With just days left in Round 1 of our summer break, I'm sharing a quick update from our family blog.
First, a peek at my son's 11th birthday gifts. Keeping it simple as always, he requested a guitar and a Lego set to share with his grandparents.
This first vacation round followed our classic routine: the kids flew to my parents' at the month's start. As an experienced parent, I arranged unaccompanied minor service for our 11-year-old (required by airline policy) and covered his big sister's fare to keep them together—though we'll adjust next year once he's older. Grandpa and Grandma's house offers the perfect setup: swimming pool, spacious garden, and fresh fruit salads for snacks. It never fails to delight them.
A new twist this year: our teenager headed off for a few days with a friend nearby, leaving his younger brother to enjoy some solo time. He handled it like a champ.
Meanwhile, as a mom of two who's navigated countless school years and summers, I channeled any initial sadness into productivity. I dove into work, of course.
Of course.
(But that's not all.)
I tackled home organization, stocked up on school supplies from my new go-to supplier, MaRentréePasCher.com (use this link for €5 off and 10% on your first order), and sold off toys and books the kids sorted for pocket money.
Couple time was a highlight too: relaxed after-work drinks with friends (multiple nights in a row, no watch-checking), movies, binge-watching, and an blissfully empty fridge.
I confess: I'm just starting to miss them. This break was exactly what we needed to recharge after a challenging school year.
Admittedly, my energy levels dipped too (down to 9—another story for later). My schedule stays demanding even without them, just differently. I'm savoring the freedom from daily routines; after such a tough year, we all deserve it.
What about you? What's your summer plan?
