Lost Moments

On my way to work, I pass by one of the bus stops for the local elementary school kids. Every day, a little boy and his mother are there waiting for the bus that will take him off to another day of kindergarten. This fact isn't blogworthy in and of itself, but I've driven by them once a day since school started in September and every single time I see them, the mother is talking on her cell phone. It blows my mind -- I can't imagine what conversation could be so important that it couldn't wait until the boy was safely on the bus and on his way to school. I don't understand why she wouldn't want to enjoy her time with her son, especially since he'll be off to school full time next year. I feel so sad for both of them and part of me wants to pull over and try to make her understand what precious time she's wasting and what opportunity is being squandered. Childhood is so fleeting and those lost moments can't ever be recovered. One day she'll turn around and her kindergartner will be a teenager, and he'll be the one glued to the cell phone while she kicks her heels on the curb and waits.

I understand that sometimes other things need to take priority, and rightfully so, but I think too many people forget to take time out to enjoy their children. I know I've said this before, but one good thing about our preemie experience is that I really do think I appreciate my kids more than I would have otherwise. I try to treasure each age and stage for what it is and not lose too many moments. So, tonight we blew soap bubbles in the house and danced and gave horsey rides and played silly games. And, when Max and Molly are teenagers, I hope that the relationship that we've fostered and nurtured today will hold us in good stead.