Don’t get me wrong.

I definitely have those pangs.

The weird desire to smell just inside the crevice of their neck, cheek-to-cheek. 

*Inhale* their sweetness.  

Feel their entire fist upon my finger . . . 

But miss those days?

Count me out.  

With four daughters, all I’ve heard is warnings of teenage days to come.

My oldest is only eleven and I’ve had to put my foot in my parental mouth more times than I care to count so I dare not assume I know better than my foremothers.  

But, I admit. . . 

I look forward to the future more than I look longingly backward to their baby days. 

Perhaps it is because I had the opportunity to experience babyhood four separate times.

My friends with twins remind me that although they were awarded double the experience at the same time, they wished they’d had the opportunity over time.  

Lord knows, I got that time- I was pregnant and/or nursing for nine years in a row.

Instead, I revel in witnessing my daughters grow into young women- their passions, insecurities and questions.

I walk alongside, offering assistance as needed and hopping in bed to cuddle when requested.

I have such faith that they will continue to shine

So, forget the mirror.

Hand me my shades.

Here come my suns.