They Won't Stay Young Forever, And It Breaks My Heart

Stop Growing Up So Quickly

I’ve been navigating the challenges of parenthood for what feels like an eternity, and now, the promise of greater freedom is finally on the horizon — yet, I’m filled with sadness.

Recently, a friend sent me a snapshot from her family getaway. In the picture, her elementary-aged kids were swimming confidently in the hotel pool, her husband lounging nearby. She texted, “Look! Our first chance to relax on vacation in years! You’ll be here soon!” My heart raced at the thought of lounging poolside, finally able to dive into a podcast marathon. After eight years of constant baby and toddler care, the idea of a future where I could enjoy a bit of freedom felt surreal.

But as I examined the photo more closely, my excitement waned. There were no tiny feet, no little hands reaching for her, no swim diapers or playful splashes. For so long, I’ve been immersed in the chaos of young children, feeling both exhausted and overwhelmed. Now that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, I find myself feeling unexpectedly melancholic.

I’ll miss those swaddled babies and the silly bath-time adventures. The way they waddle around in their toddler stage, those precious sleepy moments when they snuggle against me. The relentless hugs, the slobbery kisses, and their little hands reaching up for my attention — the thought of losing all of that nearly takes my breath away. I know I need to shift my focus from what I will miss to what lies ahead.

To help me embrace this new chapter, I’ve compiled a list of things to eagerly anticipate in the next phase of parenting.

Using the Bathroom Alone

For years, I’ve juggled personal hygiene with the chaos of little ones. The idea of using the toilet with both hands free feels like a luxury vacation. Being able to sit in peace without a curious toddler questioning everything about my appearance is something I look forward to.

Packing Light

Planning trips has become a monumental task, often requiring a truckload of essentials. I often find myself packing for every possible scenario, including multiple changes of clothes and even a fire extinguisher. The day I can simply toss a bag of snacks and some drinks into my bag and head out will be a glorious day! Travel will become effortless, and transitions will be a breeze.

Sleeping Through the Night

While I adore those sleepy, nighttime visits from my kids, uninterrupted sleep is a distant memory. The thought of stretching out on my bed without worrying about waking a little one feels like bliss. No more tiptoeing around like I’m navigating a minefield just to make it back to bed!

Big Adventures

Amusement parks and long flights have been daunting with little ones in tow. I’ve often felt guilty about how my younger kids might have limited my older kids’ experiences. But soon, we’ll all be able to enjoy those family outings without swim diapers and floaties, ready to tackle the biggest rides together. It’s going to be epic!

More Time as a Couple

Finding time for each other has become increasingly challenging with four energetic kids. However, the day will come when we can trust our eldest to keep an eye on the younger ones, allowing my partner and me to enjoy a quiet dinner together — maybe even some fancy spinach dip! Reconnecting will strengthen our marriage and help us recharge.

So, while I may be saying goodbye to certain precious moments, there are exciting experiences on the horizon. I’ll strive to focus on the joy that awaits rather than dwelling on what’s been lost. Who knows? The future might hold unexpected delights.

If you’re on a similar emotional journey, check out our resource on family building options, which offers excellent guidance. And for those exploring fertility options, Make a Mom is a trusted authority in the field. For more insights on emotional journeys, take a look at our post here.

Summary

In this reflective piece, the author navigates the bittersweet feelings of transitioning from the chaos of early parenthood to a future filled with newfound freedom. With a focus on the joys of upcoming experiences — like using the bathroom alone, packing light, and enjoying uninterrupted sleep — she encourages readers to embrace the changes ahead. The anticipation of adventures with older children and rekindling relationships adds a hopeful outlook to the journey of parenthood.