So many things to talk about…

I can’t believe I haven’t blogged since December. Lot’s happening. Too much to talk about in one blog, but I will start with this morsel of information.

My child, Spencer, went to college in January, and I was going to write about the empty nest thing, yadda, yadda. It would have made for an exciting read.

But something else happened, and I think all parents, not only those with transgender, anxiety-ridden, highly sensitive teenagers, will appreciate it.

Spencer did not traditionally finish high school. He went through a program here on Cape Cod called MassHire. Excellent program. They were so kind to Spencer and guided him through completion with scores that put him directly into a 4-year school. This program is robust and has all types of life support.

In my day, a GED meant a community college and had a stigma attached. But, with covid, many HS students went that way here in Mass.

So long story short, Spencer was accepted at Salem State University.

I have spoken to many parents that feel, as I do, that their teenagers do not listen to them at all. They take no advice.

But the other night, I texted Spencer to tell him that MassHire sent an additional check for the marketing video he participated in because he did such a great job. He was so so excited. I kindly said I will deposit it in your checking.

And then, he said…”don’t forget to put a percentage in my investment account. How much is it again?” I said 20%.

Since Spencer was 15, for every monetary gift or paycheck he has received or earned, he has – at my direction – put 20% into an investment account. He is not allowed to touch it. He hates that. Compound interest was his least favorite phrase. I get it; you’re 18. But, dear lord, I wish my mom had started me investing at 15.

This might be a different bog.

That mommy moment filled me with joy. He actually fucking listens to me!!! Praise Jesus.! Praise everything; the car, the dog, the cat, the door dash delivery!! We are not really religious! You get it. It was a big deal.

At that moment, I did not remember the 20%. The fact that Spencer did – was the best.

I love my mommy moments. Life with Spencer is nothing like I thought it would be, but I would not trade it for anything. He is a force to be reckoned with and is just starting to find his place in the world.

Cherish your mommy/daddy moments when they come.

VC