Ah yes! The smell of new backpacks and crisp notebooks fill the air, while the sighs of the tortured youngsters forced to trod the linoleum halls of learning create its own breeze to ruffle newly shorn hair. Yes, it is that time again. That time when parents try hard to restrain their mad grins of relief while breaking out into random happy dances. School’s in and my Prankster Duo is not amused. I, however, am.
Let’s face it, as much as I love having my two little troublemakers home, by the time the school opens, I’ve got them, packed, pressed and pushed out the door to the bus stop. The sound of the bell marks the beginning of my ability to reclaim an actual routine. Which for my little OCD heart is almost (I said-almost) as good as a chocolate. While my darlings are busy learning new concepts, I somehow manage to juggle the job-that-pays-the-bills and my writing much more effectively. Perhaps it’s the fact I don’t have to stop for feeding time, referee the hotly debated questions of computer usage/Nerf ownership, or find myself scheduling appointments that I’ve put off all year because it may interfere with class schedules. Whatever it is, the start of their school marks the start of my more effective use of time.
My oldest started his journey into Junior High last week. We had prepared, as many do, for this adventure. We’ve discussed choosing your associates wisely, maintaining your shield and swords, and the importance of completing any mission given you. So far, so good. He’s proven he actually heard all those bits and pieces the Knight and I have given him, even if it didn’t seem like he was listening. It’s strangely wonderous.
The youngest is off on his adventure this week. Unlike his older counterpart, he’s quite excited to be rejoining old friends. Not like Mr. Social Butterfly hasn’t been out of touch during these summer months (I wonder if there is a Skype addiction program out there?). Yet as this is the first year in a while where my Duo will be split, I think their excited about taking their own paths, knowing, if they need the other, all they have to do is ask.
So although I spent the first week of the oldest one’s entry into middle school world choking back my worries and concerns, I’m finding I’m relaxing bit by bit as he begins his journey and discovers how strong he really can be and unknowingly setting a very awesome example for his brother. As my youngest begins his trip, I take comfort in the fact that his witty humor and inquisitive mind will keep his teachers on his toes, instead of just me!
