As we prepare to send our 18-year-old son, Jake, off to college at the end of this week, a small mountain of “Must Remember!” items accumulating by the door serves as a sharp reminder that I have just a few days left to wrap up some parenting tasks before he embarks on this exciting journey into the real world.
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After we handle your tuition, you’ll have a fatter bank account than us.
I’m so relieved we had that “money chat” today. When you asked how you’d be managing your finances at school, your expression was priceless. Jake, we’re taking care of your tuition, books, housing, and a meal plan that could fuel a small army. I can only guess what else you think you’ll need, but I noticed those graduation checks rolling in last May. Let me remind you, you’re sitting on more cash than I am. So, go ahead and spend a little.When you sighed about not wanting to dip into your precious stash for necessities like shampoo, I couldn’t help but see a bit of your dad in you. He’s always on the lookout for those free hotel toiletries during his business trips. Got any trips planned? I didn’t think so. Just buy some shampoo—it’s really not that complicated! Plus, when your grandmothers ask how you spent your graduation loot, saying “on shampoo” isn’t exactly a fib.
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Laundry isn’t rocket science.
For ages, folks have told me I was doing you a disservice by doing your laundry. But honestly, I didn’t mind while you were busy with sports and acing your classes. Whenever friends worried whether you’d know how to handle laundry at college, I reassured them any moron could learn in five minutes—and I’d teach you just before we headed to College Town, USA. No, I didn’t call you a moron! I’m your mother; I love you!True to form, we tackled laundry today and it went smoothly. I know your clothes came out a bit wrinkled, and I’m sorry to hear you’re concerned about ironing them. When I suggested smaller loads to avoid wrinkles, you said that would take too long and that you didn’t want to waste all your free time doing laundry. Ouch! Did you realize you just took a jab at my entire existence? I do laundry for a living!
Just a heads-up—there’s really no such thing as “free time.” Any fool knows that. Okay, maybe I just called you a fool.
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I’ll always be your parent.
Don’t ever think I’m done parenting you. Last night, when you stayed out late at your friend’s house, I texted to check in, and you seemed a bit too casual about it. I know you’ll be on your own next week, but I plan to parent you right up to the very last moment. Up the dorm stairs, down the hall, and right into your dorm room!And spoiler alert: when you come home for Christmas and Thanksgiving, I’ll pick up right where I left off. If that doesn’t sound appealing, you might want to plan a business trip during those weeks. You can snag some shampoo while you’re at it—just a thought. Wait, scratch that—actually, I will tell you what to do!
As you step into this new chapter, remember that this is just the beginning of your journey. If you’re curious about topics like pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource on intrauterine insemination. For those looking to boost fertility, you might also want to explore this guide on fertility supplements. And if you want more insights, take a look at this blog post for additional tips.
In summary, as my son ventures out into the world of college, I’m here to remind him that he’s not alone. He’ll always have support and guidance, even when he thinks he’s all grown up.