Happy Monday, friends!
I hope you all had a wonderful weekend!
Today, I have some pics and a little recap of our first day of school 🙂 .
I’m not going to lie, when my morning was all said and done, and I was driving to meet my friends for breakfast, I called Andrew and said this was our most frantic/crazy/disorganized first day of school. It’s like the Shull family hadn’t had almost 2½ full months to prepare. It felt every bit as bananas as having four kids going to four different schools with a THREE HOUR swing between when the first one walks out the door and when the last one gets dropped off could be. The three hours flew by in such a flash that I swear it was like three minutes.
Friday (school day #2) was SO MUCH EASIER! We’re working out the kinks, but just between you and me, the first morning was A BLUR!
Okay, let’s get to it…
…the March before Kensington went to kindergarten, I made them GREEN PANCAKES for St. Patrick’s Day. Fast forward several months and when I asked five year old Kensington what she wanted to eat before her first day of kindergarten, she said “green pancakes” and thus, a tradition was born that’s now 11 years in the making!
I whipped up GREEN PANCAKES plus MAPLE SAUSAGE BALLS before pics.
Smith left the house first…and our attempt at a pic was suuuuper dark, so he was kind enough to take one after school. Kensington left around 6:30 AM and we had just enough light to grab her first day picture…
…I cannot believe she’s now a sophomore in high school! You guys, we are WEEKS away from her driving herself to school! In the meantime, another cheerleader (and neighbor) is taking her. My days of dropping her off at school have come to an end, and I’m going to stop talking about it now or else I’ll burst into tears at my desk. Babies don’t keep, y’all. Babies don’t keep.
When this guy returned home from school TWELVE HOURS LATER (that is a very long day!), he indulged his mama with a pic…
…just stop it right now. Talk about making me SOB! Where did…
…this kid go?!?! I blinked. I blinked and now, I have another man at my house who had the BEST first day at his new high school. He could not stop talking about it.
We made the decision this year for Smith to attend another high school in a neighboring town as it just seemed to be a better fit for him. We applied, he was accepted as a transfer student and well, here we are. Two teens at two different high schools isn’t normal or routine, but it’s already proving to be exactly what they both need. Kensington was, of course, super bummed not to go to school with Smith, but more than anything, she was super excited for him. Even though it’s certainly not “the norm” it is an odd pattern in our family. My mom and her brother are 10 months a part (yeah, you read that right) and opted to go to different high schools. My brother changed high schools his junior year and thus, we didn’t graduate from the same school, and Andrew’s brother’s kids are both in high school right now at two different schools. It’s a weird coincidence…but Smith and K both had a great first day, so that gives this mama lots of peace.
Speaking of peace…
…I have allllllll the peace that Ashby is going to have a great year! She was SO excited about heading to middle school and OH SO READY! She is now my last kiddo to drop off every morning which gives us about an extra hour together which is an added bonus too. On Friday, she went on my morning walk with the dogs and me and I *think* we might start making that a regular routine. It’s sweet to have those extra minutes with her each morning.
Speaking of which…
…and then there was ONE in elementary school! Mades is my one and only elementary kiddo now (for the first time in 10 years!), and we’ve decided to make the most of it. On our daily walks to/from school (or car ride if needed) we are making it all about the Mades. She is loving the extra one on one time with mama every day 🙂 .
Okay…back to the first day. After pics…
…breakfast was enjoyed and then…
…we were down to one final elementary kiddo to take our traditional “backpack pics”.
I love this girl so much!!
Per the tradition…
…Andrew and I both take the elementary kiddo(s) to school. We loaded up on our golf cart and dropped her off in the fourth grade.
When we got back home…
…little Miss Middle School was all ready to go!
After dropping her off, I headed to our historic town square…
…to meet my girlfriends for our annual “first day of school breakfast”.
After we were finished, I made my annual trek to…
…the happiest place on Earth in search of some “fall” joy.
I found it…
…yes…
…and yes!
After I left Hobby Lobby, I headed to…
…one of my favorite boutiques as I knew they would have some pumpkin happiness too and…
…it did not disappoint
…every little detail here just MAKES ME SO HAPPY!!!
