This is the first summer I’ve had completely to myself since well before my three children were born. Prior to their arrival in our household, I worked year-round. I became a teacher shortly after my first child arrived, and ever since, my summers have been filled with what I affectionately refer to as “mom-taxi” duties—carting kids to camps, sports, friends’ houses, and various other activities.
Things got a little less hectic when they all earned their driver’s licenses, so I decided, why not take on a part-time job to fill the extra time?
Life Transitions
My oldest child graduated from college this year. For the first time, she won’t be coming home—she’s staying near campus and working full-time while applying to medical school. My middle child is home but working full-time and preparing for a one-year study abroad program in Spain this September. My youngest just graduated from high school and will leave for his college adventure later this summer.
With all my birds flying out of the nest, I’ve decided to just kick back this summer and focus on something I haven’t prioritized in years: myself.
A Summer of Self-Improvement
I’m a list maker. The joy I feel when I cross things off my list is hard to explain, so I won’t bore you with the details. Let’s just say—it makes me happy. I thought it might be fun to share my list with you and invite you to share yours in the comments.
My Summer Bucket List
- ✅ Do one Spanish lesson every day
(I’m planning to visit Child #2 in Spain for Christmas!) - 📚 Read something every day
- 🚶 Exercise or walk five days per week
- ✍️ Write a minimum of one blog post every week
- 🌸 Create a backyard flower garden
- 🏖️ Go to the beach at least once per week
- 🧳 Travel somewhere every week
Your Turn:
What’s on your summer bucket list? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your ideas!
#summerbucketlist #emptynester #transitions #mindfulliving
Hive & Seek 
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