she has given my daughter a great deal of learning experience, not to mention, kept her quite busy. Just wanted to post this pic so you all could take a look at how beautiful she is !

Finding Scrubs For A Great Job

2011-06-15T17:55:00.000-05:00

For a very long time, my darling daughter wanted to be a veterinarian. and she wanted it for a very long time...so, when she was old enough, I asked her to get a job working around vets to see if it was still something that she was wanting to do in life...and she did. She got a job as a pet nurse assistant. .The job was a great job, but it required her to wear a uniform. We had to rush out and buy it right away. We had a hard time finding the right size and color that they required. I wished I would have known about a place that I found recently online.
http://www.blueskyscrubs.com/categories/Scrubs/Scrubs-for-Women/, which, also carry scrubs for men.
She found that she really enjoyed having to dress for her job, but after working there for a great while, decided that she wanted to do other things in her life. It's good to know that when she gets out of the Navy, and decides to have a civilian career doing something with health, she can find her the right scrubs through this site.

My Daughter's Graduation Suprize...Her Dad Showed Up To Her Graduation

2011-06-15T16:28:00.000-05:00

Graduation came and went quickly. I was such a proud mother watching her darling daughter sit anxiously in the seating area, waiting for her name to be called to go up and get the handshake and diploma. It was held outside, so it was humid, hot and extremely packed to the max. I kept looking to see if my ex, her father, would show up to see our daughter walk across the stage....no sign of him. ..Then, all of a sudden, he showed up. He didn't come alone, but I was so happy that he decided to come and see her. He walked on the bleachers out in front and since I had told him where she'd be sitting, he stopped right in front of where she was. She didn't see him at first, until she glanced up at where I was along with her other brothers and sisters and families and we all started to point him out to her. She saw him, and they waved at each other. I honestly wanted to cry, but didn't. I knew that would make her night by him showing up. He stayed only long enough to see her walk, come back to her seated isle, gave us a present that he brought for her, and left. Not long, but just long enough. I was very happy for my daughter, that her dad decided to show up.

Teens And Credit Cards, Protection From Identity Theft

2011-06-07T16:50:00.001-05:00

Teens need to learn before they enter the adult world about credit, but not just getting credit...but about understanding how it works. Having credit can be fun, but they must also learn about keeping that credit in good-standing. How do you help them once they've left home, like going away to college for instance? I have found a website called Identityhawk which offers help for those with credit and identity theft protection.
There are people out there, who like to take advantage of ones who don't know about credit. This is when you need some sort of identity theft protection. Not only having new credit and learning about how to keep it paid on time, but to protect themselves from fraud and taking steps to reduce the risks of leaving your identity where it's not protected. My darling daughter will not be going to college, as stated in previous posts, but will be going into the service. She will have to learn how to manage her own credit. I want her to be able to have credit, and build it to the point that she will be able to buy herself a car, or in the future, a home and know that her credit rating is good. Protection from identity theft is a very good thing to help your teens learn as they grow into adulthood.

High School's Coming To An End Soon

2011-05-22T16:34:00.000-05:00

With only a few short weeks of high school left, my darling daughter has been under a little bit of stress...not only does she have to worry about every book being turned in, all fees paid up and making sure all her homework is turned in on time, but now she has to think about what she's going to wear under her cap and gown for graduation. They are being pretty specific on what can and can't be worn. She also has several days of exams to complete which will go toward her final grades.
We ordered her yearbook, but the darned thing won't even come in until August, but school will no longer be in session so I think it's going to be next to impossible for her to get autographs from her school buddies, especially when everyone seems to be going their separate ways to different colleges and such.
I understand the frustrations going on and she will have her last day at the vet's office this week, so perhaps she will feel a little more at ease.
Summer's coming up quickly....she has a summer job as a lifeguard, and soon..........THE NAVY !!!

My Daughter's Decision For After High School......

2011-05-07T12:48:00.000-05:00

Honestly, I wasn't quite sure how I was going to start this post, or even get through it but I am doing my best. As a mother of five, I think that I have done pretty well on parenting. And it doesn't get easier as it goes along because each child is different. My darling daughter made a final decision on going into the Navy...only because she wants something different in her life. She didn't want to go to college, live in a dorm and stuggle with paying back the loans....she wanted to go into the Navy. With that decision, I told her that no matter what she decided that she would have to be convicted about her decision...she HAD to re-take that ASVAB test again to make above a 50 to be considered a high score and get a better chance at a good job. She studied and she studied hard. She soon found herself confident enough to re-take ....and she did. With a 68 score, she did it! I am very proud of her....what was next ....came the MEPS which is basically Military Entrance Processing ....SHE PASSED EVERYTHING! She even got a job. and not only a job, but a VERY GOOD job. She got Hospital Corpsman, meaning basically a medical job, like a nurse or someone who will be taking care of those who are wounded or sick in the Navy or Marines. I am EXTREMELY proud.....What a wonderful decision...and what a great career she will have when she comes out of service. WOOOOO HOOOO !!!!

A Graduation Party!

2011-05-02T17:57:00.000-05:00

As graduation nears, I am trying to decide what I want to do to celebrate my daughter's graduation. She has accomplished so much and I am very proud of her. I want to do something different but what? I'm kind of thinking a pool party would be nice...now, if I had a pool in my back yard, or a bigger house, it would be great...but I don't. I have started to check into different venues that offer pool parties.. I have checked my city pool, a few indoor pools, and a couple of other places, and even the YMCA offers pool parties. I think that I am getting closer to finding what I want to do...the next will be the foods to serve. Something light I think, due to it being a pool party. And teens like to eat so I may let the swimming happen first, then do the food serving. Another idea I had was to get a 2 hour boat ride, but I found it to be VERY expensive,....to the tune of $800....and that was the cheapest. Anyways, any ideas would be appreciated.

Prom Dress

2011-04-21T06:18:00.004-05:00

How Does A Parent Survive Raising A Teen?

2011-03-30T21:59:00.000-05:00

How do we survive as parents, raising a teen? How about a teenage daughter? Sometimes I feel like I am about to break. For a long time, my darling teen wanted to go to school to be a Vet. .....and after she got a job working with animals, she moved up to a pet nurse assistant and decided that she really didn't want to become a vet....although she loves animals, especially her horse. Veterinarian school takes many many years and she then decided that she wanted to still help and work in the health field so she started becoming interested in ultrasound tech...we even visited the university that she wanted to attend out of state. Soon after that came her wanting to join The Navy....and she came so very close. All the tests were passed, physical, the whole nine yards done....but very scarce in jobs...NOW....she has been dating this really nice guy and has decided to wait a year on Navy things, and has even looked into The Air Force and The Marines....only because she said that she wants to be informed and know all of her choices....GREAT ! I say, however, all this change is about to drive me bananas. I am happy for one thing, that she is trying to find her way now, before she graduates high school this year, but on the other hand, all this back and forth almost has me dizzy. There is so much required these days in college and funds are not as abundant as they used to be. Every day I see in the news of people getting laid off...from teachers to city workers and I just don't know what's going to happen next....it's for sure, at least in my opinion...that this country is NOT doing better as far as economy. Can a parent survive raising a teen these days? With many options for their future, I wonder what my darling daughter will want next....and so I wait......patiently.

What Plans Come Next?

2011-03-27T15:19:00.000-05:00

Being a mother of a teen can be really nerve-wracking....I watch my darling daughter go through every day life and sometimes I am just amazed. School, prom, future graduation, her job, riding and taking care of her horse, it seems that life travels fast. I remember her not so long ago as a baby in my arms. I told her that her senior year of high school would really go fast, and it has. So, to update: at this time, she has decided to wait on the Navy, and that's only because she has to take the ASVAB test again because even though she passed, they wanted a higher score and she needs to really buckle down and study before she can take it again....plus....she is also thinking about going to college for a year. I am wondering if it has something to do with her horse, as she really loves riding. I'm also wondering if it has to do with a young man also.....guess we'll see.

My Daughter's Horse.....Frenchie

2011-03-17T07:02:00.000-05:00

My daughter has made prom plans, and we have such a busy year this year, but she still dedicates almost every day to spending time with her horse, Frenchie. Frenchie and my teen have grown together and it's been a wonderful experience for them both. Frenchie came from a father, and grandfather who have won championships through racing. Frenchie was almost in the same way of life, trained and ready to run, until my daughter came along, touched the owner's heart with her love for Frenchie, that he sold her to us. My daughter has plans for her Frenchie.....and that means going where she goes....whether it's Navy, or college. I look back now, and am so glad that I gave my daughter the chance to have Frenchie. Having a horse has made her a wonderful person. She has compassion, she has tolerance, endurance, and patience, plus the fact that she had to work and volunteer for a couple of years to earn her right to have a horse. Horses are very expensive, especially if you don't have the land to keep them on. Frenchie has been more than just your average "pet". She has become a way of life for my daughter, and I am very proud of all that she has accomplished by having her and training her.

FINALLY Found A Prom Dress...

