Weybridge Elementary School, Weybridge, Vermont

I love seeing children peeking out of doors or skipping in the driveways along our road, waiting for the school bus to arrive. It is September and the first day of school has happened! As a teacher of so many years, for so many Septembers, I was also just beginning to get into the swing of things about now.

First Day of School for our grandchildren, Delilah and Asher

Now, three of our grandchildren are off and running in school. Asher and Delilah started 7th and 4th grade in Massachusetts and Jack started kindergarten in New Jersey. Hard to believe, as it seems not that long ago that our own sons were starting up a new grade in elementary school in Weybridge, VT.

First Day of School for our grandson, Jack

Mostly, this time of year coming around again reminds me of how the years go swiftly by, and the seasons turn. Everything changes, and yet, so much also stays the same. The leaves start to turn russet and red; the apples ripen and fall; the autumn crickets sing; the grasses turn golden; the zinnias bloom in profusion.

I was reminded of all this last Sunday when I attended a church service at the Congregational Church of Middlebury where Ronnie Romano is now the Director of Music. I sang in the choir under Ronnie’s direction at the Champlain Valley Unitarian Church last year. I feel at home in many churches and have often attended services at the Congregational Church. I was eager to see Ronnie in his new place. The senior pastor, Andrew Nagy-Benson, introduced Ronnie to the congregation saying, “It’s your first day of school.”

I am lucky enough to have joined the Middlebury Community Chorus this year where Ronnie is the director. Last night, at my first rehearsal, I felt as if it was my first day of school. I am overjoyed to be able to sing under Ronnie’s direction. I am enchanted by the music that we are singing. I was fortunate to sit next to music director, composer, and celebrated musician, Dorothy Robson, who sings every note perfectly like a bell so that I can follow and easily learn my alto part. What a joy.

I hope that all children everywhere feel lucky to be in school, feel engaged and in love with learning, feel supported in learning in the way that works well for them. I hope that they feel joyful.

Hurray for September and for the first day of a new year of learning and growing on our beautiful planet earth.