I was making dinner for my family, yet my daughter’s friends devoured it all!
My daughter, Élodia, is the life of any gathering. Her generosity and cheer draw friends to her like a magnet. In our home in Lyon, there’s always a group of kids gathered around her, youngsters of varying ages, not just classmates. I’m glad she’s so sociable, but lately the situation has spiraled beyond my control, and I’m on the brink of desperation.
It all began when Élodia started inviting her pals over. The winter was harsh, and I saw no harm in letting them play indoors where it was warm. At first she offered them tea and biscuits, played music, created games. I even felt proud of her hospitality. Now, however, she brings strangers I’ve never met, and their behavior leaves me speechless.
The other day, after coming home from work, I discovered two teenagers in the kitchen. They were wolfing down the cabbage stew I had prepared for two days, eating straight from the pot. Not a single spoonful was left! They piled their dirty plates in the sink and left without a goodbye. I was furious. There was nothing left for dinner, and I was far too exhausted to cook again.
I tried to tell Élodia that she couldn’t keep inviting unknown people and feeding them our food. A few biscuits or candies might be fine, but what’s in the fridge is meant for the family. Élodia flushed with anger, called me stingy, then slammed her bedroom door so hard the windows rattled. She locked herself in and refused to speak to me. I felt guilty, yet I didnt know what else to do.
I prepared potatoes and chops, called everyone to the table. Élodia refused to eat, as if I were her enemy. The next morning, before leaving for work, I warned her: Theres enough for two days; Ill be home late, dont count on me to cook. Still, when I returned after eleven at night, I found my husband, Philippe, frying potatoes in an empty kitchen. Élodias friends had once again taken everything. She locked herself away again, rejecting any explanation.
Im at a loss. How can I make her understand? She doesnt listen and hurls absurd accusations: Youre selfish, you hate my friends! Is this just teenage rebellion? Did Philippe and I mishandle the situation? I dont know how to proceed. My heart aches: I want my daughters happiness, but I cant accept this chaos.
Im not cheap, yet our budget is already tight. Philippe and I work ourselves to the bone to feed the family. I exhaust myself preparing good meals, only for strangers to reap the benefits. My mother says, You need to be stricter! but I reject violence. I want to resolve this calmly, but how? Élodia avoids me, and I feel like Im losing my own child.
What would you do in my shoes? How can I make her see that her actions affect us without hurting her? How can I set boundaries so our house doesnt turn into a cafeteria? Have any of you experienced this? Please share your advice Im at my wits end.
She’s Cooking Up a Feast, But Her Daughter’s Friends Gobble It All Up!
