Updated: Dec. 18, 2015
Originally Published: Sep. 2, 2015
Not too long ago, on a beautiful sunny day—roughly 4,000 days after that unforgettable first day—everything felt like a bittersweet milestone. It was a moment filled with nostalgia and excitement for the future.
That day, she prepared for a new adventure all by herself, with a soft playlist filling her room. I imagine she started with her hair, carefully curling those long, golden-brown locks around the hot iron. After some time, those ringlets fell into place, styled perfectly half-up, half-down. She slipped on her favorite sundress, which gracefully draped over her strong shoulders and reached her knees. Around her neck, she fastened her silver “E” necklace, and with a light dusting of mascara, her bright blue eyes sparkled. Her wrists were adorned with leather and yarn bracelets gifted by friends from afar, and as she grabbed her backpack, her brown leather flip-flops made the familiar sound of slapping against the wooden floor.
“Wait!” I called out, my heart racing. This was really happening.
Right behind her, her little brother burst out, his curly golden-brown hair tousled under his Detroit Tigers cap. Dressed in a dark blue T-shirt and black athletic shorts—probably whatever was clean—he looked so tall and grown-up, even barefoot. With excitement in his brown eyes, he clasped her hand. When did he become so big? I thought, as I watched her arm rise to hug him. They exchanged smiles, and she urged, “Hurry up, my ride will be here any second!” I quickly snapped photos through my tears. This surreal moment—a blend of nostalgia and the swift passage of time—was indeed happening.
And just like that, she was off.
This article was originally published on Sep. 2, 2015.
For more heartwarming stories and parenting adventures, check out this blog post on our other site.
As I reflect on these fleeting moments, it’s essential to cherish every second before they grow up and venture into the world on their own. For more info on navigating parenthood, Make a Mom is a great resource for anyone on this journey. Also, check out IVF Babble for fantastic insights on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, life moves quickly, and it’s easy to wish for a pause button. As we navigate the ups and downs of parenting, let’s remember to savor each moment, even when it feels like time is slipping away.