Yes, the big summer holiday! School bells ring, kids dash outside, and the blissful break begins. Or does it? A few weeks ago, that was the scene, but now school’s back for some. As a mom juggling entrepreneurship, I’m still navigating this balance. Who decided on six straight weeks? It’s a challenge every year.
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As a working mom and entrepreneur, the six-week summer holiday is my biggest hurdle. Sure, two weeks poolside in France are relaxing. But the remaining four? Pure survival mode—from Plan A to B, C, and D—to balance family, business, and self-care without anyone suffering.
Back home from Camping Chez Gendron (a fantastic, small-scale family campsite 60 km north of Bordeaux), the chaos hits: endless laundry, unpacking mountains of gear. Maybe it’s time for some mindful downsizing 😉. Sweat beading as my youngest, Lynn, asks, “Mom, what’s tomorrow’s plan?” Honestly, kiddo, I’m still figuring it out!
Reality check: I must keep my webshop, TrendySpeelgoed.nl, running without my key team member Ingrid, who’s on vacation. Plus, prepping our physical store in Oss for a September 7 opening. And Lynn refuses holiday camp. Challenge accepted.
Working from home has perks: I’m there for real needs—no childcare calls required. But during long breaks, daycare’s off the table. They’re used to me being home post-school, so they’re somewhat daycare-averse, with real consequences.
Even with a solid schedule, everything unravels. Grandma needs shoulder surgery—no overnight stays. My eldest, Lisa, gets heartbreaking news: her horse is too ill, ending camp plans and Plan C.
Thankfully, seasoned working moms always have Plan D 😉. That’s my survival tip, honed from years of experience.
This isn’t your typical family vacation tale, but it’s a real snapshot of our long holidays at home. How do others cope?
Could four weeks work, with the extra two spread out—like autumn break and carnival? It might solve a lot 😉. Fellow working moms, especially home-based ones: Is this a struggle for you? Share below!
Curious about me or my webshop? Check my recent interview for Mamsatwork.
Tip: Skipping holidays or back early? Last weeks blues? See: not on holiday, 7 tips.
