why back-to-school is always bittersweet

Why I love back-to-school time:

1. New teachers, new notebooks, and new beginnings

2. School supply shopping is a way to rationalize my office supply addiction

3. Fall festivals, pumpkin-scented candles, and autumn wreaths (and some cooler weather, PLEASE)

4. Uniforms, glorious uniforms! All I have to do is keep track of TOMS and sneakers – everything else is done!

5. As a professor, I still keep time on the semester calendar. Fall marks the beginning of the new year and new possibilities. Happy New Year!

Why I'm sad to see the summer go:

1. Sleeping late. We'll all be tired and grumpy this week.

2. Packing lunches (although I LOVE writing notes on the napkins)

3. I need to hire someone from FedEX to manage logistics and supplies (soccer for him, soccer for her, school, yearbook, piano, cleats, shin guards, music books, backpacks, lunch boxes, school IDs, etc.)

4. The lazy rhythm of leisurely breakfasts, daily swims, and late dinners 

5. Homework.

The best and worst of back to school is the powerful reminder of time. They are growing up and a new grade is a non-negotiable reminder of the fleeting nature of childhood. As they face the new school year with great excitement and an irrepressible sense of hope, I stand reminded. And so very grateful.  

2005

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Yesterday, after Ellen's first day of 7th grade and Charlie's first day of kindergarten.