We are in a new mode around here—summer mode.

For some people, summer mode means a much more laid-back lifestyle of more ice cream and fewer baths; later bedtimes and less homework.

And for us it certainly means a lot of those things. I mean, you will not see any homework around here until the day after labor day, I can assure you. But in the last little while, my kids have become something of slothy, sugar-addicted monsters who, well, kind of can’t stand to be in the same room as each other.

And while, sure, the hand-holding punishment works well on many an occasion, I am just so over this.

I’m ready for things to change.

So, as of Friday, there are some new rules afoot at Casa de Martell.

We are keeping sugar to a minimum. Sugar has become an expectation around here and not a treat. I can’t stand that. I firmly believe that treats and sugary things are wonderful for kids…in moderation. But it’s a slippery slope, that moderation thing. And multiple visits from family and friends and many get-togethers and playdates and birthday parties have given my kids an awful case of the gimmies. Gimme ice cream! Gimme cookies! Gimme chocolate! 

We are keeping screens to a minimum. iPads, iTouches, televisions, computers, xboxs, wiis, DSis. The kids are pretty addicted, and since their evenings are no longer filled with school work, they have taken to plopping in front of screens and slothing the night away. One hour a day—they can watch two shows, they can play at hour of DSi, they can spend an hour on facebook. It’s up to them how and when they use it, but the nice weather is so short-lived in Toronto, I want them taking full advantage by spending time on the trampoline, hitting balls in the backyard, painting chalk masterpieces on the driveway, or on their bikes.

Lest you think it’s a special case of DO AS I SAY NOT AS I DO type of thing, I want you to know that these rules are for ME as well.

I’m mostly off of sugar right now. I had my last chocolate buffalo yesterday and am now keeping sugar to a minimum, as I was starting to get a bad case of the gimmies as well. Gimme cooke dough! Gimme cupcakes! Gimme Chaya’s homemade personal blueberry pies!

I’m mostly off of screens right now. I mean, my job requires me to be in front of a screen all day, but between the hours of 4:30ish and the kids’ bedtime—I will be mostly unplugged, spending time hitting balls in the backyard, painting chalk masterpieces on the driveway and on my bike.

I’m just keeping my fingers crossed that they don’t ask me to step foot on that trampoline.

Or to play this game with them.

Because, you guys, at this current time and place, my children are happily playing a board game TOGETHER. Without being forced. It was their idea.

It is going to be a fabulous summer.

I just wish I had some more chocolate buffalos…