Day 66 of 74. Tips for home renovations with children.

We’ve been without a full kitchen for about 7 weeks now.  It’s been a test of my patience, my ingenuity, and my patience. (that's worth two mentions)  Yes, the thing I lack most in life (patience) is the biggest requirement for this dreadful kitchen renovation.  (did I mention it was patience?)

However, I will look to the bright side (as I’ve been told to do) and will share with you what I’ve learned so far during this adventure.  (it's getting there!)

Random tips for surviving home renos with children:

1.  When dining out, which you will do a lot if you are managing a kitchen renovation as we are, choose your restaurants carefully.  They must:

            - have wipeable seating

            - serve beverages called Shirley Temples (or similar) and feature three cherries of multiple colours on a sword-like plastic thingy and have a bendy straw

            - prepare and serve their meals fast.  Like really fast.  Or else my children will start screaming as their siblings attempt assaulting each other with utensils or giving wedgies 

            - quickly move sharp utensils from within reach when we arrive

            - have a kids menu that includes a dessert with blue gummy worms and lots of chocolate (that's for me)

2.  No matter how many times you eat out in rapid succession, the kids’ behaviour doesn’t improve.  But what we will let slide does change. 

3. Plan out an extensive list of playdates and dinners at other people’s homes during reno time.  And weeks following, since the renovation will likely take longer than expected.

4. Don’t take on big work projects during this time.  Seriously.

5.  Inform teachers ahead of time that what you will be sending for lunches during this time period should not be considered a reflection of your normal, healthy parenting practices. 

6. Laundry takes twice a long. I’m not sure why this is, but it happens. 

7.  Kids think playing roughly with heavy toys/tools on a brand new, really expensive hardwood floor is hilarious.  It’s even funnier when steam actually blows out your ears.

8.  Be sure your stock of wine and/or beer is topped up with your favourites.  Believe me, this will save you many times over.

9.  Groceries bought four times per week (as opposed to once) end up costing five times more.  This is the law of grocery shopping during renovations.

10.  Add your own here. 

And don't worry - I'm laughing.  :)