This summer was every single thing I could have hoped for with my best girl. At first, I was a little overwhelmed at the thought of not being able to get into the school all summer. How would I set up my classroom? And what if I wanted to paint? And what about centers for next year? But, then it dawned on me, I should have a worry-free summer. And that, I did. I didn’t worry about not going to the classroom the entire month of June or July, and even a week or two of August. I could enjoy my summer without the slightest hint of guilt. After all, there truly wasn’t anything I could do to speed up construction.
Last Monday when I returned to school, to sit in meetings and learn about new techniques and strategies. My heart literally hurt. I don’t talk about my job too much, I don’t ever want it to sound like I’m not grateful for the opportunity to teach a classroom filled with precious children. And when the children come today and I am back in my element, the ache will subside, and I’ll think of all the fun BK must be having with her nanny at home. And when she returns to school, twice each week, I’ll recall the sheer joy and happiness I see in her face as she walks into her classroom and is greeted by her friends. She never looks back after she enters her classroom. She is in her element with her friends, social butterfly that she is.
And when it feels like my heart is literally in two different places, because some days are tougher than others. I’ll think of all the fun we had this summer.
I’ll think of lazy beach days.
I’ll think of jam-packed Disney days.
I’ll think of rainy-day craft days.
I’ll think of blistering hot snow cone days.
I’ll think of lunch-date and shopping days.
I’ll think of princess days.
And days full of silly faces and snuggles.
Of course, I’ll think of park days.
And days that call for extra long, middle of the day, naps.
And days that felt just right, days that made my heart soar.
And messy kitchen baking days.
And days full of adventure.
Because when my heart aches for the end of summer, I have so many things to look back on. I have the prospect of so much more to come.
This week will be the toughest.
But, I know I have so much more to be thankful for, that I am blessed beyond measure by this sweet life we live. I know that by the next week, we’ll be thriving in a new routine, and she’ll still be talking about Disney world and asking for a baby sister.
You are so lucky you get summers off 🙂
Thanks Megan, I think so too!
I too miss my cuties while I am at work. 🙁 It is harder some days, I think… Have a good school year!
I agree, CArrie. Some days are easier than others.
I will say a prayer for peace of mind! As a working mom, I know how you feel! If it makes you feel any better, my mom worked also.. and I don’t feel like I ever missed out on anything
It does 🙂 Thank you!
A few things….1) I hope you and your classroom full of new babies have a WONDERFUL first day. There’s something pretty exciting about a new school year. AND 2) You are a rockstar momma for juggling the demands of teaching and raising that sweet little girl! It’s not something everyone can do, but you do it so well. I will say a prayer for you both as you get back into the swing of things!
You’re so sweet! Thank you so much!
This is the first year I’m not going into my classroom on the first day of school. My heart aches a bit but I’m reminded of the wonderful opportunity I have to stay at home with my sweet boy. I hope you have a wonderful first week with your new kiddos!!
Thank you! It’s such a struggle. When I stayed home, I only thought about going back, now that I’m back, I wish I were home. I’m not sure there is a choice that feels 100% right, 100% of the time.
Praying for your first week back, sweet friend! You are a fantastic mom and a fantastic teacher. Praying for peace for you. Xoxo
Thank you so much, sweet friend!
This is so me!! I started back to school last week (Hoover City) too and my heart was burning and hurting when I had to leave my (almost 2 year old) son. I think about him and how much fun he is having and what I am missing. I love teaching and love my precious kids, but I miss him like crazy. Glad to know I am not the only one out there. Hope you have a great year!
Not at all the only one. Some days are easier than others, especially when you get back to a routine!
Summer always goes by too fast – I guess that is why I love it so much – I only get a “taste” of it! You did so many fun things this summer. Glad you’ll have all those memories to get you through the school year.
Thank you!! Summer does seem to fly by!
You wrote exactly what is on my mind today…first day back. I’m starting at a new school this year, my choice to change, but the heart ache is not only for my babies at home but my former “home” for that last 9 years. Starting over after the summer is always a little bittersweet.
That is tough! I hope you had a great first week back.
I hope you had a great first day!
Thank you!!
I always tell my mom teacher friends I don’t know how they do it. I am seriously praying that when we have kids that I can at least stay home the first year. Glad y’all had such a fun filled summer!
Yes! I stayed home for the first two years and I loved it. I actually missed teaching, though. Now that I’m back I feel the opposite. It’s such a struggle, either way.
Hope you’re having a great school year!