Summer is winding down, and everyone can feel it in the air.  And as moms, we can feel that little whisper, “school is coming.” And if you’re anything like me, you’re probably sitting there, half sentimental and half exhausted, wondering where the time went.

I had big plans for this summer. Oh yes, I was going to be that mom, the one with the Pinterest-perfect bucket list, jam-packed with travel plans, beach days, late-night movie marathons, trying many different baking recipes, and homemade fruit popsicles. And we did some of that (okay, a lot of baking). But honestly? Some days were just survival mode. Some days, I would count the hours until bedtime. Well, most days, if I am being honest.

And now here we are. The kids are bouncing off the walls, and as much as I’ll miss their giggles during the day, I cannot lie, I’m ready for the sweet, sweet sound of a quiet house when school starts again.

But then reality smacks me right in the face: school supplies. That dreaded list. Last year, I swore I would be the early bird who shops in July, and this year I’m the mom frantically scrolling online in late August, trying to remember if we still have last year’s scissors or if someone “borrowed” them to make something. Between juggling my career, making meals and taking care of the house, making money, and just trying to keep life together, I don’t always have the luxury of slow, leisurely shopping trips.

And I know I’m not the only one. Some of us just don’t have the time, or the mental energy, to make ten different lists, run to five different stores, and still keep our sanity. That’s why I’m grateful for Amazon. A big cup of milky tea in one hand, phone in the other, and a few clicks, boom, the backpack is filled, and I can check something off my never-ending list.

So, for all my fellow late-shoppers, tired moms, and “where-did-the-summer-go” parents, I’ve put together a list of 50+ back-to-school must-haves for our kids of all ages, and also their Amazon links to get them from. These aren’t just the basics like pencils and paper (though we’ve got those, too). These are the smart, durable, sanity-saving finds that will make the school year smoother, easier, and maybe even a little fun.

Ready? Let’s dive in, mama. We’ve got this.

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