After an eventful summer of warmth, fun and exploration, I look forward to the starting of school, both as a teacher and now as a mother as well. The first week is often exciting and unsettling, with unknowns about class composition, teachers and what's to come for the year. For me, this is a time of new beginnings. Much more so than New Year's Day in January.
There is a comfort in routines that have been carved out: walking that familiar path to the school, some dandelions picked on the way, saying hello to friends, kids running for a quick climb on the monkeybars and teachers opening their doors. It's that community feel.
As we're into September, I see for myself three roles, separate, yet interconnected: teacher, School-parent and Mom-at-home.
As a parent, I drop off the lovely, blossoming young girl, who I still remember so clearly holding as a tiny newborn in my arms. Trusting that God's good Spirit is with her through the longer day of grade one. Then picking her up to listen and share the joys and trials of her time at school.
As a mom, I do my best to create a warm and peaceful home with lots of love, laughs, discovery and growth.
As a teacher I hope to inspire the hearts of my students and work with parents to build a positive community of learners.
And I guess, there's a part of me that's still like a child, hoping and wishing, that the little efforts that we make, the will and the work, can have an impact on our world.
The ice photos were inspired by Myles' huge fascination with the ice in my drinking glass. I got him a large bowl of ice to touch, squeeze and swish. Megan joined in too, both with hands and then with feet!
Happy September to you!!
