Sometimes as a mom of boys and now a mom of young men, I’ve learned when to stay home.

I’ve learned it’s okay to decline invites, as I decline for them.

When they get an opportunity to do or go somewhere with just their dad, I stay back.

As a mom, I can reflect on so many events and activities I had the chance to attend with my boys. My job, my hours, while they were growing up allowed me to be there for them.

Mid-morning programs at their school, I was there. Invention convention, I was there. Middle school track meets to football games, I was there. Car shows, pumpkin patches, Nebraska football games and so much more, I was there.

Whenever my guys were able to find something in common and could enjoy with just their dad, I learned to step back.

I stepped back because I knew how important that time was for them and would be for them looking back one day.

I stepped back to allow them time with just their dad, just as I was given time with just them. Moments to cherish always.

It’s not that I don’t want to be included in every memory, but I also know how special those one on one memories can be.

There are memories that we make when we’re all together and then there are memories we make individually with our kids.

It’s okay to not be a part of every memory.

It’s okay to decline an invite.

By declining, it may just create the greatest opportunity for them and in turn, could be the most meaningful moments made.

It’s okay.