Slipping through my fingers all the time – ABBA sang this in the 1980s and I was a small child and did not quite get it back then. Now I do. As a mom, don’t you feel like these children of ours are growing up a little too fast? Time is slipping through my fingers. They keep on doing new things and tackling new phases in their young lives.
Our son and his girlfriend at the Junior Prom
We are happy our son has started dating a lovely young lady whom he met at our homeschool co-op. They are very precious together and the happiness on their faces gives us joy. My husband and I have always said that if our children wanted to date after age 16, they would be free to do so. While they are still under our roof, we can offer guidance as needed and support if necessary.
Dating as Self-Discovery
Dating, in our minds, represents a journey of self-discovery. With proper boundaries, dating while still a teenager provides tremendous growth opportunities socially and emotionally.
Despite all the good, positive vibes I have had since our son started dating, I found myself tearing up. Not because he is dating. But because he is so grown up. And soon, his junior year will be over. Summer break will fly by in a flash. And then what? His senior year? Are you kidding me? My son, my first baby, turning 18 and graduating from high school and going to college? Unbelievable.
Where are you in your journey? Have you graduated a kid from homeschooling yet? Are you dreading the day or looking forward to their graduation day? So many mixed feelings. Let me know in the comments.
