My son takes his driver's exam this month. I greet this milestone with mixed emotions. Since he is my youngest, it marks the end of an era. I've been chauffeuring my kids around for the past 20 years. From school to soccer, church to ballpark and play practice to swim practice, we've made the rounds. The car seats and mini vans are long gone, but the unique opportunity for conversation remains.

I'll miss the "what was the best part of your day" conversation. Whether it was a good sack lunch or success on a test, it was always a good starter. Let's face it- once we arrive home, the competition from the computer, playing outside and retreating to his room always wins.

I'll miss waiting in the car for him. I can't believe I said that! However, I usually stash a magazine I've been wanting to read under the front seat and enjoy spending the idle time reading without guilt.

I'll miss singing loud and off-key to songs we both love on the radio. I'd like to think that I've introduced him to a variety of music by making him listen to my selections.

I'll celebrate with him when he passes the test and then will start worrying about his whereabouts. My friends insist that I'll be able to start a new hobby with all of the time I'll save out of the car.

We'll begin a new chapter in our lives with treasured memories of time spent together, but also with anticipation of the opportunities that lie ahead with this new freedom.

I just pray he remembers to buckle up!