Something strange has been happening in our home since school let out.
Last summer break, we had daily themes, a running bucket/ideas list and travel galore.
This summer? None.
The kids are sleeping in daily. We have four activities on our agenda (soccer, baseball, VBS and swim lessons), two trips scheduled and one set of grandparents who’ll graciously babysit when I need to work. Other than that, our schedule is open, and so am I. Questions I’d normally weigh have become easy yeses…
Mom, can we ride our bikes to get ice cream?
Yes
Mom, will you pitch to me? (For the 100th time this baseball season?)
Yes
Mom, can I buy this (ridiculous plastic) toy from Goodwill?
Yes
Mom, can we go to the library again?
Yes (1000x yes!)
Mom, can we watch a movie? (Even though it’s super late!)
Yes
Mom, will you read me one more bedtime story?
Yes
I’m stretching my boundaries a bit, sure. But I spent years dreaming of what I’d do with my kids in the summer, and now I’m living the dream. I’ll keep saying “yes” whenever I can (within reason) because we all need a little magic to get through these long, hot days.
“Yes” means, I see you and I take your desires seriously;
“Yes” means, kids need to feel freedom too;
“Yes” means, watching you enjoy life brings me joy as well;
“Yes” means, I love you more than words can say;
“Yes” means I want to cherish these moments alongside you all summer break.
Erin Strybis 