SO I've been thinking. As parents, we spend most of our waking lives ensuring our children's wellbeing and happiness. That's our job. In return, we get to watch them grow into amazing adults. Granted they might be amazing us with their bad life choices, good life choices, talents, smarts, kindness or sheer bloodymindedness, but there you go. There were no guarantees when we signed up for this job. Obviously, I'm preaching to the choir here, so I'll get to the point.
We just survived Summer vacation, back-to-school, fall sports, open houses, the onslaught of homework, and now comes the holidays. We're entering a very scary few months filled with fun, laughter, stress, long hours of running and in some cases, just putting the best face on things to get through.
I declare a "Mee Now!" pause for all parents.
Once the trick or treating is done with the kids, I say it should be our turn. Get back out there and walk around the town in your PJs like the frazzled zombie you are. Mutter all the foul language you have been holding in (not directed at anyone). Likewise, other parents and sympathetic community members will mark their homes by keeping a light on for you. (double parent home will have to take turns, single-parent homes just need the break) Knock and say hello, meet your neighbors. It might be the only chance you get during this age of technology.
Beg for solace.
In return, these wonderful neighbors will hand out all sorts of goodies to help you get through the next couple of months of craziness. Some good ideas are K-cups, Advil, herbal tea, bath bombs, tea lights, nips (those teeny alcohol bottles), coupons, samples, business cards (along with samples and coupons, don't skimp here), hugs, lottery tickets.... these are just some ideas.
There are no tricks to be played here because who has the time or energy and besides that, if someone isn't answering the door, it could very well be that bedraggled person standing next to you who is so tired and lost in thought that they forgot where they lived. It might be you.
Then you can go home with a bag filled with goodies and maybe even a new friend or two. After all, we deserve to have some fun too!