Summer vacation and I have enjoyed a pretty downright acrimonious relationship all these years, ever since I discovered that when you're grown up you don't get vacation in the summer--even if your kids do. This year was no different. I ranted, I raved, I cried, I cringed, I fumbled awkwardly for babysitters, juggled deadlines against cranky, cooped-up kids. I fought the Summer dragon with a vengeance.

And then something odd happened. One day, I woke up with a bizarre thought: Why not just enjoy it? my mind whispered. Have fun! Soon, Summer will be over and you can tackle your workload then. Meanwhile, the kids are off--let loose, kick back, and live a little!

I know, I know. Bizarre is probably a severe understatement.

This was probably a week or two ago. Cautiously, I stepped out on this shaky new idea, holding out both hands for balance as I, wobbling, allowed myself to turn my back on work (gasp!), be more relaxed about meeting deadines (the horrors!), and say no to new projects (ouch!). I can say, with some certainty, that my children are rather pleased. I've done Fimo, read books, plunged down a really huge waterslide, taken the kids to the park, played ball, cleaned house (don't worry--it's a passing phase!), and just...relaxed.

Last night, I cuddled up on the sofa with Oldest (10) and Youngest (2), with hot cocoa and a stack of books. We read together, snuggled, laughed. It was delightful. I could get used to this. I think I'm finally getting a little taste of the sweetness of summer vacation, even as it slips away. Better a small, satisfactory bite than none at all. How's your summer?