While others dread the ending of Summer; I have always loved the familiarity and the possibility that those cooler temperatures bring. It’s more than apples, pumpkins, and a wardrobe change. It’s the essence of nostalgia. It’s a chance to start fresh with structure and grace.
As a child, the new school year always made me a bit giddy, anxious, and excited. I loved going school supply shopping with my dad; and clothes shopping with my mom.
Memories were made in the preparation of a new school year.
Memories were made in the change of season… in the change of structure… in the change of me.
I missed that feeling so much when I was finished every level of school, that I eventually became a teacher. Every new school year was so exciting. The new faces I was going to watch progress. The new prospects and beginnings. All of it just felt right. Eventually, I decided to stay home when I became a mother, but that nostalgic aroma still invaded my senses every Fall.
Last year when my oldest started Kindergarten, it was such a bittersweet emotion. I felt overwhelmed with excitement for this new chapter in his life, but I also had that same anxiety I felt as a child. “Is he going to fit in okay? Will he fall asleep in the middle of instruction because he still likes naps? Will he be kind? Will he be happy? Will he love school like I did? Or will he struggle?” Thankfully, school was exactly what he needed.
The structure helped with his own anxiety.
The socialization helped him with basic skills in empathy.
The teacher taught him to respect and understand other authoritative figures other than my husband and I.
This year just feels different. It’s empty. There’s this bout of sadness surrounding the circumstances of the new school year. I am trying my hardest to make this school year as special as I can with the cards I have been dealt.. but if I’m being honest, it’s just different.
There really isn’t a right answer regarding the upcoming school year. The only right answer is the one that is closest to that nostalgic feeling… The one that fits your heart and your family just right. Or at least the “next best thing” as Anna from Frozen 2 would say.
If you too are searching for that feeling… That reminder of normalcy as the weather changes, the leaves fall, and endless possibilities of a new beginning…
YOU are NOT alone in your search. I hope we find it.
Mommy Dignen Diaries - Holly Dignen 