We all know that summer comes with months of fun filled activities…Right? For some summer comes with the stress of trying to pack as much fun as humanly possible in to two and a half months.I know as a working mom I try and pack even more into even less time. Weekends are filled months in advance and trying to find any extra time is almost impossible. Summer should be fun and relaxing. I think it’s time to ditch the summer stress…who’s with me??!?!
Now the simplest way to do this is to make yourself a summer priority list. What are your must haves for this summer? Is it going to the beach or pool? Cook outs with friends or a travel vacation? Once you have everything written down look at the list. I mean REALLY look at it. Is this realistic? Now cut your list down. Try and make sure you have at least one weekend a month with nothing on the calendar. Save these weekends for a little “me” time, an unscheduled day trip or even just a nap.
I’ve made my list and put it on the fridge as a reminder of what I wanted to do this summer. This helps me to focus on what’s important. Remember it’s ok to say no to some of the invites. It’s your time too.
So what’s on my summer list for the next month?
Beach Vacation
Time at the pool
Boston for the day
Yup that’s it. Short and simple. Do I have random parties in there? Of course but I’m in control of my plans so I’m not going to be stressed. Deep breaths, summer is supposed to be fun.
I have 6 kids and summer is my most stressful time of the year. This year has been my most stressful yet, we’ve been down one vehicle countless times, fearing it’s time for a new one. Cardiologist appointments for my youngest, and GI for the next. I don’t know how I do it most days.
I agree with your philosophy that simple is better for summer months. I live near the water so we are always at the Beach now, but its not “mandatory fun” it’s a nice walk after dinner, or to just watch the ferry. I will never understand why so many want huge costly vacations. I’d rather take my family on a picnic, or somewhere historic like Jamestown.
I have been assigned ot jury duty ALL summer and I find out every Fri & Tue when I have to report. Stresses me out not being able to plan.
Summer can really be a stressful time. I know for me my son was only with me for a week this summer so I was even more stressed because I had to pack all the fun into one week. The break has been nice however but I am so ready for him to be back home from summer vacation/camp.
I definitely get where you’re coming from being a working parent and trying to cram summer fun in! It’s so hard sometimes not feeling guilty that we don’t get to do more. Thanks for the reminder not to stress 🙂
I tend to try to pack too much into summer, too! (Well, every season!) I definitely need to make a point of having a few more lazy summer days! Love the photos of the kids, btw!
Summer can be a stressful time. I can totally relate to you!
I wish I were at the Beach right now! Anytime I’m near the Ocean I am way less stressed.
We usually do one “big” thing over the summer. This year it’s going to the beach. First week of August, can’t wait! Then if we have the funds we’ll do smaller things like local amusement parks or events. We also do a lot of free things like nature trails, picnic at the park, swimming at the local rec pool, things like that. For me, I stress about keeping my kids active and engaged instead of just sitting in front of the tv or video games
Summer can be stressful, trying to plan so many things to do. I still want to go boating again before summer’s over.
Summer is great, but there is also a lot of pressure to always be doing something. I’m actually enjoying the routine now that the kids are back to school.