In my youth, my palate was limited. Sushi was unappealing, beer was off-putting, and my idea of a dream vacation was anything with “Disney” in the title. But as I matured, I discovered the vast array of experiences adulthood had to offer—wine tasting, European train journeys, and diverse cuisines. However, once I became a parent, my preferences took a wild turn. What I once dismissed now looks incredibly appealing through the lens of motherhood. Here are some of those surprising shifts:
1. Chain Restaurants
My inner gourmet used to turn up her nose at these establishments, deriding their mediocre food and lackluster service. Yet, I find myself gravitating towards places like Friendly’s, where breakfast can be ice cream and the kids can wreak havoc while still receiving a balloon on the way out.
2. Children’s Programming
Initially, I was baffled by the garish colors and nonsensical plots of kids’ shows. But plop a baby in front of a Sprout segment (which often seems endless) and suddenly, four hours fly by. My toddler, despite critiquing shows like Dora and Sofia, insists on light-up shoes emblazoned with their faces. Kudos to the creators of these shows!
3. FaceTime/Skype
Once, I found little value in virtual chats, but after spending a night away from my child, I realized their worth. My FaceTime chat with my daughter—who struggled to hold the phone correctly—was a heartwarming glimpse into her world, even with purple marker stains on her teeth.
4. Family Vacations
As a child, I didn’t understand the joy of family trips. Museums were places of silence and restrictions, and national landmarks felt dull. Now, I relish the opportunity to take my kids to wineries and breweries, with the added bonus of funnel cake if they behave!
5. Malls
Once a place of dread, malls have transformed into lifesavers during winter months with my two little ones. They provide a venue to walk around, run errands, and indulge in a Cinnabon—what’s not to love?
6. Minivans
I used to view minivans as symbols of parental defeat, but now that they can carry all our gear, they’re a necessity. We might struggle to see out the windows with our packed sedan, but it’s a small price to pay for the convenience they offer.
7. School
What was once a boring obligation is now a much-needed break for me. School is my escape where I can recharge while my kids are learning and socializing.
8. Stickers
In my youth, I couldn’t fathom the appeal of stickers. Now, they cover my shoes, decorate my fridge, and create chaos in my laundry. I’ve come to realize just how annoying they can be!
9. Kid-Friendly Entertainment Venues
Before parenthood, places like Chuck E. Cheese and petting zoos barely registered in my mind. Now, I’ve mapped out every local playground and entertainment hub, and I’m frustrated when I can’t use game tokens to pay for coffee.
10. Kids
They’re sticky, loud, and frequently messy. They can ruin a movie night, disrupt sleep, and leave my home in chaos. Yet, despite all the challenges, I wouldn’t trade my life for anything—except maybe for fewer stickers!
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In summary, many of the things I once found unappealing have turned into cherished aspects of my life as a parent. From chain restaurants to family vacations, the world looks different now that I have kids.