This is the last full week of school. Next week will probably be a complete wash with only a day and a half. I’m sure that time will be used for parties and cleaning out desks and lockers. For the first time since I’ve been a parent, I’m staring down a summer where both the kids and I have a lot of free time. We also have, thanks to said free time, quite a few trips planned. No longer do I have to account for my vacation time, so I’m taking advantage of it. We’re heading to the beach twice and Mr. Geeky and I just found out that we’ll be going to Paris in early July.

But, I still want to accomplish something myself this summer. There is work to find, a potential book to write, and who knows what else will come up. Also, I want to establish some better habits in my kids and not let them languish all summer. At the same time, I don’t want to be too regimented. After all, you don’t get this kind of relaxed schedule for much of your life. So I’ve decided on a few things. They will both be practicing their instruments every day. We will spend time outside. Both kids want to play tennis and soccer. And we’ll likely visit the pool. I also want to fit in some school stuff, which I have a feeling they won’t like much, but I think it will be good for both of them not to atrophy too much.

How do the rest of you manage the summer? I’d love to hear your ideas.