It seems that while the cold and dark winter drags on forever, the summer days go by in a blink, don’t they? Here in Massachusetts we’re at the midpoint of the kids’ summer vacation and I’m loving the break from the school year logistics.
I wax and wane between feeling like school can’t start soon enough, and wishing we could stretch summer out a bit longer – and usually feel both those emotions on the same day. Can you relate?
As my kids get older I find my role changing from summer activities director to chauffeur, and while part of me misses the days of arts and crafts on the driveway or whole days spent at the pool, I want to enjoy the ages they are, not wish this time away or long for days gone by. I am trying hard to embrace where we are right now in our family life. The tween and teen years have their challenges (doesn’t every age we parent, though?), but it occurred to me the other day that while of course I love them, I also really LIKE my kids (usually) (sometimes) (when they’re not giving me that tone of voice). They all have their own personalities and quirks that I enjoy, when they’re not exhausting me with debates about why it’s necessary to pick up their room or mow the lawn or fold laundry.
The other thing I have been relishing in this summer is seeing the three of them hang out together by choice. Oh there is the typical sibling arguing and harassment, but often I find them out back throwing a ball or shooting hoops or laughing about some silly YouTube video like the Sideburns Song.
Overall, it’s been a great summer so far……
a lot of summer ball….
Stacey {steward of design} says
Looks like you've been having a great summer! I love those moments when my kids hang out together by choice and giggle too.
Vel Criste says
I agree with you Lisa, I have a tween son too, and I learned that I'm growing too just like my son – growing in my parenting style and the type of friendship I'm developing with my son. I still long for the days I can cuddle him up in my arms, but I'm equally happy when he gives me huge hug back. We're lucky to always have great summers – good health, lots of water fun and talk time too. 🙂 Glad yours turned out fabulous!
Jennifer @ Dimples and Tangles says
Look at your sweet little family! So glad you all are having fun. Enjoying watching mine play Monopoly together right now. What a blessing!
Sarah @makingitmyhome.blogspot.com says
Teenagers are tough to parent! I hear ya about the tone of voice thing and having the need to explain why the grass needs to mowed and the dishes need to be washed!!!!
Nancy {at} powellbrower at home says
Im so glad for you and your family that you are enjoying your summer and time away from the computer! Savor every minute-it'll be over before we know it.
xo Nancy
Kimberly Lemmon says
3 words: out of control. My daughter had registration today and starts up for real on Thursday. What happened?
pam {simple details} says
So glad you're enjoying a great summer with your cute kiddos, the projects will always be there waiting! 🙂 I'm so sad to see it go, we have one last outing to the mountains and school starting in two weeks! We're ignoring it, haven't bought a single supply yet!
Cassie @ Primitive & Proper says
can i relate?!?!? YES!!!! totally!!! and looks like your summer has been awesome- your kids are growing up so fast! and you just get prettier all the time!
NanaDiana says
It looks like you have had a really good summer so far. Ours has been beyond busy- xo Diana
Mandi@TidbitsfromtheTremaynes says
You are seriously one HOT mama! Wish I looked like that in a tank and some short shorts! Woot woo!
Linda {Calling it Home} says
I can relate to all of it. The part about enjoying your kids at the age they are, is top of my list.
Dana Frieling says
Aren't we blessed to have kids we like?! 😉 Glad you're having a great summer, Lisa.