Is it possible to point out, with accuracy, the exact moment when your children's time becomes their own? When it stops being cool to be with the family without any friends along? When does a "Family Vacation" go from being just that to being a trip where you are simply paying for your daughter and her best friend to enjoy a free week at a great resort? And, what can we do to make the most of that time that we do have together?
I look at my own extended family and see that even the younger ones (around 7 or 8) started having a friend attached at the hip at everything from family celebrations to week-long vacations. I look at my own son and I wonder how long I have until he deems it "boring" to be in the mountains or at the beach - with just "us".
It's so important to take full advantage of the time that we have together. We all know that it goes too fast. That the years fly by with at an alarming rate that seems to increase as we grow older.
Make time for "family only" weekend outings and trips - do what you can to capture this time. Build on family traditions that you had as you were growing up, take fun day trips, spend long summer days chatting and exploring and just being together.
Those college visits that your high-schooler has to take this year? Make the most of them! Turn it into a fun road trip where you get to know your "child" all over again. I still remember being 16, driving up to Syracuse with my new learners-permit with my Mom in the passenger seat. We had a blast (although I also remember getting my first speeding ticket) and it's a week-long adventure that I will never forget.
Unfortunately we can't pinpoint that precise moment where everything changes - so until it comes, make the most of every moment that you have with your family.
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