View Full Version : Opinions!!!!!!!
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 09:10 AM
Okay, Jeff and I are disagreeing about something, and he gave me permission to get the opinions of AFF!!!! :D
Hannah is starting riding lessons, and we live 2.5 miles from the stables. Jeff wants to let her ride her bike to the lessons (when its warm enough--it's not right now), and I DON'T think she's old enough to do that yet!!!!!
The pros are:
* We live in the country, so she wouldn't have to get on any main highways to get where's she's going.
* Jeff thinks she needs a little more freedom.
* She would have a cell phone and would have to call as soon as she arrived.
* She's 13.
Uh, I can't think of anymore pros.
The cons are:
* We live in the country, she would have to cross a bridge on the way, and some people do drive very fast on these country roads.
* She's 13.
* I don't like it.
Am I being unreasonable? I think 2.5 miles is too far. Right now she's only allowed to explore the dirt roads around our house which kind of wind around, and even though she has about a mile of road, she's never more than a quarter mile from our front door.
I can envision all kinds of things happening between our house and the stables.
I'm getting panicky thinking about it.
What are your thoughts? Am I being neurotic? Would you let your 13 year old ride that far?
Tim Rutledge
01-16-2009, 09:15 AM
Okay, Jeff and I are disagreeing about something, and he gave me permission to get the opinions of AFF!!!! :D
Hannah is starting riding lessons, and we live 2.5 miles from the stables. Jeff wants to let her ride her bike to the lessons (when its warm enough--it's not right now), and I DON'T think she's old enough to do that yet!!!!!
The pros are:
* We live in the country, so she wouldn't have to get on any main highways to get where's she's going.
* Jeff thinks she needs a little more freedom.
* She would have a cell phone and would have to call as soon as she arrived.
* She's 13.
Uh, I can't think of anymore pros.
The cons are:
* We live in the country, she would have to cross a bridge on the way, and some people do drive very fast on these country roads.
* She's 13.
* I don't like it.
Am I being unreasonable? I think 2.5 miles is too far. Right now she's only allowed to explore the dirt roads around our house which kind of wind around, and even though she has about a mile of road, she's never more than a quarter mile from our front door.
I can envision all kinds of things happening between our house and the stables.
I'm getting panicky thinking about it.
What are your thoughts? Am I being neurotic? Would you let your 13 year old ride that far?
Your definately not being neurotic. I say do not let her ride her bike. You cannot be to careful in my opinion. Maybe an option would be for her to ride her bike.. but talk on the phone as she's riding.. (blue tooth).
Mrs. LPW
01-16-2009, 09:16 AM
I vote no, but I'm a mother also. :D
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 09:18 AM
Talk on the phone while she's riding???? *passes out* :swoon
Maybe I can tail her in the car. Say a 1/4 mile behind or something? I wonder if she would notice....
KWSS1976
01-16-2009, 09:18 AM
How is the traffic on this road she will be riding down and does she have a helment?
Jack Shephard
01-16-2009, 09:18 AM
Have you ever seen "A Time To Kill"? I have and I would not let my daugther do it, unless she is a VERY mature 13.
Theresa
01-16-2009, 09:19 AM
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
it's not about her or where you live - it's the day and age we live in. Ask your husband if her freedom is worth risking her never coming home!!!!
2 1/2 miles is far enough that someone could grab her and be gone before you'd even miss her - and if you are in the country, good chance no one would see it.
Not to mention how people DRIVE in the country.
and I'll say again
NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!
Tim Rutledge
01-16-2009, 09:19 AM
Talk on the phone while she's riding???? *passes out* :swoon
Maybe I can tail her in the car. Say a 1/4 mile behind or something? I wonder if she would notice....
LOL. Ride along with her.
Theresa
01-16-2009, 09:20 AM
Have you ever seen "A Time To Kill"? I have and I would not let my daugther do it, unless she is a VERY mature 13.
I wouldnt let my daughter do it if she was any age!
people are SICK, you cannot take chances.
When I was a kid I would do it however, we are not living in the same world as we used to therefore I vote on the side of caution---No!
Theresa
01-16-2009, 09:21 AM
Talk on the phone while she's riding???? *passes out* :swoon
Maybe I can tail her in the car. Say a 1/4 mile behind or something? I wonder if she would notice....
did I say NO?
somebody get me some water, my dander is UP
Theresa
01-16-2009, 09:22 AM
oh my goodness, I need to lay down - I'm seriously all worked up over the thought of this LOL!!
then someone had to mention "A Time To Kill"......
oh lord, where is the fainting couch around here???
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 09:23 AM
How is the traffic on this road she will be riding down and does she have a helment?
Have you ever seen "A Time To Kill"? I have and I would not let my daugther do it, unless she is a VERY mature 13.
She does have a helmet, and there isn't much traffic, BUT some people do drive too fast--because there's not much traffic.
I saw "A Time To Kill" a long time ago, but I don't remember what it was about....
She's a mature 13, but she's not very big! She weighs about 90 lbs. and is only 5' tall!
This whole conversation is making me feel :reaction
I told Jeff I was done talking about it, and he laughed and said he had a meeting anyway. He's the REAL brat in our family. :girlytantrum
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 09:24 AM
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
it's not about her or where you live - it's the day and age we live in. Ask your husband if her freedom is worth risking her never coming home!!!!
2 1/2 miles is far enough that someone could grab her and be gone before you'd even miss her - and if you are in the country, good chance no one would see it.
Not to mention how people DRIVE in the country.
and I'll say again
NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!
:vomit <------also how this is affecting me.
Theresa
01-16-2009, 09:27 AM
So she LOOKS younger than she even is????
:reaction:swoon
Oh Lord how many ways can I say NO?!
She does have a helmet, and there isn't much traffic, BUT some people do drive too fast--because there's not much traffic.
I saw "A Time To Kill" a long time ago, but I don't remember what it was about....
She's a mature 13, but she's not very big! She weighs about 90 lbs. and is only 5' tall!
This whole conversation is making me feel :reaction
I told Jeff I was done talking about it, and he laughed and said he had a meeting anyway. He's the REAL brat in our family. :girlytantrum
A time to kill - little girl walking home from the store is brutally beaten and raped by a truck full of hooligans. Her dad kills the offenders as they walk through the courthouse
*did we mention she was walking on a country road????*
Theresa
01-16-2009, 09:29 AM
This is proof positive that BOYS ARE STUPID
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 09:30 AM
Yeah, I don't think I can do it. (let her ride....)
I would actually be more comfortable if she were driving and safe inside a locked vehicle. So maybe in a couple of years...
It's not helping Jeff's case that last year two Oklahoma girls were shot and killed--in a rural area, for no apparent reason. Ages 13 and 11.
KWSS1976
01-16-2009, 09:31 AM
I would just take her cause this is a jacked up world we live in and you cannot trust anyone anymore like you could back in the day.
This is proof positive that BOYS ARE STUPID
Hey, hey, hey, I are a man not a boy & I ain't stoopid!:stop
Raven
01-16-2009, 09:33 AM
Miss B
I'm with you. Maybe later [when's she's 18 :) ] but not yet. It is, indeed, a different day than when you and my children were growing up. The tragedy of the young girls in Oklahoma happened in very similar surroundings. Tell your husband I still think you're plenty smart!
Raven
Theresa
01-16-2009, 09:33 AM
Hey, hey, hey, I are a man not a boy & I ain't stoopid!:stop
men, boy - same thing.
ForeverBlessed
01-16-2009, 09:34 AM
I vote yes... I was riding all over town at 13, and I would have let my girls ride 2.5 miles in the country at that age.
If the area isn't safe, it would be a different.... but yeah, this mom would allow her to do that...especially with a cell phone.
oh, and my yes doesn't mean you are unreasonable... just that I agree with your husband.. I would just say you are a little nervous.. I understand... I just haven't ever been that way... I trusted my girls to ride in town and country at that age... without cell phones.
Theresa
01-16-2009, 09:35 AM
I vote yes... I was riding all over town at 13, and I would have let my girls ride 2.5 miles in the country at that age.
If the area isn't safe, it would be a different.... but yeah, this mom would allow her to do that...especially with a cell phone.
times are different now than when we were 13
Esther
01-16-2009, 09:35 AM
When she's 20 maybe "might" consider it.
This world is to dangerous.
Easy to learn her pattern of lessons and plan an abduction.
If she is as pretty as her Mom she is a target.
Esther
01-16-2009, 09:36 AM
I vote yes... I was riding all over town at 13, and I would have let my girls ride 2.5 miles in the country at that age.
If the area isn't safe, it would be a different.... but yeah, this mom would allow her to do that...especially with a cell phone.
I walked to the PO when I was 13 also. It was a different day than today. Everyone hadn't lost their minds and most still believed in God and went to church.
Mrs. LPW
01-16-2009, 09:37 AM
I think your husband is out numbered, Miss B. And he said you could start this thread so he has to honor it right?!!!!!!
Theresa
01-16-2009, 09:38 AM
On Sunday, October 6, 2002 while out riding my bike my life changed forever. I vanished without a trace not far from my rural Richwoods, Missouri home. An intensive search was mounted by federal, state and local authorities, but there were no clues as to what may have happened to me. My parents, along with family and friends announced their intentions to form a private organization to continue the search for me. The response was overwhelming, as thousands of volunteers responded to their pleas for help over the next several months. But still no clues were found. Rumors ran rampant that I had been struck by a car and taken away, or had run across a drug lab and been killed. My parents still never gave up hope, and continued their search - week after week, month after month.
