'M' is for 'monster'

I'm thrilled that my two year old can sing the whole alphabet; I even dare to take some credit.

But the fact that "M" was the first letter he could identify? That's thanks to Ronald McDonald and his iconic yellow arches. Way to go, Mom.

Fast food is a sometimes thing. A convenience. A manageable way to have a hot lunch out with my little buddies.

And unlike a lot of the meals we serve the kids at home, those Happy Meals are almost guaranteed to disappear.

...and keep them quiet. Nearly angelic.

I rake in the compliments on how well behaved my children are--while they're happily dipping fries and nuggets.

I'm half expecting to start seeing posters taped up around the local malls with the letters F-R-A-U-D emblazoned across my forehead.

Before Brian's most recent business trip, I indulged in this short cut maybe once a month. But last week, we went twice. That's all it took. I now can't zip up my son's coat without being asked "Are we goin' to the fresh fries store?"

I know I'm in control, that I have the power to thwart this addiction by simply not feeding it.

I can change the expectations regarding these insidious attractions, too.

Evil genius Clever how they're programmed to start playing "Ring Around the Rosie" the instant little ears draw close enough.

If only I'd never slid in that first dollar.