Unfortunately I have yet to master the art of successfully shopping with my boys (see ‘On Second Thought). Even though I know this, sometimes we end up in stores anyway.
After a lovely lunch ocean side this weekend, Mad Dog and I decided to spontaneously grocery shop with the boys on our way back home. As we walked in the entrance of the store, the boys must have been confused and thought we were at a sports arena. They started to race each other and I immediately began throwing penalty flags. I grabbed each one by their face and threatened that they better get it together. They squeaked a ‘yes, ma’am’ through their squished cheeks and we moved forward.
I’m not sure, but somewhere near the frozen section, they started to lose it again. Mad Dog reprimanded them and I did the only logical thing I could,…I headed straight to the bakery to find some cupcakes to help me cope. I landed on a lovely set of vanilla dazzlers with a crown of glorious, whipped icing. As I placed them lovingly in the cart, the boys came over and peered longingly at my selection.
“Are we going to get one for a treat?” they asked.
“I’m guessing by your behavior, probably not,” I said (more for me!!).
Magically they transformed. They became polite, thoughtful and dare I say it, even quiet. Yes, that’s right folks, they became quiet. I’ll give you a minute as the shock of this settles over you…
They acted as if they were the most normal and calm children in the world.
And all this time I’ve been trying to discipline them with structure, expectations and privilege dispensation.
Who knew all I needed were cupcakes?
Writes for all Mommies 
Totally can relate to this one! I am all about bribing with sugar treats when all other reasoning fails. Don’t think I could operate without that in my bag of tricks!