When I first met my husband, Jason, back in college, we spent countless hours at local bars, indulging in what could be called the unofficial college pastime: beer consumption. We weren’t beer connoisseurs by any means, and on any given night, we enjoyed whatever cheap brew was on tap, often shared from a pitcher.
We engaged in all the classic college drinking games—beer pong, funneling, and yes, chugging. Sorry not sorry, but it’s the truth! Beer was always present during our social gatherings and those late nights when we were too tired from studying. Looking back, I credit cheap beer for many of my spontaneous dance moves atop bar counters, much to the chagrin of my future self (and children).
As I matured, I felt compelled to elevate my drink choices. Adults, I thought, sipped wine, scotch, and craft cocktails—at least that’s what I gathered from shows like Mad Men. During the era of Sex and the City, I found myself ordering cosmos at work events, trying to channel my inner Carrie Bradshaw, even though I would have been just as happy with a simple longneck bottle while navigating office politics.
Don’t get me wrong; I do relish a good glass of wine after a long day. However, there are moments when nothing hits the spot quite like cracking open a cold beer after a vigorous day of yard work or a lengthy run. As time has passed, Jason and I have developed a newfound passion for exploring local craft breweries, delighting in the art of brewing. Just last summer, we had a wonderful time at East Coast Brewing Co. in Portland, Maine, avoiding the rain that kept us off the beach.
From my experiences, I’ve found beer enthusiasts to be remarkably welcoming and down-to-earth. Conversations with brewery staff are often enlightening, as they readily share their knowledge about different flavors and ingredients. A visit to a brewery or local brewpub is always a relaxed and enjoyable outing.
Beer drinkers are a fun-loving bunch, and I’m certainly game to try any variety. Just like there are perfect wine pairings, there are beers that suit various parenting scenarios, too.
Beer Pairings for Parenting Scenarios
- Hefeweizen: These beers practically scream “summer!” with their light, cloudy appearances and refreshing hints of citrus. Pair one with a warm evening, and even the kids yelling over the garden hose won’t dampen your spirits.
- Lagers: When the kids have tested your patience, a lager is just what the doctor ordered. Or, if we’re honest, maybe three lagers.
- Light Beers: These are best reserved for those evenings when your jeans feel snug, the dog has left a surprise in the living room, and your 9-year-old has a project due tomorrow. You can enjoy two for nearly the price of one!
- Lambics: Feeling fancy while wearing a breastmilk-stained tee? A Lambic is the way to go. Trust me on this one.
- IPAs: While some claim IPA stands for “India Pale Ale,” those of us in the trenches know it actually means “I Parented Alright” today. When we sip an IPA, we’re toasting to our triumphs in parenting. Cheers!
- Chocolate Stouts: These delicious brews exist for one reason: to alleviate PMS. You can thank me later.
- Guinness: The beer everyone seems to enjoy on St. Patrick’s Day, when everyone wears green.
- Fruity Beers: If you want to keep your husband from stealing your drink, grab a peach or raspberry beer. Plus, they’re a great way to get a few servings of fruit!
- Pumpkin Beers: These should be savored throughout October, from Halloween costumes to sugar crashes. PSLs during the day, Pumpkin Ale at night.
- Ales: Sipping on an ale can transport you to a cozy British pub, far away from the chaos of your toddler and the PTA bake sale cupcakes you need to bake. Ales are perfect for those “Calgon, take me away” moments.
Parenting is challenging enough without the added pressure of pairing wines or fancy cocktails. I can barely match up my kids’ socks, let alone determine the right wine glass! Beer offers a simple, uncomplicated way to unwind at the end of the day, and it pairs well with whatever leftovers the kids leave behind.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, Jason just texted that he’s running late, and the kids are bickering, which means it’s officially “beer thirty” around here.
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Summary:
This article celebrates the idea that not all mothers opt for wine; many prefer beer. It shares personal anecdotes about the author’s college days and evolving tastes in beverages, highlighting the joy and simplicity of enjoying beer while parenting. The piece also provides fun suggestions for different types of beers suited for various parenting scenarios.