Yesterday my oldest
daughter (who is now in college) posted this photo on FaceBook for
Transformation Tuesday. This photo made me pause; my girls have grown so much
over the years. As cliché as it sounds, it really does seem like just yesterday
they were toddlers running through the house laughing and leaving toys and
sippy cups in their paths. Well, wait not everything has changed,
now one daughter flies in and out the house leaving car keys, water bottles,
gym bags and shoes, shoes, and SHOES in her path.
It's funny how I look back
and miss a time that once was and still look forward to what's yet to come. A
friend once told me every age will be your favorite. I didn't understand this
at the time, but now I can say she was right. Each stage brings new experiences
and new discoveries. I love watching my girls grow into beautiful young women
with opinions and goals. It can be a challenge to step back just enough to let
them reach for those dreams even though they may struggle along the way. This
is just what moms do, we pull back, then we push forward and we pray all the
way.
Looking around my house I
can still see the signs of my daughters they just look different. The lower
level that once was FILLED with toys of all sizes is now filled with an air
hockey table, football, hockey and Broadway Play memorable, a popcorn machine,
game table, a treadmill and a large screen TV. The table that was once
accessorized with highchairs and booster seats is now covered with book bags,
purses, car keys and coats. The bathtub that was once overtaken by rubber
ducks, baby shampoo and plastic books is now home to a variety of shampoos,
face wash, and a loofah. The bedrooms that were once pink fairies, American
Girl Dolls, books, special blankies and dolls are now floors littered with
clothes, tech devices, magazines and special blankies and dolls.
~Some things never change.
The details of what your daughters left/leave behind captures those ages so well. I have to agree with you that I like each age the best. Every year brings new joys--and new challenges--with my daughter as well. All too soon she will be leaving things strewn across a dorm room rather than her bedroom at home.
ReplyDeleteAnd then, they come home with their own kids and it's another perfect age. And their kids begin leaving things all over. And just when you think you can't take it anymore, they leave for their own homes. Then you begin looking for the things the little ones leave behind, just so you can smile one more time....
ReplyDeleteIt's so hard to let go of each stage, but it helps to quickly find something in the next stage to get excited about. So glad that you are embracing each new stage.
ReplyDeleteCongrats on a new blog! I didn't even realize it last night when I stopped by and commented. I happened to read Cathy's today and she shared you had started one for this project. I just love this photo and your reflections about the girls growing up.
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