I've Been UPSIZED: Chapter 13

Ahh, 1974…

The world certainly has changed since the days of my childhood. I was a child of the ‘70s. In those days, we would pile into a station wagon without thought of seatbelts or load capacity. That Buick sure could fit a lot of kids in the back. I even recall one summer night in July when we loaded into the bed of a pickup truck for a 45 minute drive to see fireworks. As a mother now myself, I cringe at the thought and wonder what our parents were thinking! But, those were different times.

Breaker, Breaker, Can I Get a Honk, Honk?

If you’re an American over the age of 35, I’d venture a guess that you know exactly what I’m talking about. Back in the days before DVD systems, iPods, and other mobile entertainment devices, we had to make our own fun on road trips. We would lean out the window, pumping our arms in hopes that a passing semi-truck would reciprocate with a loud sound of their air horn. On any given road trip, you could get at least a few, which totally makes a kid’s day!

I Guess Not…

On a recent road trip to Chicago, my son decided to test this crazy idea (his iPod was lost, so he was desperate). For six hours, he pumped his arm at passing semi-truck drivers, without one air horn in response. What a sad, sad time we’re living in.

Back When I Was a Kid…

As I strolled with my children through the streets of Chicago, telling stories about the way things used to be, it occurred to me that I’ve become the parent who wishes our children could experience a simpler time.

So, I give you a few of life’s observations from Chicago.

Did you know that for $28, you can get your doll’s hair styled? Back when I was a kid, we spent hours brushing and braiding our dolls’ hair. It wasn’t perfect, but it was done with love – not cash.

Did you know that for $8, you can go to the aquarium, but not see anything interesting unless you buy the $30 upgrade? Back when I was a kid, an admission ticket meant you were actually permitted inside.

Did you know that people put shirts and boots on dogs? Back when I was a kid, we put collars on dogs.

I Wonder What the Future Holds

Looking back on the memories of station wagons, air horns, and naked dogs, I wonder what our children will remember about their childhood. I hope it’s time spent with family, when iPods were lost and life was simpler.

Kristina Marsh is an accomplished marketing, communications, and business process leader.  In 2013, she launched Marketing Flexibility, LLC, a flexible, strategic marketing resource company. Want to connect? You can reach me at kris@marketingflexibility.com.