Tuesday meant back to school for most area students ... and back to work for the rest of us. It was interesting, while driving home, to see the kids out playing, looking a bit less carefree than they had just last week. Relief seemed to be on some faces, probably because they were finally released from the confines of the classroom. Others looked a bit preoccupied... pehaps they had already been given that first dose of homework.
Back-to-school time always was bittersweet. You were allowed that great shopping day, and everything seemed filled with promise as you packed up your pens, pencils, notebooks and the like. Maybe some new shoes -- you know, the "sensible" pair for school and, if you were lucky, perhaps some sneaks. I used to hate having to wear saddle shoes in elementary school; was elated when I was finally allowed to have loafers.
Geez, that really dates me, I suppose.
But with school back in session, let's all remember that the kids will be out there walking to school, waiting for buses, playing in the evening as darkness falls ever earlier.
We all need to be more careful ... and that includes the kids.