I’ve been in denial for the last year.

My sweet girl started sixth grade last fall, and although it was a milestone, I was able to tell myself she wasn’t really in middle school because the school she attends has intermediate in the name. I was forced to confront my denial when we attended her middle school transition night last week.

I watched as my baby girl roamed the halls of her new school, already feeling at home, and I couldn’t help but wonder where has the time gone. When did she go from being my little baby eating table food for the first time to this young woman who is now standing before my eyes? How is it possible that she is about to be one step closer to becoming a teenager and starting high school?

Is it just me, or does time need to slow down just a little?

Before I know it, she’ll be a teenager and soon after that, there will be driving and (gulp!) dating. Every day, she is taking another teeny tiny step toward independence, and while she seems to be fine, this transition is scaring me. I honestly don’t remember the person I was before I became a momma. Yes, I know I was a complete person before she was born. Yes, I’ve had goals and dreams that I have accomplished since becoming a momma. Yes, there are trips and things my husband and I want to do after my baby girl leaves the nest, but I’m starting to have to think about having an empty nest more often than I care to admit.

I know she will be fine as she transitions to this next phase of her life, and deep down I know I will be too, but can we please just slow time down just for a few moments?