Summer's a funny time. On the one hand, there are altogether too many weeks of nothing to do—and three very different kids to not do it with—but on the other, it's relaxing and relatively stress-free. While Steph's at sleepaway camp* and Pete and Julie are at day camp, I have little to worry about beyond making sure to keep one step ahead of the swimsuits piling up in the laundry room. I don't have to pack lunchboxes, buy art supplies for special projects, remind gently (or not so gently) about practicing instruments/reading/doing homework, or figure out carpools for sports games/practices or Hebrew school or various other after-school activities. Yes, I'm still working, but I don't feel as much like I have a "second job" waiting for me at the end of the day.
I have exactly 4 more days of this peace. Julie finishes up camp this Friday, Steph comes home next Thursday, and Pete's all done the following day. Then we can look forward to 3.5 weeks of not a heck of a lot going on, except that Andy will be off for one of them, so we'll try to cram in some extra beach time and other fun activities.
I know some people hate when summer is over, but I don't. I still get excited when a new school year approaches, and I do welcome the routine (even with its stresses and logistical inconveniences). Soon enough I'll have a second grader, fifth grader, and seventh grader! (For all you southern readers, we don't start school this year until September 8! You'll probably be having mid-terms by then, eh?)
But, for now, we allow extra treats, later bedtimes (which are generally not taken advantage of, because the kids are cooked after long days running around outside in the sun), longer time on the computer or in front of the TV, and just general downtime. I think we can all use some of that now and again.
*Speaking of which, after last week's sad-sounding letter, followed by a few days of no letters whatsoever, we returned to our regularly-scheduled steady stream of happy letters from Steph. She said she had felt a little homesick for a day or two but was back to loving camp and dreading its end.
actually I think our mid-quarter grades come out that week - ha ha! my kids are all a year ahead of yours - I have a 3rd grader, 6th grader and 8th grader! I REALLy wish we started school later - August is the hottest month here!
Posted by: Kathy | August 03, 2009 at 11:09 PM
Arlington doesn't start until Sept 10th! I am excited because we can have a few uncrowded beach days on the cape!
Posted by: Sara | August 04, 2009 at 10:01 AM