You just ‘do’ for family

The things we do for our kids!

When we begin our journey as parents, wouldn’t you agree we tend to think in the short-term? I mean we’re all goofy and googly about this amazing new little human being in our lives and a bit naive about how many of our waking hours — and hours normally designated for sleeping — they will actually consume. Our vision of the future doesn’t usually stretch much further than getting through the end of the day with a baby that’s dry, fed and not crying. Sometimes that’s all that matters.

Then you look forward to the time the child starts sleeping through the night, usually followed by the delusions of how adorable and wonderful it will be when that little person learns to walk and talk. Adorable? Yes. Wonderful? Well ... not always quite so much. Of course everyone dreams of successful potty training.

It’s been a while, but I remember fantasizing about how wonderful it would be the day the kids could pour their own breakfast cereal. Just those type of little “victories” they are finally doing things for themselves and giving us a little break.

Eventually it’s time to introduce them to age appropriate chores (insert evil laugh right about here) — cleaning their rooms, scouring the bathtub, washing dishes, vacuuming the floors, feeding the chickens and gathering eggs, mowing the lawn, putting up hay, etc. — in other words, actually contributing to daily existence of the family.

It’s not always easy. Families are families are families. No matter how it may appear from the outside, we all face challenges raising a family. Giving more than we ever thought we possibly had to give. Every one of us. But by the grace of God, most of us make it through ... stronger, wiser, tougher and looking forward to the day those kids leave home and your job is done.

That is, until the day they actually do leave home and you realize, your job is far from done.

I guess that’s the thing about being a parent. It’s not just a temporary 18-year gig and then you’re cut loose of all worries and work. You’ll still worry. Believe me, the worrying never subsides.

And the work?

Well, college kid locked his keys in his car earlier this week while he was at work, and I had to drive an hour away with a spare key at 10 p.m.

Girl-child and her fiance recently purchased a home and we helped them move, unpack, shop for new furniture and a washer and dryer, deliver and install it. And who do you think is building a fence in her backyard for her dogs tomorrow?

Oh, and keep in mind, we did, after all, just build a treehouse we personally will never play in.

You just “do” for family. The difference now is it’s not expected, it’s appreciated.

Contact Dana King at dking@shawmedia.com