I headed home a bit later to do some work…
…can you count the three coton de tulears? They were happy to resume our routine as was…
…Miss Yankee Doodle 🙂 . Apparently, I’m not the only one who misses the kids during the day but also savors the quiet.
Before I started picking up my peeps after school, I whipped up our traditional…
…BUTTERSCOTCH MAPLE NO BAKE COOKIES.
This year, the afternoon pick up from school window starts around 2:40 and the last kiddo comes home around 5:30 which means we ate our cookies in shifts but…
…we all sat down that night and enjoyed our traditional LASAGNA for dinner and everyone shared about their day.
May I offer some words of wisdom to you younger mamas out there? Make the traditions. Make the recipes. Do the silly things. Take the pictures. Make the memories. My dad often says (and he’s right!) tradition is a bad reason to continue doing things that don’t work for you any longer. I TOTALLY AGREE WITH THIS STATEMENT. My dad is also the one though that still does Jammy Cocoa Christmas every year with my mom and his dogs because HE LOVES A GOOD TRADTION THAT WORKS WELL EVEN IF HE NO LONGER HAS KIDDOS IN THE HOUSE. Traditions can bring so much joy and happiness to everyday occasions and thus elevate them into something more special. The first day of school is not a holiday…but at our house, it’s treated as one because we’ve made the traditions and they’re special to us. The best part about a tradition is that you can start one any time you want. Even if your kiddos are older, make them now.
I will certainly look back on raising my kids with a handful of regrets and moments I wish I could take back/change/do over…but I will look back with even more memories of traditions that made the six Shulls who we are as a family.
That was our first day of school 🙂 .
Don’t forget, I try and keep all of my kiddos’ clothes/backpacks/things they love on my LTK so if you’re ever curious about something they’re wearing/loving, it’s right HERE.
I made a few collages for you as examples…
You can see KENSINGTON’S PICKS…
…and MADELEY’S PICKS!
Have the best start to your week, friends! I’ll see you back here tomorrow. xx
Natasha says
In our city, kids can attend their “home” high school or some of the high schools have “magnet programs” — arts, French immersion, strings, etc — and kids can apply to the school they’re interested in and go there. It’s VERY COMMON for families to have kids at different high schools. And my siblings and I all graduated from different high schools so you’re not the only ones.
Also, our “first day of school picture” is such a tradition that when I started working as a secretary in the school system, my kids insisted on taking a “first day of work” for me with the same sign! My high school kid, who HATES waking up early, insists on getting up in time for the “first” and “last” day pictures so I know this is one which is working well! 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
Awwwwww!! I love this!!!
Emilee says
I’ll be dropping my first baby off at kindergarten next week, so I’m holding your advice about traditions close! Last year we started doing “Back to School Brinner,” and he’s still talking about it. Looking forward to recreating it again!
Mix and Match Mama says
Ohhhhhh! That is a BIG day for your family!!! I hope it’s just the very best school year!! xx
Dawn Timmons says
I love every part of this post! You do such a great job savoring every moment and every season. It’s inspiring! Your kids are all growing up so fast! It is fun to watch all the phases and stages. Thank you for sharing with us. I pray you all have the best start to the new school year. Prayers will continue for the whole year be the best one yet.
Laura says
SHAY!!!! These pictures hurt my feelings! We have also moved kids around to different schools in order for them to have what suits them best. Good Job!
We currently have piles of stuff in two rooms of my home, indicating that TWO girls are going to college this week. I have no idea how to live here with only one child.
sandi says
Laura, I have all the feelings right along with you! We have three in college. One moved in yesterday since she has an on campus job and helps with freshman move in. Another moves in this Friday and the third on Saturday. We also have a high school junior who made the adjustment last year to being the only left at home. I realized when they left that I had forgotten how to grocery shop and cook for only three people. It is an adjustment.
They humor mom and dad by sending pictures in the family group chat of their first day of school outfit. Enjoy the one on one time with the last one at home, it will go super fast too!
K.K. says
Oh wow!! I remember “little Smith” pictures too!!!
