Danielle Paschka

The girls start school on Monday & I’m tearing up just thinking about it. This was truly one of the best summers we’ve had. Ever. Being a stay at home mom the girls’ entire life basically is like summer break with no break but since they’ve started school — summer break can be a lot especially when they are young. Having to entertain them, find things to fill the day, worry they are on their iPads too long, all the snacks, getting outside plus everything else you have to do to take care of the house, errands & everyday tasks.

This summer I felt a shift. They didn’t fight me to be on their iPads — when I said it’s time to be off by noon until after dinner they said okay. They found things to keep themselves busy, they wanted to go outside with friends, they wanted to sit & read books independently (because I was). I was able to do errands before they woke up for the day so I didn’t have to drag them places they didn’t want to go. I was able to go on my walks & sometimes they would join but other times they were fine if I went solo. We got that separation & they got independence & goodness it made such a difference in how our days went.

Obviously since they are older there is more wiggle room to a lot of this but pleasantly surprised how much of a difference such little changes made over the last couple years. Truly soaking up all the summers I do have with the girls because before I know it they will want to be out with their friends or have summer jobs & time together will be smaller.

We try & do as much family stuff as we can & I honestly love that the girls want to do that stuff still. Go to movies, go for walks, or just do simple things together! Some of my favorite times this summer were sitting outside on the deck & reading while the girls were crafting or making bracelets & listening to music together. Just enjoying each other & being together.

I mostly wanted to write this because when the kids are little & they are driving you crazy most days & you want them in school to just remember they wont always get summers off & they won’t always need you. I’ve been there where I can’t wait for them to get back to school but then they get older & time picks up & you wish you didn’t wish away those days.

I’ve been really in my feels about going back to school because Aria is headed into 6th grade. Middle school. Brand new building, teachers, staff & all the things. I’m nervous for my girl, I know this year will change her & be different but I know she will rock it & this will be a great transition for her. I fear the tears will flow after I drop her off on Monday & I’ll be so ready to see her when she gets out. She will always be my baby.. no matter what! We got this mamas!

Xo, Dani