By: Lisa Thompson
Fall is my absolute favorite time of year. I can’t resist the allure of cozy sweaters and steaming cups of pumpkin spice lattes. The vibrant foliage is simply breathtaking, and I look forward to the fun-filled holidays that come with the season. However, as I started exploring various fall activities for my kids, I felt an overwhelming wave of anxiety wash over me.
With lists touting “75 Fall Activities You Must Try” and “100 Fall Crafts to Create,” I found myself spiraling into a state of panic. As a somewhat introverted mom who tends to set high expectations for herself, this barrage of information can easily tip me over the edge. I yearn to create unforgettable memories with my children, but the pressure to do it all can be too much. So this year, I’m flipping the script and crafting a Fall Skip-It List instead of a Bucket List. Care to join me? Here’s what I’m opting out of this fall:
1. Hand-Making Halloween Costumes
I’ve tried this before, and let’s just say it ended with tears (from both me and the kids). The results were less than stellar, to put it mildly. I’ll be relying on Amazon Prime for costumes this year, and maybe I’ll brave a local costume shop if I’m feeling adventurous.
2. Attending Every Fall Festival
Standing in long lines with grumpy kids, only to spend a small fortune on worn-out rides? I’ll do that once or twice, but I refuse to chase every festival that pops up in town. My sanity is worth more than that!
3. Apple Picking Extravaganza
I took my youngest apple picking a couple of years ago, and while it was fun, it involved a lengthy drive and an overwhelming amount of apples. I ended up with a huge pile of fruit and a dent in my wallet. Not repeating that this year!
4. Over-the-Top Decorating
I love a good autumn aesthetic with some colorful mums and spooky decorations. But let’s be real—hanging corn husks and packing every window with gourds is just too much effort. I’ll stick to the basics.
5. Baking Marathon
I can handle a simple pumpkin pie or muffins, but I refuse to wear myself out trying to bake elaborate dishes that no one will eat. If a recipe takes longer than 20 minutes to prepare, it better come with a guarantee that my kids will actually eat it.
6. Crafting Overload
If my kids want to craft with some construction paper, more power to them! But as much as I admire arts and crafts, I just don’t have the patience for it. Big messes make me anxious, so I’ll skip the glittery decor and framed leaves this year.
7. Forcing Enjoyment in Every Moment
While I know there will be countless joyful moments this fall, there will also be plenty that aren’t so delightful. I refuse to pretend to enjoy the times when we’re shivering in the cold after trick-or-treating, with tired kids refusing to carry their heavy candy buckets. I’ll let myself feel the frustrations, right alongside them.
I recognize that perfection isn’t attainable, especially with kids in the mix. I often build up expectations for special moments, hoping they will unfold flawlessly. This year, I’m preparing for the inevitable hiccups. Whether it’s a costume disaster or an unexpected illness right before Thanksgiving, I’ll try to embrace the chaos. Who knows? Maybe by anticipating the messiness, I’ll be pleasantly surprised when things go better than expected.
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Summary
In a season filled with expectations, I’m choosing to simplify my fall plans by skipping some traditional activities that often lead to stress. From avoiding homemade costumes to letting go of crafting, I’m focusing on enjoying the moments that truly matter—messy or not.
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