Back-to-School Blues? Shine Through with Self-Gifting

Every year, as summer fades and back-to-school season rolls around, there’s a familiar whirlwind: shopping for supplies, moving kids into dorms, snapping those first-day photos.

It’s exciting for the kids – new chapters, new adventures! But let’s talk about you, the parent, for a moment.

Whether you’ve just sent your youngest off to kindergarten or dropped your eldest off at college, it’s normal to feel a twinge of sadness or even loneliness. The house is quieter. Your routine has a sudden gap where a kid (or two) used to be. We lovingly call this the “back-to-school blues.”

But here’s a thought: as you navigate this emotional time, consider doing something kind for yourself – something to celebrate your journey and help fill that change with a bit of joy. How about a little sparkle, just for you?

The Emotional Ups and Downs

 First, it’s important to acknowledge what you’re feeling. Parents often experience a sense of loss or bittersweet pride this time of year. You might catch yourself wandering by your teen’s empty bedroom or missing the midday mess of toys that now sits tidied (for once!). These feelings are a testament to the love and effort you’ve poured into raising your child. You’ve dedicated so much energy to them – and now, as they become more independent, it’s time to dedicate some energy back to yourself. One healthy way to cope is to mark this milestone with a positive action. Enter: the idea of self-gifting.

Why Jewelry? You might wonder, “Why jewelry? I could get a spa day or a new book…” Of course, any act of self-care is great! But there’s something uniquely meaningful about jewelry as a gift to oneself, especially at a turning point in life. A piece of jewelry can be symbolic. Think of it as a medal for making it through the school years (you deserve one!), or a tactile reminder of your own strength and love. Every time you wear that ring or necklace, you’ll be reminded that you navigated a big life change and came out shining. Jewelry, unlike a one-time spa day, stays with you – it becomes part of your story. For instance, a pendant with your child’s birthstone can represent holding them close even when they’re far. Or a bracelet with a meaningful quote or date inscribed can remind you that your journey is ongoing and important, too.

Ideas for Your Perfect “Award”

The beauty of self-gifting is that there are no rules – it’s all about what speaks to your heart. Here are a few ideas to spark inspiration:

• Birthstone Jewelry: Choose a piece featuring your child’s birthstone (or multiple stones for each kid). A sapphire for your September baby or an emerald for May – wearing it can bring a comforting connection to them daily.
• Customized Charms: Create or add to a charm bracelet with charms that represent memories – a graduation cap, a tiny home, a heart, an initial. Each charm can symbolize a milestone you’ve guided your child through, and the bracelet becomes a jingly scrapbook of your journey.
• Engraved Pieces: How about a locket engraved with a word like “Courage” or “Next Chapter,” or even the date your child left for college? Inside, you could tuck a little photo. It’s like carrying both the memory and a motivational mantra with you.
• Upgrade an Heirloom: If you have a family jewelry piece tucked away, now might be the time to reinvent it. That brooch from Grandma? Turn it into a pendant. Your old class ring? Maybe reset the stone into a modern design. The process of redesigning can be therapeutic and the result is something uniquely you, blending past and present.
• Just-Because Bling: Maybe there’s a piece you’ve always loved but never bought – those diamond stud earrings, or that gold necklace that seemed “too indulgent.” Guess what: now is the moment. You’re entering a new phase, and a signature piece can be a wonderful companion for it.

More Free Time 

 Taking your child to college or watching them gain independence is a huge milestone for you as much as for them. It’s okay to feel sad, but it’s also a chance to rediscover yourself. A little self-gift – a token of appreciation for the parent you’ve been and the individual you continue to be – can be a lovely step forward. Whether it’s a modest charm or a once-in-a-lifetime diamond, if it brings you a smile each morning, it’s worth it. You’ve given so much; don’t forget you deserve something beautiful too.

So here’s to all the parents adjusting to quieter homes and new routines – may you fill them with proud memories, exciting new hobbies, and yes, maybe a bit of well-earned sparkle. Remember, your story isn’t ending – it’s just turning a page, and you’re allowed to gild the edges of that page in gold. 

 Come see us anytime – we’re here to celebrate you in this season of change.

(And P.S. – if your spouse needs a hint, feel free to forward them this article with a big ol’ circle around that piece you’ve been dreaming of! We’ll back you up, promise!)