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Time Flies When They're Growing Up: Don't Count Away the Days


Happy Kid Graduate With Graduation Cap Stock Photo by Sattva via Freedigitalphotos.net


My newest publication is about to print and I'm sure you know what it's about (yep, you guessed it) kids growing up.

I thought, 'Wow. Wow. Wow.'. I remember my own kids testing the limits as they all suddenly began budding but breaking away because they're all in that independent stage. I recall thinking about how much had changed and how much more challenging parenting had become.

I remember trying to savor that time, even as imperfect, because as I was watching all my friends children graduate and go to college, I knew time was flying. I had to hold on and enjoy the moments (good or bad) like I've said a million times before.

 Now mine is graduating.

W.O.W.

Suddenly it's my turn. (We all know it wasn't suddenly. I've had eighteen years to process this... well a bit more than eighteen -almost nineteen- I've had more time to prepare than most.)

I've been happy, sad, excited, worried, amazed, joyful, reminiscent and more.
All the while trying to keep that attitude I've had since poopy diapers: 'Savor the Moment'.

I have a philosophy about watching time pass as a parent, seeing kids fly through stage after stage (and some which just stay there for a while and drive me insane). It's always been 'Cherish the Moment'.

I guess on this Monday, as my oldest ventures off to her last day of school before she heads off to college this summer, I will have to REALLY keep those two philosophies at the forefront of my mind (and heart). Because as I suspected last summer, when I got away unscathed...it's my time now.

Soon, my June County Kids News-Herald Ohio column will post, and you'll read how I'm getting through this stage and how I plan to get through the next ones.

I don't say this too often, but if you are in the same boat as me right now...or trying to get through a tough parenting phase...just live for today...and think about how the time is gonna fly by.



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