Time flying, feeling sentimental

[Danaismyname]

What do you do when you’re feeling sentimental about your DC growing older? With my first, babyhood actually dragged on, he had some health issues that made every day feel like an eternity. He grew out of it by 3 and then DD was born. It’s been a whirlwind ever since, feels like I’ve hardly blinked my eyes and she’s now nearly 3 and I can’t believe how big they are. I definitely don’t want any more children, DH and I are in strong agreement about that, but my heart still aches a bit at how quickly time is passing. Maybe because o know with the second that all of these cute milestones don’t last for long? Or that the more challenging bits are yet to come?

I know of course we’re so fortunate to have healthy children and watch them grow but I feel quite emotional about it today. Was at Ikea recently and saw all of the little baby cribs and blankets and it made me sort of wistful that those days are all behind me. Am I just overly hormonal or do other people experience this too?

I also lost my mum last year, I reckon that’s made me look differently at aging and time passing.

You’re definitely not alone! I think grieving is a part of life and part of being a parent - especially as a mother. Your children start off living inside you, and from the moment they’re born they’re separating from you more and more as they become their own person. It’s a wonderful process but good to take time to acknowledge the sadness in it too. We all want to be close to each other as humans, and growing and having a baby is the closest you ever get to another person. It’s a special bond and bittersweet letting it go more and more as they grow. Let yourself acknowledge it and enjoy the next moment where you’re immersed in the joy of it all, and the next moment when you’re desperate for a break! And the next moment where you feel like you’re getting to know your slightly more grown up child in a completely new way, in place of the child you just said goodbye to. Sorry about your mum. Life is precious and when you lose someone that becomes all the more stark. I agree you’re probably feeling it all the more deeply because of that

@FloraBotticelli thank you for this kind and thoughtful reply, I was feeling especially emotional last night. Really savoured the cuddles with the children this morning and taking time to enjoy them whilst I can.

My DP was looking a photo of our children when they all under the age of 7 (now all teens) at the weekend and asked "do you miss them being that age?".

And I do. But I also am loving seeing them become their own selves. Our relationship with them has shifted. I love their company, the conversations, the meals together, the giggles... the fact my elder DC help me with DIY. It'd different but still great.

And then they'll leave home for good......