The last two nights, my daughter and I both curled up in my bed and watched vampire movies until midnight. We baked cakes, filmed funny YouTube videos together, and went shopping online for summer dresses that matched. We cuddled and braided each other’s hair. We even got a mani/pedi together – without the boys. Because that’s what best friends do. They do special things together without the rest of the family. I’m savoring every single second.
Because my daughter is 13. In 5 years, she will be off to college and out of my home.
Then she will be married.
Then she will have kids.
Then I will steal all of her babies from her.
Then we will vacation all over the world together with my new grandbabies and I will pay for everything because I will be the coolest grandmother on the planet.
Because that’s the narrative I want to create.
Natalie is my best friend because she has grown into a wonderful young lady and I see her for who she is. I recognize the borrowed time I have left with her and I want to soak up every last second I can before this section of our lives melts away just like the newborn phase did… just like the toddler phase did… just like the tween phase did. It all happens so quickly.
So, don’t be afraid. The teen years are glorious. You’re going to meet someone magical. Your best friend. She is waiting for you. I can’t wait to see what you two do first.
This post was originally published on Today Parents.
