When Baby Birds Are Gone - A Mom's Reflection

picture of an empty nest with overlay when the baby birds are gone reflections at an empty nest — Pin for later!

This post aligns with Beyond the Tassel resources → [See more here]

The Realization…

My baby birds are gone.

After enjoying watching Mama & Papa feed their little ones and listening to the tiny chirps and their version of screams for food for days, they are gone.

This Carolina Wren couple returns every year and nest (though the corner they choose is always different – they come). They nest. They sing. They feed. And best of all, they let me watch. ❤️

But yesterday was different.

All day long, I waited for Mama to come and feed, but she never did. Finally, last evening, my son took a peek inside the nest and confirmed. They are gone.

Here’s the thing.

I knew this time would come.

After watching the scene play out year after year, I knew the time was close for them to fledge. And I was excitedly waiting. Last year, my daughter and I had the joy of participating in the actual moment, and I hoped we would be so privileged again.

But sadly, I missed it.

Even with all my anticipation and all of my waiting and watching out the window for the slightest sign.

I missed it.

I got busy.

Was it when I was on the treadmill early that morning that they left? Was it when I was washing the dishes or cooking? What was I doing that distracted me from the moment I had so anticipated?

This morning, I sit in my chair and gaze at the nest. It is oh so quiet compared to just a short day ago.

And Now That My Baby Birds Are Gone

And now my heart aches.

Not for baby birds.

But because I know, in my heart, my own “baby birds” are making their way to fledge. Every day, we are closer. I see the signs. I know it’s soon. But it’s not like it’s a day we mark on the calendar.

Of all the things I’ve done in my life. I never would have thought motherhood would be the one thing I believe with all my heart I got right. Not perfect. But I know, that I know, that I know, my best life has been the life I’ve lived as their mom.

And I don’t want it to end.

Oh, I know, I’ll always be their mom. I know that they will always need me in some way. But I also know I will ache in the silence as their version of screaming to be fed stops, and they FLY.

For now, I don’t want to miss a moment.

Not one!

Today, I’m reminded not to let the everyday distract me from moments of connection or opportunities I now have to nurture relationships deep. I don’t know how much time I have left. But with God’s help and grace, I’m not going to waste it.

Excuse me as I find my babies and hug them tight with all my might.

It’s oh sooo good to be a Mom!

Much Love Mamas!!