It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Have you seen the commercial where the dad skips down an office supply store behind his cart singing, "It's the most wonderful time of the year"? The kids of course are dragging behind, faces downcast. The first day of school felt like Christmas to me this year. Not that it was this joyous occasion, but just that it seemed it would never get here. But like every anticipated event, it arrived right on time.

Of course it goes without saying that I love my kids, I adore my kids, I would do anything for my kids. BUT they were tired of looking at my face and each other and my Camp Mama Bag of Summer Tricks was empty, with a capital EM. Nothing like some real bonenumbing boredom, paired with a little sibling rivalry and a lot of rain to make three kiddoes so happy to return to school - not that all of them admitted that, mind you.

The last couple of days have been filled with school supply gathering and labeling, lunch packing, first day outfit selecting and ironing, all the details that needed to be set straight so this morning would go smoothly for the kids. As I get older, I'm noticing the little details of life that point to the brilliance of God, Abba Father. He really thought of everything, didn't He, sorting out this world so that all would go well with us?! One example of his attention to detail is the seasons, the gradual transition in weather, schedule, life space. Each season has so much to offer - I'm not sure I could live in a place with two seasons instead of four. Last year I dreaded this time of year and was full of Mama angst and torment; this year I am filled with peace and excitement, knowing what great things are in store for my first, third and fifth grader. Yes, they are growing up, but it's good, it's right, it's what God desires for them and right now, in this season of their lives and mine, I can embrace that.

"There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven: Ecclesiastes 3:1