.jpg)
Teeth were brushed, and excited footsteps thundered up and down the hall.
Backpacks were checked and double-checked. Breakfast plates were left half full.
Nervous giggles and carefully selected outfits replaced the leisurely underwear couch-lounging routine of summer mornings.
Deep breaths were taken.
Buses came.
Children were swallowed.
Mom waved. Alone. Pensive.
It’s just that they seem so happy and I never want it to end.
It’s just that they still accept my hugs and sometimes even initiate them.
It’s just that I am watching them grow in confidence, understanding, and ability.
It’s just that they are so damn good at growing up…
and so I have to let them.
Oh, and we put in this new mailbox. It’s a big deal.