Oh, (((Andrea))). I'm so sorry you have added all this additional "Parent
Guilt" on your shoulders. You are *not* a bad Mommy! Say it out loud!

Keep in mind that my girls are just over two so it's not like I have a wealth
of experience But, I believe this is expected. You said yourself that they
typically say, "please" and "thank you". (I insist on this as well.) From
what I gathered, I assume this is just simply a bad day or phase. It's bound
to happen as they learn to assert their independence or test their boundaries.


I haven't read all your replies, so maybe you've gotten all the advice you
need/want. At 2yo, there may be a whole different set of rules compared to
3yo. I apparently wouldn't know With that said, I agree that I wouldn't
have pushed the "say, hi" thing either. (I would have been very disappointed
like you, though, so I understand.) It's just not a battle that would have
been worth it after all stress you just dealt with to get out the door.

As far as the dinner goes, I would have just apologized to my friend and
explained we are working on our manners and behavior and need to leave so they
will understand it's not acceptable. I take the girls out to dinner by myself
all the time and I have had to leave rarely - but it seems to stick with them.
When I'm with Rich, one of us takes them outside and works it out. If it's
just a really bad day, we leave.

Hang in there. I really "felt" for you as I think we can all understand the
frustration and worry. The simple fact that you care means to me that you are
a good mom! I also don't think your kids are "bad" kids. They are good kids
who had a bad day...they're just simply normal. Stay on top of it and make
sure they know it's not acceptable and there are boundaries. Those boundaries,
IMO, show them you love them

Sorry so long, but I couldn't get a hug over the screen and it sounds like you
could use it

Missy
Missy in Indiana http://hometown.aol.com/mhrust/overviewforng.html
Morgan Olivia & Julia Lucille 4/28/01 (YAY!)