Of boys and learners permits

I’m not ready for this.

That is what I was thinking as I sat in my (bonus) son’s MDT (multi-disciplinary meeting) yesterday.  The collective decision (which I agree with, I just don’t like) was made that he can get his learner’s permit next month.

My boy is going to drive.  I’m not ready for this.

Let me clarify that he will not be driving in a car that has me as a passenger, observer or anything else.  I should probably be forced to stay indoors with a bottle of valium when I know he is on the road.

My hubby will be his instructor until driver’s ed begins in April.  My sole part of this process (other than taking him to the DMV for the written portion of the test) will be to worry my head off. But will worrying get me anywhere? No.

In addition to the fact that the five year old little boy that let me be his mama after his biological situation didn’t turn out so well is now taller than me, he is also old enough to get behind the wheel of a moving vehicle.

And that brings me to my knees.

LITERALLY.

TO MY KNEES.

Because the only one that can keep Jason safe on the road (and with his first job this summer) and with (God please help me) the appointment with the National Guard recruiter in the spring is my Heavenly Father.

The One who loves my dark haired, special boy more than even I do (which is difficult for this mama to fathom) is watching out for him.

Jason’s life has not been easy (and he hasn’t made it too easy on the rest of us either) so I am so glad that he is finally moving in a positive direction.  He is getting to be a “normal” kid- learner’s permit, first job and senior year plans included.

That he is even at this point is proof that God’s been watching out for him all along.

Jesus, take the wheel!

I’m getting ready to spend even more time on my knees in the coming weeks…right where every mama should be.

This Mama is MADD

With a 16 year old bonus son and 13 and 12 year olds that are already dreaming of what their first car is going to look like, kids and driving is on my mind.

Thankfully there are sites like The Power of Parents available to educate me and alleviate some of my tension.  When I visited the Power of Parenting website I took the safety quiz (15 questions designed to give you an idea of how “at risk” your child is for underage drinking and driving).

They also have a blog that posts articles about all kinds of issues facing those of us parenting teens/tweens.  I don’t know about you, but parenting kids of this age group can be a little overwhelming so I welcome all the information I can get!

The site offers advice on how to start a dialogue with your kids about alcohol, what to say in situations when alcohol is prensent,etc.  There is even an ask the expert section of the site where parents can submit specific questions.

Right now the only part of the site that is active is the area for high school parents but sections on elementary, middle school and college age kids is coming soon!  I was proud to see that my car insurance provider, Nationwide is the presenting sponsor for the site, as well.

Good job, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, for bringing us mama’s important information about keeping our kids safe (on the road *gasp*)  This mama is so not ready for boys with drivers licenses.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of MADD.  A donation was made to MADD in my name to thank me for taking the time to participate.