7/16/2005 - Coming of Age

So my 12 year old daughter comes up to me and asks if her friend K. (a boy) can go to the movies with us today. I said, "Isn't that cheating since you already have a boyfriend?" She says, "Oh I broke up with him, he never returned my calls."  "Oh" I say, " well I guess K. can go." 

Since my daughter has hit the prepubescent stage, as much as I don't like to think about it, eventually I knew she would be interested in the opposite sex, and I've spent some time thinking about things I would say to the young men that would eventually make their way into her world. A few examples are:

"Hello I'm E's (my daughter) father. You like my tattoos? I got them in prison, and I don't mind going back."

"Have you heard about the new concealed weapon law? I sure am glad they allow it now. I just love this new leather holster and the .45 that goes in it. Why, just the other day at the shooting range I hit the bullseye on every shot."

"I know you're only 12 years old but do you have a job? 'Cause if your hanging out with my daughter, you gotta pay."

"So tell me, have you ever heard of Jeffery Dahmer? I think the guy was pretty cool myself."

Well, K. came in and wouldn't ya know it, I said none of the above. I introduced myself and we made small talk. We all went out to eat first, and I asked him if he had money for lunch and the movie and he said "Plenty, I mow yards" which was a good first step because I mowed yards when I was his age. I told him we'd pay for lunch and he said "Thank you" which was even better because I had no sense of manners at 12. He was respectful, courteous, and seemed like an all around good kid. However I drew the line when we got back to the house and my daughter wanted the two of them to go to her room upstairs and watch a movie. She accepted my decision without any problem. I might not like that we've moved into this phase of her life, but I love the fact I still get to say what goes and what doesn't. At least for a few more years I can watch out for her.

All in all it wasn't so bad. I figure it's a good beginning in learning a new stage of being a father. More often than not I reminisce when staring at her baby pictures on the walls, and it's conflicting to want your children to grow up, but I am glad she's becoming a young woman. I just didn't think it would happen so fast.

Before K. left for home I asked him about his height. I figure it won't hurt to start researching casket websites before things get too serious.