So tonight my husband and I will be having one of those deep discussions about life with our daughter.
We have always been very open with her, about all topics really, but this talk will be different. It will be one of those "You are about to be 18 and let me tell you what the next year of your life is going to be like" discussions.
She mentioned the other day that she wanted to take a senior trip to Florida with several girls from her school after graduation. Inside I was thinking "Yeah right!"
All I said, though, was, "Talk to your dad about that."
Her response was, "But I'll be 18!"
She just doesn't get it yet. My first thought when she told me about that desired trip was "Natalie Holloway".
I guess only a mom would think that.
Not only do we have to think about college applications and finances these days, but just the idea of her not being taken care of by us anymore.
Honestly, I know if she had to live on her own today she could totally handle it. She is independent and responsible, and other than emotional support and looking out for her I guess I don't really do too much.
So maybe all this worry about transition is more about me than it is about her. (Keep the comments minimal, por favor.)
Today she and I began preparing her resume. It was fun working together, her correcting my typing, remembering fun things that have happened these past few years.
(I printed out a sample resume from the UT website, and it's pretty funny. It's all about Bevo Longhorn and his work experience and awards. We cracked up when we read that he is fluent in mooing, huffing, and stomping. Too cute!)
I've saved every certificate and award she's received in high school and put them all in a folder in my closet. Today, I am very thankful for my organizational skills.
I guess our next step will be working on the essays she has to write and getting the letters of recommendation. We also have a date set for a Campus visit. She went there last summer for volleyball camp and will be going again this summer, but this will be different.
I'm just sure they'll show her more than the gym.
More to come on this college application venture I am sure...
I totally agreed with your feeling about Florida. My brother is going through the exact same thing with my nephew. They think 18 is the magic number for freedom. i honestly don't think I'd let them go that far, 18 is still young :-) .. Jane
ReplyDeleteThe thing about this time in life is the level of naivete. Since they have been in a sheltering, loving family I think they do not realize the depths of evil in people. I know I didn't. We, as moms think about these dangers for our kids. I have had to point out to my almost-18-year-old reasons why I was suspicious of certain circumstances and people. He would say..."I never thought of that." I know they have to be let go...but slowly, with much guidance. I vote "NO STINKIN WAY" on the Florida trip. But, then again, my vote doesn't count. I just think of all of the stupid things my friends and I did and we were not even two states away! LOL Phebe
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