My oldest daughter was one of those clingy babies. By the age of four months, she was very aware when the adult holding her was not her mom or dad, and she loudly let the world know. She was never the toddler that ran off to play with the other kids at a family gathering. I always knew where she was – attached to my leg.

Fast forward a few years, and she is now a confident 10 year old. This year she has moved to a new city, started at a new school, attended camp for a week that was 300 miles away from home, and joined a new swim team. She accomplished all of this with very little fuss and carrying on.

This change in personality seems to be unnoticed by her. But her father and I are astounded! It highlights the fact that she is growing up in the blink of an eye. There are times I miss being her protector and the center of her world. But most of the time, I’m so thankful she is growing up to be a confident, self-assured young lady.

Tags : parenting

Earlier this summer, I experienced my 20 year high school reunion. I approached this celebration with some excitement and some fear. Yes, I wanted to loose 10 pounds, some grey hair, and facial imperfections. None of these wishes came true. However, I was excited, as most of my close friends, some of whom I have not seen in 10 years, were going to be in attendance.

As it turns out, the day was full of fun, laughter, and memories. It was the fastest Saturday I have spent in years. I even faced my high school boyfriend, whom I have not seen for 20 years. (To my dismay, he looks exactly the same as he did the last time I saw him!) I grew up in a small town with a graduating class of less than 100 students. Most of us went to school together from the time we were in preschool. I realize most people can’t say that, and in some ways, it is a gift! It was wonderful to see how we were able to pick up where we left off but without our immature high school ways.

In the end, I was not the big surprise of the class. I was still me, just 20 years older with a few extra pounds and a little grey hair. And as I think about it, that is truly a gift!

Tags : gifts, high school reunion