The Great Pumpkin Chase
The Great Pumpkin Chase: How parenting reminds us to stay healthy, agile, and ready for life’s surprises
“Look, a pumpkin!” Ethan’s little hands stretched out in the middle of Menards, pointing at their Halloween yard displays.
He stood frozen, a mix of terror and excitement on his face, keeping a safe 100-foot distance from the scary creatures.
Being the encouraging dad, I decided we should face this fear together. With naïve optimism, I walked him toward the display. Thinking it would help, I switched on the scary pumpkin. But when I turned to see his reaction—expecting wonder and maybe even a laugh—I saw only his backside, already 300 feet away in full sprint.
Overcoming fear didn’t happen that day. But my own speed and agility sure got tested as I chased down a fully panicked 2½-year-old. Honestly, he might have made it to the parking lot if I hadn’t lost the weight I did this summer.
Needless to say, raising little ones isn’t for the faint of heart.
Last weekend, Ellen and I attended a chiropractic seminar for couples who run offices together. Most were older and spoke about the challenges of becoming empty nesters. The idea fascinated me—no diapers, no chasing a wet toddler through the house after bath time. Empty nesting sounded… delightful.
When the older couples told us, “It goes by fast,” my internal buzzer went off: “YOU PROMISE?”
But in all seriousness, I love my boys deeply and wouldn’t trade them for the world. Kids bring plenty of challenges, but they also bring incredible joy. Parenting is, without question, the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.
A huge part of this job is responsibility—the ability to respond. You never know when your two-year-old will take off running from a store display monster.
So here’s my word of encouragement: exercise may feel challenging, but it’s also rewarding. And we have a responsibility—to ourselves and to our families—to care for our bodies and minds. That’s how we stay ready for both the joyful and the chaotic moments of life.
Your friend,
Dr. Mosier