For Now, We're Their World

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You’re reading Modern Motherhood Musings, a weekly newsletter written from one mom to another. Each week I share an honest reflection on motherhood, and a collection of things bringing me joy. I’m passionate about community, and I hope that by sharing our stories, we all feel a little less alone. Some links in this newsletter are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Last weekend, I took my oldest son, Will, to get his hair cut. He was nervous while we waited and asked to hold my hand the entire time. As the stylist clipped away, he sat in the chair, watching me wide-eyed, wondering what I thought as hair fell down all around him.

When she finished, I looked him in the eyes and said he was the most handsome boy I had ever seen. A smile instantly spread across his face because I'm the apple of this little boy's eye right now, and hearing that I thought he looked great gave him all the confidence he needed.

There was a teenager next to us who was also getting his haircut. He was there by himself, and I watched as he texted his friends, paid, and drove off. It was a reality check of what life will look like in the not-so-distant future, when my sons are older and more mature, venturing off into the world and doing things on their own.

Parenthood is so bittersweet. We love our babies with an intensity that makes you feel like your heart could burst right out of your chest at times. They're our world, and for a minute, we're theirs.

But inevitably, time passes, and they grow up. They become more independent and start to need us less and less. They form their own opinions of the world and start to question their parents' thoughts, choices, and beliefs. Validation from me won't be the most important thing in his world.

I know I'll burst with pride as I watch my children come into their own. I'll cheer them on as they discover their own interests and passions. I'll encourage them as they make new friends and even fall in love. But my heart will also break a little because I know I'll no longer be the center of their world.

Each day that passes, I notice this shift a little more. My oldest son no longer needs me to help pick out his clothes or slip his shoes on and off.

Each time I pick him up, I wonder if this will be the last time. It's getting close, I'm petite, and he's getting taller and heavier by the day.

When I hear his pitter-patter across my floor in the morning, I wonder if this is the last time he'll crawl into bed next to me and ask me what I dreamed about last night.

The day will come when my opinion of how handsome he looks or how cool I think he is won't matter. I'm sure I'll hear, "Mom, you're so embarrassing," and witness plenty of eye rolls over the years.

So, for now, let’s soak in every single second they still want to hold our hand or snuggle next to us on the couch. Let’s savor the moments when they want to spend time with us and ask to participate in whatever we’re doing. For now, let’s enjoy being the center of their world.

🎙️ One of my favorite parenting resources is Emily Oster, and she just launched a new podcast called Raising Parents. I love how she equips parents to make data-driven decisions, with facts and zero fear tactics.

💅🏼 This Insta-Dri nail polish has been my go-to lately. I’ve painted my nails multiple times before an event, and they dry in about 2 minutes. It doesn’t last long, but it works for a quick manicure before a night out. I have the color ASAP Apple.

🎃 I’m obsessed with this Pumpkin Turkey Chili this time of year. It’s easy to throw together in the crock-pot, and don’t let the pumpkin throw you off. You can’t taste it but it really lightens it up! So good.

In my mid-twenties I was a regular listener of the Jenn Hatmaker podcast. At the end of each episode she’d ask her guests “What is something that is saving your life right now?”, and the answer could be as serious or lighthearted as they wanted.

So, I’d love to know, “What is something that is saving your life right now?” Please reply, I’d love to hear from you!

Happy Friday, Friends! I hope y’all have a great weekend!

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