Summer is finally here, and I have to confess, it’s a whole lot more fun now that my kids are older. While I cherish the memories of their little feet running through the sprinkler, I don’t miss the constant exhaustion and sticky messes that came with it.
Here’s why I’m loving summer even more these days:
Reading Together
My kids are now at an age where we can share a love for books. It’s a joy to have discussions about the stories we read together, and I no longer have to endure the same bedtime story fifty times. Instead, we all cozy up in our own rooms, reading quietly with the soft glow of our lamps. The occasional page turn or sleepy yawn fills the air, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Life Lessons
Gone are the days of changing diapers! Now, I’m teaching my daughter how to shave her legs and showing my son the ins and outs of keeping a clean mustache. They’ve got their fashion sense down, asking for my input on their outfits. Our conversations have evolved into deep discussions about life and relationships, allowing me to express my thoughts and feel truly heard.
Playground Freedom
No more hours spent baking in the sun at the playground! These days, my kids are off exploring the neighborhood on their bikes, leaving me free to kick back on the porch with a book or scroll through my phone. I love hearing their laughter echo through the streets while knowing they’re staying active and having fun.
Beach Days
At last, my kids can slather on their own sunscreen and pack their own beach lunches. They’ve become adept at drying off and don’t panic when they’re covered in sand. Plus, they’re confident swimmers now, allowing me to finally relax and enjoy a dip in the ocean without constantly worrying about their safety.
Sleeping In
The best part? They sleep in! This means I can catch some extra Z’s or sneak in a morning run before they wake up. It’s hard to believe that I’m now a runner, something I would have never imagined when they were toddlers. With more energy and fewer diaper-related distractions, I seize the chance to enjoy some “me time” in the mornings.
Late Nights
We can binge-watch movies together late into the night, munching on popcorn they popped themselves. If I’m too tired, I can just drift off to sleep knowing they’re fully capable of putting themselves to bed. Often, they’re the ones tucking me in!
Ultimately, the best part of summer with older kids is the time we spend together. The school year is hectic, packed with activities that keep us apart, and I cherish these lazy, unstructured days where we can relax, break the rules a bit, and embrace a new routine—pajamas optional. That’s the summer I look forward to!
Remember to check out our other blog post about home insemination and parenting at Intracervical Insemination. For those interested in fertility, you can find valuable resources at Make a Mom and ASRM.
Summary
As my kids have grown older, summer has transformed from a tiring adventure into a delightful experience filled with relaxed reading, meaningful conversations, and newfound independence. We can enjoy each other’s company without the chaos of the younger years, making for a more peaceful and enjoyable season.