2011-03-14T23:33:00.000-05:00

My daughter went last weekend to look at dresses and came back with liking a certain amount but nothing bought....and so I had no choice but to go out on the hunt with her and see what we could find. I will have to say that David's Bridal, in the Houston area had some very good prices on dresses and that's where we made our final purchase. We went to 5 different shops before settling upon the final dress though. If you are in the Houston area, there is a little dress shop in the Almeda Mall, right next to Macy's that had some great prices and alot of choices, but my daughter kind of already had her mind set on a particular type of dress so nothing that she tried on was what she had in mind. We also stopped at some shops in Pasadena, but one dress liked might not come in all sizes so David's Bridal seemed to be more stocked with her size, plus she loved being catered to by the attendant. Now that we have settled on a beautiful mermaid-type dress, it's time to look for the shoes. Oh, and by the way, when shopping for that perfect prom dress, try and find something that fits really well so you don't have to spend the extra money getting it altered, which can get quite costly.

Prom Is Up And Coming Soon

2011-03-08T18:41:00.000-06:00

This is my daughter's final year, a senior, who seems to be very happy with life, fulfilled with all that she is accomplishing and almost out of high school. Prom is just under a month away and the dress hunting has already begun. I thought that she would have found something by now, but the hunt continues...and woah! the prices are more than a hundred dollars....and most of the ones she likes are right under $200. All the plans are coming into focus right now but she started to mention that all of her friends were wanting to rent a beach house and I was starting to get queasy about it, but soon after, those plans seemed to fade away, which made things a little more easier for me. Prom, graduation, the thought of her going into the Navy or College, and her 18th birthday is so much that it makes my head spin, as well as the all-mighty dollar needing to be spent.

Still No Answers About The Navy

2011-02-22T16:23:00.000-06:00

My lovely teenage daughter is still pursuing the Navy and has taken the ASVAB test once, and passed, however, it wasn't a high enough score to get a good job so she is now going back this week to re-take the test. I am still a nervous mother about the whole thing but she is very determined to get in. She said that it's her future. She still goes and rides her horse, Frenchie on a regular basis and is looking forward to graduating this year....it just doesn't seem so because it only seems like yesterday that she was a baby in my arms. She has a very bright future ahead and it just seems so overwhelming at times with all the graduating plans, her 18th birthday and her entrance into the Navy, or by some odd chance that doesn't work out....then to college. Now.....we wait.

Nervous Mother....And No Navy Jobs Were Available At That Time

2011-01-26T16:25:00.000-06:00

Well, all the paperwork was filled out, the date was set and my daughter went to the NAVY MEPS, which is where they process for the military. I was a TOTAL nervous wreck. My daughter got out of school right after lunch, and proceeded to her recruiter's office....from there, she went to take her ASVAB. She passed ! So, one thing down....much more to go. That night she went to a hotel where the military sends a van/bus and they are briefed, given a room with a room mate, fed dinner and I might add, it was a VERY lovely hotel. Up at 3:15 am the next morning to get breakfast and shower, and to catch the van again to go back to the MEPS office. I feel like the second day was an extremely long one, but it was because she had to go through many tests, medical and then on to someone who would assign her a job.......She passed everything ! She did so well, however....there were NO jobs. NONE. So, she came home, and very dissapointed, I might add. I was sad for her too, but there was nothing I could do. Now, she's scheduled to go back next week, which will be the first of the month, to see if she can find a job that she's qualified for. I guess we'll see, but I am not looking forward to all the waiting and wondering. I supposed I can just let God take care of it and if she's meant to get a Navy job, then God will let it happen. Please pray for us......I suppose you can say... I am a VERY nervous mother.

A Very Busy Senior Year

2011-01-18T21:51:00.000-06:00

Things are changing, right before my eyes....the Navy is becoming a real consideration to my darling teen daughter and she is going after it strongly....she's already had the interview, turned in all the paperwork, and now is studying for her test. She is scheduled for MEPS next week, and I am proud of her, but at the same time, shaking in my boots. This last year of high school has been quite a busy one, as she has many things to look forward to just this year. Not only is she in her senior year of high school and will be graduating in June, she will also turn 18 a little after that. The S.A.T. test for her is this coming Saturday and she has been given a few more hours at work so she's been busy....along with going to the gym to work out. Frenchie, her horse, is still an extremely large part of her life as well. I feel like I am in a whirlwind with all the things going on around here, and she is my youngest, so I will be looking at an empty nest before the year is done. I am not sure how I am gonna handle it when she leaves, but one thing I CAN say, is that I am VERY proud of her for all she has accomplished already and the young lady she has become.

Navy Thoughts Becoming Stronger

2011-01-14T23:06:00.000-06:00

With each day that passes, the more and more my daughter is wanting to go into the Navy. I have pretty mixed emotions here, and it's very hard. I thought that all this time she would graduate high school and go on to college. For a time there, I wondered if she was ever going to make the decision to take her SAT test....and that will be coming up next week....but she has been doing her research, as I have also, to find out more about the Navy. She wants it very much. I want her to be happy and I know that this has to be HER decision, at least she is finding out about it first, before jumping right in. Many a teen or daughter has gone into the service, with many a parent probably feeling about the same way that I do. I feel that I must support her on her endeavors and if it's God's will, then that's what will happen.

College Or Navy?

2011-01-11T19:01:00.000-06:00

Yes, the time has come that my darling teen daughter is contemplating her future. Honestly, the Navy or Air Force scares me a bit, because of the fighting going on over seas, but.....not all positions go overseas...besides, it's her decision. She wants to do so many things in life and now it's coming of time for her to start making some decisions. She has chosen to go to OU, which is a great university to go to, but awhile back, she expressed interest in going into the Navy, but , because of a past boyfriend, he really influenced her decision and she backed off of it. Now, with no boyfriend, and only her own thoughts, she is expressing interest again. I want for my daughter to make her own decision because I want her to do what SHE wants in life, not what anyone else wants. I am an anxious, wondering mother here, just waiting to see what she is going to decide....either way, I will support her.

Giving Teens Advice

2011-01-04T23:10:00.000-06:00

Why can't teens see that when elders tell them about experiences, they don't seem to listen? Do they really HAVE to go through each and every experience and learn how to get up after they fall to learn all about life? I wish it wasn't so. My daughter is pretty good about listening to what I have to say, but then again, I don't tell her what to do, but try to give her different ideas so that she can think about things and make her own choices in life. I talked to my granddaughter this weekend, who is also a teen, but nearly an adult, and I hope and pray that she heard what I had to say about things....especially about guys. I guess only time will tell if they actually hear me or not. How do you deal with giving your teen advice?

Soon To Be College Bound....Really?

2010-12-14T22:42:00.000-06:00

One half of school is nearly at it's end, and after the holiday season passes, the last semester of my daughter's senior year will be off and running. She has chosen to go to Oklahoma University, which is a great place to go, as well as my other two grown daughters living near there, she will not be completely alone. I have never had an empty nest and this will be my first time to experience it. I am a bit worried and am not sure how I am gonna handle the experience. I am very happy for my daughter, as she is starting to look at her future plans. Is she ready? I would have to say that I feel that she will handle most things pretty well. I have spent her entire life teaching her things that she will need to know to be on her own. She just got a new boyfriend last month, and this one looks like a keeper...he's a really great guy. Will this change her college plan location? I guess we will see.

Oh! The Changing Of Minds!

2010-11-14T10:43:00.000-06:00

Well, my daughter has decided to change her mind on being a veterinarian.....which is something that she's wanted for a VERY long time. She's still working for a vet right now as a pet nurse assistant and loves doing so, but she is starting to think of college and long term going to classes....so she has decided to persue ultrasound technician work....which, pays just as much as a vet, if not a little more....and less schooling. She has finally decided to schedule her SAT for January and has already applied to the college that she is wanting to attend. I was not seeing any forward movement on anything until she made this final decision. I fret just a little bit about her change, because I know it's not something that she has been wanting to do all these years, but she still intends to work in the veterinary field while going through college....perhaps she'll change her mind, but that remains to be seen. All I want for my teen is that she's happy doing what she persues in life.

Things Are Back To Normal

2010-10-17T22:13:00.000-05:00

I am so happy now that things are back to normal....just the day after her telling me a lie, we were back like nothing had happened, only they did, and she knew I was disappointed in her. She promised not to do it again and I am doing my best to give her a chance to prove it. I have had to use the family tracker maybe twice since but she was exactly where she was supposed to be. I honestly believe that her going to see that "old friend" was not all her idea, and most likely alot of HIS idea, but I think that she didn't find the same person that she once knew way back 8 years ago. I am happy to say that her life seems to be moving on, and happily so. She seems to have more confidence in what's she's doing and is happy. We are getting along as we were before the lie, which is good, but she also knows that I will back up what I say. I know that we all make the the wrong decisions sometimes but I pray that she will move forward making better ones. I love my daughter and I know that in the summer, she will be moving away to go to college, but while she's still under 18, I still need to show her what's right and what's wrong. Teens can really go through some trying times with those hormones of theirs, and even as women, we still deal with the hormonal issues. Raising teens can be difficult, but in the end, it can be done. It takes patience....lots of it.

