Last week we kicked off our new Vitamin L series, which celebrates the various relationships in our lives throughout the month of February, with a post on friendship.

Next up, we’re talking family. That’s right, those crazy people who drive you nuts, and at one point (circa age 15) you didn’t want to be seen with, but at the end of the day, you love ‘em anyway.

Unlike some other relationships, we don’t get to choose our family members. Who we marry, yes; but that mother of yours who made you take those really awkward photos on the first say of school, you know, the one who is constantly reminding you that she’d like grandchildren someday? Well, you’re sort of stuck with her.

At times it’s easy to be harsh or brutally honest with these people, as we know our family will love us unconditionally. But that’s also the reason that we cherish them so much. On our good days they’re our biggest fans, and on our bad days there's nothing quite like the comfort a family member can provide.

Have you ever thought that who you are today in your career, relationships and life might be linked to what your parents were going through when you were conceived?

Look at your life now. Is money always tight? Do you have loving relationships? Are your relationships tumultuous? Do you love to learn? Perhaps if you have concerns around money your parents were undergoing financial problems when they conceived you. Were they newly married and just starting their lives together? Perhaps the love they had for each other shows up in your romantic relationships. Do you have not one, but two or more degrees? Do you love to read or take classes? Maybe your mom or dad were in school when they conceived you, or were planning to go back to school.

This might be a difficult exercise for some of you, but I encourage you to take the time to do some research. If your parents are still around ask them. If you’re not able to ask your parents directly, maybe you have an older sibling or other relatives who might know.

How do these stories inform who you are today? What insights are you able to form, based on this part of your personal history? If you feel comfortable, share with us. If not, jot these insights down and keep for yourself. This is a great exercise to help you connect with your parents as well as to think about why you are the way you are.

The New York Times recently ran a story “6 Food Mistakes Parents Make” that discusses why some kids are picky eaters. 

Many parents get frustrated when their kids will only eat Cocoa Puffs, Pop-Tarts or fast food and refuse to eat vegetables, whole grains and fruit. Fussiness is a normal part of childhood development and it’s important to not give up. Here are some ways to help your picky eaters:

• Get your kids involved in the cooking process. Let them wash or chop vegetables. Studies show that when kids are involved in the meal preparation they are more likely to try the food.
• Rather than demanding that your child eat at least one bite of everything, offer it to them once and keep it on the table. They may eat the food when you force them to, but they will be less likely to want it later on.
• Instead of restricting foods like cookies or ice cream, try not to keep them in the house and opt for healthier snacks. Studies show that when you make something forbidden, they’ll just want it more.  
• Watch your eating habits when your kids are around. If you’re on a diet, you can influence your child’s perceptions about food and eating.
• Don’t be afraid to dress up the vegetables. Many parents serve plain, steamed vegetables which is too bland for a kid’s palate. Instead you can add Agave nectar, olive oil or sprinkle a little cheese on top.

These changes won’t happen overnight. It’s important to stick with it and you will notice a change. Let us know if you’ve already incorporated some of these tips and if they’ve helped.