Accusations

I grew up around substance abuse.

Drugs.  Alcohol.  I'd say men, but there were never any of substance around.

I was surrounded like a lifetime movie marathon.

I know what kind of life that is, and I have no interest.

I know what that kind of environment does to children and I would never, under absolutely any circumstances, do that to my girls.

So, people can say I'm too hard on them about cleanliness.  Or I'm too focused on their behavior.  Or I don't allow them to relax as often as they should.

But no one gets to accuse me of exposing them to an inappropriate lifestyle.

I have never done a single drug.  Other than allergy medication, I don't even take over the counter meds - not even an aspirin for my migraines.

Other than their father, I've never brought a man around my children.  Ever.

And, with very few exceptions, I don't drink in front of them.  

Yes, when they are gone I occasionally go out.  And, I have a good time.  I drink and act silly and do all the things a fully grown adult woman is allowed to do.  But, the moment their little voices filter in through the front door, mama mode is back on.  Heels and skirts go back in the closet, sweatpants and ponytails come back out.

I know what the strung out, falling down drunk, take every random guy from the bar home "parent" looks like.  I am not her.

And I know what the scared, lonely, nervous kid looks like.  My girls aren't her.

If there is any further question, feel free to bring it to me.  I'll be home focused on my kids for the next two weeks, but I would love to discuss it with you further the next time they're gone.  Because the only other thing my children have never seen me do is set someone straight, and I won't allow you to make me break that rule either.