Riding a Roller Coaster

I have had some tough weeks recently parent-wise. I equate being a parent to a long-term roller coaster ride. You first approach it with wide-eyed wonder as you try to take in the twists, turns, descents and ascents and you wonder what it will hold for you when you hop in your "car" and begin your ride. You feel excitement for the unknown that lies ahead and also fear. You don't expect the ride to be without bumps along the way and in fact your "car" may even stall on the track at points. But still you push ahead and when your car returns to the "loading" area you happily opt for another go around. And so it goes.

Parenting a child with ADHD is no different except for one thing. When you step into your "car" you get to put on a blindfold. With no way to ever see what is ahead of you, you are unable to anticipate the curve coming around the bend, the sudden drop or the steep climb. It comes at you from different directions and just when you think you are confident and maybe even no longer afraid, you suddenly find your "car" might have even jumped the track. Well the latter is how I am feeling these days.

When I signed on for this parenting thing I agreed to a lifetime pass. Right now however I feel as though I am need of a bit of a break from the ride. Who knew a 50 pound 10-year old could take so much out of me? I know it is no fun for him either but much of the time once the meds kick in in the morning there is no recollection of the bad behavior. A seemingly total disconnect from the bad behavior that resulted in consequences like groundings from computer, video games, TV, etc. etc. What a baffling and frustrating disorder.

But not to worry, I am not fleeing my "car." Just don't be surprised if you find me hiding under the front. :-)