My daughters are now 20 and 13 years old. I’m reminded daily how fast they truly have grown up. Oh, what I wouldn’t give to hold them in my arms just one more time like I used to do when they were so tiny!

I remember reading a post that brought tears that stung my eyes. It was from a mother recounting the “last” of things. Usually we focus on all of the “firsts.” Yet, before we realize it, we will be dealing with some of the “last” things that we will do with our children. It saddened me greatly because I can relate!!!

Once upon a time, my daughters would let me rock them in my lap, cradling them in my arms. Then, as they grew, they didn’t want to be held in this fashion any longer. They resorted to sitting on the arm of the recliner as we watched television together or read a book. Then even that became a rare occurrence until it didn’t happen any more.

My children are eight years apart. That has been good in a lot of ways, but at one point I feared they would not be close growing up due to their age difference. However, what has happened is they beat the odds and are close despite the difference in their ages! Thank you, God! I promised my youngest daughter that I would try hard not to cling to her with all of my might as her sister became an adult and left the nest. It is hard to even write that my oldest is an adult and will be leaving the nest at some point in the near future. I wanted more time!! Where did the time go?!?! Yet, they cannot stay little forever, and I truly am proud of the woman she has become. I still find it hard to think of a point in time where she will no longer live in my house, ask for me to make her favorite meals during the week, or beg me for money in the mornings before leaving for college. My youngest being 13 years old makes me realize that I only have five more years with HER before it will become a reality yet again.

My babies are growing up!

And that is why I will vow to treasure every single moment with them and hold them a little tighter now every time we hug. That, they will still allow!