“Mom, can we jump in the puddle?”
I smile. This question doesn’t often pop up anymore.
“Of course,” I reply.
I rush into the house to get my camera.
This is what happens when you start mourning childhood as a tween mom — With every childhood act, you ask yourself, “Is this the last time?”
Is this the last time she’ll be excited to jump in spring puddles?
Is this the last time we read a picture book together?
Is this the last time she’ll want to hold my hand?
I love this old video of my girls playing in a giant puddle in the driveway. Their carefree laughter, their singing, their joy. When we have children, we are given a second chance. Through their eyes, we are able to enjoy the magic of every day with a fresh perspective. As preschoolers, my girls were giddy with the simple joys of a spring day.
“Ring around the rosie, pockets full of posies. Ashes! Ashes! We all JUMP UP.”
Yet, as I snapped the photos below, I switched my focus from mourning childhood to the celebrating present moment: the spring breeze, the joy of a solid splash, the bond of sisters.
I reminded myself that while there is a sense of loss with tweens, something is also gained — we have an opportunity to meet these “kids” day-after-day as they become their adult selves. How cool is that?
So far, I’m loving the adventure.
P.S. WE could use some puddle jumping ourselves. After all, there is a reason Zappos offers so many adorable rain boots. Right?
See More Cute Boot from the Bogs Collection: Zappos | Amazon (affiliate links)
Quick note: My favorite thing about Zappos is their free return shipping, but you’ve got to love free Amazon Prime shipping too. Find your favorite style and be sure to price compare before you buy!
Here are a few additional resources from some of my favorite parenting bloggers:
- 12 ways to be present for your child | Abundant Mama
- Presence and Mindfulness — Fill Your Cup | Creative With Kids
- 50 Ways to Connect with Sons | Moments a Day
- 4 Simple Reasons You’re NOT the Mindful Mother You Want to Be | Abundant Mama
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Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”