When my first daughter was born, almost five years ago, I remember people telling me how fast the time would go and to enjoy every minute. I took all of that advice to heart and tried to savor every moment. The interrupted and sleepless nights, the milestones met, and each new adventure that being a new parent brought. Now as we prepare for that baby to enter kindergarten in the fall and we have welcomed a third baby to the family, I can’t help but wish that I could slow the clock down. Life is without a doubt busier, but I’m still trying to find time to savor the little things that I know I will someday long for again.

Inspired by a parenting blog I read over the weekend, Don’t Let Me Forget Their Littleness , (who so perfectly captured just what I have been feeling-I sometimes feel that the cyber world hands me just what I need at the very right moments) I started my own list of things to remember in my notebook. Here is what I have so far:

I want to remember:

• the newborn cry. So distinct. So dramatic. So beautiful.
• those tiny newborn diapers that seem like they would only ever fit a baby doll.
• the calm that comes after a big cry and I finally pick you up. My touch somehow makes everything better.
• those first smiles…real or gas? Sweet nonetheless.
• the snuggles, baby on the chest, best place in the world for everyone.
• the three year old questions. Trying to figure out how the world works. One after another. Fast and furious…without a filter.
• the bond of sisters. How it came naturally. The way each of you looks out for one another.
• the irrational excuses why you can’t go to bed. “My toenails are hurting.”
• the confidence of childhood. “I’m the best singer in the whole town.” “I’m really good at soccer.”
• the quiet that finally overcomes as you all sleep soundly in your beds.

This is a list I will continue to add to as these magical moments strike me…so that I can remember.

I started the Slice of Life challenge, hosted by Two Writing Teachers ,in March of 2017. I was inspired by the community of writers that I found. So I have continued to “Slice” every Tuesday. You can read more here.