little boys' perceptions

In many ways, Chris and I fit the traditional parenting roles. While I am certainly stern at times, not the type of mom who takes a lot of crap, in comparison, I'm also the parent who is more flexible, takes more time to understand the reason for the situation, more willing to work out a compromise. Chris is more about the rules and because I said so. That's not a criticism, just an observation. There has certainly been plenty of times and places for it.

What I'm trying to say is, if you're our kid and pull some ridiculous crap, you're MUCH better off if I catch you as opposed to Chris.

Yet, I'm Meannie Mommy.

In fact, even when Chris is handing out the consequences (of his own choosing), it's still ME who's MEAN.

Daddy is not mean.

Daddy has "too many rules."

But he's not mean.

And besides, Daddy is funny.

Apparently I am never funny.

Already, there's a respect for the authority of Chris, but it's all quite personal when it comes from me.

So far, pointing out these inconsistencies and double-standards hasn't made much of an impression on Gideon.

I'm Meannie Mommy.

I respond, I'd rather be the Queen of Mean.

No, he says, you are the King.



Anyhow, I bring this up because this week I came across a fair amount of little boy perceptions from people who I assume are a lot older than 5. Men who say something are revered, while women who say something quite similiar are poopy stupid-faces (or foreheads, or whatever).

Ok, I see this every week, but this week stands out a little more.

You know what, I'm tired.

I'm just gonna blame their mean mamas and call it a night.