As a mother, I feel it is a big part of my job to set a good example for my children…to make sure they stand up straight, are kind and courteous to others, respect the environment, eat a balanced diet, read, exercise…the list is long, and actually pretty daunting.
As I loaded up the girls after lunch today for a quick run through the Sonic drive-thru for a 44oz. Diet Coke, I realized that I am operating under a cloak of oblivion. At 16 months old, they are still oblivious to most of the not-so-exemplary things I do…like drinking a 44oz. Diet Coke.
Today I can easily get away with a quick drive-through run. I sing songs along the way and point out interesting sights (“Cows!”), so I figure the 15-minute round trip isn’t totally wasted.
But one day, in the not-so-distant future, I know I won’t be able to make such a run without them wanting something for themselves. I won’t be able to step quietly away from playing in the den to grab a bite-size candy bar from the pantry. (Sometimes Mama just needs a little chocolate.) I won’t be able to indulge in People magazine while I stand in line at the grocery store.
No, they will see me. And they will want some of whatever-it-is I have.
So one day, I’ll either have to alter my ways and set a better example, one I’ll truly want them to follow…or I’ll have to get better at hiding my indiscretions.
Yes, I’ll have to find a better cloak.
Ticker
7 comments:
Mandy, I eat chocolate at work. I allow sweets at home, in moderation.
I do not exercise moderation in my workplace chocolate consumption. Don't tell.
I think about this all the time...I eat all the "nono's" while they're napping...like a closet overeater! Haha...they want everything now!
Feel better----or at least not so alone. My kids believed "Medium Diet Coke" was the name of the beverage they heard those words in succession so often! (Of course I still slink into the kitchen to eat frosting out of the plastic tub out of their sightline.... ;) )
Don't be too hard on yourself! Thinking you set a VERY good example!
Oh, yes. I used to be able to take the girls shopping and buy their Christmas gifts and they never noticed. Not so anymore. My cloak is gone and I miss it.
PS - sneaking a snack. "Mom, what are you eating?" "I smell chocolate", "I want some!"
I understand! :) I used to go through McDonalds for a diet soda, and get them "apple" slices....now I know they aren't apples really, so we don't go there. No soda for me, no "apples" for them.
My son is still somewhat oblivious, but my daughter now sees everything. If you do end up finding a better cloak, definitely let me know. Until then, it's sneaking around all the way!
Oh, that is so true. My oldest two are bad enough already, I can't even imagine once the twins get old enough to notice things like that. I wish I had a cloak of invisibility sometimes!
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