Embracing The Eras…

Today was a bittersweet day for me as a father. It marked the end of an era for my son Canaan – his last day of preschool. As we pulled out of our neighborhood, it hit me like a wave that we would never have to take this drive again, no more curvy road, no more bumpy road, as he would call them, no more seeing the cows on the farm we drive by, no more “Daddy, can we get McDonald’s?” as we leave the school. It was a surreal  moment that made me realize just how fleeting time truly is.

I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions as memories of his first day at preschool flooded my mind. It seemed like only yesterday that we walked him through the doors for the first time and he took those first steps of this part of his journey. Now, he's grown so much, ready to embark on the next part of his journey – kindergarten.

Tears filled my eyes, after I dropped him off and talked to some of the staff that have been there all these years and I found myself reflecting on all the moments we shared during the past few years. The friends he made, the art projects he proudly brought home, and the stories he excitedly told me about on the drive home each day. It was a phase of innocence and discovery, and I couldn't help but cherish every bit of it.

But amid those tears, there was also an overwhelming sense of pride and joy. Canaan is about to take another significant step forward in his life. Kindergarten awaits, with its new challenges and adventures. As much as it feels like the end of an era, it also marks the beginning of a new and exciting chapter.

Seeing him grow and develop into a confident, curious and chaotic boy  fills my heart with happiness. As a father, there's nothing more gratifying than witnessing our  children grow and knowing that you've played a part in shaping who they have become.

Though I will miss the days of preschool drop-offs and pick-ups, I am learning to embrace the changes life brings. Each milestone reached is a reminder that my “Little Canaan” is on a path of his own, and I have the privilege of witnessing it from my front row seat.

As parents, it's easy to get caught up in the rush of daily life, but moments like these serve as gentle reminders to slow down and cherish the present. Time waits for no one, and our children grow up faster than we can fathom.

So, as we say goodbye to preschool, I will hold on to those memories tightly while sitting on the edge of my seat anticipating what the future holds for Canaan. Kindergarten will be a new adventure, and I have no doubt that he will approach it in true Canaan fashion with the confidence to be himself, an open and kind heart and endless amounts of positive energy.

As we continue on this parenting journey, I will treasure every step, every smile, and every milestone, savoring the fleeting moments and celebrating the growth that comes with them. Because after all, it's not about holding on to the past but about embracing the future with open arms, knowing that the best is yet to come.

I love you to the stars and back Canaan and I’m so proud of you.