A Suburban Life

When did living in a nice house in the suburbs with two kids, a dog, and a minivan (and MAYBE a white picket fence) become something people DIDN’T want?

The hubbie and I rented Revolutionary Road on Netflix last weekend.  Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet’s performances were really amazing and heart-wrenching.  Kate Winslet is one of my favorite actors. I definitely give the movie an “A” for being a very well done dramatic film.  But what was up with the message?  Since when did living in suburbia equal a death sentence?  By moving to the suburbs and starting a family, you are essentially giving up all your dreams of adventure and success and now must resign yourself to the fact that you will live a dull and ordinary life and never be “special.” Seriously?

My husband, who is a morning radio host, was talking to his co-workers this week about a fun topic to discuss on his radio show: Should we buy a minivan. We have been talking about it more and more lately, especially after all our long family road trips. I’ve always wanted a top of the line decked out minivan. But, maybe we should stick with a large SUV?  Well, the singletons in his office just GASPED at the mere thought of us purchasing a minivan. 

 ”A minivan?”  “NOOOO!  Don’t do it!!”  Their reaction made me think that buying a minivan would automatically make us “uncool.” Really?

Well, let me just say that I LIKE living in the suburbs.  It really is a dream come true, not something I felt resigned to do.  I was excited to get married, have kids, and live in an amazing suburban neighborhood.  I want the sidewalks and the green grass and the trees and the playground down the street.  I want to wave to my neighbors while they mow their lawn.  Or invite the mom next door over for coffee.  I want to help carpool.  I WANT a minivan. 

Hi, my name is Pam and I want to be a soccer mom. And I’m proud of it.