My Daughter Lied To Me.....

2010-10-12T07:53:00.000-05:00

What on earth was my daughter thinking? She wanted to see an OLD friend that she had not seen in 8 years. Nobody ever stays the same. I was worried, tried my best to discourage it but she came home from school yesterday, went to the barn, came home to eat and said that she was going back to the barn, only that didn't happen. I have always trusted her, she has never ever given me reason not to. She didn't come home at 8 last night and wouldn't answer her phone. I called the barn, no daughter. Where was she? I had had a bad, sunken feeling when she left but never thought she would actually lie to my face, but she did. Thank GOD that our cell phone has a tracking family on it, so I used it, and sure enough, she was NOT at the barn, but at that old friend's house, who by the way, was a guy. She had just barely found him again online through social networking. I panicked as I went over that way, but much to my suprize, she came STRAIGHT home once the cell company notified her of tracking. She was upset, and so was I . I couldn't believe that she would ever lie to me, and I am deeply hurt. I don't feel that I can take away her phone because then I wouldn't be able to know where she goes. How do you punish a daughter that has ALWAYS been good, never any trouble? I think that she is trying to insert her independance all of a sudden and I am saddened that it had to be this way.
She promises never to do it again, I guess I will have to keep an eye out for that. I love her and don't want anything to happen to her, WHY can't she see that?

Homecoming Came And Went

2010-10-02T23:09:00.000-05:00

My daughter was sooooo involved in the homecoming game and activities this year and I was suprized. Not only did she decorate a shirt up to wear, she made her own homecoming mum. Now, I checked prices and found that these mums can cost a fortune....our local grocery store had some for $70. and I was shocked. She made hers for only $20, buying materials from Michael's. Game day came, she wore her mum during school and then afterwards, went to some friends house to paint up the faces and arms in the school colors....wow! and she even painted her face as well. I was shocked. This doesn't seem like my darling teen. She has gotten more out-going these days. She's loving her new job working for a Veterinarian, and things are good. Pretty soon though, she will have to take her S.A.T. test for college. Hopefully, that goes well.

Do You Really Know Your Teen?

2010-09-26T10:17:00.000-05:00

Have you gotten to really know who your teen daughter is? I mean, you raise them and everything seems wonderful until they hit that age of hormonal distress....then it's another issue. I feel that you cannot be their best friend and still maintain being in charge at all times but somewhere in the middle is a good place to be. My daughter and I are close, so close that when she's upset.... I know it. But here of late, she is starting to leave me out of why. I think it's the hormones kicking in and out. I don't know why it has to be so difficult raising a teen daughter but sometimes it can be. Yesterday she was upset about something and she acted as if it was my fault. I have done nothing so I asked her about it. All she says is for me to just leave her alone. I am not used to her saying that. I tried again last night to find out what is bothering her, but she still won't speak about it. I have a pretty good idea of what it is, but she just doesn't want to budge....what can be done when they act like this? when they don't want to share? I say just give it some time. Walk away and let things set a little bit, because just like the changing weather, hormones change too. I love you my darling teen. ...don't ever forget that I am here for you.

Frustrating!

2010-09-14T17:35:00.000-05:00

I am so frustrated with my darling teen right now.... I just don't know what's going through her head sometimes. We get along very well for a mother and daughter but since she's no longer going out with the same boy, so much about her has changed. She has a new job in the industry that she wants to pursue in college....that is going very well. But now, she wants to only work Monday through Thursday but it's not even 3 hour shifts and she thinks that is going to cover her car payment, gas AND have money left over to go eat out and run to the mall? I don't think so! It might cover her car note, and gas, but nothing will be left over, and I just don't want to hear about it. She told me that she wants to be free on Friday nights so that she can go to the football games, and have the whole weekend free....however, her job only works her for 5 hours at a time on the weekend, and that's not really much. She wants things her way, but she isn't looking at the fact that she needs money for other stuff too! Simply frustrating! And she thinks that I am trying to tell her what to do...how can that be? Who in the world would think that she could set her own hours? UGGGGHHHHH

Work, School and Football Games!

2010-09-03T21:51:00.000-05:00

Dearest darling daughter, I know how much you love going out and having fun places, but school is a very important time in your life right now....and this last year of school will go the quickest. Not only are you enjoying the football games and all your friends in the band that you used to play in band with, but you are meeting new people, learning how to do new things in your new job and the world seems to be turning pretty fast right now. Never forget to stop and enjoy the good things in life that you have. There are so many people out there that don't even have half of what you do, so please be thankful and grateful for everything. Never take things for granted, and always try to look at the bright side of things. Have faith in God, do what you know is best, and remember....your last year in high school will go the quickest. Enjoy it!

The Last Year Of High School

2010-08-30T15:48:00.000-05:00

The last year of high school for my daughter has just begun....all seems well. I have noticed a large difference in my teen. Nothing bad, but just annoying. I suppose it's supposed to be that way, because they are at the age of trying to assert themselves as upcoming adults into this world. Scary, but true.
No more ex-boyfriend this year because she has decided not to go back with him, and it hurts her just as much as him, but this is the last year of school.....a time to get her head on right about what her future brings; college, direction in life,and enjoying her friends before all the adulthood things come along like the rent and electricity bills.
She has just gotten a new job, which is very much directed in the field that she wants(vet) and things are looking good. Next year she will be going off to college and I am starting to worry about it now. I need to look into scholarships and grants to help her out some. And we have a beautiful horse that will be going where she goes...Wish me luck!

Happy Birthday My Darling Teen

2010-08-14T21:47:00.002-05:00

Today is my daughter's 17th birthday, and I feel like time is racing by quickly. Not only do I feel old, but since she is my last of 5, this only reminds me that next year at this time, she will be an adult, ready to do adult things. I hope and pray that I have been able to teach her all that she needs to know to be able to survive as an adult.... she knows how to cook, wash her own laundry, clean, work and be responsible, and take care of her money. This sounds like alot to know for a teen, but she is learning things now so that when she gets out on her own, she will know how to get by with some of the most important things in life. She only has one more week of freedom left before her senior year of high school starts.
Today she has shown me that she is more grown up than I think she is, and soon, I will have to be able to cut the apron strings, but honestly, I don't think that parents EVER cut the string completely. They let their children spread their wings in life, but we are always there to help them when they need us most. Happy Birthday my darling daughter ! I am so proud of you!

Teens and Dating

2010-08-12T06:22:00.004-05:00

My darling teen had been going with a guy for a couple of years, and I thought back to my teen years and remembered how I had not gone with anyone for much of a length in time, but my daughter had spent the last nearly 3 years with this one particular guy. He is nice, and I really like him alot, but after seeing her crying time after time again, I didn't know how long she was going to keep going through it, and I reminded her that she is only a teen with many years of dealing with boyfriends and men, and as with most of us, time wears upon us when things are bad, and then one day, we wake up and do something about it.well.... she broke it off at the end of school and it's been hard. Hard on her, hard on him, and hard on me as well, having to hear it all. I am a good listener, and I had to be there for her.
During the summer, my daughter has developed new friends, but has not gone out with anyone else. Most of her friends are guys, because she doesn't like all the drama with the girls, but she DOES have some close friends as girls as well. School's about to be back in session, and my daughter is going to be a senior this year. She said that she just wants to take it easy and enjoy this last year without having a steady guy, or someone to tell her what she can and can't do. I feel so sad for her past guy, but I do understand how she feels. Hopefully this year will bring her alot of joy, especially with this being the last year.

Responsibility For Being At Work On Time

2010-08-08T06:47:00.003-05:00

My daughter walked out of here this morning, madder than a wet hen, and I feel bad for her but I am trying to teach her some responsibility. She was scheduled to be at work by 7 am....well, she worked yesterday too and then went out for an extensive lunch with her friend, got home and went back into work (she worked a split shift). This morning, she's not up at the normal time and asked me if she could just stay at home. I was not happy because she has pulled this number a several other times, leaving her job with a loss of worker. They don't like it, and I don't either. Her job is not a big conglomerate that can just call in the next guy. I made her get up and go. She wasn't happy with me and before she left, I asked her if she was mad, knowing I would get a yes. She told me that her back was hurting. I told her that she cannot just stay home when she wants to. The lifeguarding job is MUCH easier than her other job and she was okay with going to that one today. Although she has 2 part-time jobs, she rarely works more than 20 hours a week for the both of them together. I made her go this morning because I want her to learn that others are relying on her being there. I told her that after she goes, if she STILL doesn't feel good, to let her boss know and THEY can send her home, if need be. At least she has shown the responsibility of getting there on time. Seriously, I feel bad for her back hurting some, but she HAS to learn responsibility. Was I being too hard on her?

