As all parents know, every age and phase comes with ups and downs. There’s no perfect age, and I find myself nostalgic for the past while also looking forward to the future. That said, I’ve become acutely aware that I’ve recently entered the sweet spot. My boys are 5 and 7, and I’m really trying to soak them up. It won’t be long before they’re over me, so let me celebrate the sweet spot joys.
- We have been out of diapers for a long time, and we officially retired the need for a diaper bag. No one does it yet, but theoretically, they are old enough to carry their own water bottles and snacks.
- Every holiday is magic. Without hesitation, they hold space for the bunny, the leprechaun, the tooth fairy, and Santa. I would expect no pushback if I introduced a new holiday or mascot tomorrow.
- They have started attempting to tell jokes and riddles and even pull a few pranks. It’s amateur hour but it’s really entertaining.
- They ask for snuggles and welcome hugs, but aren’t constantly on top of me. I’m still touched out from time to time, but I’m less physically overwhelmed by their love.
- T-ball and Little League. Everyone is confused, and everyone is having the time of their lives. IYKYK.
- They tell the best stories. It’s pure nonsense, but I absolutely eat it up. According to my 7-year-old, soccer star Messi died. (Nope. Just first grade folklore.) According to my 5-year-old, most of the boys from his class got very invested in trying to catch a dragonfly on the playground this week. (Wild times, I’m sure!)
- They bust out random animal facts in the middle of unrelated conversations. (Did you know the tusk on the top of the narwhal is just a very overgrown tooth!?)
- New experiences blow their minds. Our boys recently went to a restaurant with a buffet for the first time. Unlimited chicken nuggets=life changing!
- They are very moldable. We talk about our feelings (which they can name and understand). We discuss how our community works, how to be a good friend and how our actions impact others. They want to make good choices and be good people.
- Mom and Dad are still the most influential people in their lives. School friends’ opinions are notable, but we are enjoying our limited time as experts on everything.
- They have incredible confidence and wild self-esteem! These goofballs are ready to sub in for any professional player who needs to take a knee. (Put me in, coach!)
- We all sleep through the night! Sure, we get a 5-year-old sneaking in from time to time, but we all get a full night’s sleep. (YES!)
- I receive the most amazing art! Whether it’s a portrait of me or an “I love Mom” card covered in robots and aliens, I am delighted to see their creativity come to life.
- They are always up to play. Whether we’re completing a puzzle, racing hot wheels or dodging through laser tag together, the goal is simply to be together having fun.
- They are optimistic and hopeful. Every day has the potential to be the best day ever!
The sweet spot won’t last forever. They’ll mature and lose some of their wonder. They’ll learn that the world is harder than they’ve known or believed it to be. And I’m confident that they’ll hurt my feelings in the future with their teenage angst, but for now, I’m enjoying life in the sweet spot and trying to be grateful for this incredible gift.
