As we welcome the warmth of summer, the memories of a harsh winter fade away. The flowers are blooming, and it’s time to ditch those winter socks to see how our feet look in sandals. Kids are restless in their classrooms, and let’s be honest, we’ve stopped worrying about homework and healthy lunches. All we can think about is the sweet promise of summer vacation.
Ah, summer vacation! That enchanting time when the kids are home constantly, and the fridge is perpetually stocked with popsicles. Days stretch longer, cocktails become more colorful, and the sunscreen battles are in full swing. With the arrival of summer, there’s an unending pressure to create fun experiences, and the sunny days seem to guarantee flawless moments at beaches and parks.
Everywhere we turn, there are enticing lists on making the ultimate mojito or must-visit spots for kids in June. Stores dangle the allure of unforgettable memories with massive jump houses and enormous slip-n-slides. Moms boast about the multitude of enrichment camps they’ve signed their kids up for, while social media feeds overflow with friends enjoying vacations that seem out of reach.
Summer reading lists, endless BBQs, swim parties, and family reunions can transform that initial excitement into overwhelming exhaustion, particularly for moms. So, this year, I’m reclaiming my summer.
I’m determined to find genuine relaxation and enjoyment. I want to slow down and reduce the stress of those school-year routines. Those mojitos and margaritas should be a delight, and evenings by the fire pit should last long into the night. So, how do I plan to achieve this? Here are my four resolutions for the summer:
- I won’t restrict my screen time—especially for myself. There’s a lot of chatter about unplugging, and while I get it, I also run an online business that requires me to stay connected. I can handle emails from the beach, the pool, or the park. Go ahead, judge me if you see me on my laptop while my kids are splashing in the water, but remember, I’m working to support their snack cravings too. Yes, I’ll be on Facebook too. So what?
- I won’t give up my fitness routine. During the school year, I’m a fitness warrior. Why should that stop just because it’s summer? My kids will be right there poolside while I swim laps or biking beside me as I jog off last night’s indulgence. They need to witness healthy habits in action, and waiting a few extra minutes for me to finish is a small price to pay.
- I won’t schedule every single moment. In the past, I meticulously planned every activity, striving for a perfect summer experience. But that often led to stress before the fun even began. This year, we’ll embrace downtime. I’m excited about afternoons spent lounging and reading instead of racing from one activity to another. Letting my kids experience boredom will help them discover their own fun—something that’s truly been lost art.
- I won’t blow the budget on summer camps. Each March, I start the search for the best camps, but the reality is often a chaotic schedule filled with early mornings and complicated carpools. My kids cherish the simple moments, like skipping stones at a local creek, far more than the expensive camps I’ve scrambled to secure. This summer will focus more on those simple joys and less on costly experiences.
While some might view my list as selfish, to me, it’s about survival. My kids deserve a relaxed mom during this wonderful season when we can enjoy life without the pressures of school. Anyone who judges my choice to prioritize my well-being can miss out on the fun with me and my margarita on the patio. Their loss!
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Summary
This summer, I’m prioritizing my well-being by refusing to limit my screen time, skipping my exercise routine, planning every moment, and spending excessively on camps. I want a summer filled with relaxation and genuine fun, allowing my kids to discover their own entertainment.