September Craze

So the one concrete difference in managing life with five kids is undeniable: I have less time. Less time translates in no time for private dinners with my husband, meeting friends, starting a jogging routine not to even dream about reading or having the mind space for creative writing! This is even more evident in this particular month of September which represents new beginnings in so many forms: 1st grade primary school for nb 4, 1st secondary for nb 2, B-tests for number 1, organisation of the baptism for nb 5. Not to mention the re-launch of activities, playdates and birthdays following the long summer break. How do we manage then with my husband? New distribution of tasks. We had four parents meetings to attend during the week of preparing for the bapteme - for the first time in 12 years I delegated this honoir to my husband (and he did well!). I took on the visits to the pediatre, ONE, baby massages, coordination with support teachers, supervising homework and organising the bapteme:accomodation, menus, contacts with the church, gifts, clothes etc. And caring for the little man who is (rightly) hungry 10 times per day. Regardless of the (mind me bragging) well-established planning for the start of the school year I have been out of breath in most days without even -as mentioned earlier- glanzing over my running shoes. On the other hand, I have got to spend wonderful nights and early mornings getting to know this new wonderful person who chose to join our family. His smile enlightens all of us and brings instant joy to our days. Fortunately the children are oblivious to the above craziness of parents and are seemingly happy to find their friends, hobbies and school routines. The favorite moment of my day is to have all my kids around the table for their gouter, to hear their enthousiasm over their day reporting of any incidents during the bus trip, mishaps of friends (or teachers!) or illnesses.. If I could bottle these little exclusive moments! The baby is often present feeding during these moments, however my mind, presence and attention is with my other kids. With these early morning thoughts I leave September behind on to welcome smooth tender October 🥰