It was the supplies.
Still true to this day.
Especially, erasers.
A beautiful new eraser, especially a Pink Pearl.
No mistakes made.
No corners darkened with pencil smudges.
Everything even and beautiful.
What wonderful stories would I refine, thanks to that eraser?What words would I misspell and fix, never to forget?
(For the record, my word is awry)
What doodles would decorate the margins of a quiz, quickly scrubbed away before the bell?
New erasers make me happy.
My oldest niece, Faith, starts kindergarten tomorrow. I remember her birth like it was yesterday, and she was the closest thing I'd known to how much a mother loves, until Max was born. She is and always will be special to me.
Wandering the aisles at Target this morning, I wanted to get her a little something. A card and a little gift to send her off on this exciting new adventure. I examined the school supply aisle, reviewing Dora and Hello Kitty and Disney Princess and Barbie. Binders and coloring books and backpacks and pencils.
About to give up, I spotted them. A three-pack of Pink Pearls.
I taped one to the outside of an envelope, and in it I put a card. I meant to make a copy of the note so I could post it, but forgot, so this is paraphrased:
Dear Faith,
Have a great first day at kindergarten! I love you so much, and I'm so proud of you.
I'm giving you an eraser because new erasers were one of my favorite things when I was in school.
It's important in school, not to be afraid to make mistakes, because that's what learning is all about.
This eraser will help you learn by letting you try again if you're wrong the first time.
Sometimes, being wrong the first time is the most important part.
So have a wonderful day, Faithie! I can't wait to hear all about it!
Always and forever,
Auntie Lizz
PS: Uncle Jamie and Max love you lots too! :)
I actually think I might make this an annual back-to-school tradition for all 3 nieces and Max. Just a little note to let them know how much I love them as we send them onward and upward in the world. A bit of advice for the coming year.
Do you have any back to school traditions for the kiddos in your life? I'd love to hear all about them!
