All three kids started school this week. Separate schools. I’m not sure what I was thinking last Spring when I filled out the enrollment forms.

Why didn’t I remember the transitory social speed bumps that Liam experiences every September? Or consider that Nora might have significant going-to-kindergarten anxiety? Or weigh the possibility that Henry and I might both feel overwhelmed learning the ins and outs of a parent cooperative preschool?

Did I mention that one of the schools is an experimental, multi-age academy in its first year of operation whose focus includes environmental sustainability?

Oh, yes.

But why look back there? I am here–criss-crossing town in my gas-guzzling people-mover giving pep-talks, mopping tears, taking notes, kissing hands and returning paperwork.

Onward and upward.

I just hope no one checks the size of my carbon footprint.