Laura says
Hope your four have a wonderful year of school! I agree with the importance of celebratory traditions. They’re so anchoring! We are in a new season also right now with our three- praying God meets all of them where they are and grows them into the people He knows they already are. 🙂
Paige E says
Congrats on a successful first day! Question – how does everyone deal with dinner when kids are doing different sports and people are ready to eat at different times? Do you wait and eat all together at 9pm or just fix dinner and everyone grab when they can? Thats one thing I have not mastered.
Mix and Match Mama says
We have found that for us, the best way to do it is to eat late when everyone is home (not 9:00 but it can be as late as 8 or 8:30). Now, some days, it’s just IMPOSSIBLE and people have to reheat their food or grab it out of the slow cooker, but overall, eating later seems to work better for us (in this stage in life) than eating earlier.
Lindi says
Do you eat with them, though, because of your fasting? Curious how you do that.
Mix and Match Mama says
Breakfast with my friends? Yes!! I’m not so rigid and strict with IF that I miss out on things like that! I had the migas with a side of avocado and coffee 🙂 .
Katie Compton says
You can absolutely tell from the smile on Smith’s face that you and Andrew made the right decision exploring a different high school route for him. That’s got to be a huge comfort!
Our first day tradition includes a picture of my daughter by herself and then one of us together as we both head off to school! This year… SENIOR year for her and 24th year in 2nd grade for me! I have so many feels but she is so dang excited that happiness is the main one! Now… come Wednesday when I see her drive off to school I may be a blubbering mess but at least my 25 “other kids” will help keep my mind off things!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my gosh, a SENIOR!!! My mama heart has all the feels!!! I hope you both have the BEST year!
SS says
Shay, you are so right about traditions and it is wonderful, even though we have a couple graduate, they still partake in some traditions. I make PB & jelly bars for our lunch! We always take pix in the morning and we wait for my nephew and take some with him.
I love that your kiddos love the pix!! Our youngest is now only one in school…so seems weird and like we are missing her siblings in pix. Lol
We still have a couple weeks before school starts. Good thing because we were up late enjoying the Northern Lights and Perseids Meteor Shower last night.
Enjoy your school year!!! I know they will all do great!!!!
Amy Azza says
SS, could you kindly share the recipe for PB & jelly bars? THANK YOU
Maddie Giamello says
Me sitting here reading this with a preschooler with a 9am start time and kind of dreading when she grows up and school has a 6AM start time!! Haha!! That’s SO EARLY!! Ready for some Fall happiness!! 🎃
Lizzy says
Whoa. Kensington’s top is a bit inappropriate for tenth grade. Even your brother commented same, but you took the post down. Why don’t you say the real reason Smith transferred was to play football? Truth and transparency evade you? Where’s the usual pic of all your friends at breakfast?
Mix and Match Mama says
I will go ahead and post this even though it’s 8:16 in the morning and way too early for anyone to be this worked up over strangers. I removed Sean’s comment as he made it to be the funny uncle (which he is) but someone commented something not very nice below, and I respect my kiddos (and my brother) enough not to let something innocent and humorous spoil. Smith has moved to his new school for a plethora of reasons. The list is super long and yes, football is his one athletic so it was taken into consideration. Smith has been in the GT program since kindergarten, so that was taken into consideration. Orchestra was taken into consideration. The size of the school, emphasis on academics, other people he knows who are also there, distance from our home, and on and on and on were also taken into consideration. We applied and were accepted. I didn’t take a picture with my friends. I don’t think I did last year either. Or the year before that. I actually think I stopped taking pics with them at our breakfasts when we no longer had little kids with us. I had dinner with friends on Friday and didn’t take a picture. The Slaughters were here last night and we didn’t take a picture. Believe it or not, I do not take photos with people every time I see them. That would be weird. Anyway, I’m off to enjoy my morning and I highly suggest you try to do the same 🙂 . Happy Back to School season! xx
Nades says
I thought you said Smith quit orchestra? Also aren’t the academics more highly rated at your “home” school than at the one Smith is attending now?
Mix and Match Mama says
Smith ended middle school thinking orchestra wasn’t in his future because of the time demands and if he does four years of fine arts, it can affect his GPA (versus taking other classes that are weighted more). That was the case in both MISD and LISD. We looked into both when we were making this decision. I would also say that no, the emphasis on academics and the standards in MISD are not the same.
