As we prepare to send our 18-year-old son, Alex, off to college this week, a small assortment of “Essential Items to Remember” is accumulating by the door. This serves as a stark reminder that I have less than a week to address some final parenting tasks before he embarks on the journey into what many refer to as the real world.
1. Your Financial Situation Will Change
I found it amusing when we had the “financial discussion” earlier today. When you inquired about how you would manage your expenses while attending school, your surprise was evident as I explained our support. Remember, we are covering your tuition, textbooks, housing, and a meal plan that offers more calories in a day than our family consumed in the month you were born. While I understand you may have reservations about using your graduation gifts for essentials like shampoo, I urge you to reconsider. You have a considerable amount of money in your bank account — likely more than I do. So, please, buy yourself some shampoo instead of holding onto it for dear life!
2. Laundry is Not Rocket Science
I’ve been told countless times that doing your laundry for you was a disservice, but I didn’t mind while you excelled in sports and academics. When friends expressed concern about your laundry skills, I assured them that I could teach anyone to do laundry in just five minutes. Indeed, we accomplished that task today without much fuss. I do apologize for the wrinkles in your clothes; however, when you mentioned that doing smaller loads would take too long, I felt a bit hurt. Laundry has been my specialty for years! As you grow older, you’ll realize that “free time” is a myth — any sensible person knows that.
3. My Role as Your Parent is Ongoing
Never assume that my parenting ends with your departure for college. Just last night, when you stayed out late at a friend’s house, I texted to check on your plans. Your casual response didn’t sit well with me. While you may soon be independent, I intend to parent you right up until the very last moment. When you return home for the holidays, you can expect me to resume my role as your mother. If that doesn’t appeal to you, perhaps you could consider scheduling a business trip — you know, to pick up some shampoo along the way. Just a thought!
As you navigate this new chapter, remember that there are valuable resources available. For those interested in pregnancy and family planning, visiting womenshealth.gov/pregnancy can provide insightful information. Additionally, if you’re exploring at-home options, check out this guide on at-home insemination kits, as well as this comprehensive kit.
In summary, as you prepare for college, keep in mind the importance of managing your finances, mastering laundry, and understanding that my guidance will always be available as you transition into adulthood.
Keyphrase: College preparation for young adults
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