We were on the way home from having some fall family pictures taken when my son Chase asked me, "when will I get my first car?" I told him that my plan was to eventually give him the car I am currently driving and then for me to get a different one. He asked me how long that would be. It was at that point that the math got scary. In two years, he'll be old enough for a permit. In four years he'll get his license. Maybe it was the thought of my son driving, or how old he look dressed up for pictures yesterday, but I came to the conclusion that I'd like for my kids to stop growing up.

My kids are all young enough now that they still consider us as parents, to be mildly cool. They don't mind hanging out with us. Chase begs to do more stuff with me. But I get little hints from him that those days will be ending sooner than later. He loves to hang out with his friends, and many times will choose them over doing something with me. I used to be OK with that. But now I realize that each time we do something together, that time is precious. There is no way I can ever get that time back. I also look at Chase and feel sorry for him sometimes. He was the first child. The first one we tried to discipline. The first one who ever got in trouble and grounded. We simply didn't know what we were doing! I hope I didn't mess him up too much.

I haven't even touched on the girls yet. Carly and Cayleigh sometimes seem like they aren't growing older because they have an older brother. But soon Carly will be as tall as her mom, and Cayleigh is sprouting right up too. And the more they talk about boys, the more I remember where my shotgun is stored. All jokes aside, keep your sons away from my daughters.

I know every parent has the feelings of wanting your kids to stay young. Some days I wish they were grown and taking care of themselves. But then I remember all that I'd be missing. The hugs, the kisses, the wanting to snuggle up next to you with a blanket. Holding your hand when taking a walk, the little talks before bedtime. Soak it up parents. It'll all be gone way too soon.

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