Summer Camp is Like Having a Wife

All year long, I am juggling my many hats: mom, life coach, artist, driver, chef, personal shopper to my kids. In the summer, I wear fewer hats: art director, life coach, long distance mom. I had an epiphany the other day--in sleep away camp, I basically have a "wife" to do most of my daily chores. I have a personal chef, someone to shop for food, clean up after meals, and take care of my daughter who is here with me. I know it may sound sexist, but traditionally this is the wife's role that most women I know have adapted in their homes. 

Having a "wife" has freed me up to be more creative. I can focus on taking care of my own needs, which I have often neglected in lieu of my kids' needs. I can stay up and talk to friends or go out at night without thinking twice about who might need me at home. I save so much time by not shopping for food or clothes, and I enjoy not having to plan meals every day. While I delight in making an occasional delicious meal, it's a drag when it becomes a daily chore.

So, I am publicly declaring my gratitude for my camp "spouse" (actually a team of wonderful people), who lovingly provide for me every day. And I will make an effort to be mindful of my own self-care and creative output when I return home at the end of August!