I just saw you yesterday, yet today I can’t help but notice how much you’ve grown. Your face has filled out a bit more, you’re standing taller, and those shoes of yours are definitely getting snug. I hoped you’d stay little just a bit longer while I caught my breath after the whirlwind of a new school year, but here you are, already older.
You hopped onto the school bus without a second thought, striding confidently into the building on that first day. Those clothes I thought would last the year are already feeling tight. Remember those character socks you adored? They’ve become far too small for your growing feet.
Sometimes, I catch glimpses of your future self while you’re engrossed in video games, and I see the hints of teenage angst peeking through. Your reading habits are evolving; the vibrant picture books have been swapped for chapter books. You even tried to convince me that kids can’t read on the bus, so electronics are a must instead!
Your appetite is impressive now, reminiscent of a hungry tiger prowling in the wild. Super Mario has been set aside for the more complex world of Minecraft. You know exactly how many days are left until your 8th birthday, and I’m amazed at how your math skills already surpass mine.
The counter is filled with your schoolwork, all completed, and there’s no more need for those school meetings. You’re starting to feel a bit annoyed with your little brother, though you still take such good care of him. I appreciate that you echo my words to him; it keeps me in check and sometimes gives me a good scare!
You’re pulling away from hugs a little sooner now; you’ve got your own agenda. Bedtime brings disappointment, but you’ve learned to accept it without the old routines of water requests or endless trips out of bed. The little boy who used to be asleep by 9 PM can now stay up until midnight (or later) on weekends without a single yawn.
Once fearful at the pool, you now dive right in, playing with diving sticks like a pro. You’re showing self-control and reasoning, and it’s clear you don’t need me as much anymore. Your vocabulary has expanded, and so have your thoughts; you make compelling arguments now. The Tooth Fairy seems to have lost some of her magic as well.
I remember the moment you raised your eyebrows and said, “Everybody knows that, Mom,” about video game characters. I still try to help with certain tasks, but you’re adamant about doing things on your own, and rightly so. Yet, the other night, when you appeared in your bear pajamas, I smiled because I know that sweet, innocent little boy is still in there, the one who tried to convince me to buy electronics for the bus.
Our home is adorned with your creative projects—cardboard castles and homemade obstacle courses that show no signs of disappearing anytime soon. For now, I’m still “Mommy” and your excitement to share stories with us remains vibrant. One night, after brushing your teeth, you came looking for us to make sure we didn’t forget to tuck you in.
I’m so proud of who you’re becoming, but it’s a bittersweet feeling. I realize your dependence on me is changing as you grow. You’re moving further away, and sometimes, I wish you needed me a little more. But the truth is, you’re already older.
Resources for Parents
For more insights on parenting and family life, check out this post on our other blog here. If you’re navigating the journey of starting a family, Make a Mom is a fantastic resource. For further information about infertility, Mount Sinai offers excellent guidance.
In summary, as your child grows, the bittersweet nature of watching them become more independent is a journey that brings pride but also nostalgia. Each day, they inch closer to adulthood, leaving behind the little moments that once defined their childhood.