As you might remember, Chicky spent her 19th birthday away from home. It was a first for us.
Although I couldn’t be with her to make her day extra-special (my viewpoint, not her’s), I was comforted by the fact that she could be share her day with the college friends she has become close with.
She also had Guy Friend to keep her company.
Oh yes…Guy Friend.
Let’s talk about him for a minute…or two…or three. You know I’m wordy.
Guy Friend first came into our lives when Chicky was in the 11th grade.
He was a senior.
We had known his mom for a number of years. His family attends the same church as we do. We had watched him play soccer a few times.
Still, it was a little surprising when Chicky began “liking” him.
As a mother, it can be difficult to watch your little girl gravitate toward a guy.
But gravitate she did.
Although they were not allowed to go out on dates, Chicky and Guy Friend became regular visitors at both families’ homes.
Chicky went with him to his senior prom.
And still, I would not let them date.
I am very conservative, you see.
Guy Friend left for college, and Chicky had to stay behind to endure her senior year.
Then, she made the fateful decision to attend Southeastern University, where he was also enrolled.
Still, she was not allowed to “date.”
He remained “Guy Friend.”
College life for Chicky.
Freedom.
I still wouldn’t call their lunches and dinners together “dates.”
And then I read April’s blog post about her daughter’s dating woes.
Hmmm…
And then Chicky had the most wonderful birthday dinner with Guy Friend.
He had saved his money so he could treat her to Emeril’s in Orlando.
They shopped.
Chicky and I talked about it on the phone the next day.
I saw her pictures on Facebook.
She was glowing with joy.
I pondered…
I have always liked Guy Friend.
I have always been grateful that he is a Christian and avidly studies his Bible.
Guy Friend and I have had a few frank talks. You do that when you’re a mom. He has always listened respectfully.
I pondered…
Chicky is now 19 years old.
I think she is finally ready to have a “boyfriend.”
So, Guy Friend, consider this your promotion.
You have patiently waited for this moment.
You’ve earned it.
Clearly, you make my daughter happy.
You are now “officially” allowed to date.
I’ll admit…calling you the “b” word is going to take some getting used to.
It can take a while to train an old dog.
So, if I stumble as I try to say the word, please be patient.
I’ll get there eventually.
One more thing.
This does not give you permission to kiss her.
Save that for your wedding day.
Love,
Your girlfriend’s mother ♥
Filed under: children | Tagged: dating, parenting, teenagers | 4 Comments »
AuburnChick's Adventures 