Who's in charge here?

When did toddlers take over the world? My toddlers worked for me ... it was never the other way around! I didn't negotiate. I didn't cut any deals. And I certainly was never told what to do or when to do it. I was the grown-up.

Perhaps the problem stems from 'away-from-home' mothers who feel guilty leaving their children with others. As a former family home day care provider (for seven years) I know only too well how difficult it can be to leave your children behind. I opted to take a different route. I had a husband (yeah, that would be husband #1) who wasn't exactly successful - at least not in what today's world deems successful and I refused to work outside the home until our children were in school. So, we learned to live within our means which meant going without a good bit ... without what? I hear you ask ... vacations, a second car or even a new one, campers,  designer clothing, etc. What we did have is freshly baked breads, homemade soups, story time and craft time, plenty of play time ... we built forts out of couch cushions and played hide n' seek, we took long walks gathering treasures to make door wreaths, centerpieces, and crafts. We made our own Christmas cards and birthday cards, we wrote thank you notes and walked to the library. We visited neighbors, especially those who were unable to get out much, and we volunteered in our community.

Today as I look around, I see whiny, demanding kids tugging at parents begging for attention. I see them getting pushed aside while that parents either chats with a friend or talks on a cell phone (which is a whole new rant) ... today's children seem to have the upper hand in today's family ... now, before you click the CONTACT ME button and tell me how wonderful you and your family are, if this does not apply to you, don't own it. There are wonderful families out there and wonderful kids - I even know a few - and I'm thrilled if you are one of those families. But, let's not stop there ... share your talents with those less fortunate or less able. Our future depends on it ... and it takes a village.