My son (SS) turned 22 last week. He was with his mom and I and the extended family for our 20th anniversary and vow renewal celebration the week before his birthday. I am definitely a proud dad. He is a young man of character and is learning his way to viable adulthood.

He is moving off base into his first apartment. Another learning experience to temper him in the crucible of life. Rent, utilities, cable TV bills, internet bills, etc... On top of that we signed the title to the car we bought him over to him and he now has to pay his own insurance. Welcome to bills kid. Have fun. }:) }:) }:)

To cushion this transition for his birthday we gave him a gift certificate for a bedroom set and living room furniture so that he is not sleeping on the floor in a sleeping bag or sitting on shipping palats and card board boxes in his living room. Sure, we could have let him experience the floor or furnishing his apartment from thrift stores but we can afford to be generous.

His bills are his. We have had no calls for help or money in the 4 years since he launched and enlisted. He has had a couple of close calls with his money but seems to have learned a lesson and is now paranoid about overspending. He seems to be keeping his head in the game so far.

Keep up the good work kid-oh.

Love ya,
Dad