Being a parent is exhausting. And hard. Can we all agree on that today? Sometimes, on those hard days of parenting, we need a reminder.

Parenting is beautiful and a blessing, yes, but also so. very. exhausting.

And sometimes, I find myself longing for easier days-days when I’m not picking up toys all day long, days when I’m not doing pile after pile of laundry, days when my day isn’t dictated by the days of those around me, and days when I’m not battling strong-willed children.

But then….I have to remind myself of this:

In 20 years (goodness, more like 10-EEK!), I’m going to miss these days.

When my kids are out of the house, I’m going to miss…

1. All the toys scattered everywhere (and those darn cars I always step on).

Because someday, there won’t be anyone here except me and my husband to make a mess.

2. The endless supply of animal crackers, Cheerios, and Popsicles.

Because someday, there won’t be a kid here constantly asking for more.

3. The early morning wake-up calls.

Because someday, I’ll have to wake up to an alarm instead of to my cuddly boy.

4. The slobber, boogers, mud, and who knows what else on my shirts.

Because someday, my shirts will be sadly clean all day long.

5. The noise.

Because someday, the house will be too quiet.

Sure, these years are difficult.

But someday, I’m going to miss them.

*This post was originally published a few years ago, but has been updated here.