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Reflecting on Our Journey
Life on the family farm was a whirlwind for the three of us. Mia became the seventh generation to call the century-old farmhouse home. We ripped out old ceilings, expanded closets, and painted every nook and cranny. The days were filled with laughter and music, our little 10-pound bundle of joy nestled in my arms or strapped to my chest. James Taylor was our go-to soundtrack, and we often played with the lyrics, knowing that the deeper meanings mattered more than the exact words.
When Mia came into the world 18 years ago, everything shifted. I had always envisioned a high-powered career, donning sharp suits and strutting in heels. Babysitting had never appealed to me, and the thought of diapers and strollers felt like a foreign territory. But then, that all changed.
Four children in five years.
It’s funny how love can change your perspective. I embraced motherhood wholeheartedly, sacrificing my sleek hair and tailored outfits for spit-up stained tees and late-night feedings. Though I occasionally felt like I was losing my identity, I dove into this new chapter of my life.
Chris and I often reminded each other during those hectic early years, “It’s all about survival.” And it truly was. With four little ones aged 6, 4, 3, and 1, we were focused on the essentials—meal prep, nap times, and bath routines. My love for reading faded as I fell asleep before finishing a paragraph, and I completely forgot how to use lipstick.
Now, fast forward a dozen years.
We’re in the midst of packing for Mia’s college journey while simultaneously sorting through George’s beloved stuffed animals and Snap Circuits. The days of our four little ones are quickly passing by, and in just a few short years, they’ll all be off on their own adventures. Even our loyal childhood puppies are feeling the passage of time, their fur graying and movements slowing down. They sit beside me as I write, and I soothe them with gentle words, “I know, sweethearts. Time to rest.” After years of tolerating the chaos of little hands, they’ve more than earned their peaceful moments.
The thought of Mia leaving brings a bit of a lump to my throat, but it’s not sadness—it’s a deeper feeling, one of profound transition. It’s not just about what she’ll say but how she thinks and the journey she’s taken. I’m flooded with memories of her chubby baby legs that have transformed into strong, capable ones. Tunes from childhood—everything from They Might Be Giants to “The Rainbow Connection”—play in my mind, sung in her tiny, fearless voice. Our musical tastes have evolved, blending my love for sappy ballads with her passion for electronic dance music, finding common ground with Florence and The Machine.
Saying goodbye to our comfortable life means welcoming new adventures. Who will Mia become when she spreads her wings? What will George discover about himself without his older sister’s shadow? And who will I become now that my role as a mom to four under five is changing?
The possibilities are endless.
I want to remind her about the little things—brushing teeth, trimming toenails, changing sheets, and washing towels. I want to revisit those discussions about responsible choices, looking out for friends, and embracing healthy habits. But honestly, after 18 years, those lessons are ingrained. We’ve raised a remarkable young woman. Her choices are hers alone now, just as mine are.
As Mia prepares to embark on her new journey, we’re both stepping into uncharted territory. She’s teaching me that letting go also means embracing new possibilities. I feel at peace whenever she’s near, and she’s practically always around. In those fleeting moments between sleep and wakefulness, I can still catch a whiff of her baby scent, but it dissipates as soon as I open my eyes. Yet, the memories are etched in my heart forever.
Mia has always been my greatest teacher in this beautiful journey of life.
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In summary, this reflection captures the evolution of motherhood, the bittersweet nature of change, and the profound lessons learned along the way. As we navigate this next chapter, we cherish the memories while eagerly anticipating the future.