I hear you.

I get sad at days and the start of the school year (moving up a grade).

They're not "cute" anymore, but a lot more fun in new ways. Places like DL or DW are more fun, interactive, more endurance, etc
It opens up a whole new exciting chapter.

Just be present in the moment. Enjoy it for what it is .

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Do you have trouble accepting a lot of things that are inevitable? This sounds like some kind of anxiety you might want to seek help for.

How nasty. I'm sorry your parents didn't raise you to be kind.

^^ ironic comment

I used to feel a bit sad too but I have an awesome 20 yr old. It’s a different relationship with him but I think I like it better now. He’s mostly independent and I no longer have to actively parent I finally get to enjoy him.

My delightful daughter just turned 4 and I feel the same way. I have three kids and it’s bittersweet watching them get older! But what a privilege it is. You hope and pray that they are healthy and grow up well.

Anonymous wrote:I think most of this hinges on having an only child. While I celebrate my kids birthdays and can get sentimental I don't get sad when they have their birthdays. But we have birthdays all freaking year and I want a month without a birthday party to plan!

you

do have 12 kids?

Anonymous wrote:Do you have trouble accepting a lot of things that are inevitable? This sounds like some kind of anxiety you might want to seek help for.

How nasty. I'm sorry your parents didn't raise you to be kind.

I’m sorry OP but what you’re describing is seriously mental. You need therapy.

I have maintained a close relationship with my kids as they grow.

It's hard for me to miss their early stages too much because they are still growing as teens. Just more intellectually than physically.

I remind myself that they are the same person inside and nothing has been lost. It works for me.

My older one is at college and enjoying it. I am really happy for him and that is lifting my spirits even though we aren't in touch daily.

Anonymous wrote:OP I feel the same way. I also have a younger one but my older is about to be 8 and that does sound like a big kid! They were just babies, where did that go and you don't get it back. I always wonder too if I was present enough, savored it enough, etc. I definitely look at the baby days with rise committed glasses now but I absolutely miss it as time goes by even as I love your they are now.

*Rose colored glasses

OP I feel the same way. I also have a younger one but my older is about to be 8 and that does sound like a big kid! They were just babies, where did that go and you don't get it back. I always wonder too if I was present enough, savored it enough, etc. I definitely look at the baby days with rise committed glasses now but I absolutely miss it as time goes by even as I love your they are now.

You lost me at: the logistics of a party are harder than a trip to Disneyland.