Whitwabbit, if that's the case, you probably won't want a J frame, stout even in 38, and a bear in 357. If it isn't leaving the house, there's no reason to go smaller than K frame. 19 or 66 would be fine. I'd almost bet you would find her reluctant to practice with a J frame cause they aren't fun. And I say that even tho that's one I carry in the winter.