Holy Hell Batman- I have a Senior in High School!

It feels impossible that we’re here already — standing at the edge of her senior year — when it feels like yesterday she was wobbling her way through the living room, crawling up tables, stealing sips of my coffee like she was born grown. I can still hear her tiny feet slapping against the hallway floor, full speed, determined, undressing as she ran because she was lasered in on the potty. Ah yes, I see you nodding along as you remember those chaotic, hilarious months of potty training.

Those memories don’t feel old. And yes the sigh was real.

They feel like they’re still happening somewhere in the house, like echoes.

I remember her first school dance with the kind of clarity that makes time feel like a trick. Her cheeks were bright pink as we walked through the store — her all dressed up, glowing, while groups of boys her age cooed over her like she was the main character in their little universe. And picking her up afterward… she was all giggles and bright eyes, telling me every detail of how the night played out.

Then there were the quieter moments — the two of us sitting on the couch, narrowing down her freshman year classes, her already so sure of who she was becoming.

Being her mom was easy. Hey don't eye roll me Karen. It's just the truth. Lily has always been the type of child whom sets her own alarm clock. Would tell you that it was time for her bedtime, and would aid you along in the process. Truly, adorable and efficient.

Over the years she has impressed me with her tenacious, self‑driven, artistic force of nature spirit. From creating to selling her master pieces to learning to advocate for herself to always choosing to speak up for others. Watching her grow into her own inspiring woman has been one of the greatest honors of my life.

And now… it’s official. I have a senior in high school. I may be slightly tearing up.

Seventeen. Wow..... How the time as flown.

Her final year. The last year of her educational journey as a child and teen. Preschool at five. Kindergarten at six. Three years of homeschooling. Followed by fourth grade back in public schools. Then Covid.... Ugh, I know... Don't even get me started. Anyways, Into a round of homeschooling again, only not be choice and rather necessity. Ending with her entrance into high school and now the grand hoopla her Senior Year! What!!!! Woo woo!

The last lap before she steps fully into her next chapter.

I hope this year is her best one yet — full of joy, confidence, creativity, and the kind of memories she’ll carry forever.

Man, what it would be like to be 17 again… Soooo many bad decisions, of course that was me, her life is far different than mine. But honestly, watching her live it is even better.

To say I’m a proud mommy is an understatement. She’s everything I ever hoped she’d be and more. I love you to the moon and back my child.

And yes —for everyone whom is wondering, she painted the jeans herself. Of course she did. Because she’s Lily.