Parental Paycheck

Have you ever had a parental paycheck? No, it's not a huge amount of money although that would be nice. It's the thing that makes you feel like you must have done something right because your child has done something that makes you so happy? Well, I just got one yesterday...

Chaz and Zion have been bothering us for the last couple of weeks to get their bikes ready so they can ride the 1 3/4 miles to school and then back again. A total of 3.5 miles-wish I had that desire and energy. Anyway, eventually we got it done and their first ride was yesterday.

So as I was driving home from work I thought I would check up on them and see how they were doing...yes, I was a little worried. They had almost made it to the 4 way stop when I spotted them. I pulled into the strip mall and watched them as they stopped. Chaz hopped off his bike, threw his backpack on the ground, and hunched over as if he was about to drop dead. He was huffing and puffing. Then I noticed Zion was missing her backpack. I yelled out to them to see if they were okay and asked Zion where her backpack was. She said, "inside Chaz's backpack." Chaz walked over to the car and I asked him why he had Zion's backpack inside his. He replied, "her backpack was so heavy for her so I put it inside mine. I also have both of our locks (Jasen bought them bike locks that weigh about 5 pounds each) and my sweathirt in it." It probably weighed a good 20 pounds. I was so pleased with him.

There probably isn't a better feeling or parental paycheck than for a parent to know that her children are taking care of each other on their own free will and choice. I love my children and are grateful for the sacrifices that have allowed me to be their mother.