Time is fleeting, and I realize that there isn't alot of time left when my kids will want to get away with us even for just a weekend. Truth...I enjoy these quick getaways...no they aren't "romantic" getaways, but honestly...Dave and I have time for that.
So I'm looking at these pictures and I'm thinking "When did these kids grow up?"
"Oh sure...she has it easy now..." you're thinking. Uhmmm no. Things are not that different; I'm still their mom, but it's not easy because they're older. It's different, not easy.
It's a hard stage right now that I'm navigating through; uncharted waters so to speak. Slowly, and I mean very slowly, I'm learning to let go. I'm trying to convince myself, that whatever I have tried to teach my children, they will take to heart. Parenting teens is like climbing a slippery slope. See this man on the ice wall? One bad move and he could plunge to his death.
I'm not saying that would happen to my children nor to me, but let's think about this. As moms we should always have it so no matter what age our child is, home is always the beacon they want to see. It should be their haven and safe place from the outside world that bombards them. If they don't feel like they are wanted nor needed and home is not an inviting place for them, they won't find their way back. I'm not saying shower them with hugs and kissed like when they were babies, but always shower them with the love and attention they want and deserve. And don't feel like your teen doesn't want to be a part of your life. Yes, this is a time of growing and distancing themselves from you. They're trying out their wings so to speak. But they still need that reassurance that you're there...just not in their face constantly. Let them still be a part of your world when they want to be. Trust them...trust yourself. Say a little prayer. Enjoy them now just as you enjoyed them when they were little. Just this time...enjoy them...differently...and for who they are becoming.
Girl this is so beautiful written. My oldest is 13. I've already seen so many changes. I'm grateful that he still will let me hold his hand when we take walks and will lay next to me when we read but he does so many things on his own now. My tow younger ones are always asking for something or need me for something but not him. Often times I'll have to go find him in the house and just give him a hug and tell him I love him. Thanks for the reminder to cherish today because today will never happen again. Oh... I wanted to tell you that when we only had three kiddos we went to visit Banff. Love your pictures.
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