Well, the first day of summer vacation has officially come and gone. When I kissed my children goodbye before their last day of school yesterday, I said to them ” goodbye fourth grader” and “goodbye sixth grader” and “goodbye eighth grader.” Upon their return home, I greeted them “hello fifth grader” and “hello seventh grader” and, most painfully, “hello ninth grader.” A freshman? Can it really be? My heart answers a resounding “NO!” but my mind knows that it’s true. To me, he should still be that funny, sparkling, little boy with a mouthful of tiny baby teeth who thought every, single step he took should involve a Power Ranger kick, chop, and sound effect. The future seemed so comfortably far away back then and now it is arriving quickly, as if the passing of just one day…
As he grows into his inevitable manhood, I know that my daughters are also not far behind. Growing ever more lovely with each passing day, it is clearly visible to me, their transitions from cute little girl to beautiful young woman. Devaney is changing so quickly that it’s hard for anyone to believe she’s just twelve, all while DeeDee tries so hard to keep up with her big sister (much to the irritation of that big sister).
Now, the babies. Standing here with the youngest two (one still yet to be born), I am painfully aware of the speed of this journey. I have learned enough to appreciate every milestone with a true understanding of the temporary nature of their childhoods.
I am honored to be their mother. I am honored to be the wife of their father, with the full knowledge that as our children grow older, we just grow old. Thank You Father for sending me someone to enjoy this with. Thank You for the blessing of seeing this with two sets of eyes, so that we may never miss any of the little things.
