Last summer, when Andrew went out of town, I often felt completely overwhelmed, exhausted, and impatient. I sort of counted down the days (and sometimes hours) in my head for his return so that I could breathe again. Of course I had a blast with my boys, but it was also really hard.
But something has happened since then. When he leaves for a few days, I don’t feel those crazy, frantic, overwhelming feelings. I don’t feel like I am on the verge of mental and physical collapse. I think it all comes from one simple thing: sleep. 
This past weekend, Andrew was gone for three days. Honestly, we missed him, but we had so much fun and it was so much easier than I remember. Lately, all three boys have been sleeping through the night. Though they are still early risers (usually all up by 6 or 6:30), an uninterrupted night of sleep means the difference between night and day for me. I have never been a morning person, but it doesn’t really matter as long as that good chunk of sleep is tucked neatly under my belt. This weekend, I actually woke up smiling as Emil settled under the covers with me, followed soon after by Oliver, then Milo.
Sleep shouldn’t be that important. It absolutely blows my mind how it can change my attitude from day to day, month to month. But it does.
And so this weekend was exactly what any summer weekend should be: full of laughter, love, exploration, tree-climbing, water-slinging, 5-year-old drama, and friends coming together to bear the load of child-rearing when husbands were away. Full of fresh veggies and our fair share of pizza and beer (for me, not them), and dirt. Lots and lots of dirt. 
I am constantly reminded this summer of what is important. While our car accident situation is far from resolved (the single person responsible for the accident was severely under-insured and so we will be at a huge personal loss when all is said and done), our children are healthy and safe. We have an amazing network of friends around here who continually come through for us. We are having a beautiful summer and our garden is producing a bounty. My mom insisted on helping out with the cost of the boys’ summer clothing and replaced my most loved shoes with a new pair. I just feel so humbled by our luck and the love people show us. 
And these two. Their love for each other could just move mountains: 
Hope you’re feeling the joy this summer. It’s there, it truly is.
Aww. What a sweet post. Those two at the end. So perfect. Also, bummer to hear about the insurance. Won’t your insurance cover the “under-insured”? I feel like that’s something almost everyone has on their insurance. I know it’s optional… but I think everyone gets it, don’t they? I hope it works out for you. Also, you let him go WAY up in that tree? Just looking at it makes me shudder. I am so afraid of heights/falling! 😉
Danielle, yes, we have great insurance coverage, but it’s the personal loss that really added up. Our insurance just doesn’t cover all of the luggage, stroller, and things that were damaged in the back of the car.
And as for the tree, yes! Milo is really good about knowing his limits with stuff like this, and I think the more freedom we give kids, the more secure they are with making decisions for themselves. Of course, if it were Emil, it would have been a different story… 🙂
Every morning I get to work, brew a cup of my favorite tea and before I even start my work day I take a few minutes to see what you’re posting. Lately, you’ve been quite an inspiration from parenting to gardening and style, I’ve really enjoyed to read your posts. I also appreciate the consistency in your posts and know how hard it must be to have so much on your plate and still post every day! Kudos mama!!
Alma
Hi Lauren, I told my mom (an insurance claims/liability specialist) about your accident. She told me this:
The insurance company of the liable party should pay for any property damage, which would include their luggage and contents.
If your own company is paying for the car accident, the luggage/clothes would be considered personal property and you’d have to go to your homeowners policy for reimbursement, which would of course be subject to your deductible.
So, not sure how high your homeowner’s deductible is, but it might be worth looking into. I’m glad you’re enjoying the rest of summer!
Uninterrupted sleep is such a blessing! It’s like a planning period and lunch for a teacher. They are a much needed break to make you miss your kids and get ready for the next adventure. So glad you are getting your well deserved break!
Thanks, Leslie! That’s great advice! Will definitely look into it! The issue with the other car’s insurance coverage had to do with the fact that they were responsible for the damage and loss of 5 cars total. It’s just a big old mess.
And Alma, wow. What a kind thing to say. I love hearing that others are enjoying this blog! 🙂
Sleep is everything! It’s so important and I certainly wish I was more skilled at it. I’d love to be a person who can get to bed at a reasonable hour and wake up refreshed and happy. Those are the best people to be around. Glad you and the boys are finally getting a good overnight ritual.
Bummer about your insurance, but yay for new shoes! That’s exciting.
I really needed an attitude adjustment this summer while staying home with my two guys. I’ve been feeling as you initially described; overwhelmed, severe ennui, and a general sense of unraveling, never-end-slog of the same work over and over. Its hard to stay upbeat and creative for your kids when one is frazzled. Not to mention homemaking in the way one would like.
Reading your blog as of late has kept me on track and has given me lots of inspiration. From new recipes to making mud pies with ze dudes. It is incredibly reassuring to see someone with so much kindness, creativity and character pour herself into her family and share it with the world. Its a wonderful gift you give to all of us.
Thank you, Maggie! I can’t believe you still feel that way after seeing my boys’ behavior this afternoon! They are such rascals sometimes!
But I really feel the same way about you, darling! It was wonderful to see you today, and as always, a joy to see your sensitive, caring, and hilarious little guys. I could use Jack’s good sense around here to keep Milo in line!
Sister, those boys were charming and hilarious as ever. If thats bad behavior, we are coming to live with you.
You really are inspiring, and a beautiful writer too!!