Last month, as I was already getting teary at my daughter’s kindergarten graduation, her teacher said “you’re looking at the new class of first graders” and I admit I lost it (mostly inside). Time seems to speed by. As much as I try to get through each day so I have time to myself, I am treasuring the individual moments. I am noticing her cuteness and the preciousness of this time in her life.
Lindsay Mead wrote an amazing blog post called Everything is changing about parenting during the teenage years being about “seeing the long view” and “parenting with the end in mind.” Since I’m more toward the beginning of this journey, I suppose I don’t really think about how the parent/child relationship will change over time, leading toward me letting go. Honestly, with my daughter hesitant to leave my side sometimes, I feel like pushing her away!
Lindsay’s post was in response to a post Asha Dornfest wrote. It’s so interesting how we bloggers carry a similar message and need to share it. Asha says that parenting is much easier now that her two are getting older because there’s “space and breathing room.” Ah, that sounds nice.
I see our sweet girl blossoming into her own personality and self. She doesn’t think (right now) that she’ll leave home for college, let alone summer camp, but I can envision it. I think I read an article on Facebook or somewhere that said that, in our busy lives, we never realize that something is happening for the last time while it’s happening. There’s always a last time you rock your child to sleep, a last time you place them to sleep in a crib, a last time you nursed them. I for one definitely don’t remember those moments. I didn’t realize at the time how special they were to be. And I am usually so busy actually living my life that I don’t recognize “last times” that are happening currently. (Even that last pickup from school at the kindergarten gate the other day was a “last” but I forgot to notice.)
I just finished her 2012 scrapbook – yes, I’m a tad behind. I was looking at pictures of things that occurred three years ago that honestly seem like a few months ago – a year tops. I cannot believe how much time has passed already!
My daughter is literally growing up right before my eyes. I get goosebumps sometimes at the beauty of her, of childhood, and of the enthusiasm and purity of spirit she possesses. What a blessing Mr. B and I have been given to have her in our life!
Thank you for this. The premise may find its way into a blog of my own, if you don’t mind. Now that I’m going through these moments for the second time, this time as a grandmother, I’m more in tune with the “last time” aspect, recognizing there is little chance I’ll get a third crack at it. As I’m picking up on little separation hints with the oldest grandchild (nearly 11,) I’m keenly aware that these “dependent” times are to be cherished, not wished away.
janet recently posted…We’re Nesting!
I’d love to read a post from you about time. I think you’re right about the cherishing.
Just as with her scrapbooks, she’ll love looking back on this post, Naomi.
Kelly L McKenzie recently posted…Good Neighbors Make Good Fences
Thank you, Kelly!
I’m so glad to know that my post resonated with you. This is one of the best parts of the blogging community, I think – the way themes and ideas can ping around, with everyone giving their own particular spin on them. Beautiful. xox
I agree! Thank you again for writing your excellent post.
Don’t worry. When they go away, even for four years, they come back and still need you just as much. Letting go is hard, but when you are willing to do that, the return is so much sweeter 🙂 Have a great day.
Well said, Sarah. I believe that!