Im in the kitchen again, but my daughters friends keep devouring everything I make!
My daughter, Élodie, is the life of every gathering. Her generosity and cheer draw people to her like a magnet. In our home in Lyon theres always a crowd of kids surrounding herfriends from different ages, not just classmates. Im pleased shes so sociable, yet lately the situation has spiraled out of control, and Im close to losing hope.
It all began when Élodie started inviting her pals over regularly. The winter was harsh, and I saw no harm in letting them play inside where it was warm. At first she offered tea and biscuits, put on music, made up games. I even admired her hospitality. Now, however, she brings strangers Ive never met, and their behavior leaves me speechless.
A few days ago, after coming home from work, I discovered two teenagers in the kitchen. They were polishing off the cabbage stew I had prepared for two days, scooping it straight from the pot. Not a single spoonful was left. They piled the dirty plates in the sink and left without a word. I was furiousthere was nothing left for dinner, and I was far too exhausted to cook again.
I tried to tell Élodie that she cant keep inviting unknown kids and feeding them our food. A few cookies or candy is fine, but the fridge is meant for the family. She flushed with anger, called me stingy, slammed her bedroom door so hard the windows shivered, locked herself in, and refused to speak to me. I felt guilty, yet I didnt know what else to do.
I prepared potatoes and pork chops, called everyone to the table. Élodie refused to eat, looking at me as if I were her enemy. The next morning, before heading to work, I warned her: We have enough for two days, Ill be home late, dont count on me to cook. Still, when I got back after eleven at night, I found my husband, Philippe, frying potatoes in an empty kitchen. Élodie’s friends had once again taken everything. She shut herself in again, refusing any explanation.
Im at a loss. How can I make her understand? She doesnt listen, hurling absurd accusations: Youre selfish, you hate my friends! Is this just teenage rebellion? Did Philippe and I handle it poorly? My heart aches; I want my daughter to be happy, but I cant accept this chaos.
Im not cheap, but our budget is already stretched thin. Philippe and I work to the point of exhaustion just to feed our family. I tire myself preparing good meals, only for strangers to reap the benefits. My mother says, You need to be stricter! Yet I reject any form of violence. I want to resolve this calmly, but how? Élodie avoids me, and I feel like Im losing my own child.
What would you do in my situation? How can I make her see that her actions affect us without hurting her? How can I set clear boundaries so our home doesnt turn into a cafeteria? Have any of you faced something similar? Please share your advice Im at my wits end.
She’s Cooking Dinner, But Her Daughter’s Friends Gobble It All Up!