Nades says
That’s a shame. I have 3 kids in Texas. 2 graduated doing 4 years of fine arts and went to top colleges. The third is doing her second year of fine arts. Even more than GPA is doing what you love. If Smith loved violin, it would have been important in his college apps over playing the GPA game by taking more highly weighted courses. And by the way, my kids took all advanced courses and fine arts.
Mix and Match Mama says
He is still playing the violin, he’s just not going to be in the orchestra. It’s a huge time commitment (understandably so!), and after speaking to counselors in both districts, we feel really at peace with his decision.
Jane Drew says
Just a word of advice…. in our experience it was better for our oldest not to take as many weighted classes as possible. She did take quite a few, but we encouraged balance. She still graduated in the top 6% of her 500+ class and had great college offers, including a full ride. GPA doesn’t determine too much, beyond auto-admission to most TX state universities.
hayley beck says
Wouldn’t football also have time demands that could affect his GPA? In fact, it’s a larger time commitment than fine arts is with practice, weekly games, etc.
Mix and Match Mama says
Both are big commitments, yes. This is why he had to weigh if he could do both. I will say though that his last football game is like November 6th or 7th and then it’s over for the season…where the fine arts go until the end of May…so they are bigger commitments. I’m not worried though about him not playing the violin. He’s played 7 years and only three of those were with an orchestra. He still plays, just not at school.
Rita says
Whoa, I’ll tell you what is inappropriate, your comment. Shay owes us nothing and especially about her children! And learn not to comment on what young girls or women choose to wear.
Sarah says
What a gift K has to know she has the support of her Mom to wear whatever she wishes and super gross to inflict your personal issues on a child LIzzy- find a different outlet. Way to go to support S and meeting his high school needs- seems silly to think all kids would have to go to one high school- its not like we tell all kids they “have” to go to the same university just because.
Side note- K really resembles your beautiful Mother in law in this picture!
Happy back to school season!!
sandi says
Not sure why I feel the need to comment here, but surely you must have better things to do than leave negative comments about a minor. Just because you think it, does not mean it needs to be said or written. This is an online community reflecting positive content and there is no reason to attack a teenager. There is not a reason to question a families decision about schooling. If you have children, you realize they are all unique with different learning styles, athletic abiities and goals. Parents evaluate schooling choices each year and make adjustments to provide their children with the best year ahead. Some years that means homeschooling for a season or starting a new school all together. Goodness, I don’t know why this has me all in a tizzy. If you have children, I hope no one ever makes a hostile remark about them behind the privacy of a computer screen.
Denise M. says
Maybe you should keep your inappropriate comments to yourself. Especially on a blog that is known and appreciated for its positive and uplifting nature. And to Shay, for what it’s worth, I looked at Kensington’s picture and thought “Wow! She looks stunning!” 🤩
Heather says
My goodness , why why why when this world is so hard for so many people do others feel the need to post things like this? Even if you feel this way, Shay has stated numerous times this blog is her happy place. Why make this memory an unhappy one for her? Just unfollow for your mental health as well. Prayers you have a better day, Lizzy and Shay as well if this message hurt her.
WhittyWife (Lindsay) says
Honestly, this comment gives me the ick. It feels like you’re sexualizing a teenage girl. Cringe. Everything we know about Kensington points to her being an intelligent, extremely hardworking, kind girl who prioritizes her faith and family. Let’s cheer her on, not shame her (for an outfit, btw, that’s very similar to the average high school girl).
Anyway, I digress… 😉 I hope this is the best year yet for your kids, Shay! I can’t believe you have two in high school and one in middle school!! Thank you for sharing some of the highlights of your family with us. 💕
Natasha says
I am so sad that anyone feels the need to comment on how a teenager looks. As the mom of a teenage girl, I KNOW how much she struggles with self image. Random strangers on the internet don’t need to tear down teenagers for how they look. Please think about how your comment might affect a teen before leaving it in a public forum.
Paula McKaughan says
I always love your back to school posts! This is off topic, but I wanted to see if you or any of your sweet blog readers had any suggestions for a husband/wife/couples bible study.
