It’s two days before school begins and I’m watching my boys and their friends swim in our pool. As usual, there’s lots of competition and shouting as everyone tries to tag each other in the game of Alligator. I’ve had my fair share of hearing, “You’re it!” and, “Let’s use the boogie boards!”. Funny thing is, I’m going to miss it. Yes - the kids drive me crazy and I hide in my closet to get away from them sometimes, but I’m suffering from the Back to School Blues. I suspect I’m not alone when I say I feel that summer simply flew by. As I drove out of the Target parking lot this morning - my car filled with “back to school” items, I couldn’t help but be a bit sad. I’m not ready to make lunches every day, try to find matching “Elite” socks and figure out how to help with math homework that is over my head most of the time. I could use more unstructured days, seeing kids riding their bikes, enjoying the smells of someone cooking their dinner on the grill, and listening to the crickets as I swing on my hammock. Instead, the new, school clothes are hanging in the closet, shiny sneakers are waiting to be worn, matching backpacks and lunchboxes are ready to be filled and fresh haircuts will be hitting the pillows tonight.
The good news however, is that today I get to enjoy an evening out with some friends. A nice dinner, a drink and discussions about the school year will undoubtedly be on the menu. It’s my chance to be reminded that we Moms are all in this together - gearing up for another school season and all the craziness that accompanies it. For those of you whose children have already begun school - I hope the transition from summer to serious has gone smoothly and for those of you who will rally at the bus stop later this week - I wish everyone, a peaceful, safe, healthy and happy school year!
