Sweet 16

Last week our beautiful daughter turned 16!  It’s hard to comprehend that sixteen years have gone by since I gave birth to my first born.

She had a nice celebration with a small group of close friends over the holiday weekend.  They had dinner, played outdoor games, hung out at the bonfire and slept out in a large tent.  Unfortunately, the temperature dropped over night and it was cold. So cold that Olivia came in at 5:00 am to get a heavier sweatshirt and another blanket. Apparently the girls were fighting for warmth all night.  An hour later, they all came into the house for warmth as well as breakfast and hot beverages.  They were all smiling and wide awake so the cold did not hinder their mood.

Tuesday was Olivia’s actual birthday.  John decided to take the day off so he could take Olivia to the DMV to take her test to get her learners’ permit. He was glad he took the day off, otherwise, she would not have gotten her permit. She got a 100 on the test and was excited about driving.  She met me at the driveway to show me her permit.  We had a quiet dinner and celebrated with cake and ice cream.

Since last Tuesday, just one week, she has driven quite a bit with me.  She is starting to relax and feel confident about her ability to drive and is improving every time she is behind the wheel.  Monday night we went shopping for a business suit so she drove the back roads until we go to the highway and I drove into town. On the way home, we switched seats and she drove home.  That night alone she drove 22 miles. 

Yesterday she picked up her working papers at school so she is ready to get a job.  Last night, we drove the same roads into town as she had an interview – her first interview!  I drove her to campus, walked with her into the building then left to park the car.  I walked back to the building to wait for her.  She looked so professional in her dress and jacket.  

She was the only student that showed up for the interview so it went rather quick. She said the woman that interviewed her appeared surprised that she had a resume and cover letter to give to her.  For a high school student, Olivia has it all together.  We are so proud of her.

After leaving the interview, we stopped to pick up a few things before heading home. Olivia drove home from our “switch spot”.  She did much better and I am feeling more relaxed when she is driving.  It all comes down to practice, practice and practice.

When we arrived home the boys were finishing up mowing so I started dinner. Olivia started working on her homework. After dinner, she checked her email and she had an email from the woman that interviewed her.  She offered Olivia a job and Olivia accepted.  It means more running around for me as far as getting Olivia to and from her job but she wants to work and this will be an incredible experience for her.

How was your week?