As I dropped off my 5-year-old, he turned away from me, shrugging off my attempt at a goodbye kiss. My heart sank as I realized how quickly time is passing. Already? I thought, feeling as though his expression was saying he was too cool for such affection.
“I’m not ready for this,” I whispered to myself while walking away. The truth is, I don’t want my children to grow up just yet. I crave more time—more moments filled with laughter, playfulness, and getting it right.
I often joke with my kids, begging them to stay little forever. They giggle, responding, “Mom, we can’t! We’re growing!” I laugh along, but inside, I’m aching. If only they knew the depth of my wish for them to remain in these precious years a bit longer.
I know I will miss so many aspects of these days when they’re behind us. I’ll long for the hugs and the sweet kisses, the tiny hands that grip mine, and the nonsensical drawings and treasures my son presents to me with the same reverence a jeweler would show a rare gem. I’ll miss the joy, the sounds of their little voices, and the feeling of holding them close. I’ll truly miss my babies when they’re grown.
Yet, there are certainly things I won’t miss. The tantrums, the endless whining, the bedtime struggles, and the messes—all of which are part of this chaotic journey. And let’s not forget how my son somehow manages to obliterate every meal as if it’s his mission to drive me to the brink of madness.
Despite these challenges, the warmth of my son snuggling into my arms to say he loves me at the end of the day is priceless. The joy on my daughter’s face when she tells me she’s happy is irreplaceable.
However, no matter how I feel, time continues to march on. Children grow up, and we age as well. I cannot halt their growth or slow down the passage of time. All I can do is cherish each day, soaking up every moment so that when they are grown and living their own lives, they will always remain little in my heart.
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In summary, while the bittersweet reality of children growing up is something every parent faces, it’s essential to cherish the fleeting moments of their childhood. Time may not stand still, but the memories we create will forever live on in our hearts.