One of Paisley and I’s favorite things to do is to put puzzles together. I’m always searching for unique ones to buy. Our routine is the same. We dump all of our pieces out in a pile on the table and place them face up. Then, we begin to edge it out and fill it in.I let her take the reins and am always left amazed at how quickly she figures it out and puts it all together, using me only for reference and a guide when needed. Her eyes light up as each piece finds it’s place and with each turn she becomes quicker at assembling. Full of pride, she says “look mommy! I did it, I put it together!” It brings me such joy to watch her learn and develop right in front of my eyes. I’ve seen this happen many times over the last four years and I’m so happy for her each time she learns something new. But, my heart aches at the same time, knowing that our lives will forever change next week as she begins her new journey starting school.

Memories flash of her learning to clap, saying “mama” and reaching for me with arms outstretched, toddling around our house in a diaper and boots, and writing her name for the first time. And then tears fill my eyes to the brim because I realize that all of the learning that has taken place in front of me, will happen more at school now than it will at home. Time is a vapor and everyone tells you that it goes quickly, but until you experience it first hand, you don’t really understand the phrase in its entirety. The thought of dropping her off at school for her first day next week has been pretty hard on this mama. I realize that part of a parent’s job is to not only keep them grounded by giving them roots, but also encourage them to use their wings. To be brave and make their own path.Parenting is by far the hardest, sweetest, most rewarding job I’ve ever experienced. There is so much to it, such responsibility, an unending amount of love, many sleepless nights, lots of prayers and tears. Letting go is the hardest step in the walk of being a mom and I know it will only get harder.

Zack and I had a conversation the other day of how will we ever let her get in a truck with a boy on her first date? How will we ever give her away to her future husband someday? Our baby girl. I don’t know about you but it not only makes me want to pray harder than I already do for her, but it makes me want to specifically pray for all of these little stepping-stones to come. Her walk with Jesus, her education, the educators she will have along the way, friendships, the way we will continue to raise her, and even the boy who will marry her someday. Scary to think, but he could be on the playground next week. Yikes! (don’t load your guns yet, babe)Next week just seems like such a pivotal moment for us in our lives. I’m so thankful that she’s excited and eager to learn. I pray that this year overflows with blessings and knowledge for her. And for this mamma as well because we all know that it’s intimidating when a four year old can work electronics better than we can. Lord, help me prepare for the math that is to come. I should probably go to school right along with her. Fourteen years seems like a long time from now, but that’s when she will start college and I will have to let her fly on her own. The thought makes me squeeze her tighter, hug her longer, and savor my moments more.

I bought this puzzle because it’s such an awesome learning piece. It’s a great way to teach the states, what they are known for, their capitols, etc. We talked about all of the places she’d like to go and visit someday, where her Nashville cousins, Grand, and friend Sadie lived. As I saw her put the last piece of the puzzle in it’s place the other night, I couldn’t help but smile that she put her “home” in last. It got me thinking that Oklahoma will always be home, but oh the places she might go from here. We are so proud and excited for you, Paisley! Here’s to a new start and a fun journey ahead. We can’t wait to see what you will do and where you will take your precious, wonderful life. Love you to the moon and back, little cowgirl. -Mom + Dad

“You’re off to great places! Today is your day! You’re mountain is waiting… so get on your way!

-Dr. Seuss