Things have changed considerably since my childhood.  At least once a week I am struck by something that is completely different for my kids than it was for me. A few days ago I had to explain to my 4-year-old that when I was his age we had no choice but to watch commercials (I was making him “slum it” by watching Curious George on PBS instead of on Netflix.) And while I could (and may at a later date) delve into the differences, I just spent a little time reflecting on some of the similarities – the things that my kids will have memories of that are akin to my childhood memories. I took a little walk down memory lane this afternoon and voila! My fast 5 childhood similarities:

  1. First day of school pictures

Nothing says brand spanking new school year more than the early morning backpack shot with a front door background.  Will you get a smiley face? A goofy face? A snarly face? You just never know!! Fun fact: I also get the term “snarly face” from my mom. 2 for 1!

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2. Dinosaur – Yes-of course-a-saur!

This is a local classic.  When in the neighborhood of the dinosaurs (best known for their cameo in Pee Wee’s Big Adventure) – you must stop, drop and document. And you better believe if we pass any extra large balls of twine or Gatorland theme parks the same principle will apply.

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3. Road trippin’

Why fly when you can drive?  (Convenience, speed, cocktails..to name a few) When it comes to family fun the best way to get where you are going is crammed in a station wagon SUV with snacks, the radio and an open (once you get out of the Los Angeles metro area) road.

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4. Dogs, Dogs, & more Dogs

There are dog people and there are strange not dog people.  We fall in the former category and much like my childhood, my kids will live a life full of wet noses, warm licks and food missing off any plate they don’t watch intently.

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5. Personal Paparazzi Service

This should come as no shock to anyone who has ever checked out my Instagram but I am a bit of a momagrapher. Yes, I even  hashtag “momarazzi.” While some may think I am a product of an oversharing generation (partially true) – I am also a product of my upbringing. Even in the age of “real” film and photo development fees, there was always a camera nearby poised and ready to capture that one (or one millionth) special moment.

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While so many things are different 25 to 30 years on – a few things are clearly exactly the same (I say while wearing my leggings and flannel shirt..what are the odds that we can bring fanny packs back? Yes, please!)