Mix and Match Mama says
Well, this isn’t specifically for husbands and wives, but Andrew and I did Not a Fan by Kyle Idleman years ago, and it was SO GOOD FOR OUR MARRIAGE. It was just good for each of us as individuals which made our marriage stronger. It’s always the one I think about first.
Paula McKaughan says
Thank you so much! I’m going to look into that one right now!
Richelle says
Highly recommend For Women Only & For Men Only books by Shaunti Feldhahn. I believe there is a supplemental DVD you can get too. My husband & I have given these books to so many people!
Paula McKaughan says
Thank you for the recommendation, Richelle. I will certainly check this out as well.
Dana P says
That little bit about traditions made me tear up! I think the older I/my kids get, the more traditions mean. Truthfully, I’m not great at them. But I think you just gave me the nudge I need to start some new ones for the first day of school!
Maria says
Here in NYC, we don’t have zoned High Schools. You need to apply to 10 schools and hope and pray you get in to your top choice. You might have to audition, test or produce a portfolio for art schools. It’s practically a lottery. It’s very rare for siblings to attend the same high school. The plus side is that kids are able to attend specialty schools like LaGuardia for the arts. It’s a crazy process that is just the norm here.
Mix and Match Mama says
That sounds SO STRESSFUL!!!
Desiree Leone says
So beautiful Shay! I love traditions as well and will be making my hubby lasagna for his first day of back to school since he is a teacher. Love you and your family so much! So much happiness when I visit your blog! XOXOXOXO
Mary says
Love your gold necklace – will you share where it’s from?
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s from a store on Nantucket! https://www.lolacompany.com/shop-lola/love-shack-nantucket
Erin H says
Love seeing your kids so grown!
Our first day of Kindergarten is tomorrow! While she went to all day preschool last year, this just feels different and so “real”. I know she’s ready, but I’m not. This feels like such a big, new phase for us. I’m faking all the joy for her. Well, not all. I’m super excited for her, but a little sad too. My tiny, 31-week preemie is grown and it’s just gone so fast!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my goodness, she is going to have THE BEST DAY, but my mama heart has all the feels. This is a HUGE milestone. I just truly think kinder teachers are extra extra good at making first days even MORE special. I bet she has the best day!!
Robin says
My kids went to two different high schools because it was a better fit for each of them. They are now 22 and 25 and there is zero regret. At the time, my husband’s job had him commuting to another state. It made for a bit of a pause when I met new people 😂 it’s all good!
Fun to watch your beautiful family grow❤️
Ashley Royer says
We love back to school traditions as well. My youngest is about to head off to his second year in college and we will still have his meal of choice before we move him in. I also get first day of school pics from both kids (the oldest is in grad school)!
Carolina says
Just curious – what time do your kids start school? In California, high schoolers have to start after 8:30. Thanks
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh it’s all over the place. Each district gets to decide, so in McKinney, high school officially starts at 7:30 (but MANY athletics including cheer have to be there early…K has to arrive by 6:30). At Smith’s high school, the school day starts at 8:45 and so far, he has to be at football practice anywhere from 5:15 to 7:15 depending on the day of the week.
Faith says
I couldn’t agree more – start and do the traditions! As I commented before, my college age daughters send me their FDOC pics. Some traditions may have to be tweaked as they grow up, but even they will treasure the memories and continue them.
I love that your dad still carries his traditions. I love that you meet with other moms to celebrate yourselves! My last kiddo will be moved in at school this Saturday. Another college mom friend who is in the same boat and I are getting together Monday morning.
I CAN’t WAIT to see your new finds this Fall. You are turning me into a FALL girl! I hope to go to Hobby Lobby and At Home soon!
Mix and Match Mama says
Okay but I MUST KNOW, what are you if you’re not always a “fall girl” are you a “summer girl”?? I love that you’re getting excited for the season!!
Faith says
Spring was/is my favorite. I think it’s because I’m coming out of the winter gloominess…..more daylight, flowers blooming, birds chirping….
I have never decorated so much for Fall as I did last year. And give me allll the fall scents!
Mix and Match Mama says
I love this! Spring was my last month to really embrace, but now, I certainly certainly look forward to it every year.
