Childhood Adventures: A Parent's Perspective on Activities to Do Again

As a parent, there are many activities that we relish as a child, which we wish we could experience again as adults. For me, one of those activities was flying in a plane with my uncle. The thrill of taking off and soaring through the skies can never be replicated by flying as an adult. However, there are other activities that I can still enjoy with a different perspective and a deeper understanding of what it means to be a parent.

Water Park Traditions: A Family Experience

One of the cherished memories from my childhood as a parent was visiting Water World, a large water park located north of Denver. To me, this was a perfect summer adventure for the whole family. The park was known for its enormous inner tube ride called 'Journey to the Center of the Earth.' We would wait in line for half an hour and watch dinosaur movies to pass the time. Once at the top of the hill, we'd climb onto the tube, slide down, ride through waterfalls, and even have dinosaurs jumping out at us. The ride would last about twenty minutes, and we would try it at least three times during each visit.

While I could still visit a water park alone or with a date, it wouldn’t be the same. As a grown-up, I understand that parks are primarily meant for families. It’s a way for parents to pretend they’re having fun for the children's sake. Nevertheless, revisiting these memories can be incredibly nostalgic and bring back those joyful moments.

Camping Adventures: Exploring the Great Outdoors

Another cherished tradition we had as a family was camping. Our adventures would often involve heading west to my in-laws' farm, where we would hike, visit the Marble quarry in Marble, Colorado, and camp in the Gunnison National Forest. We would spend several days at Mesa Verde National Park, where my children and I would explore the cliff dwellings. These trips to the west were not just about the physical activities, but about the bonding experiences as a family.

Now, with my children having their own families, we find ourselves discussing a future trip to Colorado. When the idea of visiting Mesa Verde is brought up, I eagerly join in the discussions. I feel like a kid again, asking 'Can I come too?' but the support from my family gives me hope that this may indeed become a reality. These trips to the mountains and parks are not just about revisiting the past but also about creating new memories with my grandkids.

Conclusion: Embracing Nostalgia and Creating Lasting Experiences

As we grow older, we often find ourselves longing for the simple joys of our childhood and our formative years as parents. While the specific activities may no longer be exactly the same, the essence of the experience is there. By revisiting these places and enjoying them with a new perspective, we can bring back the joy of childhood and create lasting experiences for the generations to come. So, if you ever find yourself in a similar situation, don’t hesitate to revisit those cherished memories and make them a part of your life once again.