It is Sunday. I sit here, torn between relief and sadness. Haven’t I waited for this all summer? Why am I feeling sad?

Tomorrow is “back-to-school” day. There have been moments over the last couple of months that I couldn’t wait for this day. There have been moments when I was certain I wouldn’t survive with my sanity until this day came. I have had days where it seemed my kids could do nothing but argue and fuss at each other, or create a disaster in their rooms. And there have been days when my patience has been tested, and I have often failed that test profoundly.

For every one of those days, there have been twice as many of the other type of days. I love those summer days when time seems to stand still, laughter flows, and beautiful memories are made. We have spent many a night in competition (and some blatant cheating) in our Family Game Nights. We have camped and had adventures in the forest. We have tried new places and visited old favorites. We have spent time with family and friends, and made lots of new friends along the way. Our schedules, that are usually so hectic, have been more relaxed and there has been more time for movie nights or reading.

It is a new season. I am glad to see them pack up their backpacks and head off tomorrow…two to a new school, and the other to his first experience of high school. I am excited for them, and the changes this new year will bring. But I am also a little melancholy for the lazy summer days, the lack of stringent schedule, and the freedom that comes in the summertime. Already, our calendars are filling up, and it will get worse before it gets better.

I know my mama heart is not the only one that feels these conflicting emotions. I know there are many of you who recognize yourself in my words. We have enjoyed our summer season. But God is leading us into a new season… one in which He has blessings and abundance around every corner when we keep our eyes focused on Him.

I’m driving my kids to school tomorrow. I am going to hug them and wish them a beautiful day. Then I will drive away, leaving them in the hands of my Savior, who I know without a doubt loves them more than I ever could, and watches over them…and me…in every season.

May God richly bless you and your families during this and every season. And may we all continue to seek Him above all else.

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1)