I gave up on my kids and got a dog.  We relate better.  My kids refused to obey me and grew up.  I told them when they were 8 and 4 that they were not to grow anymore.  As usual they didn't listen.  Now they have little to say to me except under the following conditions:   1) They are mad at me   2) They either need a ride or gas money 3) They have been unfairly treated by some thoughtless adult.   Other than that, I am pretty much wall paper to them.  they never want to take walks with me, they never want to watch TV with me, and they never like what I cook anymore.  So I got a dog.  She is older  and slightly over weight.  WE have decided to get in shape together.  She goes out running, ok running that turns into a stumble, with me every morning.  She doesn't whine about being bored or tired.  When I want to take a break and walk for a minute, she doesn't call me old or slow.  When I am watching TV, she sits with me and doesn't complain about the news.  She doesn't force me to watch reality TV or car shows.  What ever I watch, she is happy.   As far as cooking, throw some dog food in a bowl and she is thrilled.  I should try this with the kids.
                  I have discovered an added bonus.  I can get her to howl on command.  I spent two days working on this one.  She appreciates my effort.  6 am this morning I got her to howl for 5 minutes.  I loved it.  The kids did not.