Back to School 2

The older 2 kids started school yesterday, a day behind the youngest one.

Grades 7 and 8...

I wish there was a little more "pomp and circumstance" around starting the school year. The big kids definitely weren't thrilled when I asked them "what outfit are you wearing?" 

They are going to wear clothing, they informed me. They did not need help, they said, and rolled their eyes.

Did they pack their water bottle? Snacks?

[Eyerolls from the big kids.]

They allowed me to snap their pictures in front of the house, backpacks on and ready to go. C and I walked them to the bus.

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The back-to-school night for the parents was last night. We followed the kids' schedules (husband did the 8th grader's and I did the 7th grader's) from class to class, met the teachers, checked out the classrooms.

We were warned that parking at the school was going to be a mad-house, so husband and I walked from our house, taking the shortcut through the woods (to avoid busy roads without sidewalks). It was slightly more challenging than I expected - we had to get over a stream via slippery rocks and find our way through tall grass without tripping on random roots and branches sticking out of the ground. Coming back - in the dark - was interesting, too (we did bring a flashlight).

The bad news: no swimming this year, again. (Why? They have a pool at their school! This makes no sense) 

The good news: most of the teachers were excited, organized, and prepared.

I am looking forward to watching the kids grow and learn this year...