It was 6 a.m. My plan was to spend a few moments of quiet alone time before the house woke up. This plan was immediately unsuccessful thanks to a groggy 3-year-old with a messy blonde bedhead. I pulled her up next to me on the couch and tucked a fuzzy Hello Kitty blanket around her pink princess jammies. After sifting through the many videos under Netflix’s “Children and Family” tab, she finally chose a cartoon. I handed her a cup of milk and a banana before retreating to the kitchen table, determined to enjoy my cup of coffee while reading just a few more pages. But no sooner did my buns hit the chair, than another PJ’d blonde 3-year-old was toddling down the hall asking for her own banana and blankie.
I quickly scooped up child #2 and completed the checklist of milk, banana, blankie, cartoon, repeat (because, “Mommy, I have to go potty”). Why can’t you two just hang out by yourselves and watch TV? Why else would we have twins?? I found myself impatiently plotting when I could sneak away, trying to think of ways to get my kids to play something that didn’t require my help.
And that’s when I realized: This is my chance to enjoy them while they are still little, and all I can think about is finishing my stupid book.
Next year we will have a high school kid and 2 kindergarteners. Our family dynamics are going to totally change. Every day matters because their childhood is now.
We have 2 choices: Sit back and let summer run its course and it will pass by just like any other time of the year. Or be intentional about choosing to make time to laugh with our loved ones during their time away from school.
This summer our family has exactly 72 days off of school. Each one counts, because my husband and I still have to work even though my oldest is out of school. Thankfully, the days are long and the sun is warm. There is a lot we can do with our kids outside of work hours. That’s why during July I’m running a “Super Summer Fun” series. I’ll be sharing loads of ideas for creative and fun things to do this summer.
What is a Super Summer Fun Series?
If you like playing in the water, cooking, crafting, and trying new things, then you will love this series.
I’ve been busy behind the scenes pulling together some of the best activities for the hottest season. This series is designed with families in mind. Because, let’s face it, quality time with your family is super important. I’ll be pinning to my Summer Fun Pinterest board in addition to sharing things here on the blog.
The series officially kicks off tomorrow.
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Wishing you long, fun-filled days this summer,
Nikki