Cher Said It First

If I could turn back time, I’d hit stop the day they were born. Then I’d hit stop the day they smiled for the first time, when they started rolling over and probably when they started talking, too. I even want to hit stop just when we’re laughing with them in their rooms before bed. I’d hit play again, of course, but just for a bit, I’d like to stop time.

Unlike Cher, I don’t want to turn back time to right a wrong. I want to turn back time so I can stop and take it all in. Every mom has thought it…and most of you post it on social media. #pleasestoptime #slowdown #stoptickingforjustamoment. And I’m no different. Our girls are still young, and I already worry about what we’ve missed. From what I hear, I’ll want time to stop on their first day of kindergarten, and when they score their first goal or win their first match, and when they start driving and go to prom…and then away to school.

During the weeks leading up to the twins’ birth, I was consumed with how fast the pregnancy was going and wanting more time with our oldest to ensure she knew how much we love her. Honestly? I spent too much time wishing for more time and not enough time celebrating the time we had. When the twins arrived, yes, it was a rough beginning, but it didn’t last long. She quickly became an amazing big sister, who was happy to show them off and tell others that she had not one, but two, baby sisters.

One of the twins walked early, which took us by surprise. I cried that day…tears of joy…and of sadness. I thought I had a couple more months, at least, with one walker and 2 crawlers. But I had to get over it quick or I was going to miss the chance to cherish those first steps. And the chance to spend a little more time with her sister before she walked, too…which happened just a couple of weeks later.

Unfortunately, I haven’t figured out how to stop time yet. The only resolution I’ve found is to be more thankful. Pause long enough to appreciate the moments we have. Celebrate the milestones and then prepare for the exciting ones that are to come. Make it last a little longer by taking a picture. Post it on social media, email it your grandmother or just send a quick text to your closest friends about the achievement. Not only does it help the moment to live on, but others will share in the excitement, too.

If I could reach the stars, like Cher, I swear I’d give them all to our girls. But in case I can’t, I’ll pause to look at the stars with them and be grateful that we have this time together to imagine all the possibilities that are still ahead.