Thursday, May 23, 2013

When Did She Grow Up?

On a recent Sunday morning I met my husband in the kitchen before church. He leaned toward me and whispered, "Did you see our daughter today?" Something about his tone caught my attention; it wasn't critical or upset but rather, wondering. 

"No, why?" I asked.

"I couldn't believe it," he replied in bemusement. "She came up to me and said, 'Daddy, does this look okay?' and when I saw her I was shocked. She didn't look like a little girl at all. She looked like a young lady!"

When I caught a glimpse of our daughter a few minutes later, wearing a pretty dress recently handed down to her from a friend, hair nicely combed and with the new curves that come with pre-adolescent territory, I understood her daddy's reaction. My heart swelled with emotion, both towards my growing up girl and my husband who is usually so practical but this time was swept off his feet.

I tucked away the moment to treasure, aware again how fleeting is time. This morning I was inspired to write down the memory after reading a bittersweet post entitled, "Did you teach them?" It started with just such a scenario:
"I suppose it is normal to have a sobering sense of time when you look up from your desk, caught off guard by the young woman walking through the door, only to realize it is your own daughter.
When did she grow up?"
I echo the question, When did she? I am reminded to love my girl and each member of my precious family a little harder, today.

Take it easy, Time. You are welcome to slow down ...

2 comments:

Kathy (Mom/Grandma) said...

Beautiful musings and so true. Very touching to this mother/grandmother. We love God for prompting you to touch others with the gifts God gives you. I love you Stephanie Garcia. Mom PS Too bad we missed the picture you describe with words. I can well imagine however her beauty. :)

Unknown said...

It goes so quicly, doesn't it? In fact, I am listening to Remember When tonight by Alan Jackson. Over and over again. Time flies.

So thankful for your sweet baby who is growing up. Kaishon is 13 now. I can't remember exactly how old your baby is. I am thinking 12.

Time flies. : (