Tag: motherhood

You were not suppose to grow up this fast.

It seems just a few years ago we took the family picture hanging above the fireplace that I sit and stare at every morning and night. I think in reality it’s going on 14. Life just happens so quickly, and I don’t understand why.

The four of you were just babies last time I checked, and now, you’re all grown up going off to college and counting down the last days of high school.

Am I really old enough to have college kids with only one left in high school? That can’t be right, can it?

I have spent most of the time I want to remember of my life being a mother. It has by far been the best job, best time, most rewarding, most difficult, and my all around favorite period of my life. I am so thankful for and proud of each one of you.

We have some great memories, and I cherish the times we sit around together and reminisce about what you all remember most in your childhoods. No matter what happens or where you go those will remain in your heart and in mine.

I have too many favorite ones to list, but I loved how the big sisters always took care of the little brothers. I love how one of you adored babies so much, how one had a baby shower when I was pregnant with number four. One of you always wore dresses and refused to wear pull-ups to bed because you were a big girl. How your baby brother got to ride in your baby doll stroller.

The boys always looked out for each other. Played sports together, had birthday parties together, shared friends, shared rooms, shared everything. Even though one of you left for college this weekend, I hope you will always look out for each other and be the best of friends.

You all are so lucky to have a brother and a sister. I couldn’t have planned it more perfect if I tried. My two pair. My twins, my triplets, and whatever else people have mistaken you to be, you have each other. I envy each of you for what you have between you. It is a bond many have never experienced.

I love to sit and listen to you all laugh together, make plans with one another. It makes me smile that you stick together. Even when you harass each other, pick on one another, it is a time in your life you will never forget.

It is the first time you all have lived in four separate cities, constantly apart, going to different schools. It’s the first time at least two of you won’t share the first day of school together. It is the first time I will have four separate first day of school pictures. (Don’t forget to take those.)

It’s the first of many firsts for me, and I feel the job of being a mom, the way I have known my purpose to be, slipping away from me. I simply want you to know, it has been the best years, even during the hard stages. I wouldn’t want to change them.

Part of me is so sad today I have moved my third child into college, but most of me is so grateful I got to raise you and be your mom. It’s not the end by any means, but simply the beginning for the next phase of our lives. I know each of you are excited for your journey, for individual reasons, and each of you will make your mark.

The only request I have is to always remember family and each other, cherish your siblings, call one another, talk, be best friends, and look out for the others.

For my three oldest children, I am so happy for you. I’m so glad I raised you to go out and be independent and chase your dreams. I am always here for you, a phone call away so don’t forget to call your mom.

For my baby boy left at home, I’m looking forward to our time together, you being the only child at home. I’m thankful I have you with me, for your hugs, and your comfort when I’m sad, and just to be here so my job is not done.

Always remember how much I love each of you and how blessed I am to be your mom. Work your hardest in school, reach for the stars, do what makes you happy, and I will be watching from the sidelines cheering you on. Make me proud.

Even though I wish I could stop time, go back to your younger years, you are where you are suppose to be and these are the moments you have waited for. I realize my job is just transforming into a less active role in your life, and I will embrace it because I have faith in you.

Remember your manners, remember your life lessons, and remember to be gracious. Go to chapel, go to church, believe in something. But most of all believe in yourself.

I love you all to the moon and back, and I cannot wait to see the places you will go.

You all have a special place in my heart. xo MOM