Sunday, September 23, 2018

Stepping Into Autumn

Usually after a long, cold winter many people are thrilled when summer finally arrives; the warmer temperatures, the playful days at the beach, and the many colors of the green grass and beautiful flowers. I love the season of summer as much as the next person and enjoy getting a little color on my skin on a sunny day. But truth be told, by the time August rolls around and we've had 90 degree days for literally weeks I am ready for some cooler nights and the chance to wear a sweater.

I love to grow a variety of outdoor flowers and enjoy the vibrancy of the pinks and purples and yellows in my summer flower pots. My husband laughs at me because if I find a new ceramic pot or a see an annual on sale at a local store I can't help but adopt it and find a new home for it on my porch or patio. Then ... September arrives. Children go back to school, schedules change, my husband and I celebrate our anniversary, and then suddenly it's the end of the month and the leaves on the trees are starting to show their first signs of color changes; just a splash here and there of reds and yellows and oranges.

The cider mills are open, pumpkins are being picked in the fields, high school football games are being played on Friday nights, tailgating is taking place as college rival games are being played on Saturday afternoons, teenagers are getting dressed up and going to homecoming dances, and the temperatures are finally not quite as warm meaning I can finally throw on some jeans to cover my pale legs that have lost whatever tan they had from the summer.

Everyone in Michigan knows we have the best state because we get to enjoy four wonderfully different seasons; each of which has their own unique qualities. I like all four for their own reasons, but of the four autumn has to be my absolute favorite. Taking a Sunday afternoon drive in the country is like looking at a beautiful canvas created by God. Trees adorn a palette of fiery colors; crimson, oranges, and sunny yellows. The leaves blow off the trees and literally chase you down the road as your car drives by. It's breathtaking and peaceful and relaxing, all at the same time. Yep, it's definitely my favorite.

What's your favorite part of autumn? The cider and donuts? The walks in the park?

What special traditions have you created with your family and friends? Hayrides? Pumpkin picking? 

Tuesday, September 4, 2018

A Nostalgic First Day of School

Today Facebook has been flooded with 'first day of school' photos; at least in my neighborhood. I have a great nephew who started kindergarten this morning, as well as a friend's granddaughter. Aah, the memories of a first day. The first day of elementary school, the first day of junior high, the first day of high school or college, and the first day of a new year for a teacher. Life is all about making memories and first days.

It's wonderful to see the kids so excited about their first day; smiling faces, new backpacks and sneakers, a new lunch box. It's always good when it's a positive experience. Many will come home to tell their parents about their teacher and classroom or their new best friend. Hopefully they will all feel the same next week when they realize they need to keep going, lol.

There are lots of things to remember about the first day of school. My kids are grown now; adults and well past the age of K-12, but I still remember their first days. I also remember the trips to Target or Office Max for the needed school supplies and the dreaded TI-86 graphic calculators. Once they were in junior high or high school it seemed like they needed a new version of calculator every year. By the time they were in high school we had the school supply shopping down to a 'science' or an 'art' form, pardon the school puns.

As a parent who has survived 2 children going through their general education, as well as obtaining their college degrees I pray each day for the students, the parents, and the teachers. So much to learn, so much commitment, and so much responsibility ... for all of them. Education is a beautiful thing and something that should never be taken for granted. As I sit here typing out this blog post I am watching the season premiere of The Ellen Degeneres Show, where Walmart just shared their commitment to education by supporting 5 students currently pursuing their college degrees with $50,000 in scholarships each. OMG! How wonderful for those five students. Taking a little of the stress out of pursuing a better life. That is to be commended.

Here's to a new school year for everyone. May it be one of new experiences, learning new things, making friends, and being respectful of everyone.

If your children are past this 'first day' what are some of your favorite memories?

If you sent your children out the door this morning for their 'first day', how did it go?