Sweet 16

And sweet it was...the big SIXTEEN came and went as our eldest child, Karson, celebrated the big one yesterday.  She got to sleep in until a whoppin' 7:30 AM.  After she and Miles enjoyed their waffle breakfast, we headed to drop off Miles at Plano, and made it to the Justice Center around 8:30.

  

I know everyone of you have had those moments when you are politely chatting with a stranger who starts throwing up information and you want to say, "ummmm, maybe don't say that in front of my daughter?"  Well that happened yesterday and moments before Karson's permit test.  After waiting in line, filling out forms and a few weeks of preparing (through online apps, practice tests and the book), both of us were well prepared.  I can't say that for the "motley crew" that was in line with us.  After getting everything she needed, we headed down the hall to the testing center and waited for her turn.  There was a lady(probably in her 40's) and two gentlemen ahead of her.  They lady started talking anxiously with Karson about how she'd failed the test multiple times and was hoping this was the time she'd pass it.  It was awkward.  I told her that Karson was probably better prepared (then someone our age) since she is a student and takes tests all the time.  I didn't want to be rude but SHEESH who says that to a teenager right before a test.  Karson's turn arrives, and she heads into the center, chats with the testing person, takes her vision exam and makes her way over to the kiosk to take her test.  She's standing next all three people who went inside before her.  After about 5-10 minutes, out she comes and says BOO-YAH!  The others were still inside.  She missed four out of 40 - the max you can miss is eight.  We headed BACK into the DL Center so we could get her learner's permit.  While we were in line, I saw the lady come through the hall.  AND, she didn't make it to our line.  We're guessing she failed it again =(.   

Here's my proud girl showing off her permit!  Six months to go, and we'll head back downtime for the big driver's test! April 21 is the date, and she's already logging hours on her driving time-sheet.  I guess it should make me nervous that she's driving, but I'm really not.  She's always been responsible and aware, so hopefully this new chapter will be a pleasant one.
  She had basketball practice until 5:15 and a quick team meeting until 5:45 so she didn't feel like going out to celebrate last night but drove home from practice and did a great job!

Matt left her the following note on her dresser yesterday morning (he's the BEST writer) - so sweet, so my heart - made me teary-eyed:

Karson Ann Deaton,
   October 22nd, 2002 was the day that changed my life forever.  Mom screamed and pushed, you popped out, Dr. Fee held you up, and you spread out your arms as wide as your little baby arms would go.  That's my first memory of you being present in the world outside of mom's belly, you spreading your arms wide as if to say, "It's me world.  I hope you're ready for me."  I loved that moment so much, and I love you so much.
   The last 16 years having you as my daughter have been so incredibly amazing.  I have loved every second of being your dad.  You are funny and kind and highly intelligent and talened and beautiful and athletic and confident and awesome!  (Most of that came from my DNA, not Mom's! LOL)
     And here it is, your SWEET 16th BIRTHDAY!  Wow!  It doesn't seem like long ago when me and mom were strapping you in your car seat for the first time and driving home from the hospital.  Now you are going to be driving us around.  (In a sweet 2012 Terrain.  Thanks Pap and Nana!)
     The main thing I want you to know on your 16th birthday is that your mom and I love you more than you could ever know.  Also, we are so proud of you , and we always will be.  I'll end by quoting Mamaw Deaton, "Honey, be careful out there on those roads!"
           
I love you forever,
Dad