Ah, the first day back to school! That was yesterday for many students in Saskatchewan. My little guy started grade 2. And the 4 year old desperately wanted to start school too. I can’t believe that he will be going next year.
Back to school, it’s like hopping on a rollercoaster, isn’t it? Each stage has its own set of loops and dips that keep us guessing. Whether you’ve got a little adventurer just starting out, a high schooler full of teen drama, or you’re loading up the car to drop your eldest at university, it’s a big deal for the kids and parents alike.
When your pint-sized scholar strides into elementary school, it’s a delightful chaos. You’re snapping photos like an eager paparazzo, capturing every gap-toothed smile, while secretly hoping you’ve packed enough snacks to fuel a small army. The pride is palpable; they’ve got the ABCs down cold and now they’re off to conquer writing sentences (and maybe the playground). Did you remember to pack their favorite lunch? Check. Wonder how they’ll manage without you? Double-check.
Fast forward to the teenage vortex of high school. Now things get interesting. The bedtime stories have morphed into epic discussions about the birds, the bees, and the fleeting joys of quadratic equations. Your home is a hurricane of social drama, fashion crises, and existential questions. You’re nostalgically dreaming of the days when tying shoelaces was the big challenge, but you’re also amazed at their growing independence. Just don’t bring up how you survived high school without smartphones—they’ll be convinced it’s ancient history.
And then, the pièce de résistance: the university drop-off. It’s a scene from the ultimate feel-good movie. Picture it: hugging, maybe a few tears, a carefully curated road trip playlist that you’ve been practicing in your head. You’re bursting with pride, drowning in nostalgia, and suddenly it hits you—they’re leaving the nest with a suitcase full of dreams and a laptop. Now your role morphs into long-distance coach and cheerleader. Sure, you’ll check in every now and then (and maybe show up unexpectedly, just to make sure they’re actually eating something green).
It goes way too fast. Kierra Hawreliuk, daughter of our GX94 Chuckwagon driver Kelvin Hawreluik, is off to college in Vermillion! I’m having all the feels and I’m not even family!
From grade 2 to university, the first day back to school is an emotional rollercoaster for parents. It’s a testament to our resilience, growth, and ability to adapt. So here’s to us, the brave souls navigating this wild ride—every twist and turn is worth it! At least that’s what they tell us! -Tonya Cherry-