Today I went into a consignment shop with the kids. It was an awesome place with lots of great deals! Before entering I saw a familiar sign that read "please don't leave children unattended." It is a simple request and of course I wouldn't leave my children unattended especially in public. Still knowing that I wouldn't leave them unattended I entered the shop on high alert. Saying things I would often say in public like; "kids stay with me, keep your hands to yourself, don't touch that, don't climb that, come here right now." I probably sounded like a mommy drill sergeant to the lady working there. I actually probably often do in public. I am strict, not enough to were the kids can't have fun, but enough that they will be safe and aware of their behavior. After shopping around for about 15 minutes she said, "They are actually being very good. This is a kid friendly place and we only have that sign up because some people come in here with rotten kids and we've actually had some end up next store because their parents weren't watching them." I thanked her bought a few things and left. She was nice and I really like the store. For those interested it is called Olivia's Closet in Brevard, NC.
I started thinking about it after I left and I get a lot of compliments on my kids from strangers. Usually when I get those "comments" is when my kids are acting up more than usual and I am fussing at them for it. I almost wonder if those people are complimenting my kids, telling me to chill out or both. It dawns upon me that maybe I sound like a mommy monster, but then I realize..... duh, my kids are well behaved because I am strict. Maybe it isn't only a compliment to my kids, but a compliment on my parenting. I'm not perfect I loose my temper, overreact and have mommy tantrums sometimes, but overall I am a good mother. I am teaching my kids how to live in the real world and have realistic expectations of themselves as well as others. I love to have clear headed mommy moments, God knows they are few and far between. Thanks for reading :)
