Let’s be honest, ladies. When your “kids” are traded for teenagers who grunt greetings and adult children who visit occasionally for laundry and fridge raids, feeling sexy can take a nosedive. We’ve poured our hearts (and probably a questionable amount of questionable snacks) into these humans, and sometimes, ourselves get left on the back burner.
But hold up! Newsflash: Sexy isn’t reserved for the twenty-somethings anymore. There’s a whole different kind of sexy that comes with navigating the wild world of (almost) grown-up kids. It’s the quiet confidence of a woman who’s seen it all, from tantrums to college applications, and emerged (mostly) sane.
Here’s how I’m owning my sexy in this new chapter:
- Date Night, Redefined: Remember those pre-teenager dinners with actual conversation and lingering glances? Maybe a candlelit bubble bath for two isn’t exactly on the table anymore, but that doesn’t mean the spark has to die. Plan a “grown-up game night” with your partner – board games, cocktails (not in front of the teens, obviously!), and laughter can reignite the connection in a way that feels fresh and fun.
- Embrace the “Me” You’ve Become: Our bodies have carried tiny humans, comforted heartbroken teenagers, and celebrated graduations. They deserve respect, not judgment. Maybe that means a new workout routine that makes you feel strong, or a splurge on a lipstick that makes your smile pop. Focus on what makes you feel good in your own skin, not some unrealistic image from a magazine.
- Flirt with Fashion: Sweatpants are comfy, sure, but they don’t exactly scream “date night with a hot spouse.” Find clothes that flatter your figure and make you feel confident. A killer pair of jeans and a blouse that shows off your shoulders can do wonders for your mood (and maybe catch your partner’s eye in the process).
- Reconnect with Yourself: Remember those hobbies you loved before parenthood took over? Dust them off! Whether it’s painting, reading, or salsa dancing in your living room, carve out some time for activities that fuel your soul. Feeling passionate about something outside of your family life makes you a more interesting (and therefore, sexy) person.
Being a parent, at any stage, is a wild ride. But it doesn’t have to steal your sexy. We are strong, capable women who have raised (almost) grown humans. Let’s celebrate the confidence, the resilience, and the fire that comes with this phase of life.
So, mamas with teenagers and adult kids, what are your tips for feeling sexy? Share them in the comments below! Let’s build each other up and show the world that sexy doesn’t have an age limit. We got this!
