If you had told me as a teenager, lost in my Jack Kerouac novels and R.E.M. mixtapes, that I would one day be a stay-at-home mom of six, I would have laughed incredulously. I would have puffed out a plume of smoke from my cigarette and dismissed the notion with a “No way, man! I’m not going to be tied down in a domestic life.” The idea of packing lunches, braiding hair, or even enjoying a smoke-free existence would have baffled my teenage self.
Back then, I envisioned a future filled with adventure—joining the Peace Corps, possibly working at the CDC to tackle diseases like cancer or Alzheimer’s. I imagined a partner who shared my vision, raising a kid, and definitely having chickens and goats, all while living in a rustic, handmade abode. Fast forward to today, and here I am—happily married to a man without a beard, and while we’ve got plenty of kids, there are no chickens clucking around our yard. Our grocery bill could feed a small nation, and my days are spent shuttling kids from one activity to another, with laundry perpetually piling up and Nick Jr. dominating our screen time. Yet, I have grown to love this life that once seemed so mundane.
Despite the changes, some aspects of my 17-year-old self still shine through:
- A Love for Reading: My passion for reading hasn’t waned, though I now tackle books at a pace that could rival a snail’s. My reading list is filled with titles that aren’t adorned with cartoon characters, but sadly, they mostly serve as a reminder of my dusting duties.
- Cool Music Enthusiast: I still appreciate great music. My taste may not align with my kids’ preferences, but I’ve learned the lyrics to countless Top 40 hits. Ed Sheeran’s charm has earned him a pass, but my beloved Neko Case and Wilco CDs remain untouched on the shelf.
- Fashion Awareness: I still pay attention to fashion, not for personal wear, but to ensure my children don’t step out in questionable trends. It’s essential to be ready to declare, “Absolutely not!” when faced with some of today’s fashion faux pas.
- Seeking Adventure (Sort Of): I used to dream of hopping on band tour buses; now, my adventures involve cramming my family into a 12-passenger van. While our “tour” lacks musicians, it’s filled with my kids and a good stash of snacks (and maybe some Benadryl for long trips).
- The Need for Solitude: As a teenager, I cherished my alone time for deep thoughts (or so I thought). These days, quiet moments are rare, but when they do happen, you might find me trying to finish those neglected books on my bedside table.
- Love That Endures: I still have a soft spot for my high school crush, now a wonderful partner and father. Surprisingly, our paths aligned despite our initial differences—he might not have been interested in farm life, but our love story is the most cherished constant in my life.
- Smoke and Mirrors: Occasionally, you might still catch me in a smoky situation, but it’s usually an oven mishap—like baking chicken nuggets a tad too long. Thankfully, our smoke alarm has become a familiar sound in our household, often met with indifference from the kids.
My teenage self could never have foreseen the joys of adulthood—like mastering the art of laundry or celebrating a child’s newfound independence in the bathroom. She wouldn’t have appreciated the simple pleasure of a restful night’s sleep or the joy of a coffee that doesn’t require reheating.
As I reflect on my journey, I realize that the artistic, rebellious girl I was had no idea where true happiness would emerge. Life is all about navigation—the thrill of setting sail while embracing the unexpected currents along the way.
Hey, younger me: I may now wear the proverbial apron of domesticity, but I’m rocking it with pride.
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Summary
This article reflects on how some aspects of a person’s teenage self can persist into adulthood. Despite embracing a life of domesticity, the author finds joy and continuity in her love for reading, music, fashion, and personal relationships. The journey shows that life can unfold in unexpected ways, leading to fulfillment and happiness beyond what was once imagined.