The classroom is calling

I can't believe I'm saying this, but back-to-school season is upon us once again. I blinked and summer vacation was nearly over. Now if someone would tell this heat wave that summer's over...

We've got about three weeks until most schools get back in session, so I'm finding school clothes, backpacks, supplies and after-school plans on the brain with increasing frequency.

Last year it was Spiderman, Ironman or Transformers for my youngest and High School Musical, Hannah Montana or anything with butterflies for the oldest. Somehow we've moved on to Tony Hawk, Star Wars, iCarly and anything with animals.

Last year I bought all kinds of school supplies and realized soon after that the kids didn't need them (except for working at home). So we ended up donating most of the stash to the classrooms. I'm guessing that kind of thing will be even more appreciated this year.

There are back-to-school checklists all over the place, but here's yet another that will hopefully help moms and dads at least START the year out organized and ready to roll.

The Big Stuff

Am I forgetting anything? Please let me know if I am! And, if you have tips for parents about shopping, getting kids ready for school, packing lunches or anything else, please share.