The Blessing of Independent Teens

Recently, my husband and I headed north for several days and left our 16 and 18 year old home alone.

I left them a 'to-do' list as a reminder, and felt confident that they would get where they needed to go on time.

Then, my daughter, who is getting married in January (have I mentioned that lesson planning may have taken a back seat to wedding planning?), called to ask me to go to 'the big city' and buy a couple bridesmaid dresses at a particular store.  


I was too far away to do that, but I was able to send my teens to take care of the task.  

Also, a friend contacted me to ask if I would take a meal to our dear friend who was bringing her mother home from the hospital after cancer surgery.  I really wanted to help, but I was out of town.  

I asked my teens if they would be willing to make a meal and take it.  They agreed, so I was able to help without even being in town.  I wish I had a photo, but I don't.  Just imagine a nice Mexican Quinoa and home-made cookies.

If you have been reading my blog for very long you have read the articles about teaching your teen skills to become independent.  This is not only good life training for them, but it also turns into a blessing for you.

You can be confident that they are capable of completing tasks in your absence.

If you have not fostered independence in your teen, start today.