Teens And Summer Jobs

2010-07-25T15:29:00.002-05:00

Having a summer job is a great thing for a teen who is trying to learn responsibility, not to mention the paycheck that comes every week or every other week....however, after they have been working for awhile, you might hear those oh-so- familiar words: "I'm tired" or...."I don't like my job". That is not something I enjoy hearing but I have expressed to my daughter that we are ALL tired after working, and if you want anything in life, you MUST work for it. But, realizing that some jobs just aren't all cracked up to be the best one in life, I have given her this advice:
1.Don't quit your present job until you have another job to replace it
2.Realize that this job depends upon you to do your part, so don't just take off because you want to
3.Look for another job that you feel will suit you better, but look diligently
4.Always give your job a notice before you up and quit because it looks better on your resume
5.Try finding a job that fits in with what you want to do in life so you can get to know the field you want to work in, in your future.

Horses And Resonsibilities

2010-07-17T16:16:00.002-05:00

Being at the barn isn't only about the riding....it's about the clean up as well. Horses need to have their hooves picked to get all the junk out of them so they can have a nicer ride, and so it's a better feel for your horse too. This is a friend of my daughter's who is learning about horsemanship. Having a horse is a wonderful experience but as my daughter can tell anyone, it's not easy. We have had our horse, Frenchie, for 3 years now. My teen goes out to ride, pick hooves, brush, give baths, and totally spoils Frenchie with apples and carrots. Frenchie has been in several competitions with my daughter for walk, trot and canter. She also jumps as well. It's been rewarding having her, and also seems to keep my daughter well-grounded as well. Always remember, that having a horse is an enormous responsibility, even if you do have a full-care barn.

Keeping The Lines Of Communication Open

2010-07-08T07:49:00.002-05:00

How do you go about keeping your teen out of trouble? Sometimes it just seems that some girls are easier to raise than others. I have had 3 daughters and the first one was a little harder to raise than the second. My youngest daughter, my sweet teen, is just very easy going and seems to listen to what I have to say. Since she was young, we have always had a great relationship. Now that she is almost 17, it seems that she is getting more independent and wanting to do more for herself. I have found that keeping her interested in some sort of sport, but not keeping her TOO busy has worked for me. I have found that by her having time to have fun, chores to keep up with, her horse riding and competing, with a bit of relaxing time to do nothing has worked! This has lead to her having a part-time job so that she can learn to manage her own money and things are still going smoothly. Horses are her life, her future and she has learned all the basics of keeping her horse, as well as the clean up, so she's learned how to have some sort of responsibility. Not everybody can manage a horse though but there are so many sport opportunities out there to enjoy. Talk to your teen, see what interests that they may have....be open to what they say, and try to keep your avenues of communication open....that's what has worked for me.

Buying A Better Car For My Teen Daughter

2010-07-07T10:38:00.003-05:00

Well, the time has come, and I wasn't really ready for it, but my darling teen needed a better set of wheels. The 93 mustang was great but it started breaking down in various places, leaving me to figure out how to get it back home and fixed....not a good situation when it worried me every time she broke down and there are so many bad things happening nowadays. I don't know why but this is the way the world is changing. I wanted to wait until it was closer to her birthday or closer to Christmas but as we were shopping, we would drive through various lots, viewing what was available. I am one who HATES getting caught by a salesperson, at least until I am ready. Well, that is what happened to us and it turned out that he was NOT pushy, and we found an EXCELLENT buy on a small SUV that she loved. Low mileage, enough room to put all her horse equipment in for going to the barn, and really decent gas mileage.....and the payments were low enough for her to manage to pay, while I pay the insurance. She is exstatic over it and so am I . It is only 3 years old and now I don't have to worry about her breaking down all over the place. Wasn't ready, but I am really glad now to have found such a bargain.

Teens And Selective Hearing

2010-07-05T21:36:00.002-05:00

It seems like the more I give my opinion, the more it's not appreciated. I know that sometimes as parents, we want to give our teens our opinions because we've been there.....done that. My daughter will listen to my advice most of the time, but then there are those times that she acts like it went through one ear and out the other....it's soooooo frustrating. My child is growing up and will be 17 years old next month, and with only one more year of high school to go, she seems to be making pretty good choices in life. However, she doesn't always do what I think she's gonna do and when I point things out to her, it's as if I didn't say anything at all. I thought that most males are the ones that have the selective hearing, but now I have to say it's girls too.....and I am speaking of my teen right now. (sigh).....

Teens And Phone Conversations

2010-07-01T18:34:00.002-05:00

Why is it that when you are on the phone in a detailed conversation, your teen thinks it's okay to come right in and talk to you like you aren't busy, but the minute that you knock on their door, go in and try to ask them a question, they signal to you that THEY are on the phone and want you to be quiet? What's wrong with that picture? Although my teen is very respectful, she still seems to exhibit this particular habit. I don't know why, it's not like it's any secret that she has a mother that needs to ask a question, now is it? Teens, I just don't know where they come from sometimes.

Summertime Things...

2010-06-30T21:33:00.003-05:00

Well, the new job officially starts next week and she has now learned which pool she will be working in. We had to visit the chiropractor a couple of days ago because she pulled 6 ribs out of place during the life guard training. Thankfully, the chiropractor showed her some excercises to do each morning before getting up that will help her body get the stretching it needs. Even though my teen is very tiny and slim, she still isn't in the shape that she needs to be in, so she's working on it, and was told that crunches were really good for building the ab muscles. Riding her horse is still in the picture but due to the extreme hot weather, she can only be ridden on in the late evening or very early morning., but Frenchie is probably glad for the break right now. Things have been up and down for my daughter and the long-time boyfriend and it's very stressful. I really hope that things calm down soon. I am happy that we can discuss things and I try to always have an ear to hear what she's saying...even when she's not saying it. Summer is definetly challenging, to say the least. How is your summer going?

Summer, Once Again....

2010-06-24T19:16:00.002-05:00

Now my daughter is going to be a senior and she is so happy about it....little does she realize that it always seems that the last year of high school just goes way too fast. It seems like such a lifetime ago that I graduated from high school, and here I am trying to remember all my friends.
My teen has gone through the Red Cross Lifeguard training and is now going to be a lifeguard at the pools nearby and that's a good thing. She has learned so much, and boy! has she grown up in such a short amount of time. She still has her first job that she got a little over a year ago and works it part time. I think this coming up year will be exciting for her and I am anxious to see how it goes for her. Enjoy your summer my dear readers....for soon, it will be school time again.

Boyfriends

2010-05-24T20:57:00.002-05:00

What do you do about a teen daughter's boyfriend that seems to be mr. nice and wonderful, and then one day out of the blue, he starts making your daughter feel bad? There have been times when I found myself wanting to go and get him by the ear and give him a piece of my mind, but of course, I cannot do that. What I am thankful for is that she talks to me and I listen to what she has to say about it. I give her my opinion, but I don't tell her what she HAS to do, because I know that she will turn away from it. At this stage of being a teen, she is struggling to become an adult. I want her to know what IS acceptable in a relationship and what ISN'T, but without being too overbearing. I hate seeing my daughter cry because the boy has said something ugly to her or making her feel that she did something wrong. Keeping my eyes open for any signs of anything wrong, I am here for my lovely daughter. Being a mother of a teen is certainly challenging.

Trusting Your Teenaged Daughter

2010-05-10T21:26:00.002-05:00

Trusting your teen some be challenging at times. I allow my daughter to have a few places that I call "free" to go to, and then everything else has to be approved. So, when she's driving, she can go to school, work, the barn and any food place on the way or back from those 3 places to get something to eat or drink. So far, so good... I have been able to keep my trust in her because she always calls or texts me if she wants permission to go anywhere else. Now, my teen isn't perfect by any means but she is developing good habits of keeping in touch with me and I am happy about it. This morning I noticed, when she asked me to transfer money on her card to pay for her gas, she had spent a whopping 24.00 and change to eat at Ihop. I knew that she had her boyfriend with her, but I still wonder how 2 very small people can eat so much! But I have chosen not to worry about it because it's her money.....but since I am old fashioned, I would have much rather that the boyfriend pay for it, or at least part of it. I am happy that I am able to trust my daughter....do you have a good relationship with your teen? Do you trust them?

Dealing With The Passing Of A Beloved Pet

2010-04-20T08:20:00.003-05:00

Yesterday afternoon, my precious chihuahua, Prissy passed away. She had gotten pnuemonia, and for a little while, we thought she was better......but she took a turn for the worst. We had to go and get her so we could transfer her from the pet hospital to the emergency vet hospital so she could be monitored overnight, but she passed away before we ever got to take her. She was a little dainty, 4 pound chi that was the light of the family. My teen went with us so she was there when Prissy passed.....she took it just as hard as I did. We both cried as hard as ever, left there empty handed and heavy hearted. How do you console your teen when it's so hard to deal with it yourself? After all, I AM the mother here, but I have to tell you, it was very difficult. I dealt with it the best that I could....came home and took a long hot bath, and once she saw that I was much calmer, she finally went and took her a bath as well. We both cried and hugged at the loss of our dear pet. I didn't sleep at all last night, but she said that she did, so I think that we will both grieve for a little while, but we both talked about it, and we know that we did EVERYTHING in our power for Prissy, and that was a little comfort. How do you deal with the loss of a beloved pet? And how do you help your teen through it?

