“Go ahead, sweetheart. You read to Mommy,” I encouraged my 3-year-old as we settled into a quiet moment on the porch swing. The older kids were at school, and the baby was napping—finally, a chance to pause.
As I heard the sigh escape my lips, I realized it was probably the first moment of stillness I’d enjoyed in the last several hours. My phone rested on my lap, and as my daughter began to narrate her version of the story while flipping through the brightly colored pages, I felt the urge to check emails and scroll through my social media feed. But then, as she turned the page, I caught sight of the tiny dimples in her hands. Her little fingers were small enough for me to cradle, and my heart swelled with a bittersweet ache.
How many more times will I share these simple swings, just the two of us, free from the distractions of her siblings or our hectic family schedule? How many more moments will I have to admire her hair, tousled and sun-kissed, perfectly framing her joyful face?
How many more times will I be able to feel those sweet, chubby arms—still retaining a hint of baby softness—wrapped around me after we spent endless hours outside, cheering her on as she learned to ride her bike?
How many more times will she lean into my side, finding comfort in my presence as she snuggles up close, making me feel like the safest person in the world?
How many more times will I chuckle at her colorful, self-painted nails, as she proudly declares herself a “big girl”?
How many more times will I hear her adorable voice mispronounce words yet convey her thoughts so clearly?
How many more times will we pause in silence, listening to the chirping of birds, only for her to turn and flash that million-dollar smile, exclaiming, “You’re my best friend, Mommy!”
I almost missed all of this, and it makes me reflect on the countless “how many mores” that have already slipped by. Sometimes we need to unplug, to completely disconnect from the noise of our lives, so we can truly be present in these fleeting moments. It’s astonishing how some of the most meaningful experiences occur while we are simply being still.
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In summary, these moments with our children are invaluable, and it’s crucial to cherish them before they become memories. As we navigate the chaos of parenthood, let’s remember to pause and savor the little joys that fill our days.
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