How do you fill your summer if you're off work with older children?

[PensionPTake]

Mine don't want to do stuff with me anymore and i do miss it. Although it's also nice to be past the stage where they want endless entertainment all day long.

I was very bored last summer (I work term time) which makes my MH plummet so I was going to do some volunteering this year but forgot so didn't arrange anything. Instead I've made a list of stuff to do around the house which means I feel like I've done something productive with my days, if a little boring!

So far I've cleaned my carpets, washed the sofa covers, deep cleaned two bathrooms and sorted and rearranged a big corner kitchen cupboard with all our stationary and craft stuff in. I have some painting to do, garden bits, I want to make a drinks station and deep clean some other rooms.

I bought a new book to read, I have some sewing on the go but not feeling it. I need a new knit/crochet project but can't find anything I like and the blanket I'm doing is too large now to be doing in this weather. I've a few Netflix shows etc I'd like to watch but I'm not very good at just relaxing and doing nothing so I need my knit/crochet project to do at the same time.

what are you all up to?

I think you’re living my dream, the summer off from work & children who can entertain themselves….

But, if you’re looking to fill your day how about some days trips, take the train somewhere plan to do some site seeing, lunch out or maybe a picnic, nothing you have to pre-book that way if the DC want to join you they can if not you still get to do something nice.

I can usually persuade my older teens to join me for the odd museum trip etc if I mention that we'll be getting lunch out! So that might be worth a try if you're missing their company.

Also, some great 1980s films, with home-made popcorn. Have they seen Pulp Fiction? Lost Boys? Big?

How about an upcycling project - alone or with a DC? Have a look on Gumtree/FB Marketplace etc for an old table/bookcase/chair that might be useful in your house - there are usually loads that are free/very inexpensive. Decide what you want to do (chalk paint? decoupage?), look for tips and instructions online, buy your sandpaper, paint, brushes and dust sheets and off you go!

Do any of your rooms need painting? Now would be a good opportunity!

I don’t give my neice a choice. While she lives with me she must do at least one activity with me everyday — we usually go to brunch at a cafe nearby then a walk.

I have always worked term time. Before I had kids I used to meet friends for lunch, hike, run, walk the dog, DIY, nap, deep clean, go to the spa, go shopping, take myself for little day trips, cook elaborate meals, bake, read, binge watch series, garden, sunbathe. God I miss child free school holidays

That sounds lovely @WarmHarei really dislike the hot weather but it looks like it will be cooler (at 24/25!) this next week.

I'm quite tempted to paint my bedroom @ASingleDayOnVenusand that is on my list. I think it might be one of the jobs I'll regret when I start it though 😅

@pottylollyi don't find dragging older teens anywhere they don't want to go an enjoyable experience for anyone. They're busy, I'm not worried about them lol.