Needing ideas...

[5ft Diva]

Hubby and oldest son are leaving town for five days and I'm already feeling stressed about being home with the younger kids all week BECAUSE they are major high energy and I'm wanting things to stay calm around here this week. What are some ideas I can suggest to them to keep them busy that won't create more work for me in the end? More specifically - I'm concerned about finding time to do some things that really need to be done that will make a huge difference in the way I feel inside if I get them done - like getting the house relatively clean, paying bills, going grocery shopping, doing my laundry (that hasn't been done for about 10 days), and getting ready for another long family vacation in August.

I haven't felt this way for a long time, but I think that after a teenager, a couple kids in the tween stages, having a child in kindergarten this last year, watching another child who was also in Kindergarten, having a four year old (who was in preschool that I taught every six weeks) and a two year old at home who constantly need me, being called as Primary President, having my husband working at home all the time, still being in limbo with my basement, and having a very fun filled but crazy summer, I think I'm just finally wanting some "Diva" space. I know I can hold it together this week if I can just look forward to some peace and quiet in my home and this week I'm needing to create that peace. Am I making any sense? (At this point it might be possible that I'm letting off a little pressure now more than anything seeing as my thoughts are all over the place. Kind of sounds like my life has been spinning out of control and it has finally caught up with me.)

I guess I just need some friendly encouragement to keep doing what we all are doing since my life really isn't that much different than everyone else's! Thanks for listening.

[bookworm]

Wow, Diva! You are having a crazy summer!!

I'm trying to decide whether you are seeking ways to keep the kids busy and out of your hair for a few hours each day or if you are trying to find things for them to do that you are going to supervise/take them to/etc.

I wish I was more help, but (as evidenced by my house) I'm not very good at getting anything done anymore! But this is what I would suggest: Either get up an hour before the kids or stay up an hour after they go to bed (maybe this week, summer bedtimes can be mandatory?) and do something peaceful.

So the kids are high energy, right? I bet that turns into destructive, unfocused energy (I know how boys can be). Can they spend the afternoon running through sprinklers? Can they spend a day making books (paper and crayons can get messy, but it's a mess they can pick up)? Can they help you with the laundry?

Maybe you could schedule your time a little bit-- make sure you include some "down" time each day to just do nothing.

We had a household "quiet time" every day when my kids were small. Those who napped could nap and the others had to watch a movie with a blanket and a water bottle and sometimes even they dozed off. Then I had two hours (more or less) of time to get things done or nap or whatever. Do you have something like that?

Would it help to have a few "no friends" days during this crazy week?

I sympathize-- I'm really sorry it's so nuts for you. I really admire how much you manage to get done, Diva, you are honestly amazing. I wish I had your energy and stamina! Not to mention your patience and "go-with-the-flow"-ness. Keep your chin up!! Take those kids out for ice cream or to the movies or something-- try to have some extra fun while Dad and the oldest are having fun!

[5ft Diva]

Thanks, BW. I really appreciate your thoughts. Good ideas!!

[Erudite]

My thoughts all echo BW's. Make sure you do what fills your cup and then just take everything else as it comes. We're looking forward to seeing you on Thursday!

[Dia Minha]

I just wanted to let you know I was reading. I wish I had some more wonderful advice to add. Just know I'm thinking about you and I know you will make it through this week and the ones to come, because you are an amazing woman. And whatever you do, don't forget to take time to enjoy the journey.

[5ft Diva]

Great advice, Dia! I have been so caught up in the gear I'd need to make the journey that I have not been thinking about the journey itself. Thanks for helping me keep perspective. Don't ever think that you're not useful just because you're on restrictions!

[natickgirl]

My only advice would be to take the time to enjoy the chaos. Keep meals simple & kid-friendly...I always feel a little "off the hook" re: meals when DH isn't around because the kids are a lot easier to please than he is.

Also, don't be afraid to use RedBox to your advantage, or to arrange playdates at strategic times. I was raised with a strict "never invite yourself (or your kids) over to someone else's house" rule, but I have since learned that sometimes it is OK to send your kids elsewhere. Most Moms understand that we all need a break now & then, and are more than willing to help out in stressful times.

Good luck! You CAN do this!