Today marks the last day of school for children, signaling the commencement of summer break. For one parent, this transition brings a sense of calm and genuine excitement, a stark contrast to previous years. this year, the family is embarking on an extended trip to Italy, having booked an Airbnb for the entire month of August. The plan involves living and working remotely from Italy, with the parent eager to embrace every aspect of the experience.

The parent expresses a desire for the children to enjoy the simple pleasures of summer, such as waking up to sunshine and a swimming pool, exploring open fields, and engaging in daily family activities like cooking and playing together. The prospect of weekend road trips to beaches and cities within Italy also fuels anticipation.

Acknowledging the privilege of such travel opportunities, the parent articulates a broader, more fundamental goal for all future school holidays: to slow down and soak in the moments. This realization stems from a growing awareness of the finite nature of these family years, despite the potential stress and chaos that breaks can sometimes bring.

The parent’s personal journey reflects a meaningful change in mindset. Having moved in with their stepchildren in 2021, the initial six weeks without a structured routine proved challenging. However, this year’s approach is characterized by a intentional effort to