They put my picture on billboards, and in every store and gas station. Countless family and friends put their lives on hold and helped look for me and other missing children. Months became years and still they looked for me. Psychics and frauds loudly proclaimed my demise and told my parents they had talked with me from beyond. But still they kept looking, never giving up hope. I prayed every day that my parents would find me. I knew my parents weren't giving up, and neither would I.
On Friday, January 12, 2007 my life changed forever once again. Our prayers were answered when I and another missing child were found by authorities in an apartment in Kirkwood, Missouri - ALIVE! I was finally reunited with my family after nearly four and one-half years of captivity. I've begun the process of healing and look forward to making up for the time I have lost with my family and education. Our love, hope and faith have kept us strong and will see us through the days ahead.
they found him after the pervert that got him snatched another kid...
WyoPastor
01-16-2009, 09:39 AM
When I was 12/13 there was a group us that used to ride 3 miles to the neighbor town.
The key word is GROUP. If there was more than 1, I don't see a problem, but definitely not alone.
Mrs. LPW
01-16-2009, 09:41 AM
I walked to the PO when I was 13 also. It was a different day than today. Everyone hadn't lost their minds and most still believed in God and went to church.
It is a completely different day.
What I have bolded is a huge reason why. Undeniable.
The exact same land my dad grew up on as a child, ran from dawn till dusk on without fear of harm... is now the same land that drug dealers peddle their wares on.
Things have changed... The country isn't so innocent any longer.
Theresa
01-16-2009, 09:42 AM
Here is the story....
kids riding their bikes in a seemingly safe country setting...
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/09/24/48hours/main4474670.shtml
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 09:45 AM
I think your husband is out numbered, Miss B. And he said you could start this thread so he has to honor it right?!!!!!!
Well, I plan to send him a link to the thread. LOL!!!! But he'll honor my opinion either way--we have always made it a policy to agree if there is any risk involved, and the negative vote wins. (Until they can be persuaded differently)
nahkoe
01-16-2009, 09:45 AM
I can't answer for you. :)
But I would highly recommend that you and Jeff both read this book (and any other parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, babysitter...anyone who cares for children in any way!)
https://www.gavindebecker.com/books-ptg.cfm
commonsense
01-16-2009, 09:47 AM
This is a tough call. When my kids were young they were given lots of opportunity for independence. We lived in a small town (12,000) and I trusted them. They rode their bikes all over; walked the 1/2 mi to the city pool by themselves (grade school ages) etc.
But it is now 2009......unfortunately in todays' messed up world we cannot enjoy the same freedoms.
It is difficult for me to say this------------but I'll have to vote NO!
(with all the moving and many cities in which I've lived, 12,000 is the smallest ....lol )
Mrs. LPW
01-16-2009, 09:47 AM
Well, I plan to send him a link to the thread. LOL!!!! But he'll honor my opinion either way--we have always made it a policy to agree if there is any risk involved, and the negative vote wins. (Until they can be persuaded differently)
I've read many of your posts and I've always been impressed with your common sense approach to life, Miss B.
Sounds like you and your hubby are working together.
KWSS1976
01-16-2009, 09:48 AM
One of my bosses told me one time to trust no one and assume nothing still use that advise today very good advise I thought
Theresa
01-16-2009, 09:49 AM
This is a tough call. When my kids were young they were given lots of opportunity for independence. We lived in a small town (12,000) and I trusted them. They rode their bikes all over; walked the 1/2 mi to the city pool by themselves (grade school ages) etc.
But it is now 2009......unfortunately in todays' messed up world we cannot enjoy the same freedoms.
It is difficult for me to say this------------but I'll have to vote NO!
(with all the moving and many cities in which I've lived, 12,000 is the smallest ....lol )
but apparently they went together - not one child alone.
Perverts target the rural areas, around here it has happened far too often.....recently even.
People are sick, you just cannot let your kids out of your sight.
The news just YESTERDAY told of a WOMAN trying to abduct a 12 yr old girl at her bus stop
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 09:50 AM
I vote yes... I was riding all over town at 13, and I would have let my girls ride 2.5 miles in the country at that age.
If the area isn't safe, it would be a different.... but yeah, this mom would allow her to do that...especially with a cell phone.
oh, and my yes doesn't mean you are unreasonable... just that I agree with your husband.. I would just say you are a little nervous.. I understand... I just haven't ever been that way... I trusted my girls to ride in town and country at that age... without cell phones.
I see what you're saying, and Jeff is going to like your post. LOL!!!
We certainly don't have much (if any) crime in this area.
*sigh*
I am more than a little nervous...:blink
Really, I don't think I can do it. She's going to have to be bigger, older and in a car. It's not that long really...in 2 years she'll be eligible for a driving permit, so she could drive the old farm truck.
ForeverBlessed
01-16-2009, 09:51 AM
times are different now than when we were 13
I walked to the PO when I was 13 also. It was a different day than today. Everyone hadn't lost their minds and most still believed in God and went to church.
I live in a really safe, crime free area... Newman visited me and said it looks like a "Norman Rockwell town" anyway... so I was comfortable with my girls riding in town. Lots of people around and generally a safe area.
However, I decided to ask my coworker who sits next to me... she lives in the country and was raised in the country. She also has a 13 year old daughter... My friend said she rode in the country like that at 13, but that no, she wouldn't allow Casey to ride today because of the teens that drive and drink in the country...she said they seem to think because they are in the country the police aren't going to see them...so she said there is some trouble with teen boys in their area who she would worry about them harrassing her daughter... so agreed with everyone else.
Cindy
01-16-2009, 09:53 AM
NO!!!!!!!!
MrsMcD
01-16-2009, 09:53 AM
It doesn't matter how mature your child is there are some crazy folks out there. You would have a hard time forgiving yourself if something happened. Go with your motherly instinct.
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 09:56 AM
Miss B
I'm with you. Maybe later [when's she's 18 :) ] but not yet. It is, indeed, a different day than when you and my children were growing up. The tragedy of the young girls in Oklahoma happened in very similar surroundings. Tell your husband I still think you're plenty smart!
Raven
I know. That was horrific. :(
rgcraig
01-16-2009, 09:58 AM
To make it fair there needs to be more men to speak up here, but I tend to agree with you MissB - - it's not your daughter or the area that I don't trust, but others.
Sad really.
Theresa
01-16-2009, 09:58 AM
Miss B
I'm with you. Maybe later [when's she's 18 :) ] but not yet. It is, indeed, a different day than when you and my children were growing up. The tragedy of the young girls in Oklahoma happened in very similar surroundings. Tell your husband I still think you're plenty smart!
Raven
the *successful* abductions around here have always been kids from the *safe* rural communities.
The creeps from the cities use those safe areas as hunting grounds.
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:00 AM
To make it fair there needs to be more men to speak up here, but I tend to agree with you MissB - - it's not your daughter or the area that I don't trust, but others.
Sad really.
as if the male opinion is really going to matter, if it is DIFFERENT than ours
LOL
BUT, I can tell you right now what MY husband would say - well, I cant say it EXACTLY but there would be a hugely emphatic NO at the end of the statement.
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:00 AM
I'll call him right now and ask... LOL
want him to call your husband?
Cindy
01-16-2009, 10:01 AM
It scares me to see girls or boys walking alone down the road now.
Pressing-On
01-16-2009, 10:02 AM
I think 2.5 miles is too far. .
A 5 mile round trip is even further!
NO!
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 10:07 AM
Okay, keep posting!!! I do want more men to post, or Jeff will never accept this poll as valid. LOL!!!!! :D
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:10 AM
ok, I cannot tell you every word he said but on this we agreed - wholeheartedly.
He votes NO.
I gave him the scenario and then had to hold the phone away from my ear - and he even brought up those boys mentioned in the news story I posted....after his 5 minute sermonette, I can say that MALE vote is a big fat NO
Pressing-On
01-16-2009, 10:10 AM
Okay, keep posting!!! I do want more men to post, or Jeff will never accept this poll as valid. LOL!!!!! :D
We listen to men - when? :D
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:11 AM
there was some "is he crazy?" "thats his LITTLE GIRL" "aint no way...." you can fill in the rest.
it was funny really, he reacted the same way I did - got his dander all up too
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:12 AM
We listen to men - when? :D
when they agree with us - or when they say "honey, you look nice"
or "yes honey, whatever you say"
and when they are asleep.
pelathais
01-16-2009, 10:13 AM
You'd really have to have a feel for the area. I wouldn't worry so much about the monsters in the woods as the monsters on the streets. All things being equal I think 13 is old enough to ride a couple of miles on a bike - and the exercise would probably do her a lot of good. But you'd have to consider the route and a million other variables.
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 10:13 AM
A 5 mile round trip is even further!
NO!
Wow. That makes it sound like an eternity!
Okay, I really am trying to be reasonable. One time I did let Hannah ride up to our convenience store which is about a mile from our front door, but that was really the farthest stretch of my leniency. Anyway, that's a straight shot from the end of our road...no turns, and no back woods....
The stables would require riding another mile past that convenience store, turning left onto a [mostly] unpopulated road, and riding another 1/2 mile to the stables completely out of eyeshot of anyone (let alone ME).
I'm 99.99999999999999999% sure that my answer will still be NO at the end of the day.
I did think about riding along with her. That might be a good compromise.
Digging4Truth
01-16-2009, 10:14 AM
When I was a kid I would do it however, we are not living in the same world as we used to therefore I vote on the side of caution---No!
Exactly...
I walked 5 miles to go fishing when I was a kid. There is no way I could allow my kids to do the same thing. It just isn't the same these days as it was back then.
I wouldn't let my daughter go by herself.
I think I would consider letting my son. As I think of riding his bike 2-1/2 miles up the road we live on I wouldn't have a problem with it... but I just can't see sending my daughter out unescorted in this day and age.
