Charlie was still twitchy today when she came home from work, it’s always a big thing for her that she’s been to work. I had made sure things were under control.
The children are all home and I sort out dinner whilst she has some time out. At bedtime, Charlie is pretty clingy around the children which is kinda OK, but it blocks me out. Until Sam is goes to bed last, as Sam goes upstairs, she asks Charlie not to follow her.
Sam gets overwhelmed easily, so having somebody in your face is a worst possible scenario. Charlie doesn’t take the hint and decides tonight would actually be a great night to make extra sure Sam cleans her teeth. So Charlie follows Sam all the way to the bathroom and sure enough. Sam starts protesting wildly, Charlie refuses to concede anything and starts going on about how important teeth brushing is. It goes on between them for over 20 minutes, twice Charlie walks out the bathroom slamming the door and saying she’s had enough. Only to turn around and walk back in seconds later.
Eventually Sam is totally distraught, like you would be if somebody started getting on your case as you’re trying to do your teeth. I decide I can’t ignore the harassment of a child and venture to the bathroom where I really calmly suggest Charlie takes a break for a bit. Charlie is having none of it, accuses me of criticising her, even though I chose the softest words I could. Every time I suggest maybe a break would help, Charlie knocks me back, insisting everything is fine between her and Sam. Charlie starts digging up times when I have errored as a parent too. I’m not here to start another fight so I back off and head away. Fortunately the hint does get taken and Charlie is able to change her tune with Sam, letting her clean her teeth under supervision. Eventually Sam gets to bed. It’s so tough hearing the children being treated this way by somebody who is unable to see their own issues or the damage they are causing. Although Charlie has good intentions, she is so tactless that it just causes pain.