That notion is why I’m rebelling against this year’s sense of urgency with regard to Back-to-School shopping season. I hit a toy store in late June to pick up some sunscreen, pool floaties, and other summertime gear, and I could barely navigate my shopping cart without bumping into some early bird parent with a shopping list and a cell phone, trying to find out if little Molly needed a three-subject notebook with folder pockets or without. I actually found myself perusing the backpacks and lunchboxes, and could not believe that they were completely picked through with items thrown all about. Did I mention that this was in June?! Are we as a consumer society losing our collective minds?

I’m not saying to ignore all things academic over the summer. I did my share of reading and learning to keep my brains fresh over the summer, and now I’m making sure my son is doing the same. I’m just not harping on the idea that school is right around the corner, or that summer is halfway over. He’s having way too much fun, and I’m not going to wish the weeks away by stocking up on loose leaf and protractors.

So here is it, already August, and I still haven’t gone shopping. I took a peek in the supermarket the other day, and I noticed that the seasonal school supply section was a lot smaller than it was a month ago. After all, they have to make room for the Halloween candy. Apparently, it’s never too early to buy candy for holiday goodie bags even if said holiday is three months away!

Nevertheless, I’ve decided to enjoy what’s left of the lazy, hazy days of summer, and go school supply shopping right before school starts. Hopefully I’ll be able to find all of the items on my list. And maybe while I’m there, since the Halloween candy will be almost gone, I can pick up a string of Christmas lights.

Moms, do you think we rush too quickly into shopping seasons?