Joanna Gaines Pens Emotional Tribute as Her Kids Head Back to College: ‘Holding on a Little Tighter’

Joanna Gaines is sharing words of wisdom for the many parents who are sending their kids off to college.

The Fixer Upper star, 48, shared a carousel of photos on Instagram Sunday, August 16, as she looked back on her own bittersweet experience of watching her children move on to the next level of their lives. Joanna and husband Chip Gaines‘ eldest son, Drake, 21, is heading back to college for his senior year, while their daughter Ella, 19, is starting her second year.

“Thinking of all the parents sending their kids off to college this season,” she captioned the series of photos. “I’ve been on that side of move-in day, so I know the wide range of emotions well.”

The images included packed suitcases at the bottom of the stairs and another of her family enjoying a warm embrace. “Holding on a little tighter before letting go,” the initial slide read alongside a photo of her hugging one of her children.

Joanna wrote over other pictures, “Feeling proud of who they’re becoming and wishing time would slow down,” adding that there was “nothing more fulfilling than watching your kids grow beyond you.”

The Magnolia co-founder and Chip also share Duke, 18, Emmie, 16, and Crew, 8.

Despite all the emotional reflection, the television personality ended her message on a positive note, writing, “There’s nothing more fulfilling than watching your kid grow beyond you – it’s one of the greatest gifts of being a parent.”

“May you find joy, comfort, and gratitude in the letting go. ❤️🙏🏼,” she added.