I just retuned from spending a week in Seattle with my three daughters, (ages 23, 26 and 29) my future in-laws and my BFF. My middle one was looking for a bridal gown for her wedding next June. My youngest had just driven up from our home to begin her new life in Seattle. They all will be living together in a three-bedroom townhome – I wish all of them the best of luck!
I had a wonderful time and I think so did everyone else. It was a bittersweet time for me though. I was thrilled that I had raised three independent daughters who are out in the world changing it for the better. I was thrilled that they all felt safe enough to leave home and make a life of their own. I was thrilled that I had raised three children to be responsible adults. But… I really realized, for the first time, that my time in their lives is over. Yes, I will be there if they ask for advice, and I will always help them in any way I can but basically my job as a MOM is over. My concerns will never totally go away but they are not the day- to- day concerns of a MOM.
It is a unique time of giving up a lot of my MOM duties and learning to become friends with my children. It is a time to pat myself on the back for doing such a great job and tearing up for the loss of the “children” in my life. Maybe there should be a new name for this time. I don’t know -maybe a MEND (mom and friend). If anyone has any ideas for a new name please respond and let me know what you think.
I tell this story to all of you out there with young children to tell you to please enjoy the moments you are in right now: those magical moments where the world seems brighter, the sweet wonderful hugs and kisses, but even those moments where you want to scream and tear your hair out with frustration. Stop – Pause – Savor the moment – for all too soon you will be saying good-bye to their childhood and hello to the wonderful adult you have so capably raised.
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