Someday That’ll Be Me
I love being a Dad. Snuggling with my little ones is probably my favourite pastime these days, especially with the advance knowledge that they won’t want to do that forever. I can’t believe how fast they are growing up and how quickly their minds and abilities are evolving, but, I have to admit, contrary to how I thought I would feel about their rate of growth, I’m kind of excited about it.
Don’t get me wrong, I definitely don’t want them to turn into teenagers tomorrow. I love all the amazing moments and “firsts” that come with raising toddlers, but every now and then I see a Dad on his way to his son’s hockey practice or daughter’s dance recital and proudly think, “Someday that’ll be me”.
With each new step my children take towards independence, I can’t help but think of everything the world has in store for them and for us as a family. When I took my son skating for the first time, I kept glancing over at the father and son having a game of one on one and got an extra proud bounce in my stride in thinking about the day that I will be playing in that game.
I watch how carefully and lovingly my daughter takes care of her little dolls, making sure to give them all regular checkups, and I can’t help but flash forward to the day that she is taking care of real people at her own practice. These thoughts bring on an unexplainable sense of pride in knowing that my kids still have time to do whatever they want to do with their lives.
I have no intention of rushing my children’s development but that doesn’t mean I’m not excited for the journey that lies ahead. Even the smallest of scenarios are things that I can’t stop thinking about. I saw an older man having lunch with his adult son and grandson the other day and I couldn’t help but get lost in thinking, “Someday that’ll be me”.
Hold on to it. They have their whole lives ahead of them to do “older kid” stuff. Don’t rush what they see and do. They may seem half a step behind their peers for a while, but ultimately they will be better kids for being kids longer.
I have no intention of rushing them through anything. I love watching them discover new things and would never want to take that away from them. I just think about what it’ll be like sometimes ;D
I can relate for sure. I am snuggling them now as much as I can because I know one day that will come to an end. When they grow and flourish I will hold on to them in my heart often.
Little Man had his first school concert over Christmas and I was beaming as I headed over to the school to see it. One day that will also be Baby Girl… but I won’t rush it.
Looking on to the Mother’s taking their children to practices and helping with homework… I can’t help but smile either and think “Someday That Will Be Me”
Great Post!
Thanks Ninja! My son had his first concert this year too and it was the exact reason why I would never rush them through their toddler years. So adorable!
Every stage is special, but I do enjoy my daughter’s age right now…even though it comes complete with teen attitude. Watching her play competitive sports, excel in school and just come into her own…it’s awesome. But, I also REALLY liked it when she was two and she didn’t talk back yet.
Hi Diane! Thank you so much for visiting my tiny little space. Of note, your two year old didn’t talk back?! I’m really in trouble then, aren’t I? 😀