All Sports Can Lead To Injuries

2010-03-19T10:28:00.003-05:00

We all love sports. We hear all the time about football players or baseball players getting injured. Riding horses is also a sport that can cause injuries..... actually for the past couple of weeks, my teen has been going through a really tough time. Frenchie, our horse, has had a bit of trouble with her hoolves lately, making her unable to be ridden. My daughter went out to the barn every day to treat and wrap Frenchie's hoolf, but she wanted to ride, so she got on 3 different horses and was thrown off all 3 times. Each and every time, my hard-headed teen said that she was okay and didn't need to go to the Dr.......until one morning, she tried to get up for school and just couldn't get out of bed for a little while. I called our chiropractor, who takes care of her back and asked her to take a look and we were sent for x-rays.....and those came out okay, and then we were sent for an MRI.....take, thank GOD, came out alright, so she is being treated for a bruised back.. I am so thankful that there were no breaks, but also have to say here that all sports can lead to injuries. My daughter always wears her helmet, and I am grateful for that, but I have now let my darling daughter know that she needs to stay away from the other horses for awhile and let herself heal. I must say that while the Dr was telling her of what COULD have happened, we both cried as my daughter doesn't want to give up her hobby. You cannot take away a child's dreams but it's always wise to be as cautious as possible.

Keeping Her Room Clean!

2010-03-01T09:14:00.002-06:00

Oh what a wonderful teen that I have, and yet, we still have something that it an issue, but not anything really big......it's her ROOM! Oh how I want to go into that room and clean it all up while she's at school but I know that I cannot. I can threaten to clean it up while she's gone, just to see if I get a reaction out of her and hopefully get her to start picking it up, but will it actually get done? Most likely, it will, but I know it's not going to be the kind of clean that I WANT! Well, I suppose if this is the only gripe I have right now, that's great. I guess coming from a mother who has had her own business of cleaning houses for over 25 years, I want a much cleaner room that what I know I will get, but I think that as long as she's keeping it half-way decent, I can't really complain that much. She vaccums the living room without being prompted to do so, helps wash dishes without my asking, but when it comes to her own room..........I give up!

Today's Responsibilities

2010-02-22T07:37:00.002-06:00

In today's world, it seems like there are more responsibilities than when I was a teen. I certainly didn't have to worry as much about going to college to be able to have a good job.
My daughter came home with courses that she will be taking next year, and she's also talking about taking some summer courses to be able to clear up the schedule next year for cosmetology...wow, that has really thrown me for a loop. I have my oldest 2 daughters who are cosmetologists, and since my teen was so much into the "equine vet" for her college major, I was really suprized when she mentioned a whole new field to me. She has explained that she wants this as a way to work and make some money WHILE going to college for her "vet" studies. Such a smart girl I have and I am so happy that she is making wise choices for her future. I think she has some great motivation here and am praying that she sticks with it.....I am excited for her ! I think that she has been learning, not only from me, but from school and society that it is more of a responsibility these days to be able to make enough money to survive on, especially with all these taxes we pay!

Miss Frenchie

2010-02-02T09:11:00.002-06:00

This is Frenchie, my daughter's horse, and she is a beauty....however, look at those feet! Her hooves are really dirty because she has been tromping around in the mud. We keep Miss Frenchie at a barn that provides alot of care, but my daughter still has to take care of cleaning and picking her hooves, and giving her baths, and riding her, teaching her as well as her grooming. Having a horse was a long-time dream of my daughter's and she has done really well with the upkeep. Having a horse is a very large responsibility. Buying the horse is NOT the largest expense....it's the upkeep, food, etc. Not only that, my daughter is into equestrian jumping so that's even more responsibility. As a mother, I DO shreak when I see her jumping over the jumps they have to do, but with a helmet and a good teacher, it's good. School is going wonderfully, and her junior year is half over. Her job is still VERY part time and she'd love to have more hours but her job is busier during the holidays and summer so right now things are a bit slow. Does your daughter have a hobby, or some sort of entertainment that keeps her busy?

A New Look For My Teen

2010-01-13T10:51:00.003-06:00

Time is sure flying. My daughter is almost ready for the second semester in her junior year, still dating the same boy, and driving her oldie--but goodie mustang to work, school and the barn. She got her class ring right before Christmas break and when my oldest daughter and granddaughters came down at Christmas to celebrate, something happened to my teen. My 2 oldest granddaughters are teens as well, one is 6 months older than my daughter and the other one is a few years younger. I was astonished when my oldest granddaughter seemed to have settled down some but the younger one had this really crazy hairdo. It was cute, but different...well, my teen decided that she wanted her hair very similar (without the craziness, thank goodness) so my oldest daughter cut her hair and styled it, making it soooooo pretty. I looked at my teen, wondering what would be next. Well, something DID come next....and it was wanting to wear eyeliner. WHAT?? Although I wore makeup from the time I was a very young teen, I was suprized to see that my teen, who is 16 now, is wanting to wear a little eye makeup. I agreed, as she is very light on it, and it actually looks nice, but what is next? She went out and bought some jeans that are a little different than what she normally wears.......and at this point, the suprizes have stopped but I am wondering if there will be any more changes to come. She told me that she just wanted a new look, and BOY did she get it!

Teens and Hobbies

2010-01-04T06:54:00.002-06:00

This is Miss Frenchie, my daughter's horse. She is a very curious horse and loves alot of attention.

My daughter rides English and jumps her, also competes in english jumping.

Not only does Frenchie require multiple visits throughout the week, but riding as well, even through the coldest of weather. We have her at a wonderful barn that has live-on care and she is tended to with many other horses. I can't tell you how great it is for my daughter to have a hobby that keeps her busy. Also, this is her future as she has decided to become a enquine vet. She is studying assistant vet tech in school right now and will soon be able to work as one in her senior year. Does your teen have a hobby that keeps her busy? Do you find that it keeps her just busy enough or way too busy? We have learned how to manage the hobby along with the homework, so it works out great here.

Finally Got My Daughter's Car Back

2010-01-02T19:45:00.004-06:00

Gee wiz, I thought I would never get my daughter's car back, but $421.60 later, it's back and running like a dream....actually, it is like a dream because now I have my own car back and that's a wonderful thing.
Her car is a 93 ford mustang, automatic, and gets her from school to work and back and forth to the barn..... I am so happy I could scream about it.
I know, you are probably wondering why I am so happy about my teen having freedom, and actually, it's not that, but it's a little bit of freedom for me! I don't have to drive her back and forth like I had to do up until this point. My teen had alot of places that she needed to go and to have her be able to drive herself is great. I will add here that she has earned this, at least I feel so. She is not allowed to talk on her cell or text while driving. She has to let me know when she gets where she's going and she doesn't get to go where-ever she wants, so it's all good. I trust my daughter, and that's a good thing.

Working Through The Holiday

2010-01-01T20:40:00.002-06:00

Oh, I am certainly hearing that whine of " I don't like working!" so since she's been working less than a year now, how do I tell her that this is a way of life? It's not going to be her job for the rest of her life, and she really doesn't work that much....however, during the holidays, she has worked very much......great for her paycheck, keeps her busy, but she doesn't like the hours. Well, she's at the bottom of the work line right now, but it won't always be this way. Next year, she will have to get a job more directly within the field of where she wants to be, so this will be good.
I am so happy that school will be back in session after the weekend is through. How has your holidays been with your teen at home?

Buying For Others.....The Joy Of Giving

2009-12-26T19:56:00.002-06:00

Every year, especially at Christmas time, I get the long list of what my darling daughter wants for Christmas. I got that this year, but I also noticed a part of her that changed a little....she was buying for others. She is finally learning the joy of giving out gifts, as well as recieving them. What a blessing this Christmas was.
Not only did I get a gift, but she gave out to several of her friends and family too. I didn't see her buy anything for her father, and I think that's because he never comes around. I don't think that he even called her or texted her either. But life went on, and it was good.
Trying to raise a responsible teen is challenging, to say the least.....but it is very rewarding to see when they have done something grown up without you having to remind them.

My Daughter's Car.

2009-12-11T19:47:00.003-06:00

sorry for not posting for awhile. I have been quite dismayed over the fact that--now this may sound silly, but my daughter's car has been in the shop for 4 months now and I am about to go WILD! Yes, it's true...and it's been problems with the transmission. They thought it was fixed at one point and before we got it, it started acting up so we didn't get it back, so here I am, anxious to get it back, and the reason for this is that she is driving MY car. I know, I could drive her around every where but she is a very busy teen and I just feel as though she needs to be able to come and go to school, the barn and to work.
Now, if she was not getting excellent grades in school or was getting in trouble, then she wouldn't be having the freedom to get around easily, but she has earned the right to have her car.
At what age do you think a teen should have their own car? My daughter is 16, but is very responsible and I feel that she is worthy of having her own transportation. It's not a new car at all, and thank goodness for that, otherwise, the insurance would be higher.

