The rise and fall of the Nicoll Children

It's been a while and I could seriously write about a million things like how the current state of Real Estate has sucked all joy out of being a Realtor. Or how we Nicolls have lived a great summer full of adventures big and small. I could discuss how it's impossible to loose weight in summer or how it's also impossible to find silence during summer. But I think I will take some time to write about how funny it is to watch each of my children fall in and out of my good graces and the others flock to be in that #1 position. Lily loves to see Maeve in the hot seat and I think both of the girls have found a lot of joy seeing Peter fall from adorable can-do-no-wrong little boy to the sometimes naughty and increasing willful 4 year old. And I guess it's a rhetorical question to ask why all 3 can't be sweet and considerate and helpful and amiable all at the same time. For centuries, I am sure all mothers have watched the kids take turns as the "easy" ones or as the very very trying ones! Summer can bring out the best and worst of everyone. The best of me - fun, adventurous, thankful. The worst of me - aggravated at the lack of ALONE moments, impatient, tired and maybe even sometimes....debbie downer. Mid summer is the biggest test. June is adrenaline. Lots is planned, fun is everywhere, celebrations are often and we are just so damn happy to not make lunches every morning. July starts off with a bang with parties and parades and we know we are about 1/2 way through w/ summer. Then 150 requests for play dates later, I started to feel the longing for some structure and silence. SCHOOL. I was almost ashamed to say it. I certainly don't wish summer away but I could use the break. Take note - MID TO LATE JULY PLAN GET AWAY WITH HUSBAND ALONE.
Nonetheless, I can't control the calender. So as I watch each child take their turns at most beloved to most aggravating, I breathe deep. It's only 7/20. We have about a month plus to go. They, too, need the structure and the constant contact with friends that school provides. So tomorrow morning, we are having a meeting to discuss choosing joy over NOT joy for 1 more month while we all live within these 4 walls. Choose joy. Choose quiet. Choose reading. Choose peace. In return, I shall provide one more month of the greatest summer of your life...maybe.