Back to School Jitters—Mama Style

It’s back-to-school season. Hot, breezy days grow shorter. Jars of fruit preserves, apple sauce, and green beans line basement shelves. Sweet corn freezes hard in quart bags.

Summer wanes, autumn approaches. I love this time of year, yet there is an element to it that makes me wish for June again.

It’s not the impending harshness of winter that dampens my enthusiasm. I enjoy each season as a refreshing break from the previous one. My hesitation comes from a mother’s heart …

… for this is the time when many of us begin kissing our children goodbye in the early morning, not to greet them again until mid-afternoon.

It is back-to-school time.

Back to School for Parents

Often we discuss how to help our children adjust to school days. Today, though, I’m offering a different look at transitioning: this time from a parent’s point-of-view.

Every August since 1999, when my oldest began kindergarten, I’ve felt the back-to-school jitters. Wishing I could be a fly on the wall of their classrooms, I’d pray for understanding teachers, supportive Christian friends, and a willingness to learn on my children’s part. … And that I’d get through the first few days without melting in a sea of tears or wandering aimlessly until we were together again.

It isn’t that I don’t have activities to occupy my time. There is plenty to do. But I want to be there to protect and support them, and nothing seems as enjoyable or meaningful without my children around. I miss them when they are gone. Plain and simple.

Today I’m honored to be guest posting about mama-style back-to-school jitters at Karen Lembo’s blog, Living Above the Laundry Pile. Click here to come on over and read the rest of the story.

Also linking this post to the Faith Barista for her Thursday Faith Jam: