It's a strange thought --- August 2007 marks the beginning of the Year of Independence for me from my kids.

I know : we often think of kids growing up and it has always been them wanting to be independent from us parents ---- right from the age of the 'terrible two' through the 'rebellious adolescent' to them choosing to go flatting with friends instead of living under one roof with their parents and siblings.

Like most mums, I often wondered if my primary purpose in life is to provide services similar to the hotel with a 24-hour cafetaria and chauffeur thrown in.
So when my youngest started his freshman year in the States in August......and the two older ones were left to handle a new job and a new business plus the groceries, cooking, cleaning, laundry, car maintenance, paying of bills......while my husband and I packed up to go to the Middle East for a couple of years ----- I felt kind of guilty.

Was I irresponsible as a mum?
Should I fly to and fro every couple of months to check on things??
Was I losing my purpose in life???

Well, I have to admit --- I didn't lose too much time nor energy mulling over my guilt.

After 5 weeks of independence from my kids, I realise that this is a wonderful time to test my parenting!

My youngest recently spent US$300/- for motorbike lessons. He passed with flying colours, extremely satisfied to have done this manly thing, while unashamedly admitting it's very dangerous and probably will never ride a motorbike in Singapore.
--- ah....my wise son!

My daughter decided to buy more clothes because she was not able to keep up with the washing and ironing.
--- well, that's one way to get around the situation!

My eldest has been cooking his own low carbo, high protein meals and proudly proclaims he's leaner than when I was the cook.
--- so what can I say eh?

I know these kids will not only survive without me ---- they will learn even more about cost, consequences and challenges in life that they may not when they have me around!