Does anyone else struggle this time of year?

[CiderGlider]

Just that really. It's something that seems to happen each summer for a good few years now.

Not sure if it's end of school year fatigue, coupled with guilt and frustration of juggling six weeks of childcare but I'm never far from a few tears some days or short tempered with children/husband.

I lost my mother over 20 years ago now (when I was 20) and I seem to feel her loss more acutely this time of year than any. My fathers not interested in the us or the children and my (divorced) in-laws don't live local and are enjoying retirement.

I know that I become envious of seeing/knowing friends are doing stuff with their wider families or the grandparents coming in with a bit of support or generally anyone who appears to have their shit together and loving life.

I just hit a wall and can't wait for the autumn so I can start looking forward to my birthday, Halloween, Bonfire night, my sons birthday, and Christmas-which I adore as mum made it so wonderful.

Anyone else relate?

I've been feeling low. Lost my mother in law last year and she was always a bit of support in the holidays. My father in law is hopeless on his own although of course I understand.
I've got three kids, DH works long days. On top of that I'm dreading my youngest starting school with no direction in my life. I've not worked for many years.
I've just been feeling low, tired and teary.
Big hug.

Yes, right there with you. Anniversary of losing DH at the end of the month and even though many years have passed, I still get uptight, anxious and physically uncomfortable for the week(s) until the day arrives - the day is then usually OK, oddly. I'd support your fast forward to Autumn campaign! In the meantime, sending everyone solidarity wishes, I hope you feel more steady soon.

I get you. The summer holidays sound like a real drag for families that don't have a lot of help with childcare and these days they may not be very relaxing for the children either.