My back-to-school memories are limited to the first few elementary years, mainly because I was homeschooled from 6th grade on. And the few years before that were spent on an oddly time school season since was living overseas.
But I distinctly remember my first day of first grade.
The New Jersey fall season was already in full bloom -- leaves were turning and the air was crisp, even at just past labor day. My next door neighbor and I anxiously awaited the school bus at the end of our cul-de-sac. Our hair was tidily styled, our clothes were pressed, and our shiny new lunchboxes were held firmly in our nervous grasps.
As we boarded the bus and searched for a seat, I remember the cool breeze blowing in from the slightly open windows. The bus was loud but it was muffled by the constant chatter of everyone on our bus. Being from a tightly knit neighborhood in a small town, we knew almost everyone on the bus and almost everyone in our classes. In fact, my first grade teacher lived in my neighborhood.
I was fortunate that my early elementary years were filled with wonderful experiences -- friendly kids, caring teachers, and a positive learning environment. There was still a level of innocence, not only from the kids, but from their parents. Technology was limited -- there were no big brand clothes, or shoes, or anything else to covet.
I'm not sure if my daughter will have the same experience, but I can hope that amidst all that has changed since 1981, she'll still be able to find the joys of back to school.
And remember them as vividly as I have.
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