Well, we did it—another school year in the books!
Everyone’s alive, mostly sane, and no one was left behind at pickup (more than once), so let’s go ahead and call that a win.
Now comes the next great parenting challenge: summer. What are they going to do all day? Can they get jobs yet? Who’s watching them? What camps still have spots open? And the million-dollar question—Can they stay home alone without burning the house down or starting World War III?
This summer is going to look a little different for me. I got pretty spoiled having my daughter around to keep an eye on her twin brothers—built-in babysitting at its finest. But alas, she’s discovered she likes shopping, and shopping requires money. So without any prompting, she applied (and got hired!) to work full time at her school’s summer day camp. Bye-bye, summer sitter. Hello, new logistical nightmare.
So now I’m left wondering: how long can the boys be home alone before someone needs stitches or a lawyer? And how much juggling can I do between work and playing summer cruise director?
Luckily, I do have some options. I’m signing them up for a few sports camps—currently piecing that puzzle together like it’s the Olympics. My husband, ever the voice of 1980s reason, keeps telling me to let them figure things out. “Remember when we were kids? We stayed out till the street lights came on, drank out of the hose, biked miles to a friend’s house, and lived to tell the tale!” Sure, dear. But the world feels different now. And while I never personally sipped hose water, I get the point—still, letting them roam the neighborhood solo makes my anxiety do somersaults.
In this issue, we’re diving into summer safety (parents of microwave-loving kids, take note—ban the ramen! It’s the leading cause of accidental burns in older children. Who knew those noodles were so dangerous?). We’ve also got tips on budget-friendly family getaways and summer travel ideas that won’t require selling a kidney.
As for me, I’m looking forward to a few beach weekends with my crew, a special Boston trip with my daughter for a FutureDocs conference (hello, proud mom moment!), and a dance nationals adventure in Branson. It’s going to be a whirlwind, but I’m trying to soak it all in. These summers with our kids are numbered—and no matter how loud, messy, or ramen-scented they get, I know I’ll miss them one day.
Wishing you all sunshine, sanity, and maybe a quiet moment or two. Happy summer!
