In the realm of parenting, certain relics from our youth continue to thrive, proving that some things truly stand the test of time. Here’s a look at nine childhood favorites that are still around, each with a unique twist.
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Garanimals Clothing Line
Garanimals revolutionized children’s fashion by allowing little ones to mix and match outfits easily, thanks to animal tags on each item. Pairing a “zebra” shirt with “zebra” pants guaranteed a match. However, as a parent, I’ve observed that kids often prefer to clash than coordinate. Honestly, adults could benefit more from Garanimals. I’d love to effortlessly combine two hippo tags and look stylish. Michael Kors, take note! -
L.L.Bean Original Bean Boots
These iconic boots gained popularity in the ’80s, offering a unique blend of style and questionable practicality. Despite being around for decades, they are still available, albeit with an extended delivery time that requires patience. L.L.Bean advises customers to order early due to limited supply, promising delivery via horse and buggy—allow up to ten months. -
Steak-umms
The ’80s saw the rise of Steak-umms, which promised thin slices of beef that could go from frozen to fully cooked in under a minute. While this concept seems scientifically dubious, the allure of a quick meal is undeniable for busy parents. I can’t help but worry about the aftermath of consuming such a speedy dinner. And what’s up with the mom in the old commercial? Is she hiding a secret? -
Underoos
Underoos brought joy to children in the ’80s, and now, they’ve been reimagined for adults. While they may be amusing from the waist up, the below-the-belt reality is quite different. (No offense intended, Superman!) -
ThighMaster
The ThighMaster remains a staple in fitness, now enhanced with the ThighMaster Vibrato. With its tagline, “Just put it between your knees and squeeze,” it’s hard not to chuckle. The original model is still available on eBay, appealing to nostalgic buyers who want a retro workout. Any exercise tool that can be used while lounging is a winner in my book. -
Enya
Enya’s ethereal music persists, with nearly two million fans on Facebook. Her soothing melodies are perfect for creating a serene atmosphere, especially during stressful moments. I recently heard her in the car, and before I knew it, I was transported to a beach—truly uplifting. -
Swanson TV Dinners
Friday nights were made special with Swanson TV dinners, served in compartmentalized trays. Though they’ve transitioned away from the nostalgic tin trays, the frozen entrees are still around. There’s something satisfying about scraping the tin to enjoy every last bite, especially the gooey dessert square. -
Electric Blankets
Electric blankets are still available, providing warmth and comfort on chilly nights. While they can be comforting, parents should ensure safety precautions are taken. Perhaps they should come with instructions similar to those for cooking a turkey—just to be safe. -
Molly McButter
Molly McButter and her butter-flavored flakes have not only survived but thrived, boasting a significant online following. The catchy jingle from her commercials is likely to linger in your mind long after hearing it. Who knew butter flakes could be so captivating?
In summary, these nine nostalgic items remind us that some aspects of our childhood can still bring joy and practicality into our adult lives. Whether it’s the ease of Garanimals, the comfort of electric blankets, or the nostalgia of Swanson dinners, these enduring products continue to resonate with parents today. For more on relevant topics like artificial insemination, check out our other blog post on intracervical insemination. For more insights on fertility and conception, visit Make A Mom and explore WebMD’s guide.