Ramona Puckett says
Thank you for showing the First Day of School pictures. I love seeing them, especially when you show the last day of school and see how much they’ve grown! Traditions are important, no matter how small or big. Your children will always remember that. Prayers for the whole school year!
Kate says
Have the best school year!!! The mamas heart is in all her feels with a senior!! ❤️
Amanda Wilson says
Shay!! Time sure flies. I am always so jealous when you are out in May but then so excited when you post back to school and we have another couple weeks lol. I need to be better about the traditions. Our oldest graduated last year so this year was kinda hard to keep up some of the traditions because one of the kids wasn’t around and your family just doesn’t feel complete….does that make sense??? But for the younger 4 I am going to reinstate them this year because of your dad can do Jammy cocoa Christmas with his dogs I can do traditions missing one kid lol
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my word, YES, I’m not quite there yet, but yes, yes, it makes perfect sense. Some traditions are going to be super bittersweet once my kids start leaving.
Stephanie Harris says
I enjoy your kids and school adventures because mine are all grown up. It brings back so many precious moments. I love Your traditions and that fact that you are dedicated almost every day to give us a slice of your life. I know you can handle those “others” who are probably just as impossible in their own life. Life has a lot of messy and it it just so nice to enjoy a ‘glimpse’ into a Christian and loving family. I always cried on the first days of school myself.Thank you.
Kathy says
Hope they all have the best year!
Karah Stracener says
I hope they all had a great first day of school!! Your kiddos are growing up so fast, and are so beautiful and handsome. My daughters started back today and I am trying to hold back the mama tears. They started 4th and 7th grade. Time is a thief, and I am just trying to savor every moment with them. It is always so bittersweet to start a new school year. I applaud you for doing what is right for Smith. I know when it comes to high school I will be in the same boat with my oldest. I am not sure our “home” public high school will be the right choice for her. Both of my girls are currently at a private school. It is something I am constantly praying about.
Lauren Palmer says
well I want the Paris, France sweatshirt from Ashybys Picks. Does it come in a youth XXXXXXXXXL? 😉
Mix and Match Mama says
I do too! Did you see the London one?! Sign me up!
Richelle says
Think Kensington would be up for collaborating on a blog post about her hair routine? Is that her natural color or does she get highlights? What products/tools does she use? Her hair is STUNNING! I know she has good hair genes, but I love how she styled it here. I have 2 teen daughters, so we are always looking for tips & tricks!
Mix and Match Mama says
Well you are too sweet! She does get her hair highlighted. She uses Colleen Rothschild shampoo and conditioner and then a wand to curl it really really tight. After it cools down, she brushes it out. You are SO sweet!
Monica says
We have a sweet one-eyed rescued Coton named Finn!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh I bet Finn is just the CUTEST!!!
Éowyn says
My coton’s name is Finn, too!
Mix and Match Mama says
What a SMALL WORLD?!
Arika says
My kids always loved Pete the Cat books. So we STILL read Pete and his School Shoes on the night before school. My 9yo still loves the tradition, and my 12 and 17yo are great sports!
Ellen says
Pete the Cat is the best. My kids were just a tad too old for them — but I love reading them at a nephew or niece’s house! 😀
Lois says
Since you mentioned that Smith’s new school has orchestra, I’m wondering if he is a member. Am I correct in thinking awhile back you’d shared he stopped his violin lessons? I realize that doesn’t mean he won’t continue playing. Just curious. Also, in our area of PA the rule used to be tuition needed to be paid by the parents if their student was enrolled in a school other than their usual “home” school district. Is that how Smith’s new school does it? Sounds as if school options have been in place for at least some of your favorite people for a long while. And I don’t know how our local schools work this now; as a retired teacher at age 80 yrs. with our 5 daughters & grandchildren far away, I’ve lost track of what current options are available. Thanks, Shay; I enjoy your daily visits with us.
