As another summer comes to a close and the school year begins, I am reminded how fleeting the time with my children is. I sit here tonight writing the “secret” notes they know to expect on the first day of school and I’m filled with pride but also sadness. I am one of those weird moms that dreads sending her kids back to school. I miss them so much it hurts. I enjoy time off from them as any parent does but sending them out into a world I have no control over is just so hard. Will other kids be nice to my children? Will my children be nice to other kids when they know I can’t watch them? Will they remember to speak with respect and manners to the teachers and staff at their school? Have I taught them enough?! I hope I have but I guess you never really have that answer as a parent. You’re never done learning yourself so how could you ever be done leading your children? 18 years seemed like a lifetime when I was growing up but now I know it’s over in the quickest of flashes.
How will my children grow and change this year? Will I still be Matthew’s most favorite person now that middle school is here? We’ve had a pretty good run but I’m always waiting. Waiting for friends, girls, cars, sports etc to come along to replace me. I know it’s part of this whole parenting thing but it’s definitely one of the worst parts. Will Claire flourish this year? Will she make friends and discover how truly wonderful she is? Have I told her enough? Have I shown her how to love who she is or have I passed down my own insecurities?
The new year is so full of possibilities for our children but the uncertainties are there, just out of sight. Have we done enough to prepare them for this next chapter of their lives? I certainly hope so. I pray so. I long for it to be so. Here’s hoping ❤️
