The Bittersweet “Lasts” of the Teen Years

As moms we often get in our feelings over watching our kids go through their “firsts” BUT let me tell you, these “lasts” of the Teen Years – Hit a whole lot different!

Yep, you heard it right, these “lasts” (SIGH) and it’s a ride you won’t want to miss. So, get ready for some laughs, a few tears, and a whole lot of heartwarming moments as we dive into this bittersweet journey together!

Homecoming | Prom

Prepping for homecoming/prom for teens, comes with more & more emotions each year. It’s like a roller coaster of emotions – happy, excited, and sad all at the same time.

But it’s also a special time to bond with our teens. Help them pick out/prepare their outfits, and share in their excitement alongside them.

(This year I found myself enjoying ironing dress clothes a little too much.)

Each year, I see my teens becoming more confident and independent, and that fills my heart with joy. So, even though it’s an emotional, bittersweet time for us parents – it’s also a time to be grateful that we get to be a part of their journey.

Mom’s Taxi Service

As busy moms, we often DREAD the never ending running after a long day that makes us feel the Mom Taxi Service. Yep, we’re talking about those drop offs at practice, to get home and turn right back around to pick up. The endless trips to school events and friends’ houses, etc.

Additionally, the rare times when we glance at our schedule and see that we don’t have any evening running to do – it literally makes our entire day! In fact, we quickly start planning a list of all the things we’re going to get done the second we get home.

Seriously the excitement we get when we don’t have to leave the house once were home, increases by the day! (or by age haha)

Download The Contract

It’s hard to believe when you’re in the moment, but I promise all the constant running will be over before you know it. So enjoy it while you can! Jam out with your teen, take a few detours, discuss their day.. Make the best out of the time you have left with them before they become new teen drivers themselves and no longer depend on you for rides.

Related: 6 Quick Tips for Moms of New Teen Drivers

High School Football Games

Ugh, ALL the Mom feels!

High School Football games are truly something special.

The support from the sidelines, the excitement in the air, and the cheering from the stands is something I wish could last forever!

As we watch our sons take the field, there’s such an undeniable thrill in watching them grow into the incredible young men they’re becoming.

These moments come with so much pride.

Selfishly, I never want these High school football games to come to an end…

But, the sad reality is – They will.

So, as we head to the games…

Let’s soak up every cheer, every high-five, every touchdown, every win, every loss, every butt smack (that us parents laugh & shake our heads at from the bleachers) because these are the memories we’ll cherish forever!

Teens First Job

Oh the emotions that come along with our teens getting their first job, they have no idea! One thing I found myself doing after dropping my teens off at work is enjoying watching them do their job.

Seeing them in a completely different environment than what I’m used to at home is SO bittersweet. 

Watching them learn, grow & have more responsibilities makes me so proud & excited for their future – yet so sad that I can’t keep them young forever! Their first job really puts into perspective how quickly our parenting years go when they start to have adult-like responsibilities.

Sitting back and watching my teens work their first job is my simple slow down and embrace this moment while you can. Our days fly by us, and sometimes we just need a simple reminder to slow down and take in the little moments when we can. So if you get the chance to sit back and watch them, I encourage you to do that and soak it all up!

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The Journey of Teens Growing up

As our teenagers embrace new experiences, we find ourselves caught in the beautiful whirlwind of their growth. While it’s a time of change, it’s also a time of discovery, witnessing their journey from who they were to who they are becoming. And as they spread their wings, we can’t help but marvel at their resilience and determination.

In addition, recently my daughter showed up to the school dance in an inflatable dinosaur costume – and it was absolutely AWESOME!

At first, I was taken aback, but her confidence in being herself, regardless of what others might think, was everything I hoped for her to be!

And when she walked into that dance, it was like a burst of fresh air. Her quirky choice turned out to be a massive hit, and it reminded me that embracing their uniqueness is a vital part of their journey through these teen years.

First Real Relationship

As our teens embark on their first real relationships, we find ourselves navigating a new chapter filled with excitement, curiosity, and yes, a few butterflies.

While it’s a milestone we knew would come, it’s a moment that tugs at our hearts, watching them grow into young adults.

We share in the joy, the worries, and the precious moments of young love. It’s a bittersweet journey, but one filled with the promise of new beginnings.

Time is such a Thief

Time is such a sneaky thief, always slipping away when we’re not looking! As parents, we have so much to do in our busy days. But even when life gets busy, stressful and downright chaotic – it’s important to take the time to slow down, and embrace it while we still can.

So, let’s remember that time is precious, and we should cherish it with our little ones, no matter how hectic life gets!