The House was so quiet
The House was so quiet
Pull up a chair and sit awhile
August 3, 2026
Dear Friend:
Every August there was a certain feeling in the air. The long days of summer were coming to an end, and store shelves were filled with notebooks, crayons, and book bags. Children looked forward to seeing friends again and wondered who their teacher would be.
We went to Catholic school and wore uniforms, so our school clothes shopping was limited. I still remember the four of us sitting in a row, each taking our turn being measured for new shoes. Then we'd head off to buy fresh pencils, notebooks, and rulers. There was something exciting about starting the school year with brand-new supplies.
Years later, as a mother, I experienced the first day of school very differently.
I know many mothers looked forward to the first day of school. After a busy summer, they were ready for some well-deserved peace and quiet. My own mother was one of them.
I wasn't.
I loved summer. I loved hearing my girls laughing in the next room, building forts, spending afternoons at the pool, and working on craft projects together. When August arrived, I knew those carefree days were coming to an end for another year.
The first day of school was never a happy day for me. I'd put the girls on the bus, walk home, and cry. Then I'd keep myself busy with chores until it was time for them to come home.
I always made sure there was a special treat waiting after school. Some of my favorite memories are sitting around the kitchen table, listening to them laugh as they told me about their teachers, their classmates, and everything that had happened on that very first day.
The years have gone by, but those memories are still as vivid as ever. I can still picture my girls sitting around that table, talking over one another because they couldn't wait to tell me about their day.
I like to think memories are one of life's greatest gifts. They remind us of what truly mattered, and on difficult days, they have a way of bringing a smile when we need it most.
What school-day memory still brings a smile to your face?
Until next time, stay well, stay safe, and stay connected to those you love.
Be well,
Emma
Emma is the voice behind Sharing with Seniors, where every story starts with a memory. Through stories of family, friendships, music, traditions, hometowns, and life's simple pleasures, she invites readers to pull up a chair, stay awhile, and remember the moments that have shaped their lives.