Changes Can Be Bittersweet
"The only constant in life is change." - Heraclitus, Greek philosopher
My youngest got her driver’s license. This week was the first time in 20 years I wasn’t pregnant, breastfeeding, or in charge of school drop-offs, pick-ups, and after-school activities. It felt strange, but incredible.
What can I do now that I couldn’t do before? I got my favorite cup of local coffee. I sat there and closed my eyes, enjoying the heat and the flavor, knowing I wouldn’t be interrupted by little feet.
I went on a walk with a friend and numerous walks with my dog. The time of these walks could be anytime I chose.
Now I can go to gym classes at different times and run errands when I want. I can get a job that requires me to be there during pick-up hours, which wasn’t possible before. (Yes, I really did take a boxing class this week. My wrists are still sore.)
And yet, of course this change is bittersweet. During the last month of school pick-ups I knew it was nearing the end. As I sat in the car pick-up line, I rolled down the window, listened to the sounds of teens leaving school, watched the breeze roll through the trees, and breathed in the scent of the flowers blooming all around me. I knew I would miss this when it was gone. The conversations on the way home about school, classes, friends, teachers, and lunch. The chosen music, the laughter, the time together, all of it.
Now she drives herself home, to appointments, and to the grocery store to pick up a few items. When she gets home we talk about her day. I still get to find out about her life, but it’s different.
I look forward to watching movies together, seeing her play with the dog, witnessing her continue to grow. Change is a part of life. It just takes a moment to process it. I am so happy for her and for me.
Any suggestions for what I should do during the time I used to be in the carpool lane? Thanks.
Take care,
Jen
Want to support my free newsletter? Buy me a coffee to keep the thoughts flowing.
That falls into the category of “be careful of what you wish for.” Tough stuff. We dream of a bit more freedom as parents just as our kids dream of it, too. When it happens it’s both celebratory and terrifying. Enjoy your “me” time but be ready and willing for those moments when they seek “us” time. Also, I bet your dogs are feeling the change. A few extra walks and attention go a long way to helping all of you cope.
I miss all these things too! It’s bittersweet! I miss the little league games, all the practices where I’d sit in the shade reading student papers, working in the snack booth! Even going to my grand children’s games, gymnastics practices, lessons are now a thing of the past! At least we get to do
It again with grandchildren!!