Mom versus kids: Round 573

So Isaac is quickly approaching legal driver status (GASP!)  He has seemed to be very apathetic to driving...   I guess he realizes this getting chauffeured thing is a pretty sweet setup?  I had to literally drag him through the process of getting his learner's permit, including practicing driving.  In contrast, I've been driving on my own since I got my student school permit, nearly every day since I turned 15!

Anyway, Isaac has finally come to the realization that I was serious when I told him the minute he turns 16, the mom bus service ends. And while I recognize that I gain serious benefits in my arranging things so he can drive himself, I don't want him to take this as a given right.  To help Isaac with a little perspective, I actually went a little Technical Project Manager (TPM) on him...  (glad these skills work in both venues!!)  Here are the written requirements that Isaac needed to fill in order to requisition a vehicle:

Isaac,

I'd like to see you research up to 5 used cars that are $5000 or less. You need to provide information on:

• make
• model
• year
• gas mileage (mpg)
• recurring anticipated maintenance costs (including oil change and expected gas usage expenses)

You will also need to call Teri Jeter from All State and get a quote to cover you as a driver on my plan (319-363-4008). If she won't provide you an upper cost to my plan, ask her for a quote for you as a solo driver. Please provide this as a shared google sheet with your dad and I for review and we can discuss next steps.

Love,
Mom

Well, this was a great plan and since Isaac doesn't turn 16 till November, I (and he) assumed he had quite a bit of time to work this task.  Ironically, Isaac's dad took it upon himself last Friday when Isaac had day off school to look into/obtain a student permit for Isaac.  This magical little card allows Isaac to drive himself to/from school starting NOW.  

HOLD THE PHONE!?!   

Bleh.  

So, in my standard TPM fashion, I instantly start in on problem solving.  Teri Jeter? Called and quoted, on both his dad's plan AND mine.  (Even if Isaac had done his "homework", I had planned to call her myself, as I find the best operating method is to trust but verify!!!)

Next problem? Getting a car STAT.  Conveniently, my little sister has been slowly searching for a new car and happens to be currently driving a single-owner 2007 grey Toyota Camry with about 166k miles.  Price point? $3000, well within range!  She and I were negotiating the price tonight and the following discussion occurred:

Me: I'll pay $2900 if no exhaust issues, $2800 otherwise.  And we can do this as soon as you say yes.
Sis: Well I want to get it cleaned up.  That's fine.
Me: Have you seen Isaac's room?? Not necessary! ;o)
Sis: Well I'm at least gonna vacuum.  And clean all the crap out.
Me: Fine.  Honestly? Isaac has no skin in the game here.  How about I drop him off Saturday morning to clean and detail it?  If he does well, I'll let him know we are buying it.
Sis:  LOL
Me: I'm serious.  Let me know when you around for him to come over, anytime after 9:30 works for me.  :o)

And... of course I'm still going to make him do the spreadsheet.  

I call this a mom WIN. ;o)