Forbidden As A Child

Remember those things you weren't allowed to do as a kid? There were always certain video games I was not allowed to play, certain music I couldn't listen to, television shows I couldn't watch, and food I couldn't eat.

My parents weren't in the more eccentric group of parents who keep their kids from any tv or only allow them wheat based products. They did, however, have some restrictions, growing up, that I still remember. I was never allowed to watch The Simpsons. Roseanne was another show not allowed in our house, as was Ren and Stimpy.

Cereal was another big one. We weren't allowed to have certain cereals as they were unhealthy. It's not like I grew up on shredded wheat and oatmeal. I ate my fair share of sugary cereals, but never the extreme ones. I was allowed Frosted Flakes and Kix, but what wasn't allowed was Lucky Charms and Count Chocula. A big one that we always begged for but could never have was Captain Crunch. That was the mother of all sugary cereals and was an absolute no. Cinnamon Toast Crunch, however, we won on. This was a cereal we initially were not allowed to have. It was on the 'no way, Jose' list. (Not a real list.) Somehow, we eventually were allowed to have it. I don't know if it was that we got older and were considered to be more able to handle it, or if they just figured if they let us have just one, we'd be satisfied. Anyway out, it was a victory, and I still love that cereal to this day.

Funny thing about cereal, ask anyone about it and I bet they have strong opinions about what cereals are the best. They might have a few they still buy now, like Frosted Flakes or Cheerios. But ask them about what they loved as a kid, mention a few brands and watch their eyes light up. Cereal has an instant connection for people to their childhood. It's pretty awesome.