Recently, I stumbled upon an insightful piece titled “Eighteen Summers: It’s All We Get.” This essay emphasizes the importance of cherishing each moment spent with our children. The author reflects on her baby’s early days, quickly fast-forwarding to high school graduation, contemplating whether her tears will come from joy or regret. She offers five commitments to make the most of every summer, reminding us that time is fleeting.
A few weeks later, while at the water park with my kids, the essay lingered in my thoughts. I observed my youngest, laughing as she was tossed about in the wave pool. Her radiant smile, complete with the gap of two missing teeth, lit up my heart. Just last summer, she was hesitant to enter the water without a life vest, clinging tightly to my hand. But now, she was body-surfing independently, while I stood at the edge, my toes splashed by the gentle waves. I envisioned future milestones—learning to drive, falling in love, and even flying. Each summer brings fresh experiences, and I eagerly await the new adventures that lie ahead.
Next summer, I anticipate my youngest finally being tall enough to conquer the bigger slides at the water park. Just imagining her excitement and joyful squeals fills me with anticipation. As time progresses, my children grow, and I embrace that change.
Many parents express concerns over how quickly their children are growing. I often see posts on social media where mothers plead for time to slow down. However, in my own journey, I have not mourned the passage of time. Witnessing my children embark on new experiences feels like a precious gift. Their growth signifies health and vitality, and I wholeheartedly support their journey towards independence. After all, nurturing their self-sufficiency is a crucial part of my role as a parent.
The days of dealing with leaky swim diapers and coordinating around nap times are behind me. This summer, I can savor a good book while at the water park, rather than hovering over my kids. With their growing independence comes a bit more freedom for me, allowing me to relax and truly enjoy our outings. I can focus on the little details that create lasting memories—like the exact shade of pink the sky turns at sunset or a favorite song that transports me back to these moments.
While we cannot halt time, we can shift our perspective of it. By being more present in the fleeting moments many parents wish to hold onto, time may seem to stretch a little. Ironically, routines, which often create the illusion of time slipping away, can exacerbate the feeling. If you want to embrace a slower perception of time, practicing mindfulness is essential.
This summer, my goal is to attentively observe my children as they play, noticing the way the sun lightens their hair and the new freckles that adorn my daughter’s nose. My mother will be visiting us for a week in July, providing her the chance to enjoy summer with her grandchildren, filled with days at the lake catching crawdads, watching evening fireworks, roasting marshmallows, and perhaps napping in the hammock. I can only imagine she will reminisce about her own experiences when I was their age. Yet, if I were to ask her if she’d want to return and pause time, I’m confident she would decline.
Regardless of how quickly or slowly time passes, its uncertainty remains. I am committed to being present for every summer spent with my children. And when they grow up, I hope to revisit these joys with their children. Life is about progression; standing still means missing out on the adventures that await.
For those considering expanding their family, you can explore options like the Cryobaby at-home insemination kit which provides a convenient solution. Additionally, if you’re seeking detailed information on fertility, this resource from ACOG is invaluable. For more expert insights, visit Modern Family Blog.
In summary, embracing a mindful approach to parenting allows us to fully appreciate the moments we share with our children. By focusing on the present, we can enrich our experiences and create lasting memories, ensuring that each summer is filled with joy and connection.