As Joanna Gaines sends her second child off to college this week, she’s found herself reflecting on just how quickly time flies—something that every parent can resonate with. In her heartfelt Instagram post, she captured the bittersweet feelings of an “emptying nest,” striking a chord with anyone who has watched their little ones grow up.
Joanna’s two oldest children, Drake and Ella, are embarking on new chapters in their lives; Drake is heading into his third year of college, while Ella is just starting her journey as a college freshman. Even though she still has three children at home—Duke, Emmy Kay, and Crew—she can’t help but feel the weight of this transition. It’s a touching reminder that her role as a mom is ever-changing.
In her post, Joanna shared, “They told me it would go by quicker than I think. That the days are slow, but the years are fast. And darn it if they were right.” Those words resonate deeply for any parent who has tried to savor those fleeting moments, only to find that the seasons of childhood slip through their fingers like sand.
She goes on to beautifully express her internal struggle: “This season already feels like one big, breathless surrender. Lord, how do I hold them close while also letting go?” Joanna’s vulnerability shows us that, even for a public figure like her, parenting is a journey filled with conflicting emotions and tough decisions.
With her wisdom, she reminds us that while her children were “made for each other,” they also have the potential to soar beyond the walls of their home. They are destined for experiences, knowledge, and growth that go far beyond what any parent can provide. This thought isn’t just comforting; it’s a powerful affirmation of the purpose of parenting: to prepare our kids to thrive on their own.
In a heartfelt conclusion, she reached out to fellow parents juggling similar feelings: “To all the parents packing up and moving kids to new places, and to all those with years still to spare: hold them close, hold them well, and let’s all lean on each other when the time comes to hold it together.” It’s a reminder that we are all in this together.
Joanna also captured the essence of family in a video showcasing a cozy dinner filled with laughter, brick oven pizzas, and warm memories—theirs is a bright, loving household filled with little moments that matter. Adding the song “Landslide” to the video was her way of capturing the emotional gravity of this milestone; it’s as if she was gently twisting that knife of nostalgia, encouraging us all to really reflect on our loved ones.
This isn’t the first time Joanna has opened up about her children growing up. Back in the Fall 2022 issue of *Magnolia Journal*, she expressed, “Soon, our oldest son, Drake, will be leaving home for college. In the grand scheme of heartbreaking things, this one comes with a lot of gratitude and excitement. But still, my first child is moving away, and our family dynamic will change because of it, and that can feel like a loss of its own.”
As summer gives way to fall, many parents are experiencing similar transitions. Whether it’s sending kids off to daycare, school, or college, each step feels heavy yet transformative. It often feels cheesy, but those moments are precious—truly, it all goes by so quickly.
So while you’re packing lunches or getting the last-minute items together for that big move, remember to pause and cherish every laugh, hug, and late-night chat. These moments shape the fabric of our family and give us memories to hold onto as life evolves. Navigating these changes isn’t easy, but it’s a journey we all share—one filled with love, growth, and the bittersweet blend of letting go.
Image Source: Joanna Gaines @ Instagram
