I was making dinner for my family, yet my daughters friends ate everything!
My daughter, Élodie, is the life of any gathering. Her generosity and cheer draw friends to her like a magnet. In our home in Lyon, theres always a group of kids around herkids of all ages, not just classmates. Im glad shes so sociable, but lately the situation has gotten out of hand and Im near despair.
It all began when Élodie started inviting her friends over. Winter was harsh, so I saw no problem with them staying warm inside. At first she served them tea with biscuits, played music, invented 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, eating straight from the pot. Not a single spoonful was left! They piled dirty plates in the sink and left without even saying goodbye. I was furious. We had nothing left for dinner, and I was too exhausted to cook again.
I tried to tell Élodie she couldnt keep inviting unknown people and feeding them our food. A few biscuits or candy, perhaps, but whats in the fridge is for the family. Élodie flushed with anger, called me stingy, and slammed her bedroom door so hard the windows rattled. She locked herself in and refused to speak to me. I felt guilty, but what could I do?
I prepared potatoes and chops, called everyone to the table. Élodie 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 home late, dont count on me to cook. Yet when I returned after eleven at night, I found my husband, Philippe, frying potatoes in an empty kitchen. Élodies friends had taken everything again. She shut herself away once more, refusing any explanation.
Im at a loss. How can I make her understand? She doesnt listen and throws absurd accusations at me: Youre selfish, you hate my friends! Is it just teenage rebellion? Did Philippe and I mishandle things? I dont know how to proceed. My heart aches: 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 benefit. My mother says, You need to be stricter! but I refuse violence. I want a peaceful solution, yet I dont know how. Élodie avoids me, and I feel Im losing my own child.
What would you do in my place? How can I make her see that her actions affect us without hurting her? How do I set boundaries so our house doesnt turn into a cafeteria? Have any of you faced this? Please share your advice Im at my wits end.
