It’s inevitable, embrace it, then have a nice nap for yourself.
Here are five clear signs that you’re turning into your dad…
1) That ‘ooooffff’ sound when you get up off the couch
You know the one. You used to spring off the sofa like a mini-Usain Bolt, now you struggle to reach for the remote without making THAT noise, followed with a couple of sharp exhales and an “ah crikey I don’t be well.”
And all so you don’t miss the first few minutes of ‘Deal or no Deal.’
You need to get out more.
2) Shushing everybody else in the room when the news headlines come on
It used to be that the only television shows you’d stay quiet for were Family Guy, South Park, The Simpsons and the odd penalty shootout.
Now, however, the world will come to an end unless you crank the volume up to ninety during the Angelus and you’re met with the sight of Dobbo’s impeccable tie alongside Sharon’s impeccable Sharon-ness.
You used to think Syria was a type of wine going cheap in the off-licence and something to impress the ladies with. Now you know differently. Just like your dad.
3) Eight hours of sleep a night, every night
Then: A few cans at home watching the football, up to the local, up to the late bar, over to the nightclub, back home for a takeaway, sleep for two hours, get up bright and breezy, head to college or work a new man.
Now: You COULD watch another episode of ‘House of Cards,’ but it’s almost 10.30 at night and you’ve left the shirt to be ironed in the morning.
4) You discuss the quality of ‘ham’
The second you find yourself saying, “Jesus but that’s a lovely bit of ham,” you know the full transition into a younger version of your aul’ lad has been made. Embrace it. Enjoy your ham and have a snooze on the armchair afterwards.
5) Shaving isn’t just for special occasions
Shaving used to be something you’d reserve for special occasions – the occasional night out, dinner in your mam’s when you go over to get the clothes washed, weddings… Now it forms part of your morning routine come rain, hail or shine, something that started when you found that first, lonely patch of grey stubble and got the fright of your life.
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ with Aideen McQueen – Faith healers, Coolock craic and Gigging as Gaeilge
