Things That Instantly Make You Feel Like A Kid In Lubbock Again

The funny thing about getting older is that you can do your very best to turn into a responsible adult, only to have one tiny little thing launch you straight back into your dorky childhood. It really doesn't take much. A sound. A smell. A place. Suddenly, you forget about the bills, work, or the weird pain you just felt in your chest that made you wonder if this was the end. You're 8 years old again, and you're living your best life in Lubbock.

These are some of the things that instantly take me back to the good old days:

Walking Into A Bowling Alley

It doesn't matter how many years it's been. The second you hear the bowling pins crashing and are hit with the faint odor of feet moving from street shoes to bowling shoes, you're instantly transported to your 5th-grade birthday party, surrounded by all of your friends. The only thing missing is your parents to fork over a few quarters for the claw machine.

Bahama Bucks

The best days of my childhood were the days we went to Bahama Bucks. Visit it today, and you'll probably still pick the same flavor you did when you were a kid. I do. Strawberry Cheesecake. Tastes the same and makes me smile just as big.

Finding A Dollar On The Ground

The excitement of finding a single dollar bill is not lost when you grow up. In fact, it's probably enhanced. I found a 20 once and was truly ecstatic. You'll turn into a child instantly the moment you spot money on the ground.

The Smell of Chlorine

I don't think I really need to explain this one. However, hopping into a pool today always reminds me of visiting the YMCA with my mom for swimming lessons when I was a kid.

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Riding A Shopping Cart Through A Parking Lot

No, you aren't supposed to. Has that stopped me? Not one bit.

For a few glorious seconds, you're flying, life is easy, and mom is making your favorite dinner tonight.

Eating An Icecream Cone

Anytime I go to Dairy Queen on my lunch break, I think about going with my grandmother to get a Blizzard on the hottest days of the summer. Hard to go back to the office when you're more ready to play with paper dolls and take a nap.

The Best Part?

Feeling like a kid again doesn't require a time machine. Sometimes, it's just random moments during the day that remind us of a time before bills and responsibilities. It's nice to live in that space as long as you can. I hope you visit it often.