Time to capture every moment

It's finally here: graduation. It’s an event you’ve anticipated with joy and dreaded with grief.

Fellow parent--you're about to feel all the feelings. Your teen will be feeling them, too.

Graduation month is wonderful. And sad. And full of hope. And maybe a teensy dose of despair. In other words, May is intense. So in addition to the three things to do, below, I want to add one more thing: rest. Look for moments throughout the month to sneak away, take a deep breath, and turn your heart to God. Invite him to meet you right where you are, even if it's locked in the bathroom for 90 seconds at your teen's graduation party. Let him fill you with peace, joy, and comfort this month. And then soak it all in.

Related: 13 Signs Your Kid is Graduating from High School and You’re Totally Losing It

3 Ideas for Graduation Season

A memory to capture: ALL OF IT.

There's no way I could pick one memory for you to capture in May. Between ceremonies, parties, and events, you'll have plenty on your hands. And speaking of events, don't miss anything. Black out your schedule for the month and make every little event a Big Deal. Because it is a big deal--to you and your teen. Charge your phone, pack Kleenex in your purse, and have fun.

A conversation to have: Ask your teen, "What are your top three favorite memories during high school and why?"

Your teen (yes, even the boys) will be sentimental, which is why it's a great time to reminisce about favorite high school memories. Share a walk down memory lane by highlighting the best moments from the past four years. Make your own list, too. You invested a lot in the past four years; take time to enjoy the memories!

An exercise to let go: Write a heartfelt letter (or film a video) to your son/daughter about what you've witnessed in their life journey, including accomplishments, challenges, gifts, and talents.

Confession: you may feel like your guts are in knots when you write this. You’ll need a box of Kleenex. But don't skip this step. This is your chance to share how proud you are of them, and to affirm God's purpose for them. Include a life Scripture if you have one. When you're done, seal it with a prayer of thanks for the past and hope for the future. Then release the letter--and your teen--into his hands.

Parting parenting inspiration:

Romans 8:28:

"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them."