I used to be a good mom. I was the kind of mom who took her kids on bike rides. I got down on the floor and played match box cars and legos for endless hours. We read mountains of story books and snuggled and watched Disney movies. We made sugar cookies carefully cutting them out and frosting them for each and every significant holiday. We would build snowmen together when the weather permitted. I would clean and scrub only during nap time.
But, there came a time where I selfishly thought I was losing myself. I began to craft more, read and surf the net. The television became the perfect babysitter as I put aside that precious time with my babies. I was mistaken when I thought they would always want to play with me. I misjudged that they wouldn't grow, mature and change.
Today I am plagued with sadness. I could have done more, I could have been better. On Tuesday, TJ, or Military man, left for the Air Force. If I were to turn back the clock, I would put myself aside for just a little bit longer, realizing that they won't always be there. Children don't keep. As I look back, I sadly do so with regret.