Driving Like An Adult

2009-10-15T06:38:00.002-05:00

I don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing, but now my daughter is driving, getting from point A to B and it's a very good feeling, for me and for her. I have given my daughter free reign on a few places that she is allowed to drive without question.
1. school
2. work
3. the barn
4. anywhere to grab a bite to eat to or from the first three.

Now, if she wants to go anywhere else, she has to have my permission. So far, there have been a few places she has asked to go, but since she's so busy, it's not many.
Class rings were ordered and she picked up a friend who lives close by to take her to the school for the ordering, but she came home right afterwards and so far, she is doing what's she's supposed to. I know that I am blessed by her behaviour, and I thank GOD everyday for her maturity and wanting to do what's best. This is not to say that she acts like an adult, but that she is showing some maturity for her age.

Parent Taught Drivers Ed Was A Success!

2009-10-07T06:40:00.002-05:00

Running through all the options of how I was going to be able to find a way for my daughter to get her driver's license, I knew that if she was going to get it before she turned 18, the laws of Texas state that they must either go through driver's ed school or the parent taught driving....and with the prices being close to $400 for the course, I opted for the parent-taught course. I put all 4 of my other children through the course but it wasn't that expensive when they went through it, so I thought I would give this a try. My darling teen is a very thoughtful young lady, and has learned to listen well and this was honestly the best decision where she was concerned. She actually listened to my teaching and she followed what was to be done. Now, let me tell you, this is not the easiest or shortest way to go but I felt as though my daughter was able to learn alot this way, and she REALLY got alot of experience. It has been 6 months since she has held her drivers permit and we got all our paperwork together (this includes the VOE from school, her driver's permit, my signed affidavidt stating that I did not feel she needed a driver's test, and the 2 papers showing that she completed the required hours and with a $5 bill, she was getting her thumbprints and her picture taken. WHEH!!!!!!! I am SO glad it's done and she is now a licenced driver, and you know what else that meant, right? I had to call our insurance and put her on it, but thankfully, our insurance gave her a discount for having A's and B's on the report card!

A Happy Horse After Smelling A Poptart, and yes, she CAN see through her Fly Mask!

2009-09-30T07:29:00.004-05:00

This is my daughter's horse, Frenchie, happier than ever that she got a sniff of a blueberry poptart.....my daughter says that she is smiling.

You might think that she cannot see through that mask, but it's to keep the flies off of her face, and yes, she can definetly see through it.

The Horse Show

2009-09-23T15:54:00.002-05:00

My daughter went to her second horse show this past weekend but it was her 1st jumping show.....She was so happy, and yes, I am a proud mamma, as she won 1st and 2nd place in the walk-trot- and the walk-trot-canter. She placed 3rd and 4th in the classes on the jumping. She has a really nice riding position but it turns out that when "Frenchie" saw the judge sitting in the booth, she decided to go a little faster than she should have. All in all, it was a great experience and we are very pleased. This picture is of her on Frenchie, with her trainer, Miss Carla.

The HomeComing Dance

2009-09-12T18:35:00.002-05:00

Tonight is my daughter's homecoming dance and she is going. We ended up buying her dress at Ross for a great bargain price, and the heels, she already had. Hair cut ended up costing around $12. and the ticket for entering is a mere $7, so I think that we managed it pretty good, however, the cost of those professional picture packages were a little more than planned but we went ahead and bought the $25 package because I think that she deserves to have something for her memory. Now, most of you who keep up with my blog know that my daughter is not a "dress up" type of gal......she's really into her jeans, but I am so happy to see her actually want to go this evening. Whoops, it's almost time to go so have a good weekend everyone!

School's Back In Session

2009-08-25T14:48:00.002-05:00

Today was the first day back to school and my poor dear darling daughter was very nervous....and not because it was a new school or anything, but just because. Sometimes teen daughters just have those feelings of uneasiness, but it's okay....I know that by the end of the school day, she will come home all excited about seeing her friends again and talking about the new classes she has.
Give your teen moral support and let her/him know that you understand their nervousness but that everything will be fine. Show interest in their new classes and what they have going on. For me, I enjoy hearing all about what she's thinking and what's going on with her, and I think this keeps the door open for a great parent/child (teen) relationship.

Parent Taught Drivers Ed Update

2009-08-20T07:16:00.003-05:00

Well, my daughter just turned sweet 16, and that means that next month will make her 6 months of holding her driver's permit and she will be able to finally get that license. I am very proud of her because she has become a really good driver. I think that the 6 months driving with an adult gives them the experience of becoming more sure of what they're doing, and also gives them plenty of opportunity to be able to deal with the real world of driving. School will start next week and she won't be able to driver herself yet, but it will soon come and I am happy about it. Now, my rules for her driving alone has been let known to her so she's prepared for it. Here are my rules for her:
No cell phone or texting while in the car driving
Drive by the rules
No driving anywhere other than school, the barn and to work unless asking first
Keep the car decently clean
Always keep gas in the car, just in case
If there's a problem with the car, always let me know before it gets to be a problem
Always watch out for the other driver because they are not always watching for you.

Quinceanera Checklist--- A Double Check

2009-08-14T07:28:00.004-05:00

Here is a second checklist of help when planning your daughter's quinceanera...........

1. Make sure if she or her party is changing for different dances that they have all their clothing packed and ready, packed in a small bag for easy location.
2. Good communication is important with your band or DJ especially if you are making your own CD of music to make sure your CD will play in their equipment, and if not, make sure they know what songs you want played, especially for the dance.
3. Talk with your photographer to make sure they know exactly what pictures you want.
4. Don't over order the cake because not everyone wants a piece and you will have left overs.
5. Ensure that the location you are renting has ample room for the quinceanera and her party to dance....it takes more room with more damas and their partners.
6. When deciding on food to serve, make sure you do not serve foods with alot of messy sauce that may be spilled easily.
7. Balloons make excellent decorations, especially on a budget.
8. Make sure the quinceanera's party knows what time you expect them there.
9. When decorating the hall yourselves, make sure once youv'e made your decorations, you pack them up in boxes that will make it easier to carry into the hall.
10. Don't forget to have fun, because it is alot of work.

School Clothes Buying

2009-08-13T21:43:00.003-05:00

Yep, it's that time again, and school will be in session soon.....so, here comes the school clothes buying and buying for a teen isn't cheap. Even though my daughter is working a part time job, I don't expect her to buy all of her clothing but to help, that's a plus. She has already purchased 3 new pair of jeans, and I kicked in with 2 new shirts and the backpack. Her older sister wanted to buy her some shoes since her birthday is this week so that helped alot. I have found that even though Walmart offers cheap things, I have found that JCPenney is really offering some great sales as well. We mostly shop on the sales rack and have found some screen tees for only $5.99 which is very much in our budget. Look around for sales, coupons and ads to find the best deals, and most of all, don't feel as if you have to buy the most expensive, name brand labels, unless you really want it. Happy Shopping!

Spending Your Paychecks Wisely

2009-07-29T11:59:00.003-05:00

When teens start working, they are so excited when that first and even the second check hits their hands. What do they do with it? Spend it, of course. I have stated in previous posts that I helped my daughter set up her own bank account so that she can learn how to manage her money more wisely. This has been really good so far because when she gets her check, she decides how much to leave in the account to spend and how much goes into the savings. Good thing with her account is that she can get online and transfer it back and forth.....that works for her!
With school fastly approaching, she has decided to spend a little bit on clothing and it really helps me out because she is buying what she really wants, and learning how to shop for bargains. There are, of course, times that she wants something a little over-priced but then again, she's in the beginning stages of learning, and that can take time.
Dear daughter, right now, you are earning your own money, but when you get out of school, and you are on your own, it won't be as much fun spending it because there will be bills after you get your own place, so now is a great time to learn how to look for bargains., and still enjoy spending what you have.

How Talking To Your Teen Really Helps

2009-07-20T08:58:00.003-05:00

Talking to my teen is mostly easy, but that's because we have always had a good repore and can talk to each other, however, I have had 4 other teens before her that weren't as easy to talk with. Starting early at having nice and calm discussions really make a difference. I have also found that talking things over and giving them a chance to voice their opinion is also good. You don't have to always agree with their thoughts, but you can find out more about how they are thinking by listening. From the beginning, I have let my teens know what I expect from them and if they don't follow the rules, what will happen. Finding the right discipline really helps and for me, it's all about letting her do things and have some freedom but if she doesn't make wise choices then taking away the electronics make a difference....but she hasn't challenged that yet because she has seen her older brothers and sisters go through it and has decided not to upset the apple cart. Following through with what you say you will do is also something that must be done for them to understand that what you say, you mean. Take interest in what your teen says because it allows you to see inside of their world.

Do You Trust Your Teen?

2009-07-15T20:11:00.002-05:00

Trust is a big issue with me and I have told my daughter that even if she's done something bad, I would rather hear it from her than getting told by someone else or having a lie told. Right now, we have great communication but teens can be somewhat secretive at times...don't we all know that? We have lived through our own teen years. Right now, I give her my trust because she hasn't done anything to make me doubt her. I don't know if things will change once she starts driving on her own and going back and forth places without me in the car...guess we will see when the time comes, but until she proves otherwise, my trust is in her.

