-
‘Welcome to the Jungle,’ Guns N’ Roses
After a taxing day at the office, I stroll through the door and my mind is flooded with the echoes of Guns N’ Roses as I survey the chaotic scene that’s unfolded in my absence. Clothes are strewn across the house, the air conditioning is blasting with the windows flung wide open, and televisions are blaring from rooms that seem to be deserted. The microwave’s incessant beeping suggests someone was hungry but got sidetracked by something more exciting. As I start picking up the mess, I can’t help but wonder where it all went wrong. “Welcome to the jungle / It gets worse here every day / Ya learn to live like an animal in the jungle where we play!” sings Axl, and I feel every word. -
‘Don’t Stop Believin’,’ Journey
To my fellow parents navigating this tumultuous journey, I cling to the hope that someday, these kids will leave home! The rising costs of living often leave me feeling defeated, but I hold onto the belief that one day, they’ll graduate high school, maybe even college, and take that midnight train to anywhere! Yes, it’s a dream worth holding onto! -
‘All Night Long,’ Lionel Richie
“Everyone you meet / They’re jamming in the street / All night long”—oh, how I wish! If that were to happen, I’d be the one calling the police! I’ve become the neighborhood fun police. Sorry, but I need my rest for the early mornings ahead. Lack of sleep can lead to weight gain, and frankly, I don’t need any help in that department. So, if you plan on having a good time, let’s wrap it up by 9:30, shall we? -
‘Our Lips are Sealed,’ The Go-Go’s
Nothing compares to gathering with my college friends to sip wine on the deck while the kids play inside. We have to tread lightly in our conversations, ensuring our little ones don’t catch wind of our wild pasts. As we reminisce, we promise to keep our youthful escapades hidden from our children. After all, we know that girls just want to have fun, but our lips are sealed. -
‘Jump,’ Van Halen
I seem to be perpetually jumping on and off every new health trend. From yoga to paleo to Zumba, I’ve tried it all! Yet, the only thing that consistently sticks is weight gain—and I manage that effortlessly. As Van Halen puts it, “So can’t ya see me standing here / I got my back against the record machine / I ain’t the worst that you’ve seen.” Sure, I might as well jump! Right after the next trend comes along… -
‘Faith,’ George Michael
As time has passed, my understanding of faith has deepened. I spent so many years running through life, only to realize I was missing the mark. Who knew? Now, I find purpose and joy in immersing myself in my beliefs. Trusting another entity with my life’s direction has been a challenge, but oh, what a rewarding journey it’s been! My younger self would have scoffed at the notion that faith could bring such fulfillment. -
‘I Can’t Go For That,’ Hall and Oates
“I can’t go for that” has become my mantra. Compression garments? Not a chance! Staying up late (unless a kid is sick)? Nope! Buying gas any day other than Thrifty Thursday? I can’t go for that! I’ve drawn my lines, and it’s liberating to voice what I won’t accept anymore. At this stage in life, standing firm on my boundaries is a blessing. -
‘Ain’t Nobody,’ Chaka Khan
Ain’t nobody got time for that! Simple as that!
In summary, these ’80s classics resonate with my current life circumstances, from juggling parenting chaos to embracing newfound wisdom. Whether it’s setting boundaries or holding onto hope, these songs serve as anthems for our everyday struggles and triumphs.