As a laid-back mom, the arrival of early fall brings an overwhelming sense of anxiety about the upcoming holiday season. From October through April, I find myself caught up in a whirlwind of continuous festivities, and honestly, it’s draining. While I appreciate holidays like Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day, the preparation involved can be quite a hassle. As I dye eggs each Spring, my thoughts often wander to summer—the most wonderful time of year when I can finally unwind. Although I still have summer events to navigate, they’re my absolute favorite for several reasons.
1. No Overhauling Decor
Let’s be real: it feels like I just put the Christmas decorations away, and I probably still have a few Easter bunnies hanging around. The thought of dragging out all those holiday decorations again in November is daunting, especially in the sweltering heat of July. Summer holidays don’t require extravagant decorations. Sure, some people go all out with patriotic crafts, but that’s not my style! If I’m feeling particularly ambitious, I might hang a flag at my door—or maybe not. No one will even notice.
2. No Gifts to Buy
Not having to shop for gifts is a massive relief. No trips to the mall, no online shopping sprees, and my wallet appreciates it too!
3. No Overindulgence in Candy
I know it sounds cliché, but I really am the mom who worries about excess sugar. While I believe in moderation, holidays like Halloween and Easter have become sugar-fueled frenzies. I cringe when my daughter dumps her Halloween candy, and I can feel my blood pressure rise at the sight of giant boxes of chocolates. For us, summer celebrations mean fresh fruits, like juicy watermelon instead of a mountain of candy.
4. School’s Out
The break from school makes everything easier. There’s no pressure to keep a strict schedule, and late nights are no big deal. Plus, I’m free from organizing classroom parties, shopping for supplies, or managing endless lists of snacks. I can truly savor this laid-back time.
5. Easy Entertainment for Kids
Summer fun is incredibly simple. A splash pad, a pool, or even a garden hose will keep the kids entertained for hours. When evening falls, I can skip the sparklers (which honestly terrify most kids) and hand them glow sticks instead. Meanwhile, I’ll enjoy some Cool Ranch Doritos!
6. Effortless Summer Fare
Summer meals are the best—no complicated recipes! There are no turkeys to prepare or intricate cakes to bake. My summer menu consists of grilled hot dogs, baked beans (not homemade, but who cares?), and corn on the cob. I won’t be crafting a flag cake either; Lofthouse cookies are my go-to!
7. No Magical Visitors
Santa and the Easter Bunny are on vacation during summer. There’s no chaotic nighttime visit from magical beings, making for a peaceful environment. The only exception might be a lost tooth—but that’s manageable!
8. Simple Outfit Choices
Dressing for summer festivities is a breeze. A pair of white shorts, a blue t-shirt, and a red scarf, and I’m good to go!
9. Low-Key Parades
Parades are typically laid-back affairs, with golf carts and wagons decorated in red, white, and blue. The atmosphere is relaxed, and if we miss it, no one is stressed. Last year, we even opted to stay in bed!
While many holidays can feel overwhelming, summer celebrations provide a much-needed break for busy parents like me. I’m not just celebrating our country’s independence; I’m also relishing the freedom from stress and the lack of expectations.
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In summary, summer holidays provide a much-needed escape from the hectic celebrations of fall and winter. They allow me to enjoy quality time with my family without the burdens of elaborate preparations or the stress of gift-giving.