We all remember what it was like to really let loose. Think back to the uni days, your adolescence, the first time you go out after having a baby, the drought breaker or maybe what you imagine it would be like. The wild nights where you wake up searching your brain for clues to what happened, what you said and even what you did. I had one last night. On a cruise. No kids. No regrets.
Paul had said a couple of weeks ago ‘what can I do to acknowledge the mental load you’ve carried for the school holidays’? ** (Also partners – note this is Top tip no. 1 for this post – recognise and reward the one who carries this load.) I considered it briefly and quickly thought to capitalise – I love dressing up. A costume party is my idea of fun, fun, fun. As part of a friend’s 40th, an 80’s night was planned. Of course my answer was “matching outfits for the night and you have to enjoy it!”.
See photo for outcome!!
The purpose of sharing this is to reflect on the role we play as a parent. It’s genuine, real and relentless. It also carries layers of responsibility and care which is difficult to shed very often. We sometimes forget what it’s like to be fancy free and for me, when that big cat get let out – she roars. The nostalgia, bittersweet look backs and regret or sorrow about letting the less responsible self go bites occasionally and making the most of the moments when we can do this is something to cherish.
Top tip x 3
1) Partners see paragraph one. Try to mean it or fake it ’till you make it.
2) Let loose in a way which makes you feel good about yourself and fills up the memory bank with moments you want to visit instead of avoid.
3) Adult connections matter – find them and nurture them.
Love a dress up….Or is a role play?
Parenting and paper cuts. 