It feels like just yesterday I was navigating my early 20s, a whirlwind of adventures that included carefree nights out, spontaneous decisions, and questionable fashion choices. While those days seem like a distant memory, I still recall them with a vividness that seems to contradict the years that have passed since. Perhaps it’s because my petite frame often leads others to assume I’m still in my teens, or maybe it’s simply the result of my children allowing me the luxury of a good night’s sleep — just kidding, that’s far from the truth. Regardless, I’ve always thought of myself and my partner as pretty “hip.” Sure, we’ve accumulated responsibilities and life experiences, but old and boring? Not us!
Last week, we seized a rare opportunity for a day out without our kids. It was pure bliss, involving a six-hour round trip to our destination. We exchanged the endless loop of children’s music for our own playlists, indulged in snacks without having to share, and even took turns napping. Turns out, road trips without children are remarkably rejuvenating.
On our way back, we decided to stop for dinner at a local burger joint. While my partner placed our order, I found a quiet booth and checked my phone for any updates from our babysitters. (By “babysitters,” I mean our friends who, bless their hearts, thought they’d enjoy a day of watching our children.) Just as we began to enjoy our meal, a group of young men settled into the booth next to us. They were tanned, athletic, and donned barely-there tank tops, clearly eager to show off their toned physiques. They could easily have been mistaken for surfers, despite our being miles from any beach.
As they lounged, frequently running their fingers through their sun-kissed hair, my partner leaned over and whispered, “Do you think they’re college students?” Trying to appear nonchalant, I pretended to study the menu above them. “Definitely,” I replied. “College age for sure.”
Moments later, a gaggle of girls joined them, clearly friends who greeted them with giggles and high-fives, all while wearing impossibly small shorts. Their loud laughter and exaggerated antics filled the space, and my partner and I exchanged eye rolls. “That’s a bit obnoxious,” he muttered. I responded, rubbing my temples, “It’s way too noisy in here. My head’s pounding, and we should probably head home soon.” It was still daylight outside.
At that moment, a realization hit me: my life looks nothing like that anymore. I don’t dress like that, nor do I act like that. Did I ever really embody that over-the-top representation of youth? Just moments before, my partner and I had felt triumphant over our early dinner, while those young adults were likely just starting their day. The distance between my past and present felt astronomical.
I glanced down at my outfit: a sensible cardigan paired with practical shoes, appropriate for the day’s activities. My partner was similarly dressed in a smart polo and khaki shorts (thankfully, not cargo shorts). We looked downright mature, especially compared to those vibrant youths.
I must admit, we had good reason to dress as we did. Our day had included a visit to an exhibit about the Vatican at a presidential library — yes, we genuinely enjoyed it! And we even found and reported a grammatical error in the museum. Nothing like a little excitement for two tired parents!
It shouldn’t have taken a group of energetic youngsters to make me confront the reality of my aging. But for now, I’ll embrace my yoga pants and nightly glass of pinot grigio like the fabulous 30-something who’s already feeling a bit older. Life is on a relentless pace, and all I can do is accept that I’ll continue to grow older, wiser, and perhaps a bit crankier. But I’m comfortable in my cardigans and wouldn’t dream of donning a sheer tank top.
Plus, I still know how to navigate social media, so I’m not entirely out of touch, right? #FuddyDuddyForLife
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In summary, while the youthful days may feel far behind me, I’ve come to appreciate the wisdom and comfort that comes with age. Embracing new realities doesn’t mean relinquishing joy; it’s about finding fulfillment in the present, no matter what form that may take.
Keyphrase: aging gracefully in your 30s
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