Wellness Check

The other morning Sandler woke up and jumped out of bed eager to get the day started. I could not quite figure out what he was so excited about since it was a week day and his morning routine usually consists of some moaning, groaning and complaints about getting ready for school. Instead, he was fully dressed with his shirt on inside out and backwards and socks that did not match—but one on each foot nonetheless. After applying his Incredible Hulk deodorant and doing the sniff test, he flew out of the bathroom and said he was ready to go to his doctor appointment.

Once again, I could not believe he had remembered an event most kids would do their best to forget. Not Sandler, I could tell he was thinking this was his golden opportunity to display his best behavior and try to earn the ultimate reward—a day off from school to go skateboarding. I commended him on his diligence and responsible morning conduct. However, I avoided making any promises about the rest of the day so that he would keep up the good show while at the doctor’s office.

We arrived for his wellness check and went through the general weight, height and basic questioning. Then it was time to catch up with his doctor and discuss life and what has been going on since his last visit. Of course skateboarding was the first topic of conversation. Then they got into some more serious business and the doctor asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up. I was certain he would say a pro skateboarder or something along those lines…

But, without pause he answered, “I’m going to work at juvenile hall. Someone’s gotta help those kids.”

Though I am sure the pediatrician has heard some interesting answers, he seemed as surprised as I was with his response. I quickly explained I may over use juvenile hall as a threat and for some reason Sandler has grown a little obsessed with the establishment. Fortunately, the doctor focused on the fact that he wants to help juvenile delinquents, relieving some of the awkwardness.

As the discussion continued, it became evident that my sarcasm is much more contagious than I realized. The more questions Sandler answered, the more red my face turned. Finally, it was time to go and I could not get out us out of the office fast enough. Though I was thoroughly embarrassed by his candid and honest answers, I could not deny that he had done a very good job and had earned his time at the skatepark of his choice. So, Vans Indoor it was.

As he flew around on his board, I could not believe I had been suckered into another skatepark for the day. However, I was happy to have the space and time to get over my parental humiliation. Just as I felt the red leave my cheeks, I saw Sandler striking up a conversation with a man in military fatigues. The familiar feeling of holding my breath returned wondering what Sandler was saying. Then I saw a huge smile come over the man’s face, they exchanged a friendly hand shake and skated their separate ways.

When Sandler came over to check in, I asked him what he was talking to the guy about. He said, “I thanked him” and then explained, “because he’s wearing the suit that means he works for our ‘fweedom’ and country.” For a kid who had me flushed in embarrassment just moments before, had me blushing in pride the rest of the day.

Thank you Sandler for reminding me to watch what I say around you, and also for reminding me to always thank those who serve our country.

- Nikki