One of the cool things about being a parent is having the opportunity to see things through your children’s’ eyes. It’s kind of like watching your favorite movie in high definition. You’ve seen it before, maybe many times, and it was great. But then you see it in high definition – and the colors are more vibrant, the images are crisper. It’s the same movie, but HD makes it a completely different experience. That’s how parenting is for me sometimes (of course there are times when I’m grateful parenting is NOT an HD experience – say, when I’m changing a diaper – no enhancements needed there).
Take last week for example -we took our 3-year-old to Sesame Street Live. Of course he was thrilled. But what I didn’t realize is that I would be equally excited. I couldn’t believe that I, a grown adult, was walking around the office with butterflies in my stomach over a red, furry, oversized puppet who talks about himself in the third person.
Yet so it was – and all because I was eagerly anticipating watching my son experience his favorite characters come to life. What are puppets to me are larger-than-life idols to him. I will never tire of watching his eyes widen when he’s in awe of something new and hearing his exclamations of “oh my doodness!”
Another example? This upcoming weekend. Clifton Park is holding its Annual Winterfest. We’re planning to start at Riverview Orchards, where they’re going to have horse-drawn sleigh rides, a bonfire with s’mores, and other fun stuff for the kiddies. (It’s all free!) Of course, if the snow or cold is too much, there are indoor events over at Clifton Park Center, like Clifton Park Idol and the free “Taste of Clifton Park” best soup contest. There’s a little something for everyone – and as it has been with so many events before it (Sesame Street Live, Christmas, and any parade or festival), I can’t wait to watch my kids take it all in.
I hope you’ll attend Winterfest, too. Bring your kids and take in their expressions, their “oohs,” and their “ahhs” – and experience what parenting in HD is all about.