As I prepare to drop my son off for his first day of high school, I wonder where the time has gone. Wasn’t it just yesterday that he was playing with his Hot Wheels and Lego? Everyone tells you how quickly children grow up, but you just don’t get it until that child is your own.
When my son was born, I was absolutely thrilled. Health problems prevented me from being as active as I would have liked that first year, but I was overjoyed at being a mom. I loved every second, whether it was changing diapers, giving baths, feedings – I loved it all. Every year, I said was the best one yet.
When my son started preschool at 4 years old, I don’t know who had the tougher time separating-me or him. He would cry and cling to me each morning, and I would show up way too early at pick up time. I was thrilled that he was “venturing out into the world” and making friends, but I knew things would never be just him and me again.
Preschool flew by, and then it was off to elementary school. He was still a little sad when I left, but I made sure to walk my son in every morning and be right outside when the bell rang at 3:00. Toward the end of elementary school, we started carpooling with another friend in the neighborhood. It was strange to see my son run out in the morning to ride with the other mom. At least I still got a hug and kiss as he raced out the door.
In the blink of an eye, it was time for junior high. Our carpool continued, and I still loved the days it was my turn to drop off and pick up. I did notice my son being a bit more hesitant to give me that hug and kiss as he was getting out of the car. Toward the end of junior high, the hug was a quick brush of his shoulder but at least I still got a quick kiss.
Now, here we are at high school. My son gets his driver’s permit in a couple of months and has let me know that if I get him a car, he will be glad to take himself to school! He doesn’t seem to understand how much I love that small task. I have a feeling the hug and kiss may go away when it’s time for drop off, and I guess that’s normal. Hopefully, I’ll still get those before he leaves the house.
After freshman orientation last week, I mentioned to one of my friends that all the children looked so big and “adult like.” She asked me if I had looked at my child lately. I replied, “Of course I have, but he doesn’t look like that.” She assured me that he does. The problem is that when I look at my son, I still see that 4-year-old who was afraid to be left at preschool. How could he possibly be a high school student?
The years really do go quicker than you can ever imagine. Being a mom has brought me a tremendous amount of joy and was absolutely the best thing that ever happened to me. I just wish it didn’t go by so quickly. For those of you with children, slow down and enjoy every single second. Don’t wish away the crying, sleepless nights, and 2-year old tantrums. They are part of your amazing child, and as soon as you blink, he will be walking in to high school!