"You May Need Your Taser"

On the morning of her 16th birthday, Abe took Bethany to get her driver's license.  She isn't terribly anxious to drive-- rather the opposite.  But she did drive herself to play practice a couple of days later.  That's about it for solo driving thus far.

Then, just as her father had threatened, we did a double date for her first date.  Her date was a young man in our neighborhood named Jacob.  They've known each other since she was 6 and he was 7.  Abe was his Primary teacher back then and has worked with him in Scouts and Young Men's since then. Jacob was a part of our kids book club for several years.  As kids they had a love/hate relationship.  But as teenagers they are wonderful friends.

Both Clark and Bethany have been nervous about the first date tradition-- I mean, how awkward to go on a date with your parents!  But in the end, they both said it was fun.  We really did have a fun time with these two because we all knew each other quite well.  There was good conversation and a lot of laughter.

And it was my first date without Greta in tow and I felt quite free!

Later that evening he brought her over a birthday present-- A TASER!  

YES!  I knew I liked that kid!

Elinor has been teasing Bethany saying, "You may need your taser!"  Bethany has been caught somewhat off guard by the... uh...male attention... surrounding her 16th birthday.  

I can't say I'm terribly surprised, but Abe isn't terribly pleased.

I've probably written about this before, but Bethany was born five weeks after my mom passed away.  I was 23 years old.  I believe there is opposition in all things and Heavenly Father is extremely merciful.  During one of the saddest times of my life, we were blessed with a most sweet, thoughtful, obedient, joyful spirit in our home.  She's smart, talented, hardworking, playful, and good.  She isn't anxious to turn 16 and grow up.  Truth be told, I'm none to anxious for her to either.  

Happy birthday to our Bethany!

... you may need your taser!