Call me sexist... But my little girl isn't going to take a trip like that without anyone there to protect her.
He's My Friend
01-16-2009, 10:14 AM
I wouldn't let my daughter do it if she was any age!
people are SICK, you cannot take chances.
I haven't read all of the responses yet, but I soooo agree with this one.
We are living in a time when children have not been safe in their own homes from sick people, let alone out unsupervised.
It only takes one incident to ruin a life or for that precious life to be gone.
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 10:15 AM
ok, I cannot tell you every word he said but on this we agreed - wholeheartedly.
He votes NO.
I gave him the scenario and then had to hold the phone away from my ear - and he even brought up those boys mentioned in the news story I posted....after his 5 minute sermonette, I can say that MALE vote is a big fat NO
LOL!!!! Tell him I said THANK YOU!!!!!
I did remind Jeff that she's a GIRL--not a boy, (and a small one at that.) The fact that he used to ride 15-20 miles away when he was a teenager is IRRELEVANT!
Not that boys are much safer these days....
pelathais
01-16-2009, 10:16 AM
...
I did think about riding along with her. That might be a good compromise.
Well, if that's an option what are you waiting for? Strap on the helmets and go.
Exactly...
I walked 5 miles to go fishing when I was a kid. There is no way I could allow my kids to do the same thing. It just isn't the same these days as it was back then.
I wouldn't let my daughter go by herself.
I think I would consider letting my son. As I think of riding his bike 2-1/2 miles up the road we live on I wouldn't have a problem with it... but I just can't see sending my daughter out unescorted in this day and age.
Call me sexist... But my little girl isn't going to take a trip like that without anyone there to protect her.
You aren't sexist, you are just being a protective Dad!
Sister Alvear
01-16-2009, 10:17 AM
My husband said no...maybe ride in the company of others at some special time where there are limits and time but alone...no....
Not because you do not trust her it is the devil we do not trust...
A big hug to you, my friend.
ForeverBlessed
01-16-2009, 10:19 AM
I did think about riding along with her. That might be a good compromise.
this is exactly what my friend here said.... or she said she would send her son with her.... like others have said here, not that the trust issue was with her daughter...but with other people...and that is sad!
We listen to men - when? :D
And that is the trouble with the world today.:D
Isn't there a scripture about women being silent in the Bible?:hmmm
Besides Jeff is listening to us men!!!:hypercoffee
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:20 AM
LOL!!!! Tell him I said THANK YOU!!!!!
I did remind Jeff that she's a GIRL--not a boy, and a small one at that, and the fact that he used to ride 15-20 miles away when he was a teenager is IRRELEVANT!
Not that boys are much safer these days....
my husband did say he wouldnt have even let our son go at 13.
We let him walk to someones house the other day for the first time...well, walk outside our street....this was about that far, 2.5 miles, and across a major roadway - BUT our son is 16, 6' 5" 350#. He's bigger than my husband. BUT - this was the FIRST time we let him WALK anywhere outside our block.
our daughter will not be walking anywhere out of my sight.
She wont ever ride a school bus either. Just not happening.
this is exactly what my friend here said.... or she said she would send her son with her.... like others have said here, not that the trust issue was with her daughter...but with other people...and that is sad!
It may be sad, but it is real nonetheless!
Pressing-On
01-16-2009, 10:21 AM
And that is the trouble with the world today.:D
Isn't there a scripture about women being silent in the Bible?:hmmm
Besides Jeff is listening to us men!!!:hypercoffee
:toofunny
And when do ya'll listen to us? :foottap
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:21 AM
it would be a fun family outing if you rode together. But never alone.
Digging4Truth
01-16-2009, 10:22 AM
We listen to men - when? :D
Now if I said something like that you would want to ban me for saying it.
Women....
:)
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:22 AM
:toofunny
And when do ya'll listen to us? :foottap
I have decided that listening is NOT their issue - it's their COMPREHENSION
acjcpastor
01-16-2009, 10:22 AM
First let me say that I never had a daughter and my son is now an adult. However, I believe God is looking out for His People. I grew up "in the country" and rode my bike EVERYWHERE when I was 13. We did not have cell phones or helmets but we ventured all the way to the City of Waterbury, CT on our bikes. 10-15 miles from home was no big deal for us.
I recently read an article in Reader's Digest about a woman who let her young son navigate the NYC Subway on his own. People thought she was nuts but I happen to agree with her. Kids are not nearly as unsafe in our world as all the neurotic fear mongers want us to believe.
I remember going to NYC as a kid for the UPCI Harvestime street meeting. Am I dating myself? My brother and I got bored with the service. (Sorry, but we were kids) So, we took off to explore the subway. Did we feel unsafe? No! We figured, look at all these people, they’re not afraid to be here.
As an adult, I’ve traveled all over the U.S. and overseas. After 9-11, my wife and I visited ground zero in NYC. I have to say NYC was nothing like I remembered it as a kid. I’d say it is a safer place today than it was in the 70’s, by far. I’ve found the same thing everywhere I’ve traveled. Paris, London, Amsterdam, NY, LA, generally people are not out to harm some innocent stranger. Perverts can lurk in any neighborhood. However, let's have a little faith. It’s the Enemy who wants us to cower in fear.
Train your children. Instruct them in the evils of this world. But while you’re at it, don’t forget to teach them to trust God by showing them that you trust Him too.
:toofunny
And when do ya'll listen to us? :foottap
Did you say something?:D
pelathais
01-16-2009, 10:23 AM
I have decided that listening is NOT their issue - it's their COMPREHENSION
huh?
my husband did say he wouldnt have even let our son go at 13.
We let him walk to someones house the other day for the first time...well, walk outside our street....this was about that far, 2.5 miles, and across a major roadway - BUT our son is 16, 6' 5" 350#. He's bigger than my husband. BUT - this was the FIRST time we let him WALK anywhere outside our block.
our daughter will not be walking anywhere out of my sight.
She wont ever ride a school bus either. Just not happening.
Theresa, I bet you know how to use a gun!:D
He's My Friend
01-16-2009, 10:24 AM
I see what you're saying, and Jeff is going to like your post. LOL!!!
We certainly don't have much (if any) crime in this area.
*sigh*
I am more than a little nervous...:blink
Really, I don't think I can do it. She's going to have to be bigger, older and in a car. It's not that long really...in 2 years she'll be eligible for a driving permit, so she could drive the old farm truck.
We are from a town of 2,000 people with very little crime.
My dad's cousin moved back to our area to raise his children in a more safe environment.
His son was shot while sleeping.
The person stood outside his bedroom window and shot him in the back.
It is sad, but anything can happen anywhere. (They lived in the country).
Blessings to your family.
Pressing-On
01-16-2009, 10:24 AM
Now if I said something like that you would want to ban me for saying it.
Women....
:)
All's fair in love and war!!! :D
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:24 AM
Theresa, I bet you know how to use a gun!:D
among other things....
I have decided that listening is NOT their issue - it's their COMPREHENSION
What do you mean?:hmmm
Pressing-On
01-16-2009, 10:25 AM
I have decided that listening is NOT their issue - it's their COMPREHENSION
:thumbsup
Which really means they aren't listening. :toofunny
Did you say something?:D
:toofunny
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:25 AM
huh?
I rest my case.
Well, not really rest, I reserve the right as a woman to bring it up and rehash it at any given opportunity I see fit.
Pressing-On
01-16-2009, 10:26 AM
among other things....
You could sleep with a machete by your side! :toofunny
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:28 AM
speaking of using guns...
I dont feel the need to use a gun. I'm a woman off opportunity.
The other night my husbands ex wife was being especially *evil* and we went to pick up our son from this devil incarnates house....
I told my husband to have him waiting outside (our son) b/c if she came outside I would seriously RUN HER OVER. IF she'd have woken up she would think her name was KIA b/c it would be embossed on her....ummm...person. the tire marks would NEVER come off.
Not to mention I'd have backed up and done it again.
I loathe that woman - and if I told y'all what she had done to her son, you'd understand.
Oh lord, I need a pill or something.
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 10:30 AM
Well, if that's an option what are you waiting for? Strap on the helmets and go.
This is probably our best compromise. Hannah would still get to ride 2.5 miles away from the house, I get to watch over her, and we both get lots of good exercise and fresh air! :)
Digging4Truth
01-16-2009, 10:31 AM
This is probably our best compromise. Hannah would still get to ride 2.5 miles away from the house, I get to watch over her, and we both get lots of good exercise and fresh air! :)
Who will post on AFF while you are gone?
speaking of using guns...
I dont feel the need to use a gun. I'm a woman off opportunity.
The other night my husbands ex wife was being especially *evil* and we went to pick up our son from this devil incarnates house....
I told my husband to have him waiting outside (our son) b/c if she came outside I would seriously RUN HER OVER. IF she'd have woken up she would think her name was KIA b/c it would be embossed on her....ummm...person. the tire marks would NEVER come off.
Not to mention I'd have backed up and done it again.
I loathe that woman - and if I told y'all what she had done to her son, you'd understand.
Oh lord, I need a pill or something.
Ah, Theresa maybe you shouldn't own a gun or a car for that matter!:blink
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 10:34 AM
First let me say that I never had a daughter and my son is now an adult. However, I believe God is looking out for His People. I grew up "in the country" and rode my bike EVERYWHERE when I was 13. We did not have cell phones or helmets but we ventured all the way to the City of Waterbury, CT on our bikes. 10-15 miles from home was no big deal for us.
I recently read an article in Reader's Digest about a woman who let her young son navigate the NYC Subway on his own. People thought she was nuts but I happen to agree with her. Kids are not nearly as unsafe in our world as all the neurotic fear mongers want us to believe.
