Summer approaches

Summer is always a time of celebration and excitement in our house — no school, playing in water, staying up late, ice cream and a lot of fresh air.

But, in our house, it can also be a time of stress and frustration. Not only because we have three young children and full-time jobs, but also because of stepchildren. I love the girls dearly, but, how do we get them to understand that they must follow the rules in our house even though they may not be the same as the rules at their mother's house?

My husband and I always butt heads with these two young ladies. We expect everyone, even the little kids, to help out. All of us have to do our part, especially with five children ranging in age from 2 to 13 in the house.

It's the same thing practically every summer. The first two weeks fly by so smoothly — we're all happy, helpful and having fun. Then, the downward spiral. Due to what we see as a lack of respect and bad behavior, we tend to avoid going places, like the zoo, water parks, etc. After all, if you can't listen at home, how can you be trusted to listen anywhere else? I would love atleast one summer to be more carefree, and anger free, so we could enjoy some little "staycations." But, no, it never fails. One small attempt at discipline derails the entire summer.

I'm happy that all the kids are excited about the end of the school year and their summer vacations. At the same time, I'm trying to prepare myself for yet another bad summer while trying to remain hopeful that it could be different this time.

I guess I'll find out soon enough.