When Plans Change as a Parent: A Fall Weekend of Family, Soccer & Grace

Sometimes the best laid plans just…. shift.

For the better part of the year, we’d been talking about heading to Fright Fest at Six Flags. I was excited—probably more than the kids. Growing up, I loved that place: the laughter floating through the air, the thrill of roller coasters, the memories of my daddy. I could almost taste the nostalgia. But this year, instead of screaming on a ride, I found myself saying, “Maybe next time.”

Let’s just say, my son had a moment of amnesia at school, and a certain mama had to show up for a gentle correction. We couldn’t reward bad behavior with a big day out, no matter how much we all wanted it. I’ll admit it—my disappointment might’ve been louder than theirs. Maybe it was saving me from an unplanned visit to the chiropractor. Because, yes, I was absolutely going to try a rollercoaster.

Still, the weekend filled itself. Between soccer games, a Monday night Taekwondo class, a Tuesday morning tumbling make-up, and the kids being home two extra days, our schedule stayed full. I completely misjudged how much work I’d actually get done while refereeing sibling scuffles and making a hundred snacks.

We had a semifinal game late last night—8:30 p.m. for 9- and 10-year-olds is wild—and we came up short. The loss was frustrating and disappointing for all of us. And just like that, soccer is over… at least for now. I’ll share more about the season in next week’s “So What’s Happening” post.

Win or lose I’m proud of how much they’ve grown this season—on and off the field.

Even without Fright Fest, these unexpected days turned into something beautiful. The weather was picture-perfect. With electronics put away (their current consequence), the kids rediscovered what it means to just be kids. They rode their scooters, played outside, and let the fall sun kiss their faces.

I got to slow down too—visiting family, laughing, catching my breath between “let go of your brother!” and “please stop wrestling on the couch!”

I’m learning that when plans change as a parent, it’s not about losing what you hoped for—it’s about gaining what you didn’t plan: space, stillness, and a reminder that grace can fill any gap.