Remember all of that Summer lovin’ I was celebrating a while back . I am now living off of those fumes.
We are now a month into the school year, and that means it’s definitely back to reality here in the Gagnon house.
School is going great for my kids, don’t get me wrong. All four of my kids are loving their teachers and classes, and not one of them is complaining about going to school. But it’s the pace that we are all re-adjusting to. Some days, I am not sure where my stamina went.
With the school year comes work. Homework, projects, reports, required reading. With the school year, mornings start earlier, nights end earlier, and baths are frequent and necessary (oh how I miss the quick post-beach shampoo and rinse). With the school year, hair should be combed, shirts should be tucked in, and sweaters must be remembered on Friday Mass days. With the school year, lunches are packed (or ordered), water bottles are filled, and prayers are memorized. With the school year, there is routine.
After-school activities are also now in full swing. With our four kids, we have a combination of three soccer practices, three soccer games, one swim practice, three choir practices, and one cub scout meeting every week. These activities are so good for our kids. The exercise, being part of a team, being outside, and learning new skills are all so life-giving for them. But the scheduling and shuttling is a little nutty at times.
So, as we all re-acclimate to the reality of this school year, let’s agree to give ourselves a bit of a break as we find our groove. If you need to, channel those carefree days of summer to put it all into perspective. The year has slower times and faster times, all of which give perspective and help to inform our ability to handle ups and downs as they come our way.
