Stress, Relief, Laughter, Stress, Relief, Laughter

Katie has some issues, there's no question about that.
(fyi, if you're new to The Other Boufs, Katie is the dancer all the way on the right)

It's perfectly ok that I make fun of her dancing since I love her so much.

But honestly, that dance recital was a smashing success since she actually wore her black leotard AND her dance shoes. The "legwarmers": an added bonus. Truth is, I had worked myself up the entire day about getting her cooperation to dress appropriately. I entered The Little Gym apprehensive and sick to my stomach, but prepared, with makeup and hints of a celebration cupcake for a job well done. This was her 3rd recital and to date, she had never worn what the group was supposed to wear, without accomodations. Of course, the first go at putting on the leotard resulted in an episode and some hasty thrashing in efforts of wripping it right off, but we were able to finally compromise and she wore one of her favorite leotards underneath so she wouldn't even feel "the itchy one".

So, after our celebration date at the diner (it was just the girls since Timmy had puked all over himself at dinner and had to stay home with dad), we drove home.  Katie was unusually peppy and verbally lucid for that late at night. I began to tune some of the non-stop chatter out of my head until I was certain I had heard the "F" word.

I couldn't really blame her since I do tend to swear like a sailor, but I really DO try to hold back in front of the kids. In 5 1/2 years, she's only ever repeated "damn it" or "what the hell?!?!". We quickly discussed both phrases and nipped them in the bud. I thought I was in the clear.

I asked her to tell me again what she had just said, breath held. She proudly repeated herself and I took an audible sigh of relief when she repeated, "I said 'Oh GREAT now we have to go get STUCK at this red light'"*****

Well thank goodness, at least I'm not a terrible parent who makes fun of her kid's dancing AND has her kid dropping F-bombs.

Do you have a funny story about a funny misunderstanding with your kids, other family members, or friends where what you thought you heard was a little different than what was actually said? I'd love for you to share it here in the comments section. And if you think it's like the funniest story ever submit it on the Alka-Seltzer Facebook page to enter their Said/Heard Mishaps contest.

The winner of the Said/Heard Mishaps Contest will receive:

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· The winning spot will premiere on the Alka-Seltzer Facebook page!
· Plus $5,000 to spend toward whatever they wish.

The makers of Alka-Seltzer want you to remember that while miscommunication can be funny and entertaining it can also lead to stress. And when stress gives you heartburn with headache, Alka-Seltzer Original gives you relief fast. Use as directed.

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*****Ok, so this isn't really exactly how the conversation went down. In reality, she began with "I said 'Oh GREAT now we have to go get STUCK..." and I felt an immediate sense of relief that I had really heard her say "STUCK" and not something inappropriate. But, then she continued as clear as I ever heard this little girl who has been in speech therapy for 3 years "...at the F%^#ing red light!" I double checked 3 times. And heard that "really bad word for a mom to say in front of her kids and even worse to have them repeat" all three times.