The thrill is gone at the start of the year with older kids, now By Kelly Hockenberry, Columnist, The Times BACK TO SCHOOL: THEN (meaning 5 years ago) vs. NOW THEN- Brand new backpack (ordered WEEKS in advance) with coordinating lunchbox (and superhero thermos) containing things like carrot sticks, goldfish crackers and a love note from Mommy! NOW- Backpack from last year (ripped and tattered....