What Do You Love Most about Your Kids?

By Sandy Schroeder

Kids have many facets, some can be maddening, others are completely adorable -- and sometimes they know it. My kids were an intriguing mix with highs and lows that kept life interesting, sometimes too interesting.

Some of my friends had similar issues. I heard one father asked at a soccer game, “Is Trey your son?” The father cautiously replied, “Who wants to know?” Trey was a lot like my boys. They could generate awards and honors and conflict and chaos at the same time.

When my first was born, I issued masks to everyone who came in to protect him from every possible germ. When my third was born, the masks were still in the drawer, but he survived just fine, growing to be the tallest of the three.

So Much to Learn

I always said they taught me much more than I taught them. I learned a lot along the way about some pretty important characteristics.

Loyalty – Sometimes with three boys I had to pull things together quickly. They never complained or pointed out any little slips. I was their mom, and they stood firm. My youngest proudly brought home a picture from school when he was in second grade. He had drawn a picture of me looking a little frazzled, clutching a big cup of coffee. The caption was, “Coffee is my mom’s favorite food.”

Problem-solving – I quickly learned how to ditch clutter in the front hall closet, and straighten the house in record time. I also learned how to field complaints when my kids stepped over the line. One morning as I was walking down the hall I heard my youngest say to the middle son, “We should wait to tell her about this until she has her coffee.”

Irrepressible enthusiasm – Christmas morning with the living room covered with wrapping paper was always the best. Everyone sat around in their pajamas and examined all of their new possessions. It was so much fun to shop for them, and enjoy the day. Kids and Christmas are really synonymous.

Whatever your favorite things are, keep reminding yourself of that when they push you to the brink, or wear you down. Some of my best memories came from those moments on the fighting line. When they do grow up, life may be a little boring and a lot less fun.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lakewood, Calif.