conuly

I never hit Meredith. Never. Oh, she was discplined quite well -- time-outs galore, temporary loss of possessions, suspension of privileges. But never hit.

That didn't stop her from occasionally calling out with fear in her voice, "Mommy, don't hit me!" when she did something wrong. In public, of course. They do it in the hope of embarrassing you into immobility, so you'll be so busy cooing "Sweetheart! I never hit you! Why did you say that?" that you'll forget about the transgression.

When Meredith got older I'd embarrass her (usually, though not always, unintentionally). She'd say "Mo-om!", and I'd just laugh and tell her, "Paybacks are hell." =evil grin=