Ah, back-to-school season—remember that mix of excitement and dread? The air getting crisper, the days getting shorter, and the inevitable countdown to the first day of school. Well, at least it used to be. I remember the first day of school (at least here in Chicago) was after Labor day and now it's July and mid August for most! Whether you were the kid who couldn’t wait to get back or the one who clung to those last days of summer with all your might, there was something undeniably special about the whole back-to-school ritual. Most of my nieces and nephews couldn't wait to get back so I loved hearing the excitement in their voice as they shared their first day stories!
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Back in our day, back-to-school shopping was a BIG DEAL. There was nothing like the smell of freshly sharpened pencils, a new notebook and let's not forget that amazing all mighty Trapper Keeper! Then there were the very carefully selected folders because showing off your favorite cartoon character, animal or sports team on a folder was practically a rite of passage. Decisions, decisions, decisions! Next up is that backpack. We’d spend ages picking out the perfect backpack, you know something that could withstand the daily grind of textbooks and binders but still had the style to make a statement. Don’t forget about the pens and pencils. The basics were non-negotiable, but who could resist a few fun extras? Colored pens for doodling in the margins, mechanical pencils for the cool factor, and highlighters to make our notes pop. And of course, no one could forget the all-important lunchbox. This was more than just a container for PB&Js—it was a way to express your personality. Whether it was a metal box with superheroes or a bright plastic one with a built-in thermos, your lunchbox said a lot about you.
But the real star of the back-to-school show? The first day outfit. We’d plan it like it was our personal fashion week. New shoes, a carefully chosen shirt, and maybe even a trendy accessory or two. This was our moment to shine, to show off our summer style, and to make that all-important first impression.
Today’s kids might have different essentials—tablets instead of Trapper Keepers, smartphones instead of pencil cases—but the back-to-school excitement is still the same. Sure, they’re shopping online and their checklists are a bit more tech-heavy, but the anticipation of a new school year, the chance to start fresh, and the thrill of new beginnings? That’s timeless.
So, as we get ready for another back-to-school season, let’s take a moment to reminisce about the way it used to be. Because no matter how much things change, the buzz of a new school year and the promise of new adventures never really goes out of style. Before we get far into the school year, check out a few of our favorite back to school must haves! Here’s to fresh starts, new supplies, and the thrill of what’s to come!
Kaycee
XoXo
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