Last week, we celebrated my son’s 18th birthday. It was a bittersweet day for me as a mama. Now, I have two grown, adult children. It’s hard to believe. I still see their sweet baby faces, their chubby toddler hands, their lanky limbs, and their teenage grins. Here are the big feelings that came up for me this week.

Excitement. He received so many phone calls, texts, and cards. So many people love this young man and I get it – me too! The very day my son turned 18, he went in and opened up his own checking account. He’s thrilled to have more autonomy and decision-making. He had a celebration dinner with friends. We gathered around him for a family dinner. He’s so excited to be an adult and I share that with him. He’s going to conquer the world!

Pride. Jack is an amazing young man. When we gathered around him at dinner, our family said the most incredible things about him. Here were some:

• You’re so driven and passionate.
•  You’re a first friend.
• You’re the most forgiving of all of us.
• You’re freaking funny! You make us laugh so hard!
• You’re thoughtful and kind.

Yep, all of these things describe Jack beautifully. He’s truly a great human.

Grief. This hit me like a gut punch. I had this thought, “You did it, Amy. You’re all done. You raised two humans to adulthood.” Of course, I know mothering is never over. But child-rearing is for me. As I see it now, I’m guiding two young adults. Supporting their ideas, their values, and sharing in their accomplishments and strife. I get to celebrate their relationships, their jobs, and some day, their families. 

The night of Jack’s 18th birthday, I still went in and tucked him in before I went to bed. Yes, he still lets me do this. I wrapped him up in a big hug. I told him how proud I was to be his mom. 

Gratitude. Feeing grateful to be the mom of these two humans is an understatement. I was meant to be a mom. I get to do this! Every day, regardless of how tough it is or how amazing it feels, I am forever appreciative that I’m their mom. 

So, if you’re like me and going through a parenting transition, I see you. Whether you just put away the baby bed, or you’re transitioning to kindergarten, or becoming an empty nester, I see you. 

Here’s to raising good humans – and if you know someone who could use a weekly dose of encouragement, send them here!