At the risk of sounding like a terrible mother, this summer is kicking my butt.

There, I said it. Last August I cried when it was time for summer to end and watch my oldest head off to first grade. And throughout the whole school year I wished for summer. I longed for the days of flexible schedules, staying up late and no (well, less) lunch-packing. But summer’s in full swing now, friends. And we’re only halfway through.

Now, please don’t get me wrong. I absolutely love this time of year with my kids.

I love the free time.

I love going to the beach.

I love watching them turn into little sun-kissed blondies through their SPF 1000 sunscreen.

But there are things I REALLY don’t like, as well.

I dislike the increased bickering.

I dislike having to be the sole activity planner when sometimes I want a break, too.

I dislike the all-day-long screeches for "mom" to get snacks, to referee, to entertain.

I am exhausted. There is truly no rest for the mommy in summertime.

I know there are only 18 (ish) summers with my kids at home. I should savor every moment. I get it. But this summer is tough, y’all. Quite the doozy. But I’ll get through it just fine.

I will continue working my way through our family Summer Bucket List.

I will continue putting on the damn swimsuit.

I will continue doing all the rest of that summer jazz.

And I will sincerely cherish these moments, too. Because I’m the mom, and that’s what we do.

So mamas and dads, if you are struggling this summer, too, don’t fret. Know you are not alone. Even good parents need breaks. Sending solidarity vibes and Katniss Everdeen salutes. We got this.

And if you are a parent reading this and thinking, “I can’t relate to this at all. I’m loving every minute of summer!” then that’s great. I wish I was in the same boat, but I’m not. Not right now.

Chances are though, that when we completely settle into our summer routine and the light at the end of the tunnel is visible again, I will jump right back on board that ship with you.

Just hope that time comes soon.

Mia Carella is a stay-at-home mom and writer who lives with her husband and their two children. She likes reading, napping and spending time with her family. She dislikes cooking, cleaning and adulting in general, but absolutely loves being a mom. Her work has been published on Scary Mommy, Babble, Love What Matters, The Mighty and more. Read more on Mia's website, www.ThisMomWithABlog.com, and follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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