Growing up.

As Bachelor Nation fans know, Michael Allio is a father to son James, and during his time on “The Bachelorette” and “Bachelor in Paradise,” Michael was open about how important his son is to him.

Michael frequently shares sweet moments with James on social media, and he recently took to Instagram to reflect on James starting first grade.

Alongside photos from James’ first day of school, Michael wrote, “Happy first day of first grade buddy. I’m sitting in my car staring at the screen, paralyzed by mixed emotions… trying to compute what I had just witnessed. I type then delete… type and delete… no that’s not right. Let’s try this… I fell in love with this version of you… a kindergartener, a boy that reaches for my hand in a public parking lot, a child that finds humor in everything… a son that uses every excuse to sit on my lap.”

The dad continued on, saying, “The lows, the laughter, the ups and the downs… as exhausting as they were… they were ours and I loved every minute of it. The first day of school hits me harder than birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays because as a parent, I recognize the beauty and the pain of growth… the finality of time and the uncomfortable yet undeniable truth that I must say goodbye to this version of you… a version that I so deeply love.”

Michael shared that while he’s emotional, he’s not sad but appreciative.

He wrote, “This is not a sad story… it’s one of appreciation. Although it will look different, I know that I will love the new version of you even more. It is a privilege to walk this road with you… know with certainty that I take nothing for granted… for as long as I’m here… my greatest joy will forever be being your Dad. I’ve come to accept and appreciate the seasons of change and know that when something ends something unique and beautiful grows in its place. It doesn’t mean it hurts any less, because believe me… it does.”

Michael added, “It just means that I didn’t lose track of time with you… that I was always watching the clock. I guess it’s one of the few benefits of grief. It reminds me to love fiercely despite knowing all that it costs… and to live in the moment because sadly we cannot go back.”

The Bachelor Nation star concluded his post sharing how proud he is of his son and how he will always be there for him as he grows up.

We’re not crying, you’re crying!