My precious firstborn child, now nearly grown and still just as strong willed as she’s always been, has over the years inspired me to utter things I never imagined I’d say as a parent. Oh, the memories:

• “Chairs are a privilege.” (She’d tipped back her chair precariously on its two back legs, again, and had to eat a meal standing up. The first of several such meals.)

• “Stop sticking my finger up your nose, seriously.” (I would be all stern and shaking a finger at her, and she’d walk up and park a nostril on my pointy finger. Kind of hard to hold a stern line with her at that point.)

• “That’s why it’s called ‘punishment,’ not ‘FUN-ishment!’ ” (From earlier this week. I’m thinking she may need to visit the optician to check for damage from the severity of her eye roll.)

• “Oh, if you are gonna stomp on the stairs, you need more practice to learn how to walk correctly. Walk back down and up again, nicely. Yes, I’m serious. Don’t worry; I’ll watch you practice til you get it right.” (then, minutes later) “Hey, sounds like you need practice closing your door quietly too — I’ll be right up!”

Having a strong-willed child is good, right? It means folks will not be able to walk all over her when she’s grown and on her own. That’s what I keep telling myself. So my goal has been to just enjoy her and show her how to be a good, responsible, caring, sensitive, mature person. To mold her, if needed. To BEND that spirit a little, not break it entirely.

No matter how tempting at times. :oP

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While Mom finished her nursing home shift, I played on the smooth linoleum near your wheelchair. You squinted at me and croaked, “Boy! Go get me some firewood so’s I can cook supper, or I’ll switch you!” I’d say, “Yes’m,” then scurry off. It always satisfied you.

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