Summer has felt crazy this year. The kids are restless and running out of activities to keep them busy. They can’t even swim in the pool because this heat makes it feel like a hot tub. So, they are stuck inside, arguing and making this momma pull her hair out.
The Hydration Mantra
This sometimes makes me get excited about going to work to get a lull in the madness. About three hours into the day, chaos is on high! Summer brings more visitors, so there are twice as many people to observe. With temperatures in the 100s, we have to monitor the time our residents spend outside, since bodies can overheat fast. Even though we are trying to help, it makes some agitated.
“Hydration, hydration, hydration!” I think I say this about a thousand times a day. That may be an exaggeration, but I do say it enough that I dream about it.
Vacay Here I Come!
This heat is also getting to me and causing me to feel overwhelmed. So, after talking to myself, I have decided I need a vacation!
Don’t get me wrong, I love being around my kids and residents. They are my life. It’s just that I need a physical, mental, and emotional break. I don’t want my emotions to cause anyone else any trouble. However, as much as I want a getaway, with gas prices, the cost of eating out, and just overall inflation, I can’t afford it. So, I have decided on a staycation.
I will let the kids visit their cousins. That will give them a change of scenery. I will find a reliable CNA to work for me so I will have peace of mind that my residents are properly cared for. And I will stay at home.
Stay Home. Recharge. Repeat.
I want this to be a stress-free time, so the first thing I will do is unplug from social media and the news. I may start reading that book I bought five months ago. I haven’t enjoyed watching the stars for a long time, so I may do that. There are so many things I can do to recharge myself on my staycation, but I don’t want a to-do list. I don’t want to feel like I have to get things done. I don’t have to pay for gas, hotel, or expensive food.
Now, if I can’t get any days off, I will have a mini staycation over a weekend. It doesn’t have to last a certain number of days. The most important thing is I will have some time for self-care.
I deserve this in order to be more present when I am at work. My kids also deserve me to be more present. Everyone needs to do this ever so often. Now if you will excuse me, I need to call my sister to tell her she is about to get some little visitors!
