Rediscover

Wonder Years

Jeanna G4 Comments

My daughter’s 5th grade year just came to an end, but right before they ushered the students out the door, the teachers delivered the Human Growth and Development Unit. Remember that awkward time when the boys and girls enter separate classrooms to learn about puberty and all the associated topics? And everyone is uncomfortable and embarrassed when discussing what is about to happen to them? My daughter ensured that I had to live it twice by texting me audio clips of the teacher’s messages, and always followed them up with a frowny face emoji. I might as well have named her Peter, because she does not want to grow up. But I know she wonders. She asks me questions and tells me the crazy stuff she overhears on the bus, seeking the truth.

Thinking back on my wonder years, I thought everything was strange and exciting. I felt the angst of coming of age. I felt curious and confused. I struggled when trying to piece everything together and make sense of it all. And I was always wondering about what the future held.

At that age I wanted to be a part of everything, and be the best at anything. I compared myself to everyone. I had unsupported goals and extravagant dreams. Everything was a big deal, but it also wasn’t. I knew I was liked, but I also wasn’t so sure why. Back then I wondered what everyone thought of me. Now I just want to figure out what I think of myself.

Recently, I was chatting with a friend about plans for the summer, and that my daughter would be away at camp for most of her break. My friend said, “Do something you’ve been wanting to do.” I joked and replied, “I’d really like to take a nap!” But then I started wondering, what do I want to with myself? I wonder, if I weren’t a mom, and I didn’t have to work for a living, what would I do? Who would I be? I am having a self-imposed identity crisis!

Now that I think about it, I’m back in my wonder years. And until I figure it all out, I guess I’ll just keep on wondering. I mean, not all who wonder are lost, right?!

Stuffies

Jeanna GLeave a comment

Adults seriously underrate the benefits of stuffed animals. (I’m writing this with my Pound Puppy, whom I named Cinnamon, resting in my lap.)

My whole life, I’ve felt more comfortable with pillows. Vegging out on the couch, taking long road trips, or sleeping, I’d always be hugging a pillow.

Study abstracts I’ve read declare that looking at cute animals lowers blood pressure, heart rate, and overall anxiety levels, while improving focus and performance on assignments and tasks.

Children surround themselves with stuffed animals, and are so happy. Adults are like, “No, stuffed animals are childish, so I will not have them, and I will be miserable instead.”

Here’s my advice: Adults need to toss their throw pillows and their egos out the window, and adopt a new comfort system: stuffed animals.

Psyche Parties

Jeanna G1 Comment

In high school, the night before a rival game, my team would meet at the local pizzeria, or a teammate’s house, and eat a bunch of Italian carbs and hang out, relaxing, being goofy and, oddly enough, not thinking about the big game. 

As an adult, the night before a big event, presentation, review, speech, or some other important meeting, I sit home with my spiraling, anxious, worst-case scenario thoughts. The only thing that’s the same is the intake of a massive amount of carbs. 

What changed? Where’s the confidence?  The congregation of teammates, the support? The laissez faire attitude? Ça va bien aller, non? 

Back then, we always knew we were going to go out and do our best, and even though we wanted to win, we weren’t worried about the outcome until it happened. Que sera, sera!

I think we need psyche parties for adults!