Im making dinner, but my daughters friends eat everything!
I was preparing a meal for my family when my daughters buddies scarfed it all down!
My daughter, Élódie, is the life of any gathering. Her generosity and cheer draw friends to her like a magnet. In our house in Lyon theres always a troupe of companions around herkids of all ages, not just classmates. Im glad shes so sociable, yet lately the situation has slipped out of my control and Im on the brink of despair.
It all began when Élódie started regularly inviting her friends over. The winter was harsh, and I saw no problem with them staying warm inside. At first she offered them tea and biscuits, played music, and made up games. I even felt touched by her hospitality. Now, however, she brings strangers Ive never met, and their behavior leaves me speechless.
The other day, after coming home from work, I found two teenagers in the kitchen. They were devouring the cabbage stew I had prepared for two days straight from the pot. Not a single spoonful remained! They piled the dirty plates in the sink and left without a goodbye. I was furious. We had nothing left for dinner, and I was far too exhausted to cook again.
I tried to tell Élódie she cant invite unknown people and serve them our food. A few cookies or candy is fine, but whats in the fridge is for the family. She flushed with anger, called me stingy, and slammed her bedroom door so hard the windows trembled. She locked herself in and refused to speak to me. I felt guilty, but what could I do?
I made potatoes and chops, called everyone to the table. Élódie refused to eat, as if I were her enemy. The next morning, before leaving for work, I warned, Theres enough for two days; Ill be late, dont count on me to cook. Yet when I got home after eleven at night, I found my husband, Philippe, frying potatoes in an empty kitchen. Élódies friends had once again taken everything. She shut herself away again, declining 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 mishandle things? I no longer know how to proceed. My heart is torn: I want my daughters happiness, but I cant tolerate this chaos.
Im not cheap, but our budget is already stretched thin. Philippe and I work to the point of exhaustion 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 violence. I want to resolve this calmly, but how? Élódie avoids me, and I feel Im losing my own daughter.
What would you do in my place? How can I show her that her actions affect us without hurting her? How do I set boundaries so our home doesnt turn into a cafeteria? Have any of you experienced this? Share your advice Im at my wits end.
She’s Cooking Dinner, but Her Daughter’s Friends Gobble Up Every Last Bite!
