We’re watching TV.
Technically, they are watching TV.
It’s Day 2 of “summer vacation” – except I live in Germany, where the school year runs into late July and the concept of American-style summer break is more of a distant fantasy. Still, I feel like it’s summer, and I’m already both longing for the freedom of a U.S.-style break and absolutely terrified of being stuck with my children for six unstructured weeks.
Anyway, it’s 4:56 PM. I’m calling that a win.
I’m tired. I have to work. They did stuff today. Stuff I’m sure was healthy and enriching. I just have to work harder than I want to right this exact moment to remember what it was.
Yesterday we tackled the eye doctor. We had only one and a half semi-containable meltdowns. My youngest now has glasses, and both will be sporting blue tinted transition lenses. I didn’t even know that was a thing, but here we are.
Naturally, I bought the insurance, but let’s be real: it covers one replacement pair if you bring in a piece of the old ones. A PIECE. The optician was very clear on this. I laughed a little too hard at that because my child could annihilate a pair of glasses so completely that not even molecular dust would remain.
But hey, eye doctor? ✅ Done.
Fall pediatrician appointments? ✅ Scheduled (unlike last year, when I remembered the week before school started and couldn’t get in until mid-October). Sure, now I have to pay for them since they’re technically “too early,” but if this keeps us from missing sports physicals, immunizations, and forms again, I’m considering it a strategic investment.
So yes. I’m taking the wins where I can get them.
Two days ago I was basically Supermom. I made lists. I ordered educational workbooks. We held a family meeting. There were hugs and agreements and smiles. I even drank my coffee after reheating it only once.
And now, we’re here. Watching TV at 4:56 PM. I’m still calling it a win.
Repetition is key, right? Say it with me: This is a win.
We’re pacing ourselves. Too much of a good thing too soon is dangerous. For our health. Or our sanity. Or both.
Speaking of wins…
If you need a hilarious, heartwarming book to get you through the emotional chaos of parenting this summer (or this Tuesday), grab my latest picture book:
👉 Shame Is My Monster
It’s a beautifully illustrated tool for helping kids name and tame their inner shame monsters. Also a helpful reminder for grownups trying to survive the chaos with grace.
Want more hot-mess parenting wisdom with a dash of heart and humor?
🌀 Subscribe to my blog so you don’t miss the weekly meltdown. (Mine, not the kids’… probably.) It’s free, and I promise not to spam you unless I’m locked in a bathroom with snacks and Wi-Fi.
Need some validation that you’re not the only parent flailing your way through summer? I highly recommend this piece from Parents Magazine on why screen time isn’t the enemy during summer break. Spoiler: survival counts.
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