Ah, summer! Those long, sun-soaked days filled with laughter, swimming, and endless fun. Hot dogs sizzling on the grill, fireworks lighting up the night sky, and kids running around barefoot in flip flops. Yet, as delightful as it all sounds, I’ve had my fill. Summer can kiss my sweaty backside; I’m ready for it to end. Sure, there are plenty of enjoyable aspects to the season, but I reached my limit about three weeks ago.
Summer throws a wrench into the perfectly balanced routine I maintain while my kids are at school, and I’m longing for that structure to return. When the first back-to-school ads hit the airwaves, my kids looked so forlorn. I made sure to sneak into the kitchen to perform a happy dance, because I’m considerate like that. At first, I kept my joy under wraps, but soon enough, my excitement overflowed.
By the end of the week, I was unabashedly dancing in front of the television, #Sorrynotsorry. Perhaps my little countdown calendar to the first day of school (which included a surprise mini liquor bottle) was a bit much, but what can I say? For me, back-to-school time is akin to “mom Christmas”—the most wonderful time of the year! Forget about Santa; I’m eagerly waiting for that big yellow bus.
Things I Can’t Wait For Once the Kids Are Back in School:
Sweet, Sweet Silence.
Children have this uncanny ability to never stop talking. They’re always asking questions, showing off the latest gaming videos, or bickering with one another. The noise level can reach a fever pitch, making it nearly impossible to think or even complete a phone call. As much as I cherish their laughter, the sound of them being quiet is pure bliss. The only time they manage silence is when they’re up to no good or glued to their screens with headphones on. Then, it’s my turn to shout!
Bedtime Bliss.
Little ones require plenty of sleep, and I need them blissfully unconscious so I can catch up on my favorite shows. During the school year, I’m a strict bedtime enforcer, but with no set schedule in summer, my viewing habits go out the window. And let’s not even talk about trying to steal a moment for romance. Kids seem to have a sixth sense for interrupting.
Structure and Routine.
The carefree, “whatever goes” vibe of summer is enjoyable for about a week. Sure, lounging in pajamas and sleeping in sounds great, but I end up accomplishing nothing. However, once school starts, I’m up and motivated. I’m actually a morning person after coffee—who knew?
Hygiene Matters.
I make a half-hearted attempt at keeping my kids clean during summer, but let’s be real—who has the energy? I’ll just assume the pool water is doing the trick for their dental care. When school is in session, hygiene is critical, and I’m looking forward to the sweet smell of fresh breath.
Solo Grocery Shopping.
Oh, how I miss going to the store alone! Grocery shopping without the kids is like a mini vacation. I can enjoy the music, read labels, and maybe even chat with the wine guy. When they tag along, it turns into a battle of wills, and I often find myself needing a drink by the time I leave.
Food in the House.
When the kids are home, they’re perpetually hungry. The pantry gets raided quicker than I can fill it. And if I stash away a few treats just for me? Good luck finding them later! I’m excited to stock up on snacks I actually enjoy and have them be there when I want them.
The Return of Functioning Limbs.
My kids seem to morph into couch potatoes over the summer, unable to lift a finger to help themselves. They’ll often call out for help instead of getting up and grabbing a snack. But come August, they magically regain their strength and can walk, carry their backpacks, and even help out a little. I look forward to being relieved of my butler duties and merely serving as a chauffeur.
With these and so many other reasons, I’m more than ready for summer to wrap up. Back-to-school season can’t come soon enough! I know I might miss them eventually, but for now, I just want them to GO AWAY!
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Summary:
Summer may bring sun and fun, but for this parent, the chaos, noise, and lack of structure make me long for the school year. With the promise of silence, bedtime routines, and a well-stocked pantry, I can’t wait for the kids to head back to school. Until then, I’ll be counting down the days!