They Grow Up

 

Since I was young, I have loved reading.  It was always something I made time for.  Amelia Bedelia when I was a little girl, Nancy Drew, the babysitters club, R.L Stine, Christopher Pike, Stephen King, romance novels and mysteries. 

When my kids were small, I didn’t have a lot of time to read, but when I did have some moments to myself, that’s what I was doing.   

Years ago, we had a membership to a local hotel pool. I had visions of reading on a lounger, while my kids swam. That NEVER happened, because they were too young and needed supervision. 

When we made the decision to put in a pool, I couldn’t wait to float on a lounger and read a book.  The first few summers it rarely happened.  Between work, the kids soccer, and things around the house, the only pool time I really had was with the kids.

This summer though, I have spent more time reading by (or floating in) the pool than the last 3 years combined.  Why? Because kids grow up. 

My two rarely got along when they were younger.  Even at ages where I should have been able to leave them alone, I couldn’t - because someone would get hurt.

This year though, what a difference. They have both grown and matured so much. 

It makes me happy that I can have some down time to enjoy on my own, but it also makes me catch my breath a little.  They are 13 and 16. The oldest is taking virtual drivers Ed classes this summer, and will soon be going for his G1 (learners permit).

My Facebook memories show me all the photos I posted when they were little, and it’s like a time warp.  Transported back to where I felt like I was in over my head…trying to enjoy all the moments, but being frustrated with how hard some days were;  wishing for a little space, a little breathing room. Now, here we are - that time has finally arrived. 

I am so looking forward to seeing what the world has in store for my boys….  But I will still be over here, holding my breath a little as I watch. Remembering how their tiny little hands fit so well in mine. Remembering what it was like to watch them sleep, so tired out from a busy day.

They grow up.