This time of year is such a transition and it always brings about mixed emotions. I am so very sad to see the easygoing days of summer come to an end but I also feel the exciting pull of the start of a new school year. I feel sad looking back on how we have put another summer under our belts and the kids have, once again, grown taller and more independent.
Summers past are like landmarks, familiar places I can look back on and see how far we have come. At the beginning of summer I feel it long and endless in front of me but, in a flash it is gone and I find myself wondering where the time went. The end of each summer reminds me of the passage of time and has me somewhat melancholy reminiscing of days gone by when motherhood was new and my babies were just that.
A summer past.
“The days are long but the years are short.”
This was said to me by a wise mom in the early sleepless days of motherhood. I could not relate but now it is one of my favourite phrases to reflect on at this time of year. So very true indeed.
But at the same time as there is melancholy there is excitement for what is new. My son starts middle school this year and my daughter will be venturing out without the safety net of her big brother, free to be who she is all on her own. I am the mom of “Big Kids” now. No longer fussing over the details of their little lives.
This summer.
So, at this time of year I look back and remember. It is the end. But I also look forward with anticipation of a new beginning.
What about you? Are you eager to get your kids back to school or sad to see the summer go?