You Let Him Go To France On His Own?

Someone sent me a message after I posted about Tommy going to France on his own and I wanted to laugh.

Let him?

He's 24. 

And then I wondered if it was because he has autism. But here's the thing: I have been telling him ever since he was a little boy with his diagnosis that he can do anything he sets his mind on. Anything.

Life wasn't always easy. I'd get constant phone calls from his school because he was having meltdowns. But still, I always knew he'd be okay. He might do things in a different way, at a different time, but he'd get there. 

He has impressed me as he grew. The way his mind works. It's fascinating. 

He has an Associate's Degree in Video Cinematography.

He has a Bachelor's in Film & Media. 

So yeah. I knew he'd be fine in France. 

And he was. 

He kept me updated so I had proof of life. 

He ended up having a wonderful time. He spoke some French over there. He went to all the popular landmarks. 

He ate tons of French pastries. 

He rode the metro. 

He brought me home some macaroons. 

And of course I worried. I'm a parent. 

But I remembered what I told him throughout his life: you can do anything.

And he's proven that. 

Hey, It's Okay

I got this idea from Glamour magazine. You can link up any day of the week. All you have to do is make a list of what you're okay about. Simple! Please do not link up a post that has nothing to do with Hey, It's Okay. It's rude and I'll delete the link.

HEY, IT'S OKAY....

.....to be going to see Avengers Endgame in theaters this weekend with my kids. We need a memory refresh for when we see Doomsday. Apparently there's extra footage that'll lead into the film. 

......to hope Tommy makes it home from Paris safely. He's had a wonderful time and has sent me all sorts of food pics, that has made me incredibly jealous.

.....to be going to a Toys & Trinkets event by Kings of Horror. There's going to be all sorts of retro toys available. I am all about the retro toys. 

......to think the spicy alfredo sauce available at Olive Garden for their Never-Ending Pasta Bowl is delicious. They need more spicy sauces. 

......to have found Fudge Creme Pies at the grocery store and yup, I got them. I'm a fan of Oatmeal Creme Pies, so I'm pretty certain I'll like these. 

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Why An Investment Account For A New Baby Is Smart

 When a baby is born, there's all sorts of excitement buzzing through the air. 

A new life! Hooray! It's a cause for celebration. 

Gifts pour in. And true, sometimes they are needed, while others are immediately exchanged or forgotten in a closet, collecting dust.

A gift that will always be a smart idea and will NEVER collect dust, is a UGMA investment account. You might be thinking, what? An investment account? How boring! 

But it's truly not. 

Starting an investment account for a new baby is the right move, and I have many reasons why. 

1. When the baby reaches adulthood, they'll already have money to begin their life. Need college money? It'll be there. Skipping college and going into a trade? Cash is available. Taking a gap year? The trip is funded! 

2. The investment accounts don't require a bunch of money to open. You might be thinking, "Who has $100 or more to spare these days?" You're in luck! Many can start with as low as $20.

3. Cash, stocks, and bonds are able to be sent into the account. Kids don't need more toys. They'll always be pleased with money, I promise. Toys wind up broken and all over the house. If you want to keep a clean home, an investment account is the way to go. Family members and friends will be grateful if you're just like, "Donate to this account instead of going to crowded stores to purchase something my toddler might not even LIKE." 

4. Money grows each month. The more that is put in, the faster the account expands. It always is a wonderful feeling to see numbers go up. You'll feel a peace of mind knowing your little one will have cash on hand. 

5. Yes, you CAN get money out before the children are adults without penalty. Life happens and children are expensive. So long as they money is proven to be for the child, you will not be hit with fees. 

So yes. forgo the STUFF after a baby is born and open an investment account. Time flies by and before you know it, that baby will be a fully grown adult. Surprising them with a chunk of money will be welcome and celebrated. 

So will you be starting an investment account for your child or one in your life?