I remember going to NYC as a kid for the UPCI Harvestime street meeting. Am I dating myself? My brother and I got bored with the service. (Sorry, but we were kids) So, we took off to explore the subway. Did we feel unsafe? No! We figured, look at all these people, they’re not afraid to be here.
As an adult, I’ve traveled all over the U.S. and overseas. After 9-11, my wife and I visited ground zero in NYC. I have to say NYC was nothing like I remembered it as a kid. I’d say it is a safer place today than it was in the 70’s, by far. I’ve found the same thing everywhere I’ve traveled. Paris, London, Amsterdam, NY, LA, generally people are not out to harm some innocent stranger. Perverts can lurk in any neighborhood. However, let's have a little faith. It’s the Enemy who wants us to cower in fear.
Train your children. Instruct them in the evils of this world. But while you’re at it, don’t forget to teach them to trust God by showing them that you trust Him too.
I understand what you're saying...and I don't want to teach my children to be fearful--just cautious. Anyway, Hannah doesn't even know this is an option for her yet--it was my husband's idea. We're just discussing it between ourselves. (And AFF--LOL!!!!)
Perhaps I could enroll her in a gun safety course and then send her down the road with my pistol tucked into her jacket. THAT would make me feel better. :) :D
Timmy
01-16-2009, 10:35 AM
Does she have uncut hair? If so, she'll be fine.
:lol
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:35 AM
Ah, Theresa maybe you shouldn't own a gun or a car for that matter!:blink
maybe people shouldnt be ignorant and more of them agree with me - then it would be a happy, rosy place to live.
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 10:35 AM
Who will post on AFF while you are gone?
Very funny, D4T!!!!!
We must make sacrifices for our children. :D
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 10:37 AM
Does she have uncut hair? If so, she'll be fine.
:lol
:shocked: :snapout :beatdeadhorse
Digging4Truth
01-16-2009, 10:38 AM
Very funny, D4T!!!!!
We must make sacrifices for our children. :D
Yeah but what about us....
Must WE make sacrifices for your children? :)
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:39 AM
First let me say that I never had a daughter and my son is now an adult. However, I believe God is looking out for His People. I grew up "in the country" and rode my bike EVERYWHERE when I was 13. We did not have cell phones or helmets but we ventured all the way to the City of Waterbury, CT on our bikes. 10-15 miles from home was no big deal for us.
I recently read an article in Reader's Digest about a woman who let her young son navigate the NYC Subway on his own. People thought she was nuts but I happen to agree with her. Kids are not nearly as unsafe in our world as all the neurotic fear mongers want us to believe.
I remember going to NYC as a kid for the UPCI Harvestime street meeting. Am I dating myself? My brother and I got bored with the service. (Sorry, but we were kids) So, we took off to explore the subway. Did we feel unsafe? No! We figured, look at all these people, they’re not afraid to be here.
As an adult, I’ve traveled all over the U.S. and overseas. After 9-11, my wife and I visited ground zero in NYC. I have to say NYC was nothing like I remembered it as a kid. I’d say it is a safer place today than it was in the 70’s, by far. I’ve found the same thing everywhere I’ve traveled. Paris, London, Amsterdam, NY, LA, generally people are not out to harm some innocent stranger. Perverts can lurk in any neighborhood. However, let's have a little faith. It’s the Enemy who wants us to cower in fear.
Train your children. Instruct them in the evils of this world. But while you’re at it, don’t forget to teach them to trust God by showing them that you trust Him too.
while I appreciate the thought - in this day and age there is a time and place to teach your children life lessons.
I'd rather have my child at home with me than out on the roads where there ARE perverts and crazy people who *can* harm them. It is a sad reality but a very real one.
Your child can grow up confident, secure, trusting and smart. But when these situations arise you have to make the SMART choice and in this case a 13 yr old girl does not need to be out alone. Her ability to handle herself isnt the problem. We should have faith but we should also use good common sense.
Theresa
01-16-2009, 10:40 AM
Who will post on AFF while you are gone?
doesnt she have a smart phone? Cant she log on and keep us informed??
then we can ALL go with them.
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 10:45 AM
Yeah but what about us....
Must WE make sacrifices for your children? :)
I think this is sort of a backhanded compliment, so...TY!!! :)
I have to go now!!! The girls have b-ball practice (and I am DRIVING them there), and Hannah has her first riding lesson tonight at 6 (to which I am also DRIVING her!).
ForeverBlessed
01-16-2009, 10:46 AM
It may be sad, but it is real nonetheless!
I guess... but I have little fear... I don't know why, but I've never been a fearful person and I have raised three girls without fear...and sometimes wish they had more fear. I believe my steps are ordered of the Lord, his protecting hand is upon me at all times... If something happens, then it was my time to go.
I still live in a house where I have no clue whether the back door has a key (I've never seen it if it does) and I do have a key to the front door, but my house is never locked...at night, last person coming up the stairs is supposed to lock the door on their way up.
MissBrattified
01-16-2009, 10:46 AM
doesnt she have a smart phone? Cant she log on and keep us informed??
then we can ALL go with them.
HAHAHA!!!! Yes, I do. What is it I have to get on...twitter? Okay, if we ride over there WHEN it gets warm enough, I'll try to include AFF in the trip!
Fun! :)
I guess... but I have little fear... I don't know why, but I've never been a fearful person and I have raised three girls without fear...and sometimes wish they had more fear. I believe my steps are ordered of the Lord, his protecting hand is upon me at all times... If something happens, then it was my time to go.
I still live in a house where I have no clue whether the back door has a key (I've never seen it if it does) and I do have a key to the front door, but my house is never locked...at night, last person coming up the stairs is supposed to lock the door on their way up.
I guess maybe because I live in a major city (2 million) & most don't go to Church & we have had two of our women in our Church attacked by purse snatchers, I am more cautious.
I agree, if it is your time, it is your time.
However, a little bit of wisdom goes a long way, & I would rather err on the side of caution than to possibly give an opening to the devil to strike.
Just speaking in regards to my situation & the area I live in.
Subdued
01-16-2009, 10:53 AM
I vote no, but I'm a mother also. :D
Ditto. Plus, I have a 13 year old daughter of my own.
acjcpastor
01-16-2009, 10:56 AM
She's 13 years old. In my book she would be old enough and responsible enough to baby sit my grand kids if I had any. Besides, I'm sure she knows how to kick a pervert where it counts. Call me ignorant if you must. I'm a guy, so most of you ladies are already thinking that anyway. However, I'm just not believing this world is so full of evil perverts that our kids are in danger everytime they are out of our sight. You MUST read that article from Reader's Digest I was talking about.
See - http://www.rd.com/living-healthy/is-it-just-me-lets-stop-scaring-our-kids/article101787.html
She's 13 years old. In my book she would be old enough and responsible enough to baby sit my grand kids if I had any. Besides, I'm sure she knows how to kick a pervert where it counts. Call me ignorant if you must. I'm a guy, so most of you ladies are already thinking that anyway. However, I'm just not believing this world is so full of evil perverts that our kids are in danger everytime they are out of our sight. You MUST read that article from Reader's Digest I was talking about.
See - http://www.rd.com/living-healthy/is-it-just-me-lets-stop-scaring-our-kids/article101787.html
All due respect, I believe it all comes down to where you live.
I would feel safer living in a small town vs a big city.
We in the last couple of weeks, have had reports in our area of sexual assaults & attempted abductions.
acjcpastor
01-16-2009, 11:30 AM
Have you ever watched Gone With The Wind? Horseback riding accidents happen. The point is, a 13-year-old girl could be killed while riding a horse. Now, we trust that won't happen and we don't even worry that it might. On the other hand, she could be abducted and raped while riding a bike to her horseback riding lesson. We have no way of knowing what will happen when they ride off into the wild blue yonder.
Statistically, there are more 13 year old girls killed in car wrecks that close to home than there are 13 year old girls pulled off their bikes and abducted by strangers. Yet we think it's safer to drive them. Why? At the end of the day, no matter how hard you try to protect them, kids sometimes get hurt. The only peace we can have is trusting that God will keep them and protect them, whether they are on a bike, in a car or riding a horse.
revrandy
01-16-2009, 11:35 AM
Okay, Jeff and I are disagreeing about something, and he gave me permission to get the opinions of AFF!!!! :D
Hannah is starting riding lessons, and we live 2.5 miles from the stables. Jeff wants to let her ride her bike to the lessons (when its warm enough--it's not right now), and I DON'T think she's old enough to do that yet!!!!!
The pros are:
* We live in the country, so she wouldn't have to get on any main highways to get where's she's going.
* Jeff thinks she needs a little more freedom.
* She would have a cell phone and would have to call as soon as she arrived.
* She's 13.
Uh, I can't think of anymore pros.
The cons are:
* We live in the country, she would have to cross a bridge on the way, and some people do drive very fast on these country roads.
* She's 13.
* I don't like it.
Am I being unreasonable? I think 2.5 miles is too far. Right now she's only allowed to explore the dirt roads around our house which kind of wind around, and even though she has about a mile of road, she's never more than a quarter mile from our front door.
I can envision all kinds of things happening between our house and the stables.
I'm getting panicky thinking about it.
What are your thoughts? Am I being neurotic? Would you let your 13 year old ride that far?
Have him read what happened to two thirteen year old girls recently in rural Oklahoma.... that should be enough...
LadyChocolate
01-16-2009, 12:20 PM
Have you ever watched Gone With The Wind? Horseback riding accidents happen. The point is, a 13-year-old girl could be killed while riding a horse. Now, we trust that won't happen and we don't even worry that it might. On the other hand, she could be abducted and raped while riding a bike to her horseback riding lesson. We have no way of knowing what will happen when they ride off into the wild blue yonder.
