When I first crossed paths with my husband in college, we spent a significant chunk of our time in local bars indulging in the unofficial pastime of students everywhere: beer. We weren’t connoisseurs by any means; on any given night, we were just as likely to down the cheapest brews available, ideally served in a pitcher.
We played beer pong, funneled drinks, and chugged like champs. (Sorry, Mom, but it’s true.) Beer was our go-to during hangouts with friends or after grueling study sessions. Those carefree days were filled with fun, and I’ll admit: cheap beer was the catalyst for more than a few of my bar-top dance performances. (Sorry, kids! Your mom had some moves, and yes, she rocked it.)
As I got older, I felt compelled to elevate my drink selections. Adults are supposed to sip wine, scotch, and posh liquors, right? That’s what every Mad Men episode seemed to suggest. At work events during the Sex and the City craze, I’d order cosmos, trying to channel Carrie Bradshaw while secretly longing for a good old longneck bottle.
Don’t get me wrong—I love winding down with a glass of wine after a long day. But I also relish cracking open a cold beer after yard work or a taxing run. As time went on, my husband and I developed a shared passion for exploring craft breweries, eager to sample local beers and learn about brewing. This summer, we enjoyed a delightful visit to Allagash Brewing Company in Portland, Maine, on a rainy day that kept us off the beach.
From our experiences, beer enthusiasts tend to be laid-back, friendly, and approachable. My husband and I have had some fantastic conversations with brewery staff, who are often eager to share their knowledge about the brews and their ingredients. Visiting a brewery or a local brew pub is always a relaxed affair.
In my humble opinion, beer drinkers are just a blast. I’m game for trying just about any beer, but just like wine pairings, there’s a perfect beer for every parenting moment too.
Beer Pairings for Parenting Moments
- Hefeweizen: These light, slightly cloudy beers practically scream “refreshing summer drink.” Serve it ice-cold, and you’re set for a glorious summer evening—even while the kids spray each other with the garden hose.
- Lagers: When the kiddos have been particularly rowdy, it’s time for a lager—or three. (Buuuurp.)
- Light Beers: Perfect for those nights when your jeans feel a little snug, but the dog left a surprise in the dining room, and your 9-year-old just reminded you about a project due tomorrow. With light beers, you can enjoy two for almost the price of one.
- Lambics: When you want to feel fancy while wearing a breast-milk-stained shirt and sporting a messy bun, reach for a Lambic. Trust me on that one.
- IPAs: Some folks say IPA stands for “India Pale Ale,” but seasoned parents know it actually means “I Parented Alright” today. When we sip an IPA at the end of the day, we’re toasting our decent parenting skills. Cheers to that!
- Chocolate Stouts: These decadent brews exist for one reason: to help combat PMS. You can thank me later.
- Guinness: The only beer everyone claims to love on St. Patrick’s Day while donning green attire.
- Fruity Beers: If you want to enjoy a drink without having to share with your other half, grab a peach or raspberry beer—it’ll keep him quiet. Plus, fruit beers are a great way to “strive for five.” Duh.
- Pumpkin Beers: These seasonal brews are meant to be enjoyed throughout October amidst costume chaos and sugar crashes. PSLs during the day, pumpkin ales at night.
- Ales: Sipping an ale allows you to momentarily escape to a quaint British pub, far removed from your toddler’s tantrums and the 96 cupcakes you need to bake for the PTA. Ales are perfect for those moments when you just need a breather.
Parenting can be challenging enough without the fussiness of wine or fancy cocktails. I can barely match my never-ending sock pile, let alone figure out which wine pairs with which glass. Beer offers a straightforward way to unwind at the end of the day and pairs wonderfully with my kids’ leftover chicken fingers.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, my husband just texted he’ll be late, and the kids are bickering—so it appears it’s officially “beer thirty” in my house.
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In summary, not every mom reaches for wine; many of us find joy in the simplicity and comfort of beer. From summer hefeweizens to hearty stouts, there’s a perfect brew for every occasion in the parenting journey.