As a parent, it’s a delightful surprise to discover that my children have developed a genuine appreciation for the vibrant culture of the 1980s. It’s not just the iconic music; they seem to embrace everything from that unforgettable decade. Each week, our family gathers to watch our favorite show, The Goldbergs, which transports us back to a time when life felt a little less complicated. Sharing these cherished memories has forged a bond between us that I never anticipated.
On a recent excursion to the mall, while hunting for summer clothing for my daughter, I was thrilled when she chose a pair of shorts reminiscent of my own from 1985. They were colorful, made of nylon, and delightfully short. As she tried on the teal and purple pair, I found myself wishing for the comeback of Jordache jeans.
During that same shopping trip, my daughter also developed a passion for jelly shoes, specifically a bright pink pair that was just a tad too small. I promised her we would continue our search, and I even considered getting a pair for myself. I still remember my first jelly shoes, purchased just before summer break. While they made my feet sweat and occasionally gave me blisters, the way they sparkled in the sunlight made every discomfort worth it.
My son, on the other hand, wasn’t impressed by his sister’s fashion choices. He ridiculed her new obsession and thought the hair crimper I gifted her for her birthday was downright silly. Yet, he could spend hours watching YouTube tutorials on how to solve the Rubik’s Cube, mastering patterns and achieving record times. When he gets a little too confident about his skills, I remind him that back in the day, we didn’t have online videos for guidance; we simply rearranged the stickers to feign expertise. One morning, I was awakened by a soft clicking sound at 5:30 a.m., only to find him diligently twisting the Cube.
While the trends and fads of the ’80s were certainly memorable, the films from that era hold a special place in my heart. I still remember the wonder I felt when Elliott met E.T. and the emotional farewell they shared. The exhilarating moment when the DeLorean sped out of Twin Pines Mall is etched in my memory, as is the shock of Gizmo unexpectedly revealing his furry offspring. Now, I get to relive those unforgettable moments with my kids, imparting the lessons I learned during my youth. They’re discovering that Goonies never say die and that you never mess with the babysitter.
We host movie nights featuring ’80s classics, perfect for sick days or whenever we need a dose of nostalgia. Just the other day, my son, home with a cold, watched Over the Top with me—a film where Sylvester Stallone attempts to rebuild his fractured relationship with his son by arm wrestling his way to the national championships in Las Vegas. Is it cheesy? Absolutely. But it’s also fantastic, and I noticed my son’s eyes glistening, even if he would never admit to tearing up. These moments encapsulate what I love about that era: a time of innocence and kindness that I see reflected in my children.
It’s heartwarming to see the resurgence of ’80s culture; it never truly faded for those of us who grew up in what many consider the greatest decade. If you want to dive deeper into parenting topics, check out this engaging post from one of our other blogs. For those exploring family planning, this reputable online retailer offers a range of at-home insemination syringe kits. Additionally, this excellent resource provides valuable information about pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, sharing my love for the ’80s with my kids has not only allowed us to connect over shared memories but has also introduced them to the timeless values and joys of that era.
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