I embraced my suburban roots for my daughter's sake.

Upon marrying my husband in 2015, we embarked on a new chapter by relocating from my childhood suburb in Delaware to the vibrant city of Philadelphia. The urban lifestyle granted us enriching proximity to cultural experiences, direct access to public transport, and the luxury of dining in walkable favorite eateries.

Questions About Returning to Familiar Grounds

However, the city life came with its drawbacks— the din of constant noise, concerns over safety, and scarce outdoor space. Starting a family made these challenges more pronounced. Thus, four years ago, we faced a pivotal decision: a return to suburban life and my hometown.

Having spent over five years in Philadelphia, the idea of going back seemed regressive. Young adulthood often equates moving to larger horizons with progress. Nonetheless, the pandemic's lockdowns shifted our perspective, pulling us toward the shelter of what was once known.

Our New Suburban Joys

The city's growing challenges left me feeling restricted, especially with a toddler who struggled with masks. Craving security and normalcy, we bought a home close to my childhood sanctuary. This decision ushered in our daughter's transformation through wide-open suburban spaces.

In recent years, we've strolled, biked, and scooted around our locale. Witnessing the seasonal transformation of leaves and indulging in simple joys like gardening has been rewarding. Our small botanical endeavors outshone my childhood attempts.

Last spring, my father and husband teamed up to erect a swing set in our backyard, echoing a time when my own father and grandfather constructed one for us siblings. It’s a delight reliving those youthful memories— from sprinkler runs during summer to soccer kicks amid wildlife sightings.

Sharing Cherished Locations with My Child

A local nature museum has captivated my daughter, much like it did my younger self. Despite updates, her awe at the grand clam shell and stuffed fauna mirror my own reflections.

Remarkably, my daughter continues family traditions by taking swim lessons where my mother and I both swam, sans the burden of woolen swimsuits of previous generations.

Although Philadelphia offered expansive zoos, multitudinous museums, and a diverse restaurant scene, our state's modest-sized zoos and museums are ideally comfortable for my child. The magic of sharing childhood haunts with her dissolves any sense of redundancy.