We often think about January being the start of the new year, but for me September has always been a fresh start to the year. Being a teacher, Autumn has always been a new start and time to think about changes that can be made. Usually we’ve said goodbye in July for the summer and then spent family time enjoying summer fun. This year has not been so straight forward. With lockdown and working from home with my toddler it’s all blended into one busy, hectic and uncertain time. Despite the uncertainty that still surrounds us, I’m determined to make sure this Autumn is the usual reboot for both me and my family.
I remember growing up the excitement of the new school year starting. Organising a new pencil case, making sure the uniform was all ready and organised to go, imagining all the new learning and opportunities the next school year would bring. I’m not ashamed to say I am still the exact same. I love the preparations a new school year can bring, it holds all the hope and anticipation of a January new year but without the exhaustion and of a manic festive Christmas just days before.
As I prepare for the new school year and prepare my little one for a change in room at nursery I can’t help but think about the past few months. I’ve been so lucky to spend so much more time with my little one during the past five months and wholeheartedly appreciate every second. We’ve not spent so much time together since I was on maternity leave and while it’s been a challenge balancing working at home and the local restrictions it’s still been a blessing to be together. Of course it’s only natural to feel anxious and apprehensive about changes and I know I am going to find it hard to leave him everyday.
It’s in my nature to make lists and plan for things in my head. I just love a fresh start. We’ve just started to get back into a routine of childcare and set bedtime, as hard as that is right now I know it will make things easier in a week or two. Things naturally fall into place and I have no doubts that within a month, the summer will feel like a distant memory. So here’s to a new start, a fresh season offering time to reset and renew. Let’s take time to reflect on the past few months and realise the changes we’d like to put in place for this next chapter of the year. Lunchboxes, name labels and diaries at the ready, it’s never a wrong time to make a fresh start
Being Mum, Being Me 