In my youth, my tastes were quite simplistic. I turned my nose up at sushi, dismissed beer as unpalatable, and sought only vacations that included the word “Disney.” As I matured, I expanded my horizons and discovered the joys of adult life: wine bars, EuroRail adventures, and delicious pad thai. The world opened up to me (and yes, I even grew fond of oysters).
However, once I became a parent, my perspective shifted dramatically. Aspects I once overlooked now appear far more enticing through the lens of motherhood. Here are ten examples:
- Chain Restaurants: My inner gourmet would cringe at the thought of such establishments—overpriced, subpar food with lackluster service, and a birthday celebration at every table. Yet, I keep returning to places like The Pancake House, where my children can unleash their energy and still receive a balloon at the end of the meal.
- Children’s Programming: Initially, I found these shows mind-numbingly absurd. Vivid colors and nonsensical themes seemed a bit overwhelming. But when I set my 10-month-old in front of a Sprout segment, I discovered it could occupy her for hours. And although my toddler criticizes characters like Dora for their shrill voices, she still begs for sneakers adorned with their images. Kudos to kiddie television!
- Video Calls: As a multitasker, I used to think video calls were unnecessary. That was until I spent a night apart from my toddler. Our FaceTime chat, albeit with her face partially offscreen, was heartwarming, even with remnants of purple marker and hummus in her hair.
- Family Vacations: As a child, I didn’t grasp the appeal of visiting museums where silence was required and funnel cakes were absent. Now, I relish the idea of taking my family to wineries and, if they’re well-behaved, enjoying funnel cake together.
- Shopping Malls: I once considered malls to be labyrinths of despair. However, having two winter-born children has made me appreciate them as spacious indoor areas for errands and strolls, not to mention the joy of indulging in a Cinnabon.
- Minivans: I previously viewed minivans as symbols of parental surrender. My partner and I used to mock them while cramming our sedan with baby gear. Yet, I now recognize the convenience they offer, despite the parking challenges.
- School: Previously, school was merely a way to pass the time. Now, it serves as a necessary break for me to recharge while my children engage in learning.
- Stickers: I once questioned the purpose of stickers, but now my shoes bear witness to my children’s creative endeavors. The mess they create is significant, with stickers often finding their way onto clothes and surfaces.
- Kid-Friendly Attractions: Before parenting, I ignored these venues. Now, I navigate a mental map of local parks, arcades, and family entertainment centers, often wishing I could use game tokens for my coffee.
- Children Themselves: They are sticky, noisy, and notorious for interrupting my peace. They complicate outings and make life messy, yet the love I feel for them is immeasurable (except when it comes to stickers).
In conclusion, my journey into parenthood has fostered a newfound appreciation for various aspects of life that I once dismissed. Parenting has reshaped my preferences in unexpected ways, and I wouldn’t trade these experiences for anything.
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