Summer's End . . . Sophomore Begins

August ushers in school prep.  Teachers prepare their classrooms, Back to School commercials are in every time slot and box stores fill their aisles with school supplies. 

Here, at the end of the parade of summer months we are all ready to go back to school.The excitement of free days and endless summer activities has worn off or melted in the heat. 

This parade is familiar to me but I do not join in. . . not this year.

This is our first college summer; so much different than the 'at home' years.  Colleges release weeks earlier, summer terms have their own schedule and prepping for the next year includes a road trip, hauling a full room of belongings and another good-bye.

The wisdom of Empty Nest veterans was realized by March.  As a couple, by Spring Break, we found a new rhythm; as did our student.  He enjoys the freedom of his own space and schedule as do we.  He came home for half the summer, for me, and I appreciate that more than he will know (until he experiences it with his own children.)

I have friends experiencing the Freshman firsts and although sharing is an attempt to alleviate their fears and anxieties it is a road they must travel in order to claim their own peace; their personal assurances. 

The August prep days are slipping from my periphery as my life changes stations and my concerns and efforts move elsewhere.  The next three years I expect to look similar to this other than summers spent on internships, away from home which is as it should be.  I have been prepared; I am being prepared; I will look forward to the opportunities D. and I will have on those hot, sultry, summer days to come.

We are not yet Empty Nest veterans but I can definately see the road ahead.


Pictures from:
orlandosbestdeals.com
uclafacultyassociation.blogspot.com