Mix and Match Mama says
We met with the counselor and discussed his overall academic load/academic schedule/academic goals, and even at this new school, he will no longer be in the orchestra. We were hopeful we could make it work, but it just doesn’t make sense for him to do it with everything else on his plate/the weight of the GPA/his limited time and their schedule. It’s so sad, but I trust we’re doing the right thing. As for the tuition part, that varies between districts/years. This school district had a tuition for students who were out of district transfers in past years, but this year, they are trying to maintain their “numbers”, so it was waived. We’ll cross the tuition bridge later if we need to (for subsequent years), but this year, it was waived for all out of district transfers. It’s always SO nice to read your comments, Lois. I’m always so grateful for YOU! xx
Erika Opperman says
Hi Shay!
Thanks for this encouraging post! I’m sending my oldest to middle school next week and I’m a hot mess 😂! Where do you find Smith’s shorter length athletic shorts? We have such a hard time finding them. Thanks so much🤍
Mix and Match Mama says
Vuori and Nike are his two favorite brands!
Heather says
I’m so glad your kiddos had a wonderful first day back! Bravo to you and your husband too for sending them to the schools that fit their needs. ❤️
Yes, to traditions!!! Our first day of school tradition is lasagna and brownies. This year looks a bit different as we’re moving my oldest son to Nashville this Wednesday for college (12 hours away and my first one to send off). I asked him what he’d like on Tues night for dinner before we move him and he said lasagna. It made my heart happy that he requested that as I knew he was thinking about our back to school tradition.
Leslie says
Kudos to you and Andrew for choosing a high school that was good for Smith. My oldest is Kensington’s age and my youngest will be a 7th grader. I am not sure if they’ll go to the same high school. It would be convenient, but not sure if that’s what’s best for my younger son. We have school of choice in our district so you can apply and, as long as the school isn’t impacted, you can get in. It’s nice that we have choices for our kids.
Karen says
My brother and I always took our first day pics in front of the same tree in our front yard (we are now both in our 30s). A few years ago a storm took down the tree and my dad cut some of the branches into disks and he and my mom modge-podged some of our first day pictures onto them, drilled holes at the top and made them into Christmas ornaments for us from our “first day of school tree” Yes I might have cried opening them!
Kara says
As I get ready to send my last baby to Kindergarten on Wednesday, along with my 3rd and 5th grader.. I always appreciate and love your back to school encouragement and excitement! She is SO ready but my mama heart is not ready! The last one is tough! Praying your kiddos have a great year! 🥰
Lizzy says
No one is worked up but you. 😉You never have a good read on people. It’s just an inappropriate top for a tenth grader to wear to school. Period. That’s my opinion and it doesn’t mean I’m worked up. However, your response shows you are. Just because one comments on your blog doesn’t equate to they are heated up. I had a great morning thank you and will continue to have a great day. Thank you again.
PS … no one said you had to take pics of everyone that you see or everything that you do. Odd comment. Do you know what toxic positivity is btw?
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m going to leave this here and let it be your final word. Wishing you nothing but the best and hopeful that you find your joy that’s not at the expense of people you don’t know on the internet.
Helen says
“Lizzy” (probably not your real name) – You really need to get a life and move on. What is “inappropriate” are your comments. Please be kind.
Amy Azza says
Lizzy you sound like such a miserable hateful person, and I bet that’s because you have a lot of misery and hate in your life. Shame on you for commenting on another person’s child. Please unfollow Shay, this little corner of the internet is for peace and positivity. Go spew your hate elsewhere. I hope no one ever comments on your children. I have a feeling they would have a lot to say.
Crystal says
Lizzy you would die over what my senior wears to school and at her everday life. She is a dancer and you’d die at the costumes she dances in as well. Kids are allowed to express themselves and her shirt is just fine. Didnt babie teach you anything? “If you don’t have nothing nice to say….don’t say nothing at all.” Shay ignore these people we love your blog and all your kids and haters are always going to hate. Your better than me I’d simply block her!
Tara Schule says
As a mom of a two and a half year old, this is exactly what I needed to read today “ May I offer some words of wisdom to you younger mamas out there? Make the traditions. Make the recipes. Do the silly things. Take the pictures. Make the memories.” So thank you!!
Whitney says
My goodness, you are certainly acting ugly in such a bright spot of the internet. You are lucky that Shay is so loving, I would not be. If you look at every comment, you are the only one who feels this way. Maybe take a step back and do some reflection here. Shay, you are always so gracious to those who do not deserve it. Inspiring!
