“When you finally go back to your old hometown, you find it wasn’t the old home you missed, but your childhood.” ~Sam Ewing
We’re cleaning out dresser drawers and pulling hidden “treasures” out from under beds as we wind down this last week of summer vacation and plan for the beginning of a new school year.
Yesterday, as I picked up a pile of discarded items from my younger daughter’s room and carried them to the trash can, something fell out of my hands.
It’s the last pair of lace-edged church socks.
Admittedly, as a 12-year-old seventh grader, that ship has probably sailed for her. But it’s still a little sad.
First it was the smocked dresses, then the hair bows, and now the lacy socks.
The last vestiges of my girls’ childhoods seem to disappearing rather quickly.
How thankful I am today for the years I’ve been blessed to be a stay-at-home mom, to be there as our children passed through the toddler and preschool years, then on to elementary school, even into our homeschooling journey. That’s time that I can never go back and relive, and I’m overwhelmed with gratitude to God for His provision, and for a husband who always supported that decision and worked hard to make it a reality.
This current season has its own sweet flavor….easy traveling for the four of us, real help around the house, being able to go out on a date with my husband – no babysitter needed.
And, at least for now, I can still take comfort in the American Girl dolls standing in the corner of the bedroom and the Polly Pockets stuffed into the closet. I’ll try not to count the days until they, too, are banished from my girls’ bedrooms in a back-to-school cleaning frenzy.
We're starting to see some of these signs in our oldest, signs that she's leaving childhood behind. Thankfully, there are just a few — and we have two more girls behind her. 😉
Oh, Tracey, the bitter-sweetness of life! Each new season with it's own joy and own sorrows! I have never gone thru what you are experiencing, but these days as a caregiver for my Mom remind me of the changing seasons and the passing of the days. As much as we want to, we can't reach out and hold back time, or to stop it's advancement or the changes it brings. And sometimes that lays heavy on my heart as these days must do to you. I am grateful that the Lord gives grace and comfort, so often in ways that I don't expect. Praying for you, Lady! Chris
It's hard when you see your oldest leaving childhood behind, even harder when it's your baby. You want so much to hold on but know the letting go is good. We said goodbye to the Polly Pockets when we moved this year but the American Girl dolls are still here. 🙂 Like you, I enjoy the easier travel, the extra help, and the freedom to go and do without worrying about who is watching the kids. Still, knowing my oldest will be heading to college three years from now makes me catch my breath and want to slow down time just a little. Hugs to you from a mama who is right there with you on this journey.
Thanks so much, Janet!! I have that same thought with my now 9th grader – only four years of high school, then she'll be off to college. Such a mix of happiness for new ground she's covering, yet sadness for what's being left behind. Thankful that God gives us the strength and grace for each season – and for sweet friends who can empathize with the changes! 🙂
Oh, YES!!!!!!!!!!!! THIS!!!!!