Parenting Woes (Part II)

I always thought when I have kids I would be a fun Mommy. Now reality sets in! I am not sure anymore...

How do you strike the balance between being a stern parent in disciplining and yet being fun at the same time? My mom thinks I'm too strict with Matt. Sometimes I think so too. But if I am not, how will he learn to behave himself?

Especially in public. I know I should not discipline him in public. but what if he is completely out of control? Grabbing toys from other kids, putting his foot on the table when we are eating? What should I do?

At the same time I really want to be the sweet, loving mommy who never has to raise her voice. How do those mommies do it? How do they get the kids to be so compliant?

Maybe it's time to have the Good Cop and the Bad Cop. But who should be the good one and who the bad one?

Tim, if you love me......please :)

Parenting Advice Needed...HELP!