Ma Maven | The Mom Without A Manual

We’re a year-round homeschooling family, so the transition into summer feels seamless for us. There’s no “last day of school” bell or giant, locker-desk clean-out. But recently, my kids have come up with a way of marking the change in seasons.

I’ve noticed the uptick in conversation around their must-do overnight visit to Grandma’s house. And for them, it isn’t officially summer until the bags are packed and we are on the road.

My kids didn’t even ask for my vote on the matter. The other morning, I woke up to their bags being packed and being informed of the drop-off schedule. I’m not really sure if they even consulted with their grandmother about this plan, but between them, the decision was made.

And I couldn’t be too upset with them because when you think about it, there’s something so alluring about spending a few overnight days at Grandma’s house. For my kids, her house has the best snacks, and they seem unlimited; the TV will most definitely stay on with her favorite marathon sessions of whatever she’s watching, and the requirements for them will be relaxed (which leaves room for extra spoilage).

As the house will be quiet while they are away, though, I cannot say I’ll be completely upset about it. I know I’ll have to pretend while in their presence that I will be in utter shambles while they are away, but I can’t help but feel grateful. Raising kids is a massive undertaking, and having a family that not only loves them deeply but has the capacity to provide a safe, joy-filled space for my kids just to be kids is a gift I do not take for granted.

We talk a lot about “the village,” but seeing it in action is a different thing entirely. Knowing they are out there creating those core memories with people who adore them makes helping them follow through on their staycation logistics worth it.

Some of the core memories of childhood with other family members happen in those special moments with grandma at her house, where the rules are a little softer, and the love is flowing abundantly.

So, if anyone needs me, I’ll be enjoying the silence for a minute – at least until the “village” calls me to pick them up!

How do your kids celebrate the start of their summer? Do they have a ” Grandma’s house” tradition too?