Statistically, there are more 13 year old girls killed in car wrecks that close to home than there are 13 year old girls pulled off their bikes and abducted by strangers. Yet we think it's safer to drive them. Why? At the end of the day, no matter how hard you try to protect them, kids sometimes get hurt. The only peace we can have is trusting that God will keep them and protect them, whether they are on a bike, in a car or riding a horse.
Which do you think is easier to deal with??? Your child being killed in a car wreck or being abused or kidnapped???
One thing you have to keep in mind is that, you have to do all you can do to protect your children.... You can't help it when you're in a car wreck and someone dies... That's tragic... but it's a lot easier to live with than knowing that you could have kept a child from being abducted, raped, murdered or anything... I know we can't live in fear, but we have to be sooo careful... Especially today! I trust God! So did my Mom... I rode all over... By the time I was in the 4th grade, I had to keep my own house key without losing it... my own lunch money.... without losing it.... I also had to leave from the house on time to make it to school.... Mom could trust me... but what about the car full of guys that were riding along side of me trying to hit me with a baseball bat.... What about the guy at the park who was hanging around us girls and then showed us a knife and told us to come to him.... and there was a crowd of us.... this was also 25 years ago... .... what about the man who was stopping innocent children, showing them a pic and asking if they'd seen a certain person... It was a horrific, perverse pic and it happen to my cousins and I ... Fortunately they saw it I got to the car, grabbed me and took off running.... we ran home in fear... I don't like to take chances... My boys want more freedom... they will get their freedom at a later day. My oldest is 11 and is almost as tall as me 5'9 and 200lb+.. He's a strong boy... but none the less, he's a boy and I will do all I can to protect him.... Where we live, more than likely nothing will happen.... and as long as I have the power to protect them, I will.... They'll have more freedom than they care to have in a few years..... They can wait !!! Over protective?? Yes yes yes.... But I will say, my children have never been in those situations that I was in.... My children have never been molested, thank God... They've never been abused.... My children haven't had their innocence stolen from them.... Being over protective pays off....
Sister Alvear
01-16-2009, 12:25 PM
I was very careful with my children when they were small...I always worried about kidnapping because most foreigners think Americans have money whether we do or not...now I worry about my grand children...lol...
However please be careful they are so young and innocent and so trusting..
triumphant1
01-16-2009, 12:59 PM
How old were those two girls that were killed by gunshot just 50 miles south of all of us--on a country dirt road--pne half mile from their house?
Country means nothing!
Age means nothing!
The fact that she is a young girl means a whole whole lot! Anything we can do as parents to keep our children from harms way should be done. Not allowing her to do this is a no brainer in my book! The answer is NO! I am sure the parents of those two girls in Okfuskie County--just south of Henryetta Oklahoma--wish their girls had a shorter leash--even in the country!
I have two boys--as you might know--I would not even hint at allowing a 2.5 mile jaunt alone for my 13 yr old!!! So I am not gender discriminating here! He doesn't get of our street alone to this day on his bike!
triumphant1
01-16-2009, 01:02 PM
Yeah, I don't think I can do it. (let her ride....)
I would actually be more comfortable if she were driving and safe inside a locked vehicle. So maybe in a couple of years...
It's not helping Jeff's case that last year two Oklahoma girls were shot and killed--in a rural area, for no apparent reason. Ages 13 and 11.
I hastily posted before I knew you had already brought this up! That was just 50 miles south of us!! And in the country!! This alone would be enough for me to say.....NO!!!!
I would not fret one more minute over it....the answer is NO!
acjcpastor
01-16-2009, 01:02 PM
Which do you think is easier to deal with??? Your child being killed in a car wreck or being abused or kidnapped???
Think of it like this - If I was driving, I would have a hard time living with myself. If someone abused my kid, I could understand that no matter what I did or did not do to protect them, someone else did the dirty deed, and that could have been well beyond my control.
My original point is this - Most of our fears are based on emotions and unfounded speculation. Believe me, at one point, fear was controlling my life. I suffered panic attacks every time I was in a stressful situation. Going to church or just out to eat with friends was a big struggle for me. It wasn’t rational, but it was fear that was driving my actions. Today, I can thank God that He delivered from all of that.
Now, if I lived in a drug infested and high crime community, I would have bars on my windows, and double locks on my doors. It’s only common sense. However, we really need to learn to take precautions in life based on real risks. Besides pastoring a church, I make my living in safety management. You know, sometimes just breathing air is risky, but we have to do it. Driving is risky, but we do it. On the other hand, flying is one of the safest means of transportation available today, yet many people are scared to death to get on a plane. It’s just not rational. It’s my honest opinion that too many people make their risk assessments with demonically corrupted data. Sometimes we need to ask ourselves; are our fear driven actions really telling God that we don’t trust Him? Just food for thought.
:thebunny:thebunny
scotty
01-16-2009, 01:06 PM
NOPE , NOTTA, NEGATIVE, AINT NO WAY, :nah:stop
triumphant1
01-16-2009, 01:07 PM
I see what you're saying, and Jeff is going to like your post. LOL!!!
We certainly don't have much (if any) crime in this area.
*sigh*
I am more than a little nervous...:blink
Really, I don't think I can do it. She's going to have to be bigger, older and in a car. It's not that long really...in 2 years she'll be eligible for a driving permit, so she could drive the old farm truck.
Girl, they don't have much crime down in Okfuskie County either...but that did stop some perv (or pervs) from shooting those two girls like deer!!!
Matter of fact those were the first murders in that area in like years---and may I mind you---no one has been arrested yet!
Stephanas
01-16-2009, 01:08 PM
It's easier than all of that.
You're living in redneck country, get the little lady a pickup truck and send her off to riding lessons with a rifle in the rack. (I see that she's on the short side so you might want to get her a truck with a lift kit to compensate for her stature.)
LadyChocolate
01-16-2009, 01:10 PM
ACJCPastor I am curious.... do you have children? just wondering
No, we can't live in fear.... but God also gave us "instinct" and as parents we should never never never never never never ignore that......
Blubayou
01-16-2009, 01:10 PM
I would not feel comfortable letting her ride her bike alone. I know I would be an over protective parent, but we live in a crazy world- and when innocence is stolen it can never be gotten back. Hang in there.
LadyChocolate
01-16-2009, 01:18 PM
Besides pastoring a church, I make my living in safety management. You know, sometimes just breathing air is risky, but we have to do it. Driving is risky, but we do it. On the other hand, flying is one of the safest means of transportation available today, yet many people are scared to death to get on a plane. It’s just not rational.
:thebunny:thebunny
There is a big difference in being afraid to fly and having that gut feeling that you don't want your little girl riding alone 2.5 miles away...... BIG DIFFERENCE
Falla39
01-16-2009, 01:37 PM
No way!
Theresa
01-16-2009, 01:43 PM
No way!
SHE has spoken!
I think that settles it :)
Sometimes I feel like I protected my children too much. I probably did. But they are both here and safe with me too. I remember riding my bike everywhere as a kid. Things were different back then, but we got into plenty of trouble. My daughter had to walk home from college last semester after dark. I said, "I will be there to pick you up." And I was. It's hard to make decisions now-a-days but I've always been more comfortable on the side of safety.
acjcpastor
01-16-2009, 01:48 PM
LadyChocolate - yes, and I also pastor kids.
By the way, I remember the day my son rode off to kindergarten on his little bike. My wife and I stood in the front yard and watched him go up the road. When he reached the corner and went out of sight we had to prayed a little harder. But, we also had to learn to let go and trust God. It was only ½ mile to school and there was a crossing guard right around that corner. He’s in his 20’s now. I’ll admit, it hasn’t always been easy. A few years back I got a call from his employer to meet him at the hospital as he’d had a very serious accident at work. He had fallen 20 some feet and broke his femur. But God saw us through it. Just a few weeks ago, during the Christmas holiday he and his wife were on the way to visit her mom. Around 600 miles from home and over the Canadian border, he was involved in a very serious car accident that totaled his car. He called me from the hospital. Our heart sinks when we get those calls. Life happens and sometimes it’s bad things happing to good people. But again, God always gets us through it. You know, he’s come a long way from that little kid riding his bike to school, but every morning I still put his life in God’s hands. I can rejoice that he is still here, still healthy and still serving God. To God be the Glory!
LadyChocolate - yes, and I also pastor kids.
By the way, I remember the day my son rode off to kindergarten on his little bike. My wife and I stood in the front yard and watched him go up the road. When he reached the corner and went out of sight we had to prayed a little harder. But, we also had to learn to let go and trust God. It was only ½ mile to school and there was a crossing guard right around that corner. He’s in his 20’s now. I’ll admit, it hasn’t always been easy. A few years back I got a call from his employer to meet him at the hospital as he’d had a very serious accident at work. He had fallen 20 some feet and broke his femur. But God saw us through it. Just a few weeks ago, during the Christmas holiday he and his wife were on the way to visit her mom. Around 600 miles from home and over the Canadian border, he was involved in a very serious car accident that totaled his car. He called me from the hospital. Our heart sinks when we get those calls. Life happens and sometimes it’s bad things happen to good people. But again, God got us through it. You know, he’s come a long way from that little kid riding his bike to school, but every morning I still put his life in God’s hands. I can rejoice that he is still here, still healthy and still serving God. To God be the Glory!
This is fine....but John Walsh would tell a different story.
Pragmatist
01-16-2009, 01:55 PM
This is a tough call. When my kids were young they were given lots of opportunity for independence. We lived in a small town (12,000) and I trusted them. They rode their bikes all over; walked the 1/2 mi to the city pool by themselves (grade school ages) etc.
