My kids are out of school at the end of this week which had me pacing the halls of my house yesterday , sick to my stomach. It’s not that I don’t want my kids around all day, everyday–not at all. I actually enjoy the carefree days of summer with them. But yesterday I was in a panic about our serious lack of finances and how I can’t afford to send anyone to camp this year, especially my middle schooler who still struggles with finding friends and who spends most weekend days home alone. “What are we going to do all summer?” I kept thinking”What are they going to do?” Drama camp costs $400, hockey camp over $200,the beach parking lot costs $25 at a pop, the movies for all of us runs over $50,the mall? Forget it.
My panic was just about at Ativan-level when I walked by the refrigerator and saw this, posted by my 10 year old daughter:
“Things to do over the Summer with Maddie(her friend)”
1) Jump in a freezing pool 5 times
2) Rollerblade up the Mineral Street hill.
3) Silly-String each other.
4) Dance in the rain in our bathing suits.
5) Plant a tree named Fred.
6) Design a new drink.
7) Put pink streaks in our hair.
8) Stay up all night at a sleepover.
9) Go in the pool at night.
10) HAVE A PARTY.
Not only did this list make me smile, it blanketed me with such nostalgic warmth that my panic melted away by reminding me that summer is not about camps and spending money we don’t have–it’s about dancing in the rain in our bathing suits and staying up all night long because we can! It’s about remembering what it’s like to be 10 years old when the world was safe and school was out and lemonade stands were at every corner. Thank you Maeve, for reminding me.
Mothers with Cancer
Kicked by an Angel 
Thank you Maeve! This was one of the best entries yet! I loved it simplicity and it also took about 50 lbs off my shoulders. Dancing in the rain? My kids would love that more than a camp any day! Pink streaks? Who would be cooler than us! xo
Thank you for this! I am going to do a grab this year where the kids put pieces of paper in a bucket and on a day when we have nothing to do, we are going to grab from the bucket.
tell Maeve I will jump in the pool with her. They can come to my yard. Oh my friend, what a great little mind on Maeve. Her list is awesome. Love the ideas. Talk soon Kathy
Beautifully written F…..your daughter is brilliant! Some other ideas for you guys: Frog hunting/catching, Decordova Museum has incredible grounds loaded with contemporary sculpture everywhere and it’s free if you do not go in, a trip to Boston, Bike on a bike path. We did these things but now that the kids are grown they are things I miss.
I don’t usually read blogs, but I liked the title. I am a 17 year PMC veteran. I loved every word you wrote. The kids list is priceless (I have a 10, 11, and 12 year old. best of luck to you and yours,
David
Ps. Hope to meet you during the PMC sometime.
I just love Maeve. She is a rare gem. Maddie is wonderful too. That list brought the biggest smile to my face. Dancing in the rain and planting “Fred” are my favorites. I hope the two of them are able to complete everything on their summer wish list. I too thank Maeve for also putting my mind at ease and reminding me of the simple things in life and what summer is really about. Wishing you all a wonderful, fun filled summer!