"Let me know when you are doing this...."

Those are the reassuring and supportive words that my husband gave me after I struggled over a financial budget for my daughter. He followed up with "I don't want to be here when you talk with her." I wanted to say...."I love you too, sweetheart." But I just laughed at his cowardliness.

My husband knows as well as I, that this daughter, needs this more than any of the other kids. She is a major player in the world of spending. She seems to have no realization as to cost. Better yet, the true cost of a purchase. Some thing that many people can't see. This task in front of me, makes me feel like I am on a Mission Impossible show. I can hear the music and even the voice saying "your mission, should you ......"

In my eyes, once you learn what the true cost of something is, you are better prepared to make an educated and informed decision.

This is where my fear and potential frustration lie - she has already mentioned that she can use her other savings for her car and expenses. This my friends is where we disagree. I have struggled and saved all of the money I can possibly muster for my children. Compiling gift monies they have received from birth. This money has been ear marked for college. Just like for all the other children.

Yes, it would be easier for me and for her, if I would just cash a CD or withdraw funds from one of these accounts to pay for her car and expenses. But, unlike my immature daughter, I know what the future holds. Leaving me with the mindset that an education far outweighs the purchase of a vehicle.

With the money saved for her, thus far, she should be able to graduate from a state college debt free. Possibly even from a Private College, with her GPA of 4.0 and her heavy schedule of activities and involvements. She would be someone I would expect colleges to pursue, but this is not a guarantee. She has 2 1/2 years left of high school and she needs to remain on course. Leaving me with the hope, that she stays out of a "relationship". Which I believe would only deter her from where she needs to go. Or at least remain true to herself while entertaining a relationship. I think I have this attitude well established in her, but as with any teen this could change in a heart beat. Hormones always over power the voice of mom.

I know it may appear that I am to firm on my decisions and my expectations. Let me first clarify that her older brother has told me I am not to strict and has thanked me for his ever growing wealth and ability to manage his money. I am thankful that he takes the time to express his feelings to his sister, because she needs to know - I'm working for her and in her best interest.

Note: My son is so good with his money now, that he is on auto pilot. Although he does spend everything not earmarked for a certain savings. But, I am OK with that if he is, because he ALWAYS PAYS HIMSELF FIRST and he never needs to ask me for money. Plus, he is out and about spending every day. It was the movies last night with a new girl from a couple towns over.

The most important reason for this, as I stated in yesterday post, is you need to learn about money prior to relying on it. If I as a parent, do not teach this to each and every child of mine, I have failed. I left my home as a teen, prior to graduation. I knew nothing about money, except to work and to spend. Savings was never an option. True Cost was a mythical idea.

My thoughts are if I protect them from just 1 debt that could potentially stiffle their growth, then it is worth it. I full heartily believe that they will make mistakes, as we all do, but if the knowledge of how things work is imbedded in their minds, they will succeed and flourish. Leaving my mothers heart in peace.