Parenting
By Jordan Thompson
Updated: Jan. 8, 2018
Originally Published: Oct. 7, 2015
While I understood the practical reasons behind purchasing a minivan, I was hesitant about the idea. Driving a van made me feel like a middle-aged dad—something I reluctantly admit to being—but I didn’t want my appearance to reflect that. I still craved the approval of younger generations, yearning to be seen as cool or even attractive. I wanted to retain a sense of youthfulness without the associated stress of being young. I’m content in my career and family life, yet I still desired a carefree spirit. This internal conflict is what made the thought of buying a minivan so challenging for me.
Acquiring a minivan felt like sacrificing something intangible—perhaps my youth or my cool factor. As I drove to the dealership, anxiety washed over me. I assured myself it was just the weight of making a significant purchase, but deep down, I knew it was more than that.
We ended up buying our first minivan, a Mazda, from a town thirty miles away. As I drove it home, a sense of regret washed over me. I longed for a larger car or maybe an SUV with four-wheel drive—something that felt a bit more adventurous. However, with three kids to manage, squeezing them into our compact Protege felt like stuffing clowns into a Volkswagen. It was no longer feasible, and while I didn’t feel as dorky driving it, the reality was that it was impractical—much like many things we deem “cool.”
This is perhaps the most challenging aspect of growing older: prioritizing practicality over trendiness. Most of my decisions nowadays are rooted in practicality. Recently, I considered attending a Misfits concert in Chicago—a band I adore. But visions of my aching back and the impending financial strain of holiday expenses quickly doused my excitement. I imagined explaining to my kids, “Sorry for the Christmas gifts; Dad spent the money on a punk show and now needs surgery.” That would have been a foolish decision.
These are the kinds of choices parents face. We often find ourselves weighing family needs against personal desires, whether it’s skipping a concert or opting for a minivan to transport our kids to soccer practice.
However, after a couple of weeks behind the wheel of our minivan, I discovered that, while I may have looked like an old fogey, I had never felt more at ease traveling with my children. There was ample space for all their gear, and the seating arrangement kept them far enough apart to avoid conflicts. I appreciated the convenience of being able to hop in and assist with buckling them up during rainstorms without getting soaked. The sliding doors made it effortless to load and unload kids without having to climb over one another.
Ultimately, it was a wise choice, and despite feeling like I traded in my trendy wardrobe for orthopedic shoes and suspenders, I couldn’t imagine life without it.
This is the essence of adulthood: letting go of your youth and settling into the role of a parent. It doesn’t just mean having kids; it means embracing the practical choices that may come with a side of dorkiness. It looks like opting for comfort over style—think polo shirts and cargo shorts, or yoga pants and Crocs. These decisions might not scream “cool,” but they simplify life and enhance the happiness of both you and your children.
So here’s my advice: Embrace the change. Don’t resist it. Buy the van. It’s all worth it. Own your role as a parent, even if it makes you feel a little silly.
For those on their own family journey, consider exploring resources like this one for helpful information. If you’re looking to improve your fitness, check out this Pilates intro. And for a comprehensive guide on pregnancy and home insemination, WebMD offers excellent resources.
Summary
Buying a minivan often symbolizes the shift from youthful aspirations to practical parenting. Initially, it may feel like a loss of coolness, but the comfort and convenience it provides for family life outweigh those concerns. Embracing practicality is a hallmark of adulthood, and owning a minivan can significantly enhance the parenting experience.