It feels like just yesterday I was in my early 20s, living life to the fullest. Those carefree days filled with wild nights, spontaneous decisions, and questionable fashion choices seem so vivid, despite the years that have flown by since. Sure, I’ve traded in the late-night escapades for early bedtimes and endless responsibilities, but I still cling to the hope that I’m not quite ready for the ‘old’ label just yet.
Recently, my partner and I found ourselves with a rare opportunity for a kid-free day. We seized the moment and embarked on a blissful six-hour road trip, leaving behind the chaos of parenting, if only for a little while. We turned off the kids’ favorite tunes, indulged in our snacks without having to share, and even managed to steal a nap—who knew road trips sans children could be so refreshing?
On our way back, we decided to stop for dinner at a local burger spot. I settled into a quiet booth while my partner ordered our food. My phone buzzed with messages from the babysitter—our good friends who, bless their hearts, agreed to watch our kids for the day. Just as we began to relish our meal in peace, a group of young guys plopped down right next to us, exuding confidence with their sun-kissed skin and tank tops that barely contained their muscles. They looked like they had just come from catching waves, even though we were nowhere near the ocean.
My partner leaned over and asked, “Do you think they’re college-aged?” Trying to be discreet, I pretended to study the menu but couldn’t help sneaking a glance at the group. “Definitely,” I whispered back, affirming his observation.
Just then, a bunch of girls joined the boys, bursting with energy and laughter, wearing outfits that seemed to defy the laws of fabric. Their laughter pierced through the air, and I exchanged an eye roll with my partner, who muttered, “That’s a bit much.”
Feeling overwhelmed, I pressed my fingers against my temples and said, “It’s too loud in here. We should head home soon.” The sun was still shining outside, yet it felt like we were already in the twilight of our youthful days.
It hit me like a ton of bricks: my life had transformed. I no longer resembled that carefree young adult. I glanced down at my sensible cardigan and comfortable shoes—definitely not the attire of my former self. My partner looked equally as “grown-up” in his smart polo and khaki shorts. We were dressed for a day of exploring a Vatican exhibit at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, and frankly, we enjoyed it! We even found a typo in the museum and felt a strange sense of accomplishment for reporting it.
I guess it took a bunch of vibrant young people to make me confront the reality of aging. While I may be inching closer to muumuu dresses and Tom Collins cocktails, I’ve come to terms with my current stage of life. I’m perfectly content in my yoga pants, sipping my nightly glass of pinot grigio, embracing the joys of being a 30-something who’s not quite ready to let go of the past.
As I reflect on this phase of life, I realize that it’s a journey filled with growth, wisdom, and maybe a few wrinkles along the way. At least I know how to hashtag my way through it, so I’m not completely lost in the modern world, right? #FuddyDuddyForever
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Summary:
The author reflects on the passing of time and the transition from carefree youth to responsible adulthood, emphasizing the joy found in everyday moments. With humor and honesty, she embraces her current stage of life while acknowledging the inevitable aging process.