Parenting Advice

What new mom doesn't love a little parenting advice? I was thinking about this the other day, an I remembered a conversation my neighbor and I had a few weeks ago. He is the father of seven (yes, seven) kids ranging from the age of 16 to 4 (no multiples--bless their mom's soul!).

I was telling my neighbor how much we were going to miss them (they moved to the Midwest), and that I wanted them to know that when we found out we were going to have neighbors with seven kids, we were a little worried. Then we met their children, and they are the nicest, most respectful, well-mannered children I had ever met. I'm not kidding.

I told him that I didn't know how they did it, but their kids were really great. And this is what he told me....

"My kids have learned early on the correct way to act in public. For example, when I take them out to dinner, which is rare, they know that we are a party of 9, and that Dad is going to be shelling out at least $100 for everyone to eat. This means everyone has to be on thier best behavior. I've taught them how to do this the hard way. If someone acts up, instead of sending them to the car, I send them to the table next to us. Then I make them watch as I savor every bite of my meal....and theirs."

Genius! I wish they hadn't moved, I have a feeling I could use more of his advice down the road...