A Final Step | Naperville Photographer

As parents, we are always counting the milestones. The first time they roll over. Their first steps. Their first day of kindergarten, etc. These milestones go past so quickly, stockpiling into memories, some drifting away forgotten forever. Being a parent is joy and fear and pride and frustration, and then watching this person we grew walk away as an adult. It is the goal. But it is still bittersweet. If we’ve done a good job, they can leave us, but the hole they leave behind is real.

 

Being a parent of a high school senior is full of counting those milestones, but instead of counting their “firsts”, we are counting their “lasts”.  It is such a push and pull of emotions.

 

Yes, I am a Naperville senior photographer, but I am also a senior mom, myself this year. Sob! I usually am just all for celebrating these amazing teens who are on the cusp of adulthood, but as a parent living this moment, I can’t help but feel clingy, too. LOL

 

If you are a parent thinking it isn’t a big deal to miss one game, one performance, etc. Just remember, there comes a time when there are no more. Don’t miss them. Time is short, and you can never get these times back.

 

To you parents of kids who are driving you crazy with tantrums or whatever, know that everything passes. Enjoy every moment – the good and the bad because even bad is better than none at all.

 

Ok, I think I need to go cuddle my 17 year old who would not want it, but oh well! LOL I love these senior kids. May their dreams soar high!