My Wonderful Son

Raising teens and preteens can be challenging. People liken it to raising the 'terrible twos'. I personally think the twos are wonderful and refused to believe in such a phrase. And honestly, I think twos are much easier than teens. *smile*

Once in a while, there are moments when I am especially rewarded for all the years that I put in parenting my boys. I had just one of those beautiful times today. I had just returned from five days camping. I was stopping into the house with my 12 and 16 year old boys, (and all the wee ones) for three hours to do some banking, three loads of laundry, cook some meals for my hard-working hubby, and clean the house.

I had seen the unopened mail on the table and browsed through it to see if there was anything important. Almost immediately I saw that dreaded brown government envelope. I just have an aversion to their envelopes. No guilty conscience - just don't like 'em.

As I opened it, I noticed it was pink. My pulse quickened and I glanced quickly through the writing and my heart about stopped. It was a bill I had forgotten to pay. I am *never* late on government payments. I like to fly low below the radar with them. *smile*

But a couple months ago, I had switched bookkeepers. Actually, the bookkeeper was me and I switched to Ray doing the books. This was one area that I had not taught him, and it had fallen between the cracks.

I immediately panicked, wondering if we had the money for this possibly huge bill, but more importantly that it was six weeks late, and *THEY* would not like it! LOL! I know I make 'them' seem ominous, but they can seem rather intimidating to us little folk!

As I was getting myself organized and was telling the boys I had this unpaid bill, which might have penalties and interest, my dear, sweet twelve year old son, Cassidy, said, "Mum, me and Dane will give you our paycheques to pay for the bill."

My heart swelled with love for the generosity of my son. He doesn't get very many hours at the jobsite, because there is not much he can do. On top of that, he gives 10% of his money to tithe, 10% to household bills, and 50% to his house fund. That only leaves him with 30% to fritter away. So for him to offer his hard earned cash was such a touching thing. And he sincerely meant it. I told him how much I appreciated his offer, but it wouldn't be necessary. (It was very nice of him to offer his brother's wages, as well. *grin*. Though, I am sure if it were necessary that that son would also offer up his money.)

Moments like that are what makes being a mother so worthwhile!
.