And the Evil Step-Mom Award Goes To

Having 4 kids is a challenge. Have 3 of those 4 kids as teenagers makes the challenge multiplied by about a million. We are having a rough week at our house. We have problems with disrespect, bad attitudes, name calling and basically just not listening. I know that we deal with the same thing a majority of families are dealing with - however, it doesn't make it any less frustrating.

We had a 'come to Jesus' meeting on Sunday. I'm basically in the running for the 'most evil step-mom of the year' award right now. I think I might have a really good chance of winning if it's left up to our brood! But, as I told them on Sunday, I don't mind being the bad guy, because it's time to see some changes in our little home.

For the first time in their life, they are seeing some real consequences for their actions. And not only that, we are sticking to our guns and not giving up. We are too far in to look back now. We are taking away cell phones, cable, Internet and time spent with friends. I guess it makes it worse that it's Thanksgiving break for them and they are all basically on lock down until things change.

My assumption is this: either it will finally click and they will see that the correct actions bring them back the things they have lost OR it is going to be a long several years of miserable kids at The Elf House.

My goal in this is not to be mean. I'm not doing it because I don't love or care for them. Just the opposite, it's because I love them that I'm doing this. They are getting old enough to learn the proper way to act to each other and us. They need to learn that not everything comes easy and sometimes you have to work for what you want. And most importantly, that every action has a consequence to it - good or bad.

In the meantime, I'm working on my acceptance speech for the Evil Step-Mom award I'm sure to win!