It’s my daughter’s last year in elementary school before she transitions to middle school. The years are simply flying by too fast. We all say it, don’t we? “Time needs to slow down.” But when your babies are growing up, the emotions hit differently—a bittersweet mix that’s hard to put into words.
I find myself mourning all the “lasts” while eagerly anticipating all the “firsts.” It’s a tug-of-war between wanting to hold on to my little girl as long as possible and cheering her on as she blossoms into who she’s meant to be. These milestones come with so much joy and pride, yet they’re also wrapped in a tinge of sadness.
Just the other day, I sent her a text to remind her that we need to figure out what Valentine’s cards she wants to give out to her class this year. And then it hit me—this might be the last time. The last time we pick out fun, cute Valentines together. The last time she hands them out to classmates in a single homeroom setting. Next year, in middle school, there won’t be one class or a group of peers exchanging cards. This cherished little tradition will likely be left behind.
That realization stopped me in my tracks and tugged hard at my momma heart. I’m not ready for this chapter to close, not ready for her to grow up so fast. It’s another reminder that parenting is full of these moments—the little heartbreaks that come with watching your child move on to new stages in life.
I know there’s so much to look forward to, so many “firsts” on the horizon. But for now, I’m holding onto this “last” with both hands, savoring every moment of it. It’s a reminder to cherish the small things, the everyday rituals, and the fleeting traditions. Because before we know it, they’re gone, replaced with something new and equally wonderful, but still missed all the same.