Why I Need Coffee This Week: Out of Office, Not Out of Chaos

Let me start by saying this: yes, I’m technically off this week. No school runs. No packing lunches. No alarm clock battles. But let’s not confuse “out of office” with out of chaos — because this week? This week is wild.

Aquarium Adventures (Sans Stroller, Send Help)

We’re kicking things off with a playdate at the local aquarium. It’s stroller-free, which sounds peaceful in theory — until I remember my child treats wide open spaces like personal racetracks. I’m going in with optimism, snacks, and the reflexes of a ninja. May the sea creatures keep them calm (and me caffeinated)

Mom’s Night Out: Concert Mode Activated

Midweek, I’m switching from “mom” to “me” for one glorious evening. Bestie and I are heading to a concert, which means music, grown-up energy, and possibly me pretending I’m 22 again or 16 again (until my back reminds me I’m very much not). It’s the reset I need, even if I’ll still be up at 7am the next day because #momlife.

3 Days of Beach, Boardwalks, and… Telehealth?

We’re also heading out on a mini beach getaway — three days of rides, arcades, boardwalk fries, and chasing sunscreen-slippery a toddler between the beach and pool. Somewhere in the middle of all this sun and chaos, I’ve got a virtual doctor’s appointment. Because nothing says multitasking like managing a toddler meltdown and checking in with my provider over Zoom.

So Why Coffee?

Coffee isn’t just a drink this week — it’s my emotional support system. It’s the thread holding this adventure together. It’s powering me through aquarium marathons, late-night concerts, beach bag packing, and parenting with a side of telehealth.

So if you see me with a giant iced coffee in hand, just know: I may be out of office, but the chaos clock never stops ticking.