New Chapter for DD (a little OT)
 

So, yesterday was the start of DD18's new chapter in her life; becoming a college student. She did not want to have her car there during her Freshman year, as there is adequate public transportation, so she rode down with AXH on Thursday (they left before his usual "start time", so no drinking). I managed to be able to take Friday off and went down with a car load of stuff, yesterday. It is monsoon season here in Arizona, so the trip took a bit longer than expected, and I was a bit later than I had hoped. I wanted to spend as much time with her as I could, since I won't be seeing her for a few weeks.

I did not anticipate any problems with AXH, as we have mostly been civil to each other, but by the time I left 5 hours later, I was happy enough to get away from him. The most telling moment, regarding DD's feelings about drinking came after we finished up our shopping trip to Target to pick up essentials that we forgot or left behind. The girls in DD's suite had divided purchases for items that they would need, and DD opted for a mini refrigerator. I thought I might find a used one, but was not able to do so before her move-in date. We were not panicking, because I plan on visiting over Labor Day and knew that I could bring one then. AXH found a great deal and bought one for her at Target and told her that it was an early B-day present. I thought that was terrific (especially, since I had helped her purchase everything else prior to heading to the big city). When we got back to her dorm and unpacked it, AXH joked about the fact that "They didn't even have the courtesy to leave a few beers inside". DD turned on him and stated that when she buys or builds her own house, cigarettes and alcohol won't be allowed inside. And boy, were her eyes daggers! AXH smirked and then pouted for about 15 minutes and then it was over. I merely kept busy, putting things away and folding clothes.

So yes, the drinking made an impact, and I wish that I had had the fortitude to move earlier, but I think she is going to be OK in the end.
So proud of her for speaking her mind, accomplishing all that she has, and setting off on a new adventure.