We did it. We actually did it.
Another school holiday survived, and not just survived, but somehow kept it together with enough laughter, snacks, and small victories to call it a win.
It’s been a blur of crumbs, negotiations, and “Maaaam, it’s not fair…” on repeat, but as the week’s drawn to a close, I’ve noticed something surprising. The kids are calmer. More focused. Fewer meltdowns.
Surely that can’t be a coincidence.
Maybe they just needed the slower mornings. The time to play without a plan and the space to be noisy and creative without rushing out the door before their brains have woken up.
I know I needed it.
Because somewhere between the snack demands and the sock standoffs, we actually got things done.
We approved the final illustrations for Acorn and the Toothpaste Tangle (they’re beautiful, by the way), uploaded everything to Amazon, and now we’re just waiting for the proof copy to arrive so it can finally make its way into the world.
We even managed to fit in time with friends and family, the kind that refills your cup rather than drains it. Long chats, shared meals, laughter that goes on too long. Its the small, grounding bits that make the juggle feel worth it.
And then, because I clearly have serior issues with impulsivity, I added to the chaos.
Enter: a five-month-old cocker spaniel.
Floppy ears. Endless energy. Zero bladder control. Part land shark.
Because when life starts to calm down, my brain apparently gets scared of the quiet and needs to throw in something unpredictable!
But truthfully? He’s brought something special. The kids have been gentle and kind in ways that make my heart ache. They laugh when he tumbles, share the responsibility (mostly), and find calm in the rhythm of caring for something smaller than themselves.
And me? I’m tired, happy, slightly stinky (wet dog, yummy) and proud.
Proud that we made it through the holidays with more smiles than screams.
Proud that we managed to balance life, love, work, and muddy paw prints.
Proud that the meltdowns were fewer, laughter was louder, and that somehow, amidst the chaos, we created something that feels close calm.
So yes, the washing is everywhere, the floor is furry, and the phrase “leave it!” now applies to both children and the dog.
But we survived.
We thrived.
And we even got the next book ready to fly.
Love,
Mammy Squirrel (and her pack of beautifully chaotic nuts)
P.S. If you haven’t read my first book yet, why not?? You can get ‘Squirrels, Odd Socks and Side Quests‘ here or from Amazon HERE.
A book designed for ADHD brains to show you that you are not alone – I see you 🥰
