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Cherish the Lasts
Updated: March 17, 2023
Originally Published: July 20, 2015
“Mommy loves you. Daddy loves you. The kitties love you. We all love you so much. Now it’s time for bed.”
I paused for a moment, gently pulling the blanket up to my daughter’s chin and tucking it snugly around her chunky little legs. “Goodnight, my sweet girl.”
That night marked the end of her time in the crib, a poignant moment I had finally taken the time to appreciate. Dinner was warming in the oven, an article sat unfinished on my computer, and a toddler bed was waiting upstairs, but I paused.
Standing in the doorway, I watched her sleeping, thumb in mouth, her tiny feet pushing against the cherry wood bars. I wanted to soak in that sight, capturing this moment that signified her shift from baby to “big girl.” I wanted to inhale the scent of her peach fuzz head just one more time (now transformed into beautiful, wild curls). I wished I could rewind the past two years that flew by so quickly.
Let’s be real: parenting isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. There are plenty of moments I don’t miss—like teething or feeling like a human milk machine. It’s hard, often thankless, and filled with tears, frustration, and even rage. But that night, in her room, I experienced one of those rare moments of pure motherly bliss. I longed to scoop her up, rock her to sleep like I used to, until we both drifted off together. But my ever-independent daughter interrupted my thoughts with her cheerful “goo’bye!” (she sings it every night, dragging out the “iii”).
So, I said goodnight and gently closed the door.
For two years, I’ve been focused on her “firsts”—her first smile, laugh, tooth, and word. But now, I’m becoming acutely aware of the “lasts.” It’s bittersweet; her growth fills me with pride, yet I can’t help but wonder when things changed. When did I last swaddle her? When did she stop falling asleep in my arms, her little body curled against me? When did the sweet baby powder scent fade from her skin?
I try not to dwell too much on tomorrow, fearing I might miss today. What if she reached another milestone today, one that went unnoticed? (Just yesterday, she asked not to color with me. Have we crossed a line?)
This thought keeps me grounded in the moment. I often get lost in emails, scrolling through my phone, and—oh, let’s be honest—Facebook, and I risk missing these fleeting moments. So while I may not recognize the last cuddle or the final sip from her sippy cup, I’m learning to cherish each moment, even the messy ones with tears, chaos, and crayon on the walls.
Maybe I’ll let her stay up late tonight or hold her a little longer when she cries instead of letting her cry it out. After all, today could be a “last day,” and I want to savor the best for last.
If you’re looking for more insights on this topic, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination or explore this helpful guide for more information. Also, be sure to read our terms and conditions for more context.
In summary, as we navigate the bittersweet journey of parenting, taking a moment to appreciate both the “firsts” and “lasts” can bring a deeper connection and understanding of our growing children.