Watching Star Wars with my kids

The last time I saw Star Wars was back in the 90’s, when I watched it with my wife Gretchen.  I couldn’t believe she hadn’t seen it as a kid, so we rented the original 3 movies over a period of a month at our local video store and spent our Friday nights watching Wookies, ‘droids, and Darth Vader.

After that, I became so bored with Star Wars, I declared that I never wanted to see them again.  This declaration even pre-dated the prequals.

Recently, Lars has been lobbying to see Star Wars.  We made him wait until his 7th birthday to watch it.  Whatever Lars watches, Brita wants to watch.  And we can’t leave Leif out.  So each of them got the privilage of watching Star Wars years before Lars had a chance.

The funny thing is that the movies are so much more enjoyable when viewed with kids.  They love it - and cannot get enough.  And the movies aren’t really that bad - a little violent here - maybe a blue word there.  But the magic and anticipation of the worlds of George Lucas is just incredible to watch.

So, I now have a newfound love for the old Star Wars series.  And even more, I love watching them stare open mouthed at the television as they get sucked into space.  I can never go back to the feeling I had when I was their age watching Star Wars, but I do get joy out of watching them get the feeling.  I recommend it.