PUSH THE PAUSE BUTTON!! A Mother’s Point of View

Several years back, we journeyed to Albuquerque, New Mexico, to see our daughter compete in a national cross-country race for middle and high school students. During the event, we connected with fellow representatives from Team Idaho. This marked her debut in a national race. Thousands of children of various ages from across the nation, each representing their State, gathered to compete. The opening ceremony took place in a spacious auditorium, which was packed with participants. The experience was both overwhelming and exhilarating.

The morning of the race was a bit chilly, with a crisp air hinting at the onset of a looming winter. As the sun began to rise, casting a soft glow over the landscape, we bundled up in layers of warm clothing to shield ourselves from the biting cold. We took the girls to the venue, the excitement palpable in the air as the anticipation of the day’s events began to build. They were scheduled to participate in the 8th-grade race, which meant that their race would take place later in the morning, but the temperatures were still quite brisk, making it essential for us to stay warm. I had my warm coat zipped up tightly, and I pulled my hood over my head, looking as though I had just stepped out of a winter wonderland in Alaska or some similarly frigid locale. While my daughter warmed up with her team, stretching and jogging to get her muscles ready for the race, Scot, my husband, and I took the opportunity to scout the course. We walked the route, carefully examining the twists and turns, the inclines and declines, and the various sections where we could best position ourselves to cheer her on effectively. This is one sport where supporters must be in shape to keep up with their racers; the course was long and winding, and we needed to be strategic about our cheering locations to ensure we could provide encouragement at just the right moments. I had already mapped out my favorite spots in my mind and was ready to go, or so I thought. As we moved along the course, I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride and excitement for my daughter and her teammates. The energy of the event was infectious, with other families and supporters milling about, sharing in the collective enthusiasm. We exchanged smiles and words of encouragement with fellow parents, all of us united in our goal to support our young athletes. I made mental notes of the best vantage points, ensuring I would be able to capture the moment on camera as she and her team raced by. The thrill of the competition was almost as invigorating as the chill in the air, and I was eager to witness the determination and spirit of the young runners as they tackled the course ahead.

Scot and I seldom start races together, so I was alone, wondering if anyone else felt as nervous as I did. To calm my nerves, I like to record the race's start, so I found a good spot to see all the girls lined up to run. There were hundreds, all set for a mass start. As I watched the official approach the stand in the middle of the course, preparing to climb up and begin the race, all I could think was, “Wait!” Pause for a moment. I’m not ready!

My stomach was tied in knots. The nerves were genuinely painful—a kind of nervousness that makes you wonder why we put ourselves through this and why they do too. Yet, at that precise moment, you realize you wouldn't want it any other way. I've participated in numerous regional and national cycling events, and the pain and anxiety I experienced at that moment as I watched these events unfold were incomparable. Don't misunderstand me; I always felt quite nervous each time I approached the starting line to race, but this was different. I was not in control. It was now up to her to determine her outcome.

Without hesitation or confirmation from me, the gun goes off, and it is race on. The sharp crack of the starting pistol echoes through the air, signaling the beginning of an exhilarating event that has everyone on their toes. Now, all I have to do is chase her around the course and cheer her on, my heart racing in sync with her pounding feet as she takes off with determination and vigor. I can feel the excitement in the atmosphere, an energy that electrifies the crowd as parents and supporters alike shout words of encouragement, their voices blending into a symphony of motivation that propels the racers forward. In this particular race, she did quite well, demonstrating not only her physical prowess but also her mental fortitude as she navigated the twists and turns of the course with grace and agility. She came in first, and so did her team, a remarkable achievement that filled us all with pride and joy. I often look back at that race; it is definitely one of my favorites for obvious reasons, not just because of the success of my daughter and her team but also because we experienced socializing with other parents and racers, sharing stories and laughter that fostered a sense of community and camaraderie. We made connections we still enjoy to this day, forging friendships that extend beyond the confines of the racecourse into our everyday lives. I created a moment I cherish, one that encapsulates the joy of witnessing my child thrive, the thrill of competition, and the bonds formed through shared experiences. It is a memory that remains etched in my mind, a reminder of the beauty of sports and the powerful connections they can create.

My philosophy is this: life consists of moments—some are good, some are really good, and others are not-so-good or clearly moments you'd rather not relive. I aim to avoid the latter while maximizing the former. The moments where I want to "hit the pause button" have been some of my most treasured. The outcome wasn't always what I expected, but the growth was significant and intense, making it unforgettable. My most treasured memories always include my children and family. The moments that deeply affect me often result in the greatest personal growth.

