My Little Boy Is All Grown Up

My oldest son, Jack, is a high school senior this year. I have to pause for a second to let that sink in. My son...is a high school senior. As the first day of school begins in Dover today, I'm still trying to figure out how he grew up so quickly. It feels just like he just learned to walk a few years ago. And then he was playing Little League. Then he got his first after school job. And now he's on the verge of graduating...and hopefully heading off to college next year. What? Already?

When Jack was born someone gave me the best advice ever about raising kids. They said, "Don't rush the next thing. Enjoy each phase of his life." I took those words to heart. It may be the only piece of advice I've always kept top of mind and followed each day.

It's not always easy. Especially as a single dad. There are days lately when I can't wait for him to be an adult. But then I'm reminded, on days like these...when I realize he's as tall as I am, and probably smarter than me...how much I need to cherish and treasure even the times when he tests my ability to be a good father.

Nobody ever said it would be easy. And it hasn't. But I wouldn't trade one second of being a dad. So whether you're thrilled to heaven...or cried like a baby this week when your kids started school...just remember: don't rush the next thing. Enjoy each phase of their life.