Being a parent these days is hard. It is because everyone is so good at being parents. In the world of Pinterest, blogs, Facebook, Instagram, we are able to see all the amazing things that everyone else is doing. And we are all obviously doing it all so well. Or at least that’s the vision of ourselves that we are trying to project.
I have been thinking about making a summer to do list. After a quick Pinterest search, I saw what I’m supposed to do. I’m supposed to create an ‘invitation to play’ everyday for my kids – some activity that I set up that encourages creativity and independence. I’m supposed to make beautiful and creative meals that encourage my kids to eat only organic vegetables. I’m supposed to make sure Alma learns how to write her name before pre-school in the fall – and can do that with organized home school activities everyday at home. I’m supposed to take my girls on educational outings that they will enjoy without tantrums or naps.
Umm. I’m not going to do that.
I mean, I might do some of that, but if I do, it will mostly be an accident. I don’t have time, nor do I see the value in doing such perfectly planned things. I’m not perfect, and I don’t plan on setting perfect expectations. That seems like a perfect way to fail.
I’d rather set some goals that I know will be fun and easy.
I know that I can do these things. No pressure.
I think I can get to the end of my days happy that I did these things. I think I can get to the end of the summer happy that I gave these things to myself and my girls. And if Alma learns to write her name along the way, that’s cool too.
What are you doing this summer?
