God's Back to School List

It is getting to be that time of year. Almost a month ago Back to School sales were starting. I laughed their way as we languished in the month of vacation before us. Now, I'm not laughing.
As a kid, I never really liked school. Maybe it was because I had undiagnosed ADD. Maybe it's because when Spring came around I really wanted to be outside. (I mean, let's face it, we'd been hibernating all winter except for the occasional sledding activity.) And maybe it was because swimming was one of the best things ever. I dunno. I just know when school approached, I felt like I had hives.
My husband was nice enough to get the school supplies. He's very good at looking for what we have left over from last year and surmising what we really need for this year. And, I am very appreciative. Plus he understands that Back to School shopping makes me crabby and nauseous.
Everything is labeled now. Yes, I was able to bring myself to do that job. Soon we'll go for registration. Our oldest is up for another year in high school and our youngest is back at our dependable elementary building. But, our middle is headed to the middle. Middle school to be exact.
I'm sure things will go fine. Said middle child doesn't seem too uptight. In fact, when I asked how said child felt about moving on I received a shrug and a grunt. I told my husband this translates into, "I have to spend three years in this flippin' place".
As I said, I'm sure things will go fine for our middle one. But, I am swallowing back tears as I post this. It isn't because yet another "baby" is growing up. I'm just worried. Aren't I entitled? But I don't get it. High school for our oldest didn't bother me. It seemed time to move on. However, our oldest has always been independant. Not that our middle isn't; just not as vocal about it. More sighs, less "I can do it myself, my way". I'm learning to listen to the sighs more and back off. OK-it's a slow process but a sure one.
I think too I really like having my kids home. I miss them when they go back even on the days when I think I won't. This is when having God to reach out to really is comforting. I even get down on my knees so He knows I mean business. You know, in case He was wondering or something. I ask for protection for my kids and the blessings of a good year full of good friends and patient teachers. Then, I start bawling uncontrollably asking for courage and control for myself. I'm also reminded that my kids are really God's kids. He's blessed me with them and I'm trying really hard not to mess them up.
Do you ever wonder what's on God's back to school list? I imagine He hopes all His children will trust in Him to bless them with an awesome year!
Welcome back to school everyone! Whether it be elementary, middle, high or college-Welcome back!