We are currently experiencing our first episode of "false fall" here in the southeastern United States. We know it doesn't stay cool here in mid-August, but we are all in bliss anyway. I've even noticed the sunshine has that golden autumn glow, dappling the ground through a canopy of trees. The zinnias in our garden seem brighter in hue, less blanched by the sun somehow. These little bursts of autumn really fuel our back-to-school resolve. We have so many traditions in place that the children are extremely excited for their first day back. We try to keep the joy as palpable as possible over here. Give these children a reason for festivities, and you've got yourself a cooperative little Seal Team 6, absolutely ready to acquire the target of goodies and prizes. Perhaps you are looking for some back-to-school festivities of your own? Nestle in with your coffee, and join me in planning!
SPECIAL BREAKFAST
The children bring this tradition up first when telling anyone else about the first day of school. We always pile in the car, still in pajamas, and drive to the donut shop nearby. We hit the drive-thru and I order everyone's requested donuts with a fancy coffee for myself. When we arrive back home, I usually whip up some eggs and beef bacon or turkey sausage. Enjoy your breakfast together!
PRAYER
Not only do we pray for our own school year, we also pray for the safety and protection of all the schools in our city. Oftentimes, we pray for these schools as we drive to and from the donut shop.
PHOTO SHOOT
We take photos on the first day of school every year. This year, half of the kids were in pajamas. No regrets.
WATCHING THE BUSES PASS
The kids were happily playing, but I watched the school buses laden with children pass. I almost cried. I'm so grateful my children are with me.
BACK TO SCHOOL BASKETS
Waiting on our school table was a pile for each child. Their new books, any supplies we needed, and some little extras like word find books, watercolor paper, stickers, or little craft kits. Next year, I may add a new set of school clothes (read: pajamas). These baskets are the all-time favorite. Kids love anything that feels like a gift!
PICNIC LUNCH
Why not hit your town's coolest park, zoo, or museum? After, find a shady spot for a picnic together. Get used to it- your homeschool days make room for much more family fun than traditional school settings.
AFTERNOON GAMES
Time for some popcorn, lemonade, and your family's favorite board games. Break out Monopoly. You aren't in a hurry!
HOMESCHOOL BIRTHDAY
Next year, I've decided we are going to have a homeschool birthday. The first day of school is our homeschool's birthday every year, and we will celebrate with cake and ice-cream after dinner!
SIMPLE DINNERS
While this will be a fun week, it's also a week full of new schedules, new expectations, new information, and new goals. It is not a week for new recipes. I repeat: THIS IS NOT A WEEK FOR NEW RECIPES! We always have homemade pizza for dinner on our first day of school. Everyone is happy. There are no complaints. The goal is a familiar favorite that everyone can happily tuck into. Go ahead and plan on easy, favorite dinners for the first few weeks of school. Be generous with yourself and your family as you find your footing.
I hope you enjoy your new school year, friends!
Shalom, Shalom,
Rachel
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