There’s something special about stepping into a new season of life … especially when it’s marked by good food, belly laughs, and a few important life lessons wrapped in tissue paper and shopping bags.
Years ago, we started a sweet tradition with our grandkids. One-on-one graduation shopping days. Just us and them. It’s a chance to spoil them a bit, fill their bellies, and pour into their hearts with time, not just stuff. And yesterday, it was Dureyin’s turn.
This trip hit differently.
Not because it was fancy or extravagant … because it wasn’t. We’ve never been a “buy the whole mall” kind of family. And we stopped buying birthday and holiday gifts a long time ago. When gifts do happen, they come straight from the heart… and when the wallet allows. But high school graduation? That’s a whole different level. It’s not just a celebration … it’s a send-off.
It’s our way of saying: “Welcome to adulthood. We love you. Now go figure out how to feed yourself.”
And here’s something I didn’t expect when we started this tradition: I never had to ask for time off or wait until payday to make it happen. Building my affiliate marketing business has given me the flexibility to go shopping on my schedule … not after work … and the freedom to say “yes” without stressing over the price tag. No more “just one thing this time.” Now I can show up fully, laugh deeply, and give from a place of peace.
We started the day at Ross Dress For Less … budget-friendly and right up his alley. Dureyin found several shirts, shorts, a pack of socks, and body spray. He liked the prices and made smart choices. Old Navy was next. He chuckled at some of the styles (because, let’s be honest, some of those fashion trends are just wild), but snagged a few shirts, a pair of shorts, and was thrilled. Then came Kohl’s … a new experience for him. He had never been inside, and the price tags gave him a bit of sticker shock.
Cue the life lesson: clothing comes in all shapes, sizes, and price points. And when you’re supporting yourself, sometimes that means Walmart wins the day. Cover the basics, stick to your budget, and build from there.
Throughout the day, Dureyin dropped some lines that had us howling:
“Wow, that is really expensive.” “No, I have new shoes, I don’t need more.” “Grammy, underwear don’t wear out… I’m good.” “I think I got enough, thank you.” “I won’t need more clothes until I get married… my wife can buy them.”
Y’all. We are STILL laughing. I mean, belly laughing.
And then came lunch. Now, if you know Dureyin, you know he’s a Taco Bell loyalist. But… this time, Poppy and I pulled rank. We convinced him to give our local spot, Smoky Mountain Pizzeria Grill, a shot. Handmade, fresh, and a step up from teenage fast-food habits. Poppy got his favorite burger and fries, I ordered an oriental grilled chicken salad, and Dureyin dove into a Philly cheesesteak with parmesan cheese fries like he hadn’t eaten in weeks.
His review? “Man, that was good.”
Same, kid. Same.
The day ended with hugs, bags in the back seat, and memories we’ll hold onto long after the receipt ink fades. It wasn’t about the money or the brands. It was about the connection.
This tradition is our “last hoorah” gift before adulthood. One final reminder that he’s loved, supported, and fully capable of navigating what’s next … with clean socks, a full belly, and a sense of humor.
And honestly? That’s all any of us really need.
If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to build something of your own … something that gives you the flexibility and freedom to show up for moments like this … click here and start your journey. Your version of “yes” might be just 10 minutes away.