Updated: Jan. 22, 2021
Originally Published: June 25, 2011
Imagine a fallen Catholic and a non-practicing Muslim settling in an Orthodox Jewish neighborhood to raise their only child. It might sound like the setup for a punchline, but that’s us— the quirky family with a unique kid. It’s a fact that only children often evoke strange stereotypes, and perhaps that’s just part of the charm.
In our neighborhood, summer resembles a ghost town. Most families vanish to their vacation homes or enroll their children in elite camps filled with activities like macramé and pony rides. Back in March, I fancied lazy days crafting floral crowns from dandelions, but now, after two rounds of Monopoly and a tea party with her American Girl dolls, my daughter and I find ourselves in a mutual scowl. I wear too many hats as her mother, playmate, sister, and cousin, and it’s not fulfilling for either of us.
I sometimes wish there were a way to rent a sibling for the day. Imagine picking up a pretend brother on the way to the beach and returning him afterward. Such a service would be perfect for those summer amusement park trips— I could avoid the dizzying rides! Haven’t we done enough throughout the year? From sleepovers and organic lemonade stands to tennis lessons and the dreaded Russian Math, I’ve survived it all, only stopping short of Mandarin classes. Even I fell victim to peer pressure, succumbing to Pure Barre workouts— but don’t get me started on my embarrassing yoga outfits that scream 80s throwback.
I’m weary of trying to keep pace with suburban life. Can we just take a breather, kiddo? Can’t you just run through the sprinkler while I sip non-organic hard lemonade in my splintery Adirondack chair, listening to soft rock from the 70s? I remember my childhood, filled with my siblings and neighborhood friends, running wild until the sun dipped below the horizon and buying Rocket Pops from the ice cream truck.
In lieu of a sibling, we decided to adopt a puppy. However, it quickly dawned on me that puppies can’t join us on spontaneous summer adventures or beach trips. I suspect this summer won’t be filled with cozy moments around a fire pit, singing songs and roasting marshmallows.
When I asked my daughter what would make this the most magical summer of her young life, she quickly replied, “Building an Elsa castle!” And so, here we are, constructing a grand cardboard castle in our driveway. “Do you want to build a snowman?” she sings cheerfully. Not particularly, but I dive into the project anyway. Maybe those pony-riding, tech-savvy kids will want to join in. If we build it, perhaps they will come. At least, that’s the hope as I take another sip of my hard lemonade.
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Summary:
Navigating summer with an only child presents unique challenges, especially in a neighborhood where most children are away at camps or vacation homes. The author reflects on the nostalgia of childhood, the pressures of suburban life, and the joy of creating special moments with her daughter, particularly through imaginative play. Amidst the desire for a sibling and the adoption of a puppy, they focus on building memories together, highlighting the importance of creativity and connection.