We’ve arrived and have settled into the month of May. In the teacher and parent world, it is a month that feels like a never-ending list of projects, parties, end of the year recitals, plays, award ceremonies, sports banquets and countdown to lazy summer days, sprint. Right? But, in the midst of chaos, moments of beauty are found. Our very own, Janet Parrish wrote a sweet tribute to this anticipated, exciting, and busy month. Enjoy!
All the way to May! Is such a catchy little cheer
To help us muster up the strength to finish out the year
Summer days are inching closer and are just around the bend
But why are we all so anxious for the school year to just end?
Can’t we stop time and hold on to the joy that each day holds
And not discard the memory of each fever and every cold
Forgotten backpacks, socks and shoes – it happens all the time
But trust me, parents, don’t give up, it all works out just fine!
You promise to bring a lunch to them, a commitment that you make
Until you realize you’ve forgotten and you arrive 30 minutes late
Spelling tests and homework, social studies, reading, math
One more thing to fit in today – and oh yeah, they need a bath!
At times I fussed about the work or reading logs to sign
Then there were times I told the kids just hush and do not whine.
The days we started off the mornings with arguing and tears
Were the worst days that I had and to my life added more gray hairs and years.
If I could have a re-do and face it all again
The wisdom I have gained would make it a big win-win
I’d learn to let the small things go and enjoy the time we had
After all, crumbs and old food in their car seat isn’t really all that bad.
The trips to school and conversations will fade away one day
And then you’ll wish to have them back when they have gone away
Un-combed hair and un-ironed clothes, they’re lucky to be dressed
There’s no shame in sending them to school with clothes that are not pressed.
I’d give the world to just have back a big brush in my hand
To do my daughter’s hair again with ribbons and rubber bands.
Or get my son’s school uniforms ready for the next long day
I never thought I’d say these things, not me, not ever, no way!
I speak from first-hand knowledge of the things I’ve written here
I know I wished that they’d grow up and now I wish that they were here.
The little things that I let bug me were not a very big deal
Having them close by to hug and hold, now that’s very, very real.
So before you wish the days to pass and schoolwork to be done
Remember the little voices in your car when one day there are none
HCES holds such a special place inside my happy heart
My kids are grown and on their way to their adult world and brand new start.
Cherish the car rides and the laughter, no matter how loud they are
Because I promise one day you will miss them, whether near or far
So All the Way to May we go, we’ve made it, we’ve arrived
And Yes, another school year that we have all survived! Happy May!
