A New Set of Wheels

The dreaded day has arrived, the day you buy your teenager a new set of wheels. Yesterday, we decided to take advantage of the end of year car deals and ended up driving out with a brand new Mazda 3. We had been doing our research and had decided to buy Renie a used older car so we wouldn't have to worry as much, however these days used cars are as expensive as new cars. We wanted him to have a dependable car since he will be going off the college next year, but were torn between new or used. If it were totally up to me, I would have waited until next year, but the life as a teenager in the 21st century is a whole heck of a lot different than when I grew up. My first car came when I was a sophomore in college. These days it comes so much sooner. Are we making the right decision? Our kids are just growing up too fast. My good sense tells me Renie is responsible enough for a car in this stage of his life. He is talking about getting a summer job and contributing to the pool. We have always wanted Renie to focus on academics and with a heavy AP course load and baseball, working is just not an option. As parents it is our responsibility to teach our kids about what life is all about and that includes responsibility and work ethic. For now Renie won't have the luxury of driving his new car, he will drive the Camry until he goes to college and has more driving experience. That still does not settle well in my tummy, but I know it is time to let go, and accept he will soon have to be ready for the real world. So Merry Christmas son, and may the Lord bless you and keep you safe always.