But it is now 2009......unfortunately in todays' messed up world we cannot enjoy the same freedoms.
It is difficult for me to say this------------but I'll have to vote NO!
(with all the moving and many cities in which I've lived, 12,000 is the smallest ....lol )
As commonsense's youngest, I voted yes. I think 13 is old enough to have some independence. We did go all over alone, and much younger than 13. And there were probably just as many freaks and perverts, then. We just didn't have 24 hour cable news, so we didn't get details of all of the bad things that happened.
LadyChocolate
01-16-2009, 01:59 PM
LadyChocolate - yes, and I also pastor kids.
By the way, I remember the day my son rode off to kindergarten on his little bike. My wife and I stood in the front yard and watched him go up the road. When he reached the corner and went out of sight we had to prayed a little harder. But, we also had to learn to let go and trust God. It was only ½ mile to school and there was a crossing guard right around that corner. He’s in his 20’s now. I’ll admit, it hasn’t always been easy. A few years back I got a call from his employer to meet him at the hospital as he’d had a very serious accident at work. He had fallen 20 some feet and broke his femur. But God saw us through it. Just a few weeks ago, during the Christmas holiday he and his wife were on the way to visit her mom. Around 600 miles from home and over the Canadian border, he was involved in a very serious car accident that totaled his car. He called me from the hospital. Our heart sinks when we get those calls. Life happens and sometimes it’s bad things happing to good people. But again, God always gets us through it. You know, he’s come a long way from that little kid riding his bike to school, but every morning I still put his life in God’s hands. I can rejoice that he is still here, still healthy and still serving God. To God be the Glory!
Yes, to God be the glory! I know there are things in life we cannot control.. My point is, if I can control it, I will... Every night when I lay down, after checking on all the children, I thank God that we had another blessed day. We have trials, hard times and problems like any other family.... But to have my 3 boys healthy and with me another night, I am blessed.... I know all too well the other side of that... So because of that, I may be a little more protective... I know the value of life..... I know it only takes a moment for a tragedy to take place. I'd rather err on the side of caution in this situation....
acjcpastor
01-16-2009, 01:59 PM
This is fine....but John Walsh would tell a different story.
And that's the problem. Media driven hype. Be real - Not everyone in America belongs on America's Most Wanted.
And that's the problem. Media driven hype. Be real - Not everyone in America belongs on America's Most Wanted.
Here is a good exercise for everyone. Go to http://www.familywatchdog.us/
When I worked at a domestic abuse/ sexual assault shelter, it was part of our job to keep up with who was on this site. You can type in your address and you will be SHOCKED to see who your neighbors are. Better yet, do it for the whole city/ area you live in. No, friends, it is not a pretty sight. You can find out who is there, what they did and where they are. But, they move around a lot and don't always tell their probations officers what they are doing. Working at the shelter opened my eyes. We are not safe just because we think we are.
1Corinth2v4
01-16-2009, 02:11 PM
Okay, Jeff and I are disagreeing about something, and he gave me permission to get the opinions of AFF!!!! :D
Hannah is starting riding lessons, and we live 2.5 miles from the stables. Jeff wants to let her ride her bike to the lessons (when its warm enough--it's not right now), and I DON'T think she's old enough to do that yet!!!!!
The pros are:
* We live in the country, so she wouldn't have to get on any main highways to get where's she's going.
* Jeff thinks she needs a little more freedom.
* She would have a cell phone and would have to call as soon as she arrived.
* She's 13.
Uh, I can't think of anymore pros.
The cons are:
* We live in the country, she would have to cross a bridge on the way, and some people do drive very fast on these country roads.
* She's 13.
* I don't like it.
Am I being unreasonable? I think 2.5 miles is too far. Right now she's only allowed to explore the dirt roads around our house which kind of wind around, and even though she has about a mile of road, she's never more than a quarter mile from our front door.
I can envision all kinds of things happening between our house and the stables.
I'm getting panicky thinking about it.
What are your thoughts? Am I being neurotic? Would you let your 13 year old ride that far?
You shouldn't allow her to travel alone. If there were multiple riders with her, I might consider it. A solo thirteen year old, perverts, and a semi-empty country road isn't a good recipe.
Drive her there, leave her under the supervision of the trainer, and have her call you when she's ready for pick-up.
OnTheFritz
01-16-2009, 02:23 PM
They have pretty liberal Conceal and Carry laws in Oklahoma, don't they? She could probably get a license at 13 :)
But seriously.... I voted "No" -- and I think of myself as pretty non-over-reactive.
OneAccord
01-16-2009, 03:15 PM
No, I wouldn't let her ride the distance... but not for the reasons you listed. This info is old, but, worth considering....
During 1987 and 1988, an estimated 92,763 emergency room visits were made in the United States for injuries related to horseback riding. Although the greatest number of injuries occurred in the 25-44-year age group, injury rates were highest for 5-24-year-olds, especially for females (Table 1).
Nearly half the injuries occurred at home or on a farm (Table 2). Soft tissue injury (e.g., laceration, contusion, or abrasion) was the most common diagnosis, followed by fracture or dislocation, strain or sprain, and concussion (Table 2). Most injuries to the extremities and trunk involved soft tissue, fractures and dislocations, and strains and sprains. Head and neck injuries were mainly soft tissue (56.9%), concussions (18.5%), and fractures or dislocations (11.0%). The 14,120 fractures to upper extremities represented the single most common site and type of injury.
Compare the risk of horse riding injuries to the risk of what could happen on the road, then decide.
In my opinion, the risk of injuries from horse back rding outweigh the risks involved with her riding a bike 2.5 miles down the road.
ForeverBlessed
01-16-2009, 04:23 PM
Here is a good exercise for everyone. Go to http://www.familywatchdog.us/
When I worked at a domestic abuse/ sexual assault shelter, it was part of our job to keep up with who was on this site. You can type in your address and you will be SHOCKED to see who your neighbors are. Better yet, do it for the whole city/ area you live in. No, friends, it is not a pretty sight. You can find out who is there, what they did and where they are. But, they move around a lot and don't always tell their probations officers what they are doing. Working at the shelter opened my eyes. We are not safe just because we think we are.
I have 25 offenders that live within one mile of my house... 5 less than two miles... and 3 of the men, I know who they are personally... several live just the next block down.
I used to check this often because of the girls.. I've made sure they knew who the men were that were close to us. Rebekah (my youngest) had one of the reg sex offenders ask her if she wanted a ride once when it was raining as she was walking home from school. He lived three houses down. She said No, and kept walking... in the rain. One offender lived not next door, but the next... I always told the girls to not make eye contact and to avoid him. Internet porn I think has brought about a lot of these sick things going on... the heart is evil, the web is a playground for sick minds.
I still allowed my kids to walk to and from school, ride bikes, skate, walk all over the place. Evil people are everywhere and I think the best way to handle it is to make kids aware of evil hearts... make them aware of what they need to do if approached by someone... prepare them to be cautious, but not live in fear.
My girls walk the same path to school that I did growing up since we live in the house I was raised in... I really wanted the girls to experience some of the same fun times I did in this neighborhood.... I know that they did.
I have 25 sex offenders that live within one mile of my house... 5 less than two miles... and 3 of the men, I know who they are personally... several live just the next block down.
I used to check this often because of the girls.. I've made sure they knew who the men were that were close to us. Rebekah (my youngest) had one of the reg sex offenders ask her if she wanted a ride once when it was raining as she was walking home from school. He lived three houses down. She said No, and kept walking... in the rain. One offender lived not next door, but the next... I always told the girls to not make eye contact and to avoid him. Internet porn I think has brought about a lot of these sick things going on... the heart is evil, the web is a playground for sick minds
I definately agree.
I still allowed my kids to walk to and from school, ride bikes, skate, walk all over the place. Evil people are everywhere and I think the best way to handle it is to make kids aware of evil hearts... make them aware of what they need to do if approached by someone... prepare them to be cautious, but not live in fear.
My girls walk the same path to school that I did growing up since we live in the house I was raised in... I really wanted the girls to experience some of the same fun times I did in this neighborhood.... I know that they did.
My son walks to and from school. I showed him and the neighbor kids pictures of these people and told them to be careful, but they still walked. However, I still do not want my college aged daughter walking in the dark alone. So, I think it is important to try and be moderate in all things. :)
Cindy
01-16-2009, 05:38 PM
It's easier than all of that.
You're living in redneck country, get the little lady a pickup truck and send her off to riding lessons with a rifle in the rack. (I see that she's on the short side so you might want to get her a truck with a lift kit to compensate for her stature.)
:heeheehee
Rhoni
01-16-2009, 06:43 PM
Abbie, I agree that with age we need to let our children have more rope, but with the fun is responsibility. I think a first aid class, a self defense class, and given a little more mileage at a time to work up to that 2.5 mi. Children don't understand the dangers and don't have the experience in certain situations to know what to do.
My children and I used to have fire drills. If there was a fire we would all go out the nearest window and stand by the mailbox so everyone would know who is and isn't accounted for. Safety first.
I didn't check a box because none quite fit.
Blessings, Rhoni
Margies3
01-16-2009, 07:06 PM
You shouldn't allow her to travel alone. If there were multiple riders with her, I might consider it. A solo thirteen year old, perverts, and a semi-empty country road isn't a good recipe.
Drive her there, leave her under the supervision of the trainer, and have her call you when she's ready for pick-up.
I assume that your decision is already made by this time of the evening. But for the record, 1Cor is making very good sense here. That was my first thought when I read your question to start with.
