It wasn’t until having Adalynn that I realized why people put those backpack leashes on their kids. I can’t say that I agree with them (and if you do or use them, please don’t take offense to this), but I just never thought they were necessary. I figured disciplining your child consistently will get them to listen and the leash would not be worth it. Well, this was all until I took Adalynn in public WITHOUT a stroller. Lord have mercy. Those are the days that going to the gym is not necessary because I chase after her enough. Today was one of those days. I still will never do anything like the leash, but now understand why parents use them. They are so much easier than sticking with the disciplining while in public. I hope that makes sense.
Today I brought her to the mall to do something special with her while Lili was at a mixed cheerleadering and gymnastics camp. We went to Build-a-Bear and made a special little bear for her. She picked out the kitty. She loves cats. This bear is named “Ti-Ti”. So cute! Hugs like crazy already! She was running all over the place and couldn’t stay focused. Then, she waited patiently in line when our turn was close. It was the funniest thing. Wild woman to patient woman in a matter of seconds.
Next we went to try on these shoes that I am getting for SIMPLE and I wanted to make sure I had the right size. While I was trying on shoes she decided to pick out the most sparkly pair in there. Wore those for a while, then switched to heels. Everyone thought she was a hoot. And her little smile helps them think that more.
Sometimes all I can do is smile. I mean, what else is there to do in public when her safety ISN’T at risk. I do spank/punish, but I hesitate to do it in public due to fear really. I don’t want anyone calling CPS on me. But I definitely would do something more dramatic if she had to learn a lesson due to her life being in peril for a choice she was about to make.
Oh goodness…being a parent is just one of the hardest things, isn’t it?!?! 🙂