Stephanie says
I think I actually HAD Kensington’s outfit when I was a sophomore circa 2000. Does this make me cool again because I must tell my kids! 😉 What beautiful children you have, thank you for sharing!
Ellen says
We had kids in different schools, too. There’s kind of a lot of reasons a family could choose to do so. For us, it was mostly size/comfort level. We live in an area with enormous school districts, and that worked well for some kids, not so well for others. Some people switch for sports, some for music, etc., etc.
Elspeth says
What great traditions! Thanks so much for sharing them with us! I hope everyone has a great school year!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Lindsay D. says
You have such a beautiful family! Thanks for sharing their first day of school with us. 🙂 I have lots of friends that their kids go to different high schools as well. Love your blog!
Susie says
I hope it is the best school year for all your kiddos! Wishing them many blessings! And I always enjoy seeing your sweet pups!
Charla Snodgrass says
I live in KY and grew up in a small town that only had 3 stop lights and 3 schools—elementary, middle and high. We had zero choices so I think it is great that other people can pick and chose where they attend school.
Jeanie says
My kids went to different schools from k-8 and then the same high school. They were never there at the same time though as they were four years apart. My son has a high IQ and we chose to place him in a private school that we felt would be more challenging. My daughter thrived in athletics and we chose public education as the competitive field was much higher. We never thought it was weird or anything. They both had very different experiences and interests and then went on to college and to complete their Master’s at different colleges and universities too. 🤷♀️ It’s a good thing when kiddos find their niche.
Kacy M says
Happy first day of school! This is my 8th year teaching preschool and there’s just something about that first day back. Your kids look so grown! K looks like dad and S looks like you more each day. Have a good week!
Mix and Match Mama says
Awwww! I hope you have the BEST school year!
Sheaffer says
Always love all of the back to school pics! Smith wins MOST CHANGED for sure!!!! So grown up!
Diana H says
HI Shay! I don’t always leave comments because….#introvert hahaha, but I had to leave one after reading some of these negative comments. Just wanted to say thank you for sharing your life and family with us. I love your positivity! Reading your blog just makes me happy. I love that you and Andrew put Jesus first, and I love how committed you both are to your marriage and your kids. You guys truly live everyday like it’s your last and it’s so refreshing to see!
Side note – everyone in my family of picky eaters loves your maple sausage balls, but I never thought to make it a first day of school tradition until today! I’ve learned SO many things from your blog. The only thing I haven’t figured out is how you guys manage to do 85 things in a 24-hour time period and be everywhere all at once AND make it look so easy…but I’m determined to figure that out 😉
I hope the negative comments don’t make you second guess these kind of posts. Your day in the life posts and posts about your family and kiddos are my favorite ones! You and Andrew are doing an amazing job. One request – can we get another Andrew and Shay Q&A video soon?! Hope your kiddos had a great first day!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh Diana!! I am so thankful that you are a part of this community. I am grateful for you even if you’re a more silent member. From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!!! We will do a Q&A soon!!
Kristy Moore says
How is Kensington going to be driving this year!??!! Like how?
I love following your Back to School routine every year and the annual front door pictures.
I will be entering my 21st year of teaching this year, and this will be my first I don’t get to experience the First day back as I broke my shoulder the second day of Summer vacay, so will be taking an extended leave to allow for more healing. So sad to miss those excited little faces on the first day!
Enjoy all the pumpkin and Fall overload over the next while!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh no! I am so sorry!! Sending you so much love as you heal, rest and recover. I am certain you are so missed in the classroom. xx
Kay says
Shay – love, love, love this post!!! You inspire me to start fun traditions with my family and I look forward to reading your blog every morning – especially this one. (I’m disgusted by the negative comments aimed at you and will leave it at that.) You’re a fantastic mom & dad duo raising great kids! End of story! Blessings on a great school year!
Michelle O says
My granddaughters and I have a tradition…I take them out separately to go to dinner and shop for their first day of school outfit. We always buy more than one outfit though. I love the one on one time we have along with the tradition.
Mix and Match Mama says
I LOVE THIS SO MUCH!!!