I can’t believe it’s officially back to school time! Today is my last official day of summer vacation… On Monday we start in-service and a week after that I begin my second year of teaching. Where has time gone? This summer absolutely flew by, but I’m ready for this upcoming year and all the learning, memories, laughter and lessons it holds.
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Growing up, I looked forward to these hot August weeks. I would get excited when school supplies started hitting the shelves in Walmart, and I couldn’t wait to pick out my first day of school outfit. I loved the smell of the school hallways when we first came back (there was something about the musty, cricket infested hallways that made me smile). And we had so much fun grocery shopping with my mom for lunch stuff. I have so many sweet memories from those school aged days. I was young, I loved learning, and school was one of my favorite places to be.
So it’s no surprise that I became a teacher! Although on this side of things I get a little more anxious than excited when I see those back to school commercials on TV. It’s the harsh reminder that summer break is over and work life is about to start. August is a reality check for teachers that it’s time to hang up the shorts and swimsuits and pull out our slacks, dresses and flats. But now that going back to school is right over the horizon, I’m ready to start. I had a great summer, but I love the routine of school, my coworkers, my kiddos, and being able to do something I love every single day.
So to celebrate this new school year, I decided to do a back to school series! If you are a teacher, mom or dad, student, in college or anyone else, I know you’ll love these posts. Today I’m sharing some of my favorite back to school essentials, and for the next month I’ll be creating some delicious recipes you can meal prep on Sunday for lunches throughout the week. If there’s something else you think would be perfect to share, let me know in the comments below!
Back to School Essentials
Instant Coffee
There’s a reason coffee is the first thing on this list! I cannot function during the school year without coffee, and sometimes I don’t have time in the morning to brew some coffee. Instant coffee means I can still get the caffeine I need, without running late.
Backpack/Tote
I know this is a no brainer, but did you know there are so many cute bags on Amazon?? I am a bag-a-holic, and I will take any excuse to buy a new one!
Meal Prep Containers
I meal prep every Sunday for the week. Having some great, high quality meal prep containers really helps me stay organized and cuts down on a lot of time in the morning! When it’s already packed, all I have to do is grab my lunch and go. It’s such a time saver, and perfect for busy moms or college students running late for class.
Water Bottle
If you ask my husband, he’ll tell you I drink a LOT of water. I blame it on always having a water bottle with me, but I’m not complaining. One of the things I never leave the house with is my water bottle, because as a teacher, I need the water nearby when I get thirsty or a dry mouth from talking so much. And it doesn’t hurt to be hydrated, right?
Coffee Travel Mugs
This amazing invention is something else I always have with me. I can’t stand lukewarm coffee, and thanks to insulated coffee cups I don’t have to worry about that. I enjoy sipping on coffee all morning, and my kiddos know just how much I love it!
Fun Pens
Okay so this might be the teacher coming out in me, but at the beginning of every school year I buy a set of pens that I use for literally everything. I love using lots of color in my planner, and I grade papers in a different color each time. It’s my firm belief that everyone should have at least one set of fun pens!
Planner
Planners have been my saving grace more times than not. I’ve tried using the calendar on my phone, but it’s not the same as filling in a planner. I like the ones that have a month view, then a page with all the days of the week divided out. I use the month view to write in important dates, and the day by day for to do lists or more detailed information on what I wrote on the calendar. I have used a planner since 5th grade, and couldn’t imagine going through life without one!
What back to school essential would you add to the list?
So many fun things! I definitely need to look into the meal prep tupperware. Haha maybe then I’d be more motivated to meal prep.
Those meal prep containers and planners look perfect for back to school! Definitely checking out your recommendations :)
Backpack is so cute and boho-ish :)
All super useful! The water bottle looks so cute :)