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Here We Go


We did it! Week one of back-to-school is under our belt and our second week has begun. It's amazing how quickly my kids (and myself really) were able to fall back into routine. I'm not sure if it's just the initial excitement of a fresh start, seeing their friends or they were getting bored with summer downtime, but I am just so proud of our kids for jumping back into the groove. I always joke that the excitement fades quickly and before I know it, we are back on the struggle bus. I anticipated a rough start with our Monday morning routine today, but much to my amazement, we had a positive start to the week!

This school year came with a new morning routine and family dynamic. With my husband's new fully remote job, I no longer have to drop off and pick up the kids from school anymore. This gives me a little extra time and less rush in the morning. It lightens my load up a bit, which I didn't realize how much I needed. I feel like I can soak up those breakfast conversations, slow down just a little and have a few extra moments to sip my morning coffee before taking on my work day. The kids had mixed feelings about riding the bus to school, but they are getting used to it. 

Their only bus complaint thus far? There was a kid who sat behind them the other day and ate a tunafish sandwich. "Mom it smelled so bad and you're NOT supposed to eat on the bus," Everly expressed with complete disgust. Honestly I can't say I blame them for being appalled. That boy's tunafish sandwich had marinated in his lunch box for the entire day. Being a little kid, I'm sure he didn't think anything of it. I reminded them that he didn't mean any harm, but maybe they could kindly remind him of the rule, so that he doesn't get in trouble. I reminded them that it's important to look out for the other children on the bus, especially those who are younger and trying to learn the ropes! For real though, gross! 😝

Another big change this year? Meals are no longer free. We are definitely going to be more selective in the days our kids eat lunch at school. Two school meals per day times three kids adds up quickly and I definitely don't want to pay for foods they won't eat. My momma heart prays for the families who truly benefited from the free meals over the last couple of years and that every child is taken care of in that regard. I am of the belief that school meals should always be free to students and their families. I realize that there are many factors that would go into this policy, but the idea of families struggling to pay for meals breaks my heart.

Within the first week of school, we were inundated with expenses....school photos, homecoming shirts and soccer registration; not to mention the giant grocery bill that comes with back to school, clothes, supplies, etc. This year, I decided to (be a rebel and) opt out of school pictures. We just had amazing family photos taken that included individual photos of our kids. Every year, school photos for all three kids combined costs around $90? And for what? I'm always very unhappy with the results. It felt really good to pass on that opportunity! I'm saving that $90 for something my family will enjoy! I'm not sure what that will be just yet, but a bit of advice? Don't feel obligated to purchase school photos. 

As I reflect on the last week, I can't help but feel hopeful and excited for what the new school year holds. I hope my kids find a renewed love of learning, discover new talents, ace that test, make new friends and leave a positive impact on those they cross paths with. There is also the emotional side of sending your kids to school. I pray every single day for a positive experience. I pray that they don't get their feelings hurt, feel rejection or feel inadequate in any way. I pray my phone doesn't ring from the principal's office telling me that my child is in trouble or has been in an altercation. I've been there far too many times. 

With every new school year comes the realization of just how quickly time is flying by and the reminder to soak up the milestones, little moments and experiences. It's a reminder to give yourself grace mommas. I say this in support of you, but also because I need to hear it myself. It's okay if you aren't "extra." It's okay if you don't post every moment to your social media. It's okay to mess up, take ownership and try again. It's okay if you drop the ball, because you will at some point. What matters most is the accountability you take and the example that is set for your own kids. No matter what happens, you are doing a great job. The love and support felt by your kids is the most important thing. 

So here we go! 6th grade and 2nd grade bound! 


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