Entering my mid-30s might not qualify as ancient, and I still get carded on occasion, but I can’t shake the feeling that I’m aging. Here’s how I know:
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Bird Watching Enthusiast
I recently found myself gazing out the window, captivated by a vibrant cardinal at my bird feeder—the very one I asked for on Mother’s Day. Before long, my kids will be gifting me bird-themed trinkets for the holidays, and I’ll likely be donning a cozy bird-patterned sweater at school functions. It’s just a matter of time. -
Persistent Back Pain
Let’s be real: my back is in constant agony. I’ve started enlisting my kids to give me back rubs, instructing them to use their little elbows. Their enthusiastic pressure often leads me to yelp in both pain and laughter, reminding me that aging is real. -
DVR for Late Night Shows
I love Jimmy Fallon, but I’ve accepted that I need my beauty sleep. Who even stays awake that late anymore? I find comfort in recording late-night shows instead of watching them live. -
Jeopardy & Wheel of Fortune Fan
I’m not ashamed to admit it: I get a rush when I know an answer during these classic games. While I don’t intentionally tune in, if they’re on, I’m glued to the screen like a kid at a Bingo hall. -
Weather Savvy
I can predict the week’s weather like a pro. I knew a cold front was coming, and you better believe I have an umbrella stashed in my bag. I’m practically a meteorologist now! -
Random Aches and Pains
Right now, my neck and thumb are throbbing for no apparent reason. It’s as if my body is playing a cruel joke on me. I can’t even crochet because of my thumb! Aging has turned me into a walking advertisement for Bengay—I’m practically a menthol-scented memory of my youth. -
Out of Touch with Slang
Let’s face it: I don’t understand the latest slang terms. Words like “bae” and “turnt up” leave me scratching my head. I’m still clinging to “cool beans” and have scoured the internet for “teen slang words 2015” just to keep up. -
Over Snapchat
I gave Snapchat a shot but found it frustrating and pointless. Perhaps I wasn’t doing it right, but with my aging eyes, it takes me forever to view a picture before it disappears. -
Small Children Exhaust Me
My own kids can whip up cereal and let me enjoy a peaceful Sunday morning. But when it comes to spending time with younger kids, I feel overwhelmed. I’m firmly in the sweet spot of adulthood and too young to embrace being a grandma just yet. -
Sleep is My Priority
Sleep is my best friend. If I’m not sleeping, I’m eagerly anticipating my next nap. I’ve even skipped social events because the thought of staying awake for hours is daunting. I’m officially old and perpetually tired.
Twenty-something me would be appalled by this list, but I suppose with age, we morph into our parents and grandparents more each day. I’m not ready to become a “cougar” anytime soon, so I guess I better accept my sagging skin and stock up on hard candies and Bengay.
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In summary, aging comes with its quirks and changes, and while it may feel daunting, embracing these signs can lead to a more joyful and understanding perspective on life.