I can easily recall holding baby Branden in my arms, snuggling with him in the wee hours of the morning and thinking that he will never grow up. Then, Monday – we had a 9 hour car ride home from Ohio where we visited my sister and her family and I was in the backseat next to him, marveling at how much he has grown. This week is the big one, as he’s being sent off to second grade on a big yellow school bus for the first time, and as much as I have been ready for back to school, I’m relishing these last few summer moments.
In all honesty, we have had an amazing summer and are traveling one last time this upcoming weekend. We have had SO many past summers where we did staycations because of too busy schedules, but this year – we ROCKED summer. Now that it’s coming to an end for us this week, I’m trying to digest that I will have a second grader in my house!
Second grade means that we officially have a “big kid” on our hands.
No more “little guy” in our home anymore. Second grade means that B is turning into a big kid and that’s just something that I will have to mourn as a Mama.
Second grade means that I can get back to my “normal” routine.
The start of a new school year always means a lot for me in my day to day, as I am essentially kid-free during school hours. I can get back to early morning runs, more writing and pitching to companies, more growing my businesses, and overall – more “me” time. I’m excited for that because this balance is what keeps our family going. There is nothing more invigorating then being apart all day and coming home together in the evening with exciting stories to tell and experiences to share.
Second grade means more independence.
My little guy would happily play and entertain himself all day. And while it’s great to be able to get things done, sometimes I miss the constant need to entertain. Gone are the days of me sitting on a blanket on the floor with him for tummy time or entertaining him in his jumparoo. Nope, independence means just that. While we do our fair share of family activities and game nights, he’s happy to become his own person with his own interests, and that’s just fine with me.
Second grade means that 7 is on the way.
Branden’s birthday is on September 27th, so the start of a new school year always means that he’s approaching the one year older mark, and it’s scary. I think it’s mostly scary for selfish reasons though. I don’t want him to grow up, and I don’t want to get older myself (my birthday is the following month). But with a new year comes new opportunities for growth, experiences, and important life moments – and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.
Any other Mamas out there feel my pain? How are you handling your kids growing up?
Fashionably Yours,
Allison
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