OP_Carl
01-16-2009, 08:06 PM
Okay, Jeff and I are disagreeing about something, and he gave me permission to get the opinions of AFF!!!! :D
Hannah is starting riding lessons, and we live 2.5 miles from the stables. Jeff wants to let her ride her bike to the lessons (when its warm enough--it's not right now), and I DON'T think she's old enough to do that yet!!!!!
The pros are:
* We live in the country, so she wouldn't have to get on any main highways to get where's she's going.
* Jeff thinks she needs a little more freedom.
* She would have a cell phone and would have to call as soon as she arrived.
* She's 13.
Uh, I can't think of anymore pros.
The cons are:
* We live in the country, she would have to cross a bridge on the way, and some people do drive very fast on these country roads.
* She's 13.
* I don't like it.
Am I being unreasonable? I think 2.5 miles is too far. Right now she's only allowed to explore the dirt roads around our house which kind of wind around, and even though she has about a mile of road, she's never more than a quarter mile from our front door.
I can envision all kinds of things happening between our house and the stables.
I'm getting panicky thinking about it.
What are your thoughts? Am I being neurotic? Would you let your 13 year old ride that far?
Miss B,
I would give her instructions and training, and then let her go.
Then I would test her instructions and training, perhaps with the help of a neighbor.
If she didn't pass the test, her freedom would be put on hold for another year.
Jermyn Davidson
01-16-2009, 09:44 PM
It depends on how much traffic is on the road.
If I was a Dad, I'd have a hard time convincing myself to let her ride on a road that was busy or had inconsiderate drivers on it on a regular basis.
But I don't disagree with the concept of allowing her more freedom.
Maybe I'd find another way to express her freedom-- as in letting her get away from home for summer retreats, leadership camps or something.
Sherri
01-16-2009, 09:55 PM
I probably couldn't let her do it, if it were my daughter. I guess I've heard too many scary abduction stories and I try to be extra careful. However, having an overly adventurous daughter like I have, she did a lot of things that I didn't find out about until much later, and she still survived. LOL!
Fiyahstarter
01-16-2009, 10:03 PM
I wouldn't let my daughters do it...and I wouldn't let my son do it either. To be perfectly honest, I wouldn't even do it myself. There are far too many DRUNKS on the road and kids (and adults) trying to drive with cell phones. I don't even like being in my car. I prefer the pickup when we travel!!! Signed, me... out there!
Cindy
01-16-2009, 10:05 PM
I probably couldn't let her do it, if it were my daughter. I guess I've heard too many scary abduction stories and I try to be extra careful. However, having an overly adventurous daughter like I have, she did a lot of things that I didn't find out about until much later, and she still survived. LOL!
I have a daughter that was like that growing up. Well all 3 of them probably did some things like that. And I will probably will never know about some things.
pelathais
01-16-2009, 10:17 PM
The best we can do is teach them and pray for them. They will find trouble. I'm saddened by most of the responses here. If I lived out of town a bit like MissBrat I would have turned my kids loose even more.
I grew up in one of the most remote areas outside of the National Parks and designated Wilderness areas. It was just about 1 mile to the mailbox and I did that all of the time on bike, on foot or otherwise.
It was then a left turn and another mile and a half to the first nuke silo and underground launch control bunker. I did that a lot on a bike. I saw coyotes, prong horn, jack rabbits, porcupine and then there was this fierce badger warren on the property past the nuke site.
And bull snakes so long that they would have their heads in the ditch on one side of the road and their tail still in the weeds on the other.
Fiyahstarter
01-16-2009, 10:50 PM
If I lived out of town a bit like MissBrat I would have turned my kids loose even more.
Now I'm thinking just the opposite... I DO live in the country and I can tell you many drunk drivers take to the "back roads" in order to avoid police and heavier traffic. I am a "walker" and I am very cautious walking on these back roads... Cars FLY by at high rates of speed. (Some drunks and some young kids behind the wheel... feeling their oats, I guess.) Over the years, many cars have swerved at me I've nearly been hit several times ... NO WAY I'd ever let my kids ride their bikes on THESE back roads.
However,
I always thought that if I lived "in town", where there were sidewalks and people everywhere... it might have been a different story.
Newman
01-16-2009, 11:17 PM
As commonsense's youngest, I voted yes. I think 13 is old enough to have some independence. We did go all over alone, and much younger than 13. And there were probably just as many freaks and perverts, then. We just didn't have 24 hour cable news, so we didn't get details of all of the bad things that happened.
I tend to think the biggest problem with Miss B's daughter riding bike the short distance is the remoteness and thus opportunity to hurt or kidnap her child without others intervening.
I have a vivid memory of a a kidnapping that took place in my state. It was immedietely reported by a driver on an expressway who saw a young boy (about 12 years old) abducted in the middle of the afternoon. The child was pulled off his bike as he rode on the dirt road that ran beside the expressway (but no off ramp was near where this occurred). The driver on the expressway was unable to intervene and watched helplessly. Even though the driver contacted police right away with some description of the car; it got away. The boy's body was recovered later in the week. The sexual predator was eventually apprehended.
I think that today is different from an earlier time (not simply because more news gets out there) but I suspect the porn filled internet leads some to stalk children or at the very least take advantage of them if the occasion arises.
I have seen way too much at court. It is a sick, sick world. Kids need to be protected.
Rhoni
01-17-2009, 06:54 AM
Abbie, I agree that with age we need to let our children have more rope, but with the fun is responsibility. I think a first aid class, a self defense class, and given a little more mileage at a time to work up to that 2.5 mi. Children don't understand the dangers and don't have the experience in certain situations to know what to do.
My children and I used to have fire drills. If there was a fire we would all go out the nearest window and stand by the mailbox so everyone would know who is and isn't accounted for. Safety first.
I didn't check a box because none quite fit.
Blessings, Rhoni
Miss B,
I would give her instructions and training, and then let her go.
Then I would test her instructions and training, perhaps with the help of a neighbor.
If she didn't pass the test, her freedom would be put on hold for another year.
It depends on how much traffic is on the road.
If I was a Dad, I'd have a hard time convincing myself to let her ride on a road that was busy or had inconsiderate drivers on it on a regular basis.
But I don't disagree with the concept of allowing her more freedom.
Maybe I'd find another way to express her freedom-- as in letting her get away from home for summer retreats, leadership camps or something.
I probably couldn't let her do it, if it were my daughter. I guess I've heard too many scary abduction stories and I try to be extra careful. However, having an overly adventurous daughter like I have, she did a lot of things that I didn't find out about until much later, and she still survived. LOL!
I wouldn't let my daughters do it...and I wouldn't let my son do it either. To be perfectly honest, I wouldn't even do it myself. There are far too many DRUNKS on the road and kids (and adults) trying to drive with cell phones. I don't even like being in my car. I prefer the pickup when we travel!!! Signed, me... out there!
Now I'm thinking just the opposite... I DO live in the country and I can tell you many drunk drivers take to the "back roads" in order to avoid police and heavier traffic. I am a "walker" and I am very cautious walking on these back roads... Cars FLY by at high rates of speed. (Some drunks and some young kids behind the wheel... feeling their oats, I guess.) Over the years, many cars have swerved at me I've nearly been hit several times ... NO WAY I'd ever let my kids ride their bikes on THESE back roads.
However,
I always thought that if I lived "in town", where there were sidewalks and people everywhere... it might have been a different story.
I tend to think the biggest problem with Miss B's daughter riding bike the short distance is the remoteness and thus opportunity to hurt or kidnap her child without others intervening.
I have a vivid memory of a a kidnapping that took place in my state. It was immedietely reported by a driver on an expressway who saw a young boy (about 12 years old) abducted in the middle of the afternoon. The child was pulled off his bike as he rode on the dirt road that ran beside the expressway (but no off ramp was near where this occurred). The driver on the expressway was unable to intervene and watched helplessly. Even though the driver contacted police right away with some description of the car; it got away. The boy's body was recovered later in the week. The sexual predator was eventually apprehended.
I think that today is different from an earlier time (not simply because more news gets out there) but I suspect the porn filled internet leads some to stalk children or at the very least take advantage of them if the occasion arises.
I have seen way too much at court. It is a sick, sick world. Kids need to be protected.
We live in dangerous times and have to be on the offensive. Safety first. You don't need to worry so much about your daughter , but like so many have said; the drunks, the pedophiles, and those looking for the perfect scenerio,i.e., isolated areas to do evil.
Blessings, Rhoni
Carpenter
01-17-2009, 03:24 PM
People around here call me anal Bill only because I am so over the top when it comes to my daughter's safety.
One day we went over a friends house where my 7 year old daughter was on a play date. The two girls were out back bobbing for tangerines in this HUGE bucket (4x the home depot orange bucket), and the parents were doing whatever, but they weren't outside with the girls. One little slip and either could have been head down in the water without a way to get out.
I freaked!
You cannot trust kids to have foresight of what COULD happen until they are 27 and then not even. I am convinced some parents are morons.
I vote no. Dust off your bike and ride along with her.
OP_Carl
01-17-2009, 04:21 PM
The best we can do is teach them and pray for them. They will find trouble. I'm saddened by most of the responses here. If I lived out of town a bit like MissBrat I would have turned my kids loose even more.
We live in dangerous times and have to be on the offensive. Safety first. You don't need to worry so much about your daughter , but like so many have said; the drunks, the pedophiles, and those looking for the perfect scenerio,i.e., isolated areas to do evil.
Blessings, Rhoni
People around here call me anal Bill only because I am so over the top when it comes to my daughter's safety.
One day we went over a friends house where my 7 year old daughter was on a play date. The two girls were out back bobbing for tangerines in this HUGE bucket (4x the home depot orange bucket), and the parents were doing whatever, but they weren't outside with the girls. One little slip and either could have been head down in the water without a way to get out.
