Family Happenings Can Be Reminders to Be Thankful

By Sandy Schroeder

Sometimes when we are really busy we use a lot of shortcuts with our family. A nod of the head or a wave of the hand gets things started as we all go about our business. Work, school and home tasks keep us moving until we hit a bump in the road.

A serious injury, a loss of communication, a change in behavior catches us by surprise. Most of us have been in this predicament. We may wind up in the ER with a child, or on our cell looking for our child. Then everything slows way down, and we know what we have to lose. If we are lucky, it all works out. A broken bone or a missed call is handled, and life snaps back in place.

Those unexpected blips may serve another purpose if they remind us to celebrate each day in some small way. When you think of what a privilege it is to have our families, saying so is the least we can do.  Calling when you will be late, bringing home a surprise box of pastries, or finding time to fix that broken toy means a lot.

Ways to Say Thank You

For Teens

• For no reason at all surprise them with a gift
• Invite them out to eat, just the two of you
• Join them shooting hoops or biking

For Middle School Kids

• Invite them out for ice cream
• Take them and their friends out for pizza
• Surprise them with a gift they have been wanting

For Little Guys

• Invite their friends over for pizza
• Take them biking to the park
• Spend some time doing crafts together

And Just Because

Set aside some special times for the whole family as summer approaches. Focus on what your family loves most and reserve some time for riding, biking, hiking, touring, fiestas, festivals or sports. Or maybe this is the time to try something new.

Camping – Pick a spot near home and do an easy overnight run to see how it goes. If kids are young this could be as close as your backyard. For older kids and teens, It could turn into a whole weekend. 

Wilderness hikes – If you are already hikers you could extend your territory. If you are all new to hiking, plan a short hike and see how it goes. Allow for age differences and be prepared to shorten it if necessary.

Touring a national park – Do the homework and pick a park that you have always wanted to visit. Outfit your car with all of the supplies and safety equipment for a family vacation with motel/hotel reservations.

However you let your family know that they are appreciated, enjoy the moment. This is the time to make some memories.

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