At this time of year, you will often find me in reflective mood. In a few days time I will drive away from school on the first day of term, with the rain lashing down onto the windscreen no doubt, thinking about endings and beginnings.
The summer is ending and the new term will begin. I will reminisce about our recent happy holiday and wish we were still there, on the beach. As a mother, there is nothing more heartwarming than seeing your children having fun. Laughing, running, playing and exploring as mine did on our Scottish retreat. I think, I hope, they had the carefree summer I really wanted them to have.
I used to have this notion that I must take them to new places and keep them busy in order to make them happy.
But I only have to remember my own childhood to realise that fancy holidays and trips to the zoo are surplus to requirements when it comes to contentment. Just pottering around at home with mum was enough for me. I even didn’t mind going shopping, although I do recall having a particular aversion to Marks and Spencer for a number of years. I think it was the stern-looking shop assistants that got to me, not to mention the swirly carpet. Anyway, I digress.
What I am trying to say is that September is not just about being sad that the holidays are over. It is about new beginnings too. Your child might be joining a new class, a new school, a new nursery. It could be that your young adult is starting college or has even fled the nest and gone to university. Big hugs for whoever has to contend with such emotional upheaval right now!
But it’s not just about a new start for your child, it’s a new start for you as their parent. Maybe it’s time you thought about doing something for yourself.
Have you long been harbouring a secret desire to learn the ukulele? Or join a choir? Does Flamenco dancing float your boat? Now is your time to shine.
Maybe you fancy yourself an interior designer and want to overhaul your home? We can certainly help you with that! Let’s start with the children’s bedrooms…
Whatever it is you decide to do, I hope you find fulfillment in your newly discovered talents.
I raise my cuppa. To new beginnings. And perfect endings.
Have a lovely bank holiday weekend to complete your summer in style!