I freaked!
You cannot trust kids to have foresight of what COULD happen until they are 27 and then not even. I am convinced some parents are morons.
I vote no. Dust off your bike and ride along with her.
I don't believe our times are any more dangerous than they were in the past, only more fearful
Conduct lectures and training on safety, by all means. Know your kids and what they are ready for by observing their level of maturity. I am blown away by the overwhelming number of people who choose to live with a fearful bunker mentality.
A spirit of fear is not a gift from God.
BrotherEastman
01-17-2009, 04:25 PM
Okay, Jeff and I are disagreeing about something, and he gave me permission to get the opinions of AFF!!!! :D
Hannah is starting riding lessons, and we live 2.5 miles from the stables. Jeff wants to let her ride her bike to the lessons (when its warm enough--it's not right now), and I DON'T think she's old enough to do that yet!!!!!
The pros are:
* We live in the country, so she wouldn't have to get on any main highways to get where's she's going.
* Jeff thinks she needs a little more freedom.
* She would have a cell phone and would have to call as soon as she arrived.
* She's 13.
Uh, I can't think of anymore pros.
The cons are:
* We live in the country, she would have to cross a bridge on the way, and some people do drive very fast on these country roads.
* She's 13.
* I don't like it.
Am I being unreasonable? I think 2.5 miles is too far. Right now she's only allowed to explore the dirt roads around our house which kind of wind around, and even though she has about a mile of road, she's never more than a quarter mile from our front door.
I can envision all kinds of things happening between our house and the stables.
I'm getting panicky thinking about it.
What are your thoughts? Am I being neurotic? Would you let your 13 year old ride that far?
I think this is one time that your husband should take your feelings into consideration. 30 or 40 years ago you might of been unreasonable, but today I hardly think that she would be safe. Just my thoughts which aren't really worth a hill of beans. LOL!
BrotherEastman
01-17-2009, 04:26 PM
Talk on the phone while she's riding???? *passes out* :swoon
Maybe I can tail her in the car. Say a 1/4 mile behind or something? I wonder if she would notice....
LOL! Good idea!
TRFrance
01-17-2009, 04:29 PM
A 13 year old boy... maybe.
A 13 year old girl... NEVER!!
BrotherEastman
01-17-2009, 04:32 PM
A 13 year old boy... maybe.
A 13 year old girl... NEVER!!
You know, as I was reading this thread I thought the same thing. Perhaps if MissBrattified's husband would let his daughter have a gun then....................maybe?
BrotherEastman
01-17-2009, 04:35 PM
No x 1000= no to the thousandths power.
OP_Carl
01-17-2009, 04:37 PM
A 13 year old boy... maybe.
A 13 year old girl... NEVER!!
Awwwwwww, don't be such a panty-waist. Just smear her face with dirt/grease, put her in some ratty old clothes, make her wear some Billy Bob teeth (http://billybobteeth.com/), and give her a squirt gun full of Windex. Nobody will even WANT to give her a second look! :bolt
:lol
A 13 year old boy... maybe.
A 13 year old girl... NEVER!!
Boys are no safer than girls nowadays.
MissBrattified
01-19-2009, 08:05 AM
Awwwwwww, don't be such a panty-waist. Just smear her face with dirt/grease, put her in some ratty old clothes, make her wear some Billy Bob teeth (http://billybobteeth.com/), and give her a squirt gun full of Windex. Nobody will even WANT to give her a second look! :bolt
:lol
:toofunny
I think this is one time that your husband should take your feelings into consideration. 30 or 40 years ago you might of been unreasonable, but today I hardly think that she would be safe. Just my thoughts which aren't really worth a hill of beans. LOL!
I see his point of view. He tends to agree with OP_Carl, and a few others--feeling that we can't live in fear just because there are bad people out there. And I don't believe in living fearfully either--but that doesn't mean I don't ever feel fearful! (Especially as a mother!)
We still have an obligation to be protective and wise, and not just give our kids carte blanche to go do whatever they want, wherever they want, trusting God to do our job for us!
I don't believe our times are any more dangerous than they were in the past, only more fearful
Conduct lectures and training on safety, by all means. Know your kids and what they are ready for by observing their level of maturity. I am blown away by the overwhelming number of people who choose to live with a fearful bunker mentality.
A spirit of fear is not a gift from God.
I agree, but I also think we need to be wise and protect our children. Give them as much freedom as possible, and still keep them safe. To me, the distance involved, and the area involved tips the scale too far in the direction of danger.
I appreciate your comments, though. I do want to trust God to keep His hand on our family.
Now I'm thinking just the opposite... I DO live in the country and I can tell you many drunk drivers take to the "back roads" in order to avoid police and heavier traffic. I am a "walker" and I am very cautious walking on these back roads... Cars FLY by at high rates of speed. (Some drunks and some young kids behind the wheel... feeling their oats, I guess.) Over the years, many cars have swerved at me I've nearly been hit several times ... NO WAY I'd ever let my kids ride their bikes on THESE back roads.
However,
I always thought that if I lived "in town", where there were sidewalks and people everywhere... it might have been a different story.
This is true! We had a young boy killed last year, single vehicle accident, I think he was 17. He was flying over the hills, and went off into a ravine, turned his car upside down. It happened about 3 a.m., he wasn't found till the next afternoon. Some people do take way too much advantage of the empty country roads.
LOL...the grass is always greener....
The best we can do is teach them and pray for them. They will find trouble. I'm saddened by most of the responses here. If I lived out of town a bit like MissBrat I would have turned my kids loose even more....
I try not to be too fearful of critters...and we have plenty of snakes, coyotes, spiders, raccoons, possums, etc. We do try to teach them safety rather than complete avoidance. They're pretty much allowed to wander our full 10 acres, plus another 20-25 acres of neighborhood. (Well, Jeffrey isn't allowed full run yet--but he's only 6)
I did let Hannah ride her bike to our little convenience store which is about 3/4 miles from the end of our road (a mile from the front door, approx.), BUT that was really pushing it, and I made her take the cell and call me when she arrived, and again when she left the store.
I'm trying not to be TOO protective, but still....
People around here call me anal Bill only because I am so over the top when it comes to my daughter's safety....
You cannot trust kids to have foresight of what COULD happen until they are 27 and then not even. I am convinced some parents are morons.
I vote no. Dust off your bike and ride along with her.
r u gonna ride your bike w/ your daughter to the stables??
Jeff and I discussed it again, and the plan is: Drive her until it gets warm enough to ride, and then I will ride there with her, if she wants to do that. I'm also fine with dropping her off at the lesson, and letting her call me when she's ready to be picked up.
We have a neighbor who also has horses, and Hannah goes down there almost daily to feed the horses a carrot or two, and sometimes helps muck out stalls, etc. So she isn't stuck in the house--or even on our property.
I also noted OneAccord's post about injuries due to riding horses/being in the vicinity of horses--and I do understand that. However, we try not to limit our kids from sports, simply because they can be injured. In this case, Hannah has been focused on horses since she was a toddler--it never was just a phase, and she's wanted to be a veterinarian for about the same amount of time. She focuses on her science, and we try to relate her studies to how she could practically apply them to veterinary medicine. So in this case, the danger to her spirit by not allowing horsemanship and close proximity to other animals (great and small) would be greater than the risk of physical injury. (IMO)
Bottom line: THANKS to everyone who contributed. We read all your posts, and included you in the discussion! :)
freeatlast
01-19-2009, 08:21 AM
A 13 year old boy... maybe.
A 13 year old girl... NEVER!!
Tryt o convince the two families in Missouri that had there boys abducted.
One of them was named Sean and was held for over four years.
There are sickos everywhere.
You can do a search of sex offenders inmany areas of the country and find the addresses of where they live.
You may be shocked to find one lives on the route your daughter wants to ride on.
Tim Rutledge
01-19-2009, 08:57 AM
Tryt o convince the two families in Missouri that had there boys abducted.
One of them was named Sean and was held for over four years.
There are sickos everywhere.
You can do a search of sex offenders inmany areas of the country and find the addresses of where they live.
You may be shocked to find one lives on the route your daughter wants to ride on.
This is something I recommend everyone do.
TRFrance
01-19-2009, 09:32 AM
Tryt o convince the two families in Missouri that had there boys abducted.
One of them was named Sean and was held for over four years.
There are sickos everywhere.
You can do a search of sex offenders inmany areas of the country and find the addresses of where they live.
You may be shocked to find one lives on the route your daughter wants to ride on.
Boys are no safer than girls nowadays.
Well, the average 13 year old boy is bigger than the average 13 year old girl, is less likely to be attacked/accosted, and is better able to protect himself in case of a possible attack.
The odds are much more in favor of a boy, so I'd be willing to consider it in his case, especially if he's a good size for his age. That's all I'm saying.
Cindy
01-19-2009, 09:36 AM
I think you did good MissB!!!!!!!
LadyChocolate
01-20-2009, 08:21 AM
This is something I recommend everyone do.
Right!!!! I did this when I moved up North and to my surprise.... in both cities we lived in, there were NONE! :) In fact, in a city of over 50,000 there were only 3 mapped... (I know that all haven't been convicted) but still that's impressive... Especially when we moved here and in my city alone there were over 270...In the city just 10 miles away, there are another 250+ ..... I was sick.... They are blocks away from me... They are down my street.... all over this neighborhood.... My children and I walk to the parks... walk to the tennis courts or where ever... NO I don't live in fear, or I'd stay shut in my home... but I do live a cautious life....
vBulletin® v3.8.5, Copyright ©2000-2025, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.