MY MOM TEXTED ME THE OTHER NIGHT to tell me that yet another high school classmate of mine was engaged — the second in one week. Initially I was astonished by the news, but it should come as no surprise. Both ladies have been with their guys for well over two years and are wrapping up their college years, stabilizing their lives and determining where they’re going from where they’re at. Of course they want their partner with them forever! I am incredibly happy for them in every way.
I forget that we’re 23, and not 17 anymore. These were the girls I used to wreak harmless havoc on the town with, play tennis with, and went through the growing pains of acne and junior high History classes with. We’d run the halls and play with our food at lunch! My mind is saying, “NO! NO! Not yet! Stay young forever!” but there’s no stopping time. Their next stage is not driving their rusty Oldsmobiles and Buicks down Broadway with their eight best friends squished in the seats, but looking ahead to more adulty things.
I know I write a lot about the strains of growing up — and trying to grasp that I’m growing up — but it’s constantly on my mind. My memory is sewn together by flashbacks of everything, and I’ve been deeply affected by particular people, places, and moments that only seem necessary to reminisce. It’s difficult for me to live in the “now” because of my love and longing for the past. I don’t know if I felt happier or if the world felt safer at five, twelve, or seventeen — but I always miss the days. My friends’ engagements reinforced the fact that life is unfolding each day.
At this point in time, I find it difficult to “make moments.” With a life is so saturated in school, friends and family in other cities, a boyfriend 1800 miles away, and the consistent stresses I put on myself to succeed, it’s so easy for me to feel totally lost. School and a long distance relationship are two of the greatest, most difficult undertakings, and I’m in the midst of both. I feel lagged. When does my interest in cookware and Martha Stewart kick in? Should it have by now? And why do I feel so behind in the adult game?
I can only compare these days to my junior high track career: Starting a race in the outside lane, running hard, and finishing in sixth place…
How does one alleviate this hurried feeling?
approximatelyes.com 
1. I had to reread the line “my mom texted”…way to go, Trace!
2. The cookware / Martha Stewart phase didn't kick in until I started registering for wedding gifts. It's addicting to scan a bunch of cool stuff that people gift to you, and then you have cool stuff to be all domesticated with.
Nothing beats “the good ol' days”, but you seem to do a good job of making the most of “now”!
Erin
Live in the moment, focus on your current task, don't worry about things you can't immediately change, immerse yourself in love and work, keep trying and enjoy life.
The pace of your life isn't dictated by the pace of other lives.
-Eric