#sol18: Eight

#SOL18: March 24th

Eight

     I used to tell people, before I had kids, that I wished I could have a baby that was born 8 years old.  I had this irrational fear of babies, and would go out of my way to not hold them for fear of making them cry.  I had taught 2nd great for ten years the time, and I felt that I knew that age group well.  So, that was my joke.  Can't I just have an 8 year old baby?  Then I'd know how to take care of it.

     I did end up having two babies who were indeed born as newborns, not as 8 year olds.  While there was a large growth curve, I did hold them and feed them and carry them and managed to not make them cry some of the time.  Many times, in fact, I actually calmed them as they cried.  I guess we figured it out together.

     Today, my youngest turns 8.  Yep, 8. How did 8 years pass so fast?

     If they were born 8, I would have missed so many firsts.  Those first steps, first words, first accomplishments, first dance recitals, first everything.  I know there are so many more firsts ahead, yet she's EIGHT.  I am overwhelmed as my youngest starts to wind down 2nd grade and heads towards 3rd.  How. Is. This. Possible?

     A part of me was on to something, though.  Boy, am I enjoying them at this age.   Still so full of love and creativity, yet beginning to be independent and have their own personalities and interests.  I always said kids at this age are the best, and I have 2 of the best around.  I just can't believe how fast time goes.  I am so proud to be their mom.  Who would have known that babies end up teaching you almost as much as we teach them?

     But... eight?