What if we could turn back the clock, just a couple of days, and change the outcome. Or maybe retreat even further.

What did we miss? What could we have done differently? 

Gone is that little girl who sat staring down a vegetable at the dinner table. Gone are those stewed sour balls that made me want to gag. I would like to think that we have both matured, changed, and become better versions of our former selves.

What happened to the days when we could disagree but still sit down and share a meal together? When did it become a win at all costs? When did we stop listening to one another?

I would like to think I am discreet, stealth, and as imperceptible as the Instagram algorithm…but I am watching you. And for that I am grateful, because I have learned - and continue to learn - so much.

Flying makes me nervous, changing time zones is exhausting, the logistics of travel are frustrating, and packing and unpacking - and then packing and unpacking, and then packing and unpacking again - my carry-on with a week’s worth of clothes…is annoying.

Is it all worth it?

While we wait for the picture-worthy moment when our son or daughter crosses the stage to accept a diploma, let me flip things around and share with you three lessons I have learned from our soon-to-be graduate. Our children are great teachers.