By Ashley Myers
I don’t know about you, but talking about back to school time is definitely a bittersweet topic. To start, could school shopping be any more annoying, or is that just me? We need markers – but wait, not just any markers – they need to be specific colors and sizes and imported from France on a spaceship. At least that is how I feel when I’m reading this daunting list of school supplies. Meanwhile, while I’m checking items off the list the kids are begging me for a “special” pencil bag that talks to them and tells them how awesome they are as if they don’t hear that enough. I mean, who the heck needs a talking pencil bag in the middle of class?
It’s all a mystery to me, but let’s switch gears and talk about why I’m writing this post. This year I have decided to focus on the good reasons for my kids going back to school. And I feel most of you would agree with me.
Reason #1: Mommy Time
Whether it is a lunch date with friends to have adult conversations, or catching up on cleaning the house – because apparently this is a new concept in our household – having a moment to catch up on my mom duties is wonderful.
Reason #2: Structure
I don’t know about your kids, but mine need structure. So, school is great for them in supplying a structured day. Over the summer, no matter how many things I schedule, Day 2 of summer break rolls around, and our structure and planning are thrown out the window while speeding down the highway to our first unscheduled event.
Reason #3: Relaxing
The concept of relaxing – by myself – and thinking my own thoughts is bliss in itself. Even just having the opportunity to sit on the couch and binge watch the most adult (non-kid-friendly) show I can find is a form of relief… Any suggestions?
At the end of the day I always end up missing my kids and counting the minutes until I can pick them up, but those few hours to myself to relax and get things done are fantastic! Not only is it healthy for me to have adult time, but it is great for my kids to be learning in a fun environment with their friends and away from the “parental unit”. How do you relax?