Once again we find ourselves at the end of June.
As I look back over musings over the past few summers, I see a pattern. I continue to live dominated by the school term, and therefore for us in this household, the end of June coincides with the end of the school term.
And also in this house, this represents a distinct shift in pace. We are able to live slower, with more space and less treadmill-running.
Every year I comment that many of you who do not have children do not have the same structure to your year.
For you, the question
“What are you doing in the summer?”
necessitates an answer along the lines of
“Much of the same as normal – working, living, normal weekends.”
I am sorry for the insensitivity of those of us with kids and school terms and exam stress and homework and end of year prizegivings and concerts and packed lunches and uniforms to wash. We can get so caught up in all of those brain-occupying activities that we forget that not everyone lives like this.
In this house, we have one summer left that follows the school pattern. Younger Nearest-and-Dearest is a fledgling S6, about to embark on her final year of school. For me, this marks the end of 16 years dominated by school life, and especially the last few years when I have had a fair number of school commitments.
So I am taking a pause.
A little summer breather.
Last year I observed how tired I was at the start of the summer season. It had been a tough year, for us and for pretty much everyone else. This year has thus far brought it’s own challenges, so once again I find myself limping in a weary and bedraggled state towards the end of the month.
Recognising that is important. Knowing how we feel, and what we need allows us to take small steps towards making good choices. Choices that allow us to access some of what we need, even in small ways.
I hope to prompt some self reflection and inspire with some simple musings over on social media.
But from me, for just now, I with you a happy July whatever that means for you.