05/29/2026
Nobody tells you the last time you’ll pick them up.
The last bedtime story.
The last princess dress.
The last time they reach for your hand without thinking.
One day, those moments are simply memories.
Today, I watched my 16-year-old daughter meet Ariel again.
The first time she met Ariel, she was so shy she could barely speak. I had to help carry the conversation while she stood there smiling.
Today, she walked up to Ariel and chatted with her completely on her own.
Everyone else saw a teenager.
I saw the little girl who believed mermaids were real and couldn’t find the words to talk to her favorite princess.
And for just a moment, Disney let me see her little again. 💙🧜♀️✨
Growing up is watching them need you less while somehow loving them more.