In my experience, hit-the-pause button moments always involve at least one of my children. These moments are often profound, filled with emotion and significance, and they create lasting memories that we cherish as mothers. Experiencing impactful moments with your child does not always have to be a sporting event like cross country. It can manifest in a variety of ways, each unique and special in its own right. For instance, it could be a memorable experience like a family vacation where laughter fills the air, and the joy of discovering new places together strengthens our bond. Each of these experiences offers a chance to connect on a deeper level, creating a tapestry of shared adventures that we can look back on fondly. Moreover, holiday celebrations can also serve as poignant moments that deserve to be savored. Whether it’s the magic of Christmas morning, filled with the eager anticipation of unwrapping presents, or the warmth of a Thanksgiving dinner surrounded by loved ones, these occasions are rich with tradition and love. They are the times when we gather together, reflecting on our blessings and creating rituals that we hope will be passed down through generations. It is during these celebrations that we often find ourselves wishing we could freeze time, holding onto the laughter, the joy, and the togetherness that fills our hearts. Additionally, there are significant events, such as sending them out into the world to ultimately experience life, their life, that can evoke a mix of pride and nostalgia. Whether it’s the first day of school, graduation, or even the moment they leave home for college or their first job, these milestones are monumental. They signify growth, independence, and the bittersweet reality of watching our children step into their own lives. Each of these moments is a reminder of how quickly time passes and how important it is to cherish every second. These are definitely moments you wish you could pause and hold onto forever, encapsulating the essence of childhood, the fleeting nature of time, and the profound love that we, as mothers, feel for our children. In reflecting on these experiences, we realize that they shape not only our children’s lives but also our own, creating a legacy of love, support, and cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

As a mother, when you first cradle that newborn bundle of joy, no one prepares you for the challenge of watching that same little one step up to the start line and begin their journey in life.  “Pause!”  Yet, you wouldn't change a thing.  Witnessing your child's growth and achievements makes every moment worthwhile. 

Welcome to life as a mother! This incredible journey is filled with a multitude of experiences that will shape not only your child’s life but also your own in profound ways. Now, you get to observe and chase your child all around the course of life, witnessing their first steps, hearing their first words, and celebrating each milestone they achieve. From the joyous laughter that fills your home to the quiet moments of reflection as you watch them sleep, every day brings new adventures and challenges that will test your patience and resilience. You will find yourself immersed in a world of playdates, school events, and countless activities that keep both you and your child engaged. As you navigate through the ups and downs of motherhood, you will discover an unbreakable bond forming between you, one that is built on love, trust, and shared experiences. Honestly, you would not want it any other way. The journey of motherhood is not just about guiding your child; it’s also about growing together, learning from each other, and creating lasting memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. Embrace this beautiful role, as it is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever encounter.

A few months ago, I watched the same daughter at the starting line as a Division 1 collegiate athlete competing for Brigham Young University in the NCAA National Championships in Madison, Wisconsin. I wish I could say it was easy, and that you get accustomed to the intense nervousness, but no. I was just as anxious, if not more, this time around as I was during her first national race when she was a 12-year-old girl. What was the result of this race? She was the team captain, and they won the National Title! It was an incredible experience and a moment I will never forget, one that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Motherhood is a profound journey filled with an array of moments—some exhilarating and joyous, others nerve-wracking and challenging, but all are imbued with a deep sense of meaning and significance. Each day unfolds a new chapter, presenting experiences that range from the bliss of a baby's first smile to the anxiety of sleepless nights spent tending to a crying infant. The laughter shared during playful interactions, the pride felt during milestones such as the first steps or the first day of school, and even the tears shed during moments of frustration or worry, all contribute to the intricate tapestry of motherhood.

As we navigate this complex path, there are times when we wish we could hit the pause button, allowing us to savor those fleeting moments a little longer. The desire to freeze time often arises during particularly precious instances, such as cuddling on the couch with a toddler, reading bedtime stories, or witnessing the unfiltered joy of a child discovering something new. These are the moments that we wish could last indefinitely, as they are filled with warmth, love, and a sense of connection that is hard to replicate.

Yet, as the days turn into months and years, we come to understand that the beauty of motherhood lies not only in these joyful experiences but also in the challenges that accompany them. The sleepless nights may test our patience, and the worries about our children's futures can weigh heavily on our hearts, but these trials also forge resilience and strength. They teach us invaluable lessons about love, sacrifice, and the importance of being present in our children's lives.

Ultimately, as we reflect on this incredible journey, we realize that we wouldn’t want it any other way. The highs and lows, the laughter and tears, all contribute to the unique experience of motherhood that shapes us as individuals and as families. Each moment, whether filled with joy or hardship, adds layers to our understanding of love and connection, making the journey not just a series of events, but a rich and meaningful adventure that we cherish deeply.

Motherhood is filled with moments that make us wish we could hit the pause button—big or small, joyful or bittersweet. Have you ever experienced a moment you wanted to freeze in time? Share your ‘pause button’ moments in the comments—I’d love to hear your story!

If you love reading heartfelt stories from mothers who truly understand this journey, don’t miss out! Subscribe to Mothers Are Amazing for more inspiring articles, shared experiences, and wisdom from moms just like you.

NXN-2018