When our children are young, we often find ourselves celebrating their “firsts”: those precious first steps, first words, and that unforgettable first tantrum in the grocery store. But as kids grow, they reach milestones that tend to slip by unnoticed—these are the “lasts.” The last time they drank from a sippy cup, the last time they snuggled with us before bed, and—thank goodness—their final tantrum in public.
During a recent jog, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own adult versions of “lasts.” Having completed seven marathons in my 20s and 30s, the idea of training for another one is always lingering. Life, kids, fatigue, and yes, a bit too much wine, have kept me from pursuing that dream for over a decade. I often wonder if I’ve run my last marathon. Could I ever muster the mental and physical strength to cross that finish line again? This contemplation made me think of other potential “lasts” in my life.
I pondered about the last time I performed a cannonball off a diving board. Was that my final leap? Did I even nail it? And what about swinging on swings? When was the last time I felt that carefree joy? Dancing at a club with friends—did I unknowingly experience my last boogie? If I wanted to go out dancing now, would it be at a place like the YMCA or an Applebee’s?
As I reflected, I realized I’ve been avoiding shorts and leaning towards sundresses. Could it be that I’ve worn my last pair of shorts? Did I at least look cute in them? Ice skating—will I ever glide like Robby Benson in Ice Castles again? I even skipped watching The Bachelor last season. Could it be that I’ve seen my last episode? What is happening to me?
Most shockingly, I wondered when was the last time I streaked down the street naked? (Full disclosure: I’ve never done that, but my mind can wander after a long run.)
By the time I finished my jog, I felt a strong urge to take charge of these “lasts.” While some experiences are better left behind (like drinking too much), there are others I cherish and want to hold onto. Thus, I decided to create a list—a sort of “Dixie Cup List” of activities I enjoy and plan to keep doing.
Here are a few things I refuse to let be my last:
- Staying up late laughing and sipping drinks with friends.
- Wearing a bikini top (I’ve long given up on the bottoms!).
- Riding rollercoasters.
- Attending concerts where the average age is over 14.
- Consuming an entire bag of Skittles in five minutes flat.
- Jumping on trampolines.
- Donning clothing clearly meant for someone in their 20s.
- Playing catch with a football.
- Sledding down a hill.
- Making a new close friend.
- Painting my nails a wild color.
- Jumping into a pile of leaves.
- Throwing a big party when I really didn’t feel like it.
- Organizing a college friends’ getaway.
- Building a snowman.
- Pogo-ing around.
- Bodysurfing.
- Body shots.
- Making a trip to the Body Shop.
- Buying an overpriced lipstick just because.
- Wearing Athleta dresses all summer long.
- Wandering aimlessly through New York City.
- Splashing in puddles during a rain shower.
And no, I haven’t run my last marathon. It’s firmly on my Thimble List, so I absolutely must do it. And if my body isn’t up for it? Well, there’s always the option of streaking, obviously. For more insights on navigating life and parenthood, check out our post on home insemination techniques and learn more about artificial insemination kits from trusted sources. You might also find this blog helpful for all things related to pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, as we age, it’s vital to recognize and cherish the activities and experiences that bring us joy. Rather than focus on the things we may have done for the last time, let’s embrace those moments we can still enjoy.