Challenges for Older Parents

I have friends who got married right out of school - both high school and college.  Some of their kids are now graduating from High school.  My oldest is in 5th grade and youngest in 1st  grade, so I still have a lot parenting ahead of me. 

Recently, one was sick with a fever in the middle of the night.  I stumbled out of bed and fumbled for the medicine cabinets.  It had been a long time since we had administered meds, so I had to read the label....or at least try to read the label..

For the life of me, I couldn't see what it said.  I stretched my arm out as far as it could reach and still blurrrrrrr. 

I am not the only over 40 parent out there.  Everyone knows that your vision takes a turn when you hit 40.  Why aren't there medicine labels...for older parents.  Labels with BIG LETTERS!

Growing Up...Restaurant Visit

This summer, I took my kids to a restaurant for dinner.  My 9 year old reviews the menu.  After careful consideration, she asks the Waiter, "What would you recommend - the grilled cheese or the chicken fingers?"

Without missing a beat, the waiter responds, "Oh, definitely the chicken fingers."

Pass

My sister is just about the funniest person on Earth.  She and I could recount the same story and she would have you rolling on the ground laughing - I would have you looking at your watch - praying you had an appointment - somewhere - anywhere. 

She got married this Spring and is often sharing anecdotes of the joys of early marriage.  My Brother-in-Law is the perfect balance to my sisters 'all in' personality.  Recently, yet another dog was in trouble - in need of a home- we all know this because his very adorable picture was being circulated via email.  Sis, eager to help any animal in need (since we were kids) forwards the email to her new husband.  She gets his reply.  It says, "Pass".

That's all - just Pass.  Not "we don't need another dog".  Not, "He's not very cute".  Just "Pass".

The more I thought about his response, the more I loved it.  Can you image the freedom of that word?  I long to use it, but I'm not sure I have the courage.

Question: Can you bake two dozen cookies for the bake sale? 
Answer: Pass.

Question: Can you buy wrapping paper from me even though I am the fourth person to knock on your door?
Answer: Pass.

Question: Can you get me a snack?
Answer: Pass

Question: Can you work in the church nursery?
Answer: Pass

One word - no explanation - no exclamation point - just a simple Pass - period. 

One day...one day....