Learning How To Balance

2009-07-13T12:35:00.002-05:00

Does your teen have alot going on in her life? Even though summer's here, things can get pretty hectic, and for my daughter, she has alot going on right now. Working a part-time job, sometimes a split shift, along with caring for and riding her horse, her household chores and free time takes time to learn how to balance. It's okay to be busy, but there are times that she needs to just "do nothing". If your teen has alot going on in her life, make sure that you do everything you can to help her learn how to balance her life along with getting enough rest and relaxation.

"I'm Tired" She said

2009-07-03T16:29:00.003-05:00

Yes, I heard those two words that a teenager likes to say during the summer, and I think that she has a valid complaint, at least some of the time. Her working hours are not very much so it allows her to have free time along with days off to have some summer fun. The best of both worlds, especially when the paycheck comes in and she has something to deposit into her account. Getting a good night's rest is very important to a teenager, especially when they are working or having other activities that draw alot of energy. I try to make sure that she is getting enough protein in her diet as well as enough to drink so that she stays hydrated. At least I have NOT heard the words "I'm Bored!" Thank goodness.

Learning How To Bank

2009-06-27T08:40:00.002-05:00

First of all, I would suggest that you have a job or some sort of income so that you have a reason to bank. Search around for a bank that has alot to offer, or better yet, open an account where your parents bank because more than likely, they will have to help you sign up for an account. After that is decided, go in to start an account but make sure you have some money to open it with. Some places offer alot of benefits so that's a good start. Our bank offered my daughter an ATM card, which I went along with because I want her to learn how to manage her money...it's a good way for her to be able to buy her own gas for her car, purchase clothing or whatever she feels that she needs. With her first check, we put half of it into the savings account and the other half into the checking. I showed her how to use the check register to enter whatever she buys. Simple and easy, if you have 100.00 to spend, for each purchase and after EACH purchase, it has to be entered into the register and subtracted off the balance so that you know how much you have to spend. I told her to NEVER let it get close to zero, just in case she makes an error in subtraction, but the calculator is a good thing to use. So far, she has made a few purchases and it is working out well. Be very careful about WHERE you keep your card, and keeping the 4 number code to use it to yourself. You have to know that if you don't have the money in the account to spend, then you just CAN'T spend it. Online banking is a plus and our bank allows her to transfer from her savings to the checking and visa versa. If you have bills to pay, write them down when you get your check so you know what has to be paid first. Obligations first, then fun stuff. Good luck with your first paychecks! This is just the beginning of a lifetime of learning how to spend your money.

A Time And A Place For Everything

2009-06-18T06:54:00.002-05:00

These days have been terribly busy and I am glad that my teen isn't saying she's bored. Although extrememly busy, where does one find the time to do everything that's on the agenda? Sometimes there isn't enough time to get it all done in a whole day, and that's okay. There ae days and times when we just have to take time to "smell the roses", and just relax. I think that effective planning does help, but it's not somethng that has to be stuck in glue. Making a list of things that need to get done is good, something to go by, but not set in stone. I want my daughter to work part time but I don't want her to get burnt out by working at an early age. I want her to see that working is good, great excercise, money in the pocket but there is also time for the fun things in life as well. Spending days off doing summer fun activities is important and will make having to go to work more pleasurable. There's a time and place for everything....enjoy your summer!

A Busy Summer

2009-06-16T08:23:00.002-05:00

Now that my daughter has gotten a part time job, things are a little more busier around here. She is not able to drive alone yet, but that will come about pretty soon. My car is definetly getting more driving time this summer, but it's great because my daughter isn't bored. She is working 17 hours average per week, spending time riding her horse, and still has time to lay around in her bedroom watching tv and getting rest.
What are your teens doing for the summer break? Swimming, or other activities that keep them busy?

Starting A New Job Today

2009-06-05T07:55:00.002-05:00

Well, today was the first day out of school, but my daughter had to get up early anyways to start her first day on the job. Thank goodness, it's only a part-time thing....which gives her plenty of time to do other things during the summer.
I was really anxious and excited for her this morning as she got out of the car, and so was she.
What is your teen doing for the summer? Do you have anything special planned for the summer?

Getting A Summer Job

2009-06-04T07:18:00.002-05:00

While many parents don't mind if their teens sleep in all day during the summer, I guess I am just one parent who doesn't like it very much. Staying up until wee morning hours and sleeping the day away is just something that many teens do, and even my own older children have done as well. There are days that I let my daughter sleep in, but it's only because I know she needs the extra sleep. This summer, however, is going to be different. She wants to drive a car, she wants to make money to have something to spend, she also wants to have some money to save for herself in the next few years. My daughter didn't want to be bored this summer, so we decided that she either volunteer somewhere or get herself a part-time job. Now, knowing that jobs are harder to come by right now, she decided to try and get a job within the field that she is interested in for her future.....well, no such luck with any equestrian vets with a 15-almost 16 yr. old, so she went towards the dog/cat field. There are many kennels around, mostly needing little things done such as walking the dog, feeding, cleaning up the kennels (yes, of course it's messy) but this is what she wanted. I helped her out by calling around to see at what age they hire. Wrote down a list of the ones saying they were taking applications and we decided on one that was fairly close to the house. She dressed appropriately, went in alone, talked to the lady in charge, filled out the application, interviewed at the same time and wow!!!! Much to our suprize, she got hired on the spot!!!!
Tomorrow is her first day home from school, and she will be going into work. It's only part time so this will be wonderful....not only will she make a little money, but she will not be bored this summer!

Getting Your First Car

2009-05-26T09:39:00.002-05:00

Tons of teens are getting cars as they start driving, or maybe they don't get their own car until graduation. Some get brand new cars and some don't. I have discussed with my teen, that getting ANY car is a blessing. Not everyone gets their first car handed to them. Well, we just so happened to be fortunate enough that her step brother gave her a car....nothing new of course, but it's a 93 mustang. It's a great old car, and something that doesn't have to be paid on monthly. My daughter is so pleased that she will have something of her own to drive, and believe me, I am pleased as well, because she goes to the barn every single day during the week, and this will definetly relieve me of that trip every day,that is, once she gets her permit. Her permit will be here in September so that's not far away.
Dear daughter, my advice to you is to take care of what you have. An old car isn't the prettiest thing, but it's got air conditioning, nice tires, good running motor and tranny.....and lastly, it's yours! Not only does this mean that it needs gas, but oil changes and washing as well. Oh boy am I glad there's a mechanic in the family!

Teen Goals For The Future

2009-05-20T06:58:00.002-05:00

Does your teen have any goals for their future? Do you know what type of dreams they have for their future? Well, I think that every child is different, some not sure of what they want until they reach their senior year or beyond, but my daughter has already decided that her future is in the equine field. She wants to be a horse veteranarian and travel to different farms for her services. She also wants to learn how to shoe a horse as well. All of her high school classes are geared towards this goal. I am very proud of her but I also want to state here that it's okay for a young person to not be yet decided because there are so many things out there these days and the future has alot of great things in store. Times will be harder for our children and our grandchildren, that's for sure, but having some sort of goal gives them something to work towards. What are your teen's goals? Have you sat down and talked to them about them?

Here Comes Another Summer......Time Is Passing So Quickly

2009-05-15T07:20:00.005-05:00

With yet fastly approaching the closing of another school year, I am starting to feel as though my baby has grown up so quickly and time seems to sneak by so fast. We've had a good year though, mostly adjusting to no more band, or football games to attend because she isn't in band any longer, but blossoming on to newer things in her life. She is going to go to her first horse show this weekend and I am so happy to see that she is making progress in her future planning. She still wants to be a horse veteranarian and is taking all the neccessary classes in high school to gear herself towards that goal. She is taking more responsibility with her horse and is about finished with the parent-taught driver's ed. I feel very proud that she is heading in the right direction. What's coming for the summer? Hopefully a part-time summer job so that she can learn how to manage money. I am going to set her up a checking account as soon as she gets a job so I can start teaching her about money and how to spend wisely...and to save. What plans do your teens have for the summer?

Stopping Behind the Bus While Picking Up Students

2009-04-15T09:15:00.004-05:00

Today I was taking my daughter to school, and darned it all, I got stuck behind a bus picking up students. I have this passion about going through the school zones and I believe that no matter what--those rules NEED to be observed. I stopped behind the bus, as always, but 2 cars ahead of me went right around the stop sign. I was FURIOUS!!!! I Do NOT understand how people can just go right around the bus as if it were nothing. Why do people do that? Don't they see that the bus is stopped to pick up kids going to school? Don't they see that fricken stop sign? Doesn't anybody care about the driving rules anymore?

