Am I starting to feel old? The friendly cashier just called me “Ma’am,” so that’s probably a sign. I crossed into my 40s without much celebration and, surprisingly, didn’t feel any wiser or older—just more aware of my style choices. While I may have ditched the glittery eye shadow and miniskirts, I embrace my tiny braided hairstyle with pride.
Flipping through old photographs, I can’t help but feel nostalgic. I used to think my baby face was chubby! How cute is it that I thought sharing a kiss in the basement while listening to Peter Gabriel’s “In Your Eyes” meant we were soulmates? What was I thinking when I aspired to be the cool kid, smoking while carpentry? And those perms—what a choice!
I sometimes wish I could erase that acid-wash jean jacket adorned with faux suede and an elastic waist, but those days are gone. I also don’t regret falling head over heels for guys who didn’t deserve my affection. The countless hours spent beside my boom box, rewinding “If You Leave” and “Groovy Kind of Love,” are now cherished memories that resonate with my fortysomething self.
As I guide my daughters through their own teenage years, the wisdom I’ve gathered will be invaluable. I want them to experience questionable fashion choices, explore their hairstyles, and, yes, even crush on the wrong people. However, I hope they steer clear of smoking, as my maternal understanding only extends so far.
I anticipate some challenging times ahead, especially as we approach the tween years. To help navigate this tricky terrain, I’ll turn to these seven songs that remind me of my youthful days and keep me connected to a part of myself that isn’t stressed out.
- “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper
Amid the chaos of mood swings and hair transformations (both theirs and mine), we’re still the same at heart.
“Oh mother dear we’re not the fortunate ones, and girls they want to have fun.” - “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” by Simple Minds
Through all of life’s challenges, we have each other—and our love for movies like Pitch Perfect.
“Will you call my name as you walk on by?” - “Mr. Jones” by Counting Crows
We’re all just trying to fit in and find our place in the world.
“We all want to be big stars, but we don’t know why.” - “Torn” by Natalie Imbruglia
A poignant reminder that heartbreak feels overwhelming in the moment, but it eventually fades.
“I’m all out of faith, this is how I feel.” - “Don’t Speak” by No Doubt
An anthem for allowing emotions to surface, even if it’s tough for me as a parent.
“I know what you’re thinking, and I don’t need your reasons.” - “Right Here, Right Now” by Jesus Jones
Focusing on the present helps me enjoy the moment instead of worrying about the past or future.
“Right here, right now, there is no other place I want to be.” - “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran
I wonder if the songs my girls cherish today will resonate with them when they become parents. Will they reflect on their own experiences through songs like Katy Perry’s “Roar”?
“‘Cause I am a champion, and you’re gonna hear me roar!”
As I navigate this parenting journey, I know I’ll need to channel the spirit of Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” to bridge the gap between me and my daughters. Perhaps it’s all part of a grand plan. I’ll keep making mistakes, hoping they understand.
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Summary
Reflecting on the past through music can be a powerful tool for parenting. From navigating teenage angst to celebrating the present, these seven nostalgic songs serve as both a reminder of youth and a guide through the challenges of parenthood in your 40s.