Assertive...Who Me?

I am not the most assertive person in the world. I am one that is more than likely to take it when someone is rude or nasty and not say anything . I usually try to be non-confrontational, but today was a turning point. Now keep in mind that I didn't know any of the people involved in the two instances that I am about to share. Both happened while I was at the mall today (Saturday), with 3 kids, all by myself, and the girls were both walking. Usually Jada is in the stroller, Sophie walks and Eli is in the Baby Bjorn. Today, however, I decide to forgo the Bjorn, and Eli was in the stroller. I am crazy. The girls were doing a VERY good job of staying with me, both keeping a hand on the stroller at ALL TIMES.

Instance #1: We needed to get upstairs and the elevator was out of service. I was not about to walk to the other end of the mall to get to the other one. I decided that we could manage the escalator. (I know that isn't the smartest idea, but I have 3 kids, I have done it before.) This lovely woman behind me obviously noticed that I was seriously endangering my children, and thought it appropriate to comment. "Do you think that it