Teens and Helping Out At Home

2009-04-14T07:34:00.002-05:00

Spreading out our helping hands to others is what I am trying to instill in my daughter, to help someone that might be struggling with something, like homework, or helping out when she sees that someone is in need. Last week, I had my 6 month old grandson, and boy! she really did help me out with him. We went to the grocery store and it was a real task just trying to get that car seat in and out of the back seat of my car. It took both of us to actually get it out to put into our cart so we could go inside.
My daughter has been really helpful around the house as well, vaccumming without asking if I want it done, taking out the trash when she sees it's full and just odds and ends that really do make a difference around here. I praise her for those good deeds and let her know that helping out is very good. Does your teen help you out with chores at home? I feel that when they help out, especially without having to ask deserves little extra treats and I will sometimes allow her more time when she goes out somewhere, buy her a random piece of clothing or get her a gift card to different places. What types of chores do your teens do to help you out?

My Daughter's Quinceanera---Looking Back

2009-03-31T12:06:00.002-05:00

Now that my daughter has an official driver's permit and is learning the ins and outs of driving in the real world, I have stopped to ponder back at some of her growing up moments. Looking back at her quinceanera last year, I have to say that I am so glad that I did that for her. It's a very special moment in a girl's life and she will have that memory with her forever. My daughter is not one who has to have the designer jeans or the expensive shoes....she's just about a teen, living in the real world, understanding that parents just cannot afford all those expensive things in life all the time. She does have her preferences about her clothing, though, so I will give her that. She is a pure and natural beauty. I am glad that her quinceanera gave her a celebration with her friends and family, enjoying the glamour of wearing a crown and a beautiful gown, high heels and being the center of attention. Just make sure that if you give your daughter one, you get some good pictures and video, that will last a lifetime. My how my teen is really growing up fast.

What Do You Think About The Parent-Taught Driver's Ed?

2009-03-30T07:16:00.002-05:00

Since I started the parent taught drivers ed course, I have run across many people who really like the idea of it. Several other women have told me that they felt that their teens learned more during their sessions and felt that many driver's ed courses that are taught in public do not offer as much. I have been through driver's ed, although it was a very long time ago, but during the school year. I felt as though I learned alot, book-wise. I don't know if they offer as much time behind the wheel, and that is where it really counts alot. We want our teens to be good, defensive drivers. We want them to know how to manuever that car on the roads effectively. I know that sometimes it does scare me to see my youngest child driving but it's just life.....it has to happen. What do you think about driver's ed classes?

About The Parent Taught Driver's Ed Course

2009-03-26T05:58:00.004-05:00

After recieving my packet in the mail, I opened it up to find alot of papers stapled together. It included all the things that we will need to get her driver's permit as well as after finishing the course and having held her driver's permit for 6 months, the provisional license as well. I took the stapled pack of paper and read through it so that I could try and understand what to do next. It does not contain the lessons or how to teach. It does, however, give you a listing of all the courses that you can opt to do, instead of the course 101 that they offer for free. I am choosing the free course because some of the other courses are ones that you must pay for through a third party and some of them are hundreds of dollars....if I wanted to pay that much, I would have enrolled her in our local driver's ed. I got online and am finally making heads and tails of the whole thing. It basically offers classes in what is called modules and they break it down into seperate learning lessons. I printed off tons of papers to help get us started. I also want to say here that you have to keep track of the hours and days that you sit down and teach. It cannot be more than 2 hours a day, but after those first 6 hours, you can sign an affidavidt and with the proper paperwork, along with a v.o.e. from school, they can obtain their driver's permit.
Wish me luck, it's alot of paperwork.....but she is willing and happy about the learning experience, as we have already started the lessons.

What Are Teens Really Interested In?

2009-03-24T08:26:00.002-05:00

Do you know your teen very well? Do you know what kind of person that he/she will be when they grow up and enter into adulthood? Right now is a very impressionable time in their lives and they are still watching us, just like they did when they were babies. I have discovered that even though they are still maturing, they still offer a pretty good topic of conversation, along with the silly stuff as well. My daughter has already decided what she wants in life, and is gearing her goals toward that. Every child is different and I am finding out so much as I get older. My teen seems to be interested in what's happening in today's world.....as well as what goes on at school and her friends, but she seems to know quite alot about many things. I remember when I was her age, I wasn't worried about what was going on with the world as much, just about myself. Have you held a decent conversation with your teen lately? If not, you might want to start by talking about small topics, allowing them to express their opinions without any arguments. If so, isn't it nice to see what they have to say?

Ok, The Driver's Papers Are Filed and Waiting....

2009-03-21T11:11:00.004-05:00

Thankyou all for wishing good luck with my daughter's driver's ed course. She is getting very excited about it. Luckily, she is my only child out of 5 who will actually listen. Maybe it's just a stroke of luck. I filled out that simple form, sent in my $20 and it should be back on it's way soon. Then the chore will begin. Here are a few other things that I am going to teach her along with the driver's ed, which is very important for me.
1. Never talk on the cell phone while driving. That means no texting either. Pull over somewhere if it's important.
2. Never get so close behind another car that you cannot see the back tires on the road. This at least gives you a little room in case someone rear ends you... you don't want to hit the car in front of you.
3. know how to follow rules of putting gas in the tank, that means locking your doors while outside the vehicle, no cell phone talking, paying attention to what you are doing, and your surroundings.
4. always keep a couple of extra bucks in your car in case of an emergency. That means trying to fill up before the car is completely empty.
5. Always watch out for the other guy!

Teen Drivers Ed

2009-03-12T06:54:00.002-05:00

Am I brave or what? I checked around to all our local drivers ed locations and it is a whopping $375 cash, or $400 if paid in payments. Wow ! That is alot of money for me these days and since I had put all my other 4 in drivers ed, it was a given with my youngest. I just couldn't believe the prices and how they had jumped so much. Actually, where my oldest daughter lives (many hours north), the price is much more reasonable, but it's also in another state so that wasn't going to work either. With my teen, I have had the very good fortune of her doing well in school, listening to what I have to say and I found it quite beneficial to call around and find out about the parent-taught drivers ed, and just thinking about it sounded like alot of work, but it was only $20. I filled out the application that I found online, printed it out and sent in my check....now I have to wait for the packet to come back. I am hoping and praying that this will be something that isn't too difficult because I know that there are many lesson plans in the packet. Well, wish me luck. Oh, and by the way, I did call my insurance agent and discussed with her the amount of insurance that will raise with my daughter.....she said that while she is on a permit, she is under my insurance but after that, once proving that she's a "B" average student and taking a little test for the insurance, our insurance will be less than $65 a month....I was so happy about that.

Can Teens Cook?

2009-03-01T20:34:00.002-06:00

Does your teen cook? I don't mean toast, now. I am talking about being able to cook something beyond putting it into the microwave and waiting for the beep sound. Yes, most teens do that frequently, I know that my daughter does, but have you spent any time with your teen showing them how to make something to eat in the kitchen besides a microwave dinner? Where do you start, you might be asking....well, start with the simple. Knowing how to make eggs for breakfast, oatmeal and something for mornings is a good start. Take time to let them actually do some of the cooking with your help. I have taught my daughter how to get online to find a recipe and search through the cupboards to see if we have the right ingredients and bake a cake, all from scratch....and yes, they turn out delicious. I have tried to show her little tricks about using the spray pam to keep food from sticking, and also something as important as how to read the directions on the back of the box. My daughter enjoys cooking, even it it's just a hamburger helper night, she has also learned how to cook the meat and drain it, and follow the directions. It takes time but it's well worth it so they learn how to cook, especially in times when you can't.

Teens Getting Around Without A Car

2009-02-22T14:25:00.003-06:00

How much control do you have over your teen? I think that my daughter has alot of lee-way when it comes to things that she wants and places she wants to go. Of course, we are talking about the fact that she is not driving yet. At this age of a teen's life, they really seem to have alot of places that they want to go and sometimes a parent can feel like a chaufeur. That's okay as long as I get to see where it is that she wants to go to, and I get to set the time limits of when she comes and goes. I am honestly dreading that her driver's ed is coming up soon and not too long after that, she will be able to drive herself around. Yes, I do trust my daughter, but once they start driving, do you really think that they will come and go to only the places that you allow them to go? I think that even though she has me busy with needing rides, I can at least know that she is where I took her to. And once she starts driving on her own, well, that's another story altogether.

Teen Role Models

2009-02-10T07:19:00.004-06:00

The grammys came and went, and then on the news I hear about Chris Brown getting arrested for assault. This is a young man, only 19 years of age, who has his whole life in front of him, and at this time of his life, he has had the great fortune to make alot of money with his music. So, when he does something, teens listen. What about Miley Cirus and all the hoop-la we have heard about her that gets people turning their brows up. She is in a position of being a role model as well. Not just these 2 young people out there, but many others who are in positions that our teens look up to. Honestly, if I had been able to make that kind of money and success at their ages, I think that I would have to say that I would have been more careful about the things that I do, especially when others are looking on. They live in the public eye for goodness sakes! I told my darling daughter that everyone in life makes mistakes but there's always a price that you pay if you make the wrong choices in life. You don't have to be famous to learn that type of lesson. Make the right choices in life, doing what you know is right and treat others the way that you want to be treated. And if it so happens that you DO make mistakes, because we all do, you just have to get right back up and correct them. I guess, easier said than done. Right?