If theres one milestone that all kids look forward to, its the moment they can lay claim to the family car keys.
No longer do they have to listen to their parents say, Youve got two good legs. Walk.
When the clock struck midnight on oldest daughter Tracis 16th birthday, I braked for what I knew was coming.
Mom, lets go! Weve got to get my drivers license today.
Even though I had a feeling some state workers might sleep on the job, I couldnt imagine any would be ready to greet a teenager that early.
But like thousands of parents before us, ignition happened. We wiped a tear and kissed our car good-bye, knowing wed only reunite in the driveway when it was out of gas.
Mom, I need drive over to Robins house.
You cant walk? Id ask incredulously. She lives next door!
And so it went year after year, mile after mile. Tracis tennis shoes lasted forever. Our tires didnt.
When Traci married, had a passel of kids, she drove even more shopping, supermarket and soccer games. You would have thought, judging from her teen years, this would be heaven.
Thats why I was shocked the day I got her call.
Mom, Im training for my first marathon! she panted into the phone. I run for 6 minutes and I walk for one for 26.2 miles.
My mind spun. Walk and run 26 miles? What on Earth for?
Traci, thats so far! I said with a worried tone. It sounds like a distance you should drive!
There was silence as she fought for breath, her feet pounding the pavement.
Oh, Mom, thats not the point. Besides, driving wouldnt be any fun.
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