The things I've never sufficiently thanked my parents for

I have more than I can count. They obviously include critical things like feeding, clothing, sheltering, and funding me for 18 years. But there are also lists upon lists of obnoxious things I imposed upon them over the years that I only become aware of after becoming an overworked parent myself.

Included is all the times we hounded my mom and dad until they took us to Chuckie Cheese. What goes around . . .

 It's sad that we aren't more grateful as kids, 'cause I would've done a lot less whining, thrown away less fruit from my lunch, and spent more time helping.  It's really too bad it takes being provoked to be really appreciative. There is something about sleepless nights taking care of your own ear-ached baby, enduring a few bouts of potty training, and combating the insanity of hyper kids at bedtime that makes you realize that parents are grossly under-thanked. So, if you read this mom or dad, thanks.