As a kid, I’d listen to adults go on and on about the changing seasons, and I’d think they were a bit odd. Really? The seasons changing? That’s what excites you? Talk about boring.
Now, as an adult (whether I feel like one or not), I find myself gushing about the seasons just like them. Maybe it’s because I’ve come to appreciate nature’s beauty more as I age. Or perhaps, as a parent, the seasons play a huge role in our daily lives. Honestly, it could be that I just get bored too easily.
Whatever the reason, I’m now much more aware of the changing seasons — especially the nuances of fall. Here are the five stages of autumn that every parent experiences:
- The “I’m So Done with Summer” Phase
- The “Hello Pumpkin Spice Latte” Phase
- The “Leaves Are Changing! Oh Wait, They’re Gone” Phase
- The “It’s Only Going to Get Colder” Phase
- The “Counting Down to Summer Break” Phase
Let’s be real; this phase kicks off in early to mid-August. By this point, we’re exhausted by the heat, sunscreen application, and the constant sweating. Even the pool isn’t fun anymore with all those kids splashing around. Entertaining the little ones has become a daily chore, and the bickering? Oh my goodness, the bickering! If I have to separate one more argument over who’s better at their video game, I might just lose it. How many days until school starts? I’m ready for summer to end.
Isn’t fall just the best? If it were a new relationship, this would be when you’re exchanging cute emojis and enjoying every moment. Everything about autumn feels amazing: pumpkin spice lattes, kids back in school, earlier bedtimes giving us more me-time, and cozy sweaters that let us skip leg shaving. The vibrant leaves are the cherry on top! I can’t wait for those adorable pictures of the kids playing in the colorful foliage. Fall truly is the greatest!
This is when fall takes a turn. The leaves were stunning for what? A day? Maybe? Blink and they’re gone. Those cute pictures of the kids playing in the leaves? Yeah, not really happening — unless you count the stick sword fights and leaves stuck in their hair! The crisp air quickly turns chilly, and every morning becomes a battle over why shorts are no longer acceptable. Seriously, just put your jacket on! Sure, the kids are in school now, but homework can be a drag. And those pumpkin spice lattes? Yikes, they’re packed with calories!
Alright, we’re in it now. It’s cold but not freezing yet. Might as well enjoy these milder days while they last, right? It’s only going to get worse from here. Soon we’ll be dealing with mittens, snow pants, and mismatched gloves. Where on earth did all the kids’ boots go? And why do we have 15 different mittens none of which match? Forget it; I’m calling it a night. It’s only 5:34 p.m., but it feels like midnight outside.
It’s super cold now — like, really cold. There might even be snow. And it’s not even Thanksgiving yet, but I’m already tired of holiday music. The homework struggle is real, and the routine feels monotonous. Starbucks hasn’t had pumpkin spice lattes for weeks, and those controversial little red cups are more annoying than cute. How long until summer break? The pool sounds amazing right now. Fall is totally overrated. And winter? Ugh, no thanks.
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In summary, the changing seasons bring a mix of emotions and challenges for parents. From the eagerness to escape summer to the countdown for warmer days, each phase of fall has its own unique trials and joys.