From The Confessional: The Good News — Summer’s Here! The Bad News — Summer’s Here!

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Summer is officially here! Hooray! This season brings a reprieve from the daily battles over homework, a more relaxed approach to bedtimes, and hopefully, an opportunity to bask in the sun after a long year of staying indoors.

However, summer also means our kids are underfoot all day with no clear plans or activities. Should we enroll them in expensive camps that strain our budget? Are these camps even safe? Do we worry endlessly about their screen time? Or do we just throw our hands up and relish in the rare moments of peace and quiet?

And then there are the sticky summer days filled with humidity, pesky bugs, and the endless negotiations over sunscreen and popsicles. By the time August rolls around (or even late June), we might be ready for summer to end.

Here are some confessions from other moms who are excited about summer—because it’s a fun time!—but also feeling a bit overwhelmed.

Today, I realized that summer break is approaching, and there are still no activities in my town. Once again, I’ll be stuck at home working while juggling my little one all summer long… it’s making me tear up.

Confessions from Moms

Confession #1: I really wish my partner was back at work this summer.

Confession #2: Last summer, I just wanted everything to be back to normal. This summer? I need some solitude.

Confession #3: My kids are concerned about the new mask rules. They’re old enough to understand COVID but too young to be vaccinated yet. Looks like we’re in for another summer at home.

Confession #4: Excited for pandemic summer #2! Lots of parents are still working from home, and tons of kids’ activities remain closed. We’re all trying to figure out what to do with our kids for the summer.

Confession #5: My son was kicked out of summer camp again. I thought we had moved past this. I feel so angry and ashamed. Why can’t we get this figured out?

Confession #6: We’re stretched thin trying to give our two kids three separate weeks of sleepaway camp. How do families manage this?

Confession #7: I just realized I’m wearing a shirt with a rather inappropriate saying while picking up my daughter from camp, and I’m not changing because it’s too hot!

Confession #8: I thought skipping camp this year would lead to a relaxed summer, but I won’t make that mistake again!

And then there’s the stress of camp sign-ups, the pressure of ensuring everything is Covid-safe, and the awkward moments that arise, like showing up in an inappropriate t-shirt.

I usually find being a stay-at-home mom rewarding, but summer can be overwhelming.

Honestly, for many moms, summer can feel like the most challenging season. The expectation to be the director of fun can be exhausting, especially when you just want to count the days until school starts again.

I’ve filled our summer calendar with activities to distract myself from my anxiety and depression.

Confession #9: I have summer anxiety. Past health concerns make me worry about bug spray and sunscreen safety. I just want to relax!

Confession #10: I can’t believe I’ll be working from home all summer with my partner and three teenagers. My anxiety is sky-high!

For many, summer is a season of complex emotions. We cherish late-night movies, swimming, and beach days, but also dread the crankiness that comes from late nights and the effort it takes to enjoy those outings.

Summer is here for the next few months—whether we’re ready or not. Let’s hope this summer is an improvement over last year. If you’re vaccinated and ready to enjoy life, you’re already ahead of the game!

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In summary, summer is a mixed bag for many parents. While there are opportunities for fun and relaxation, the challenges can feel overwhelming, especially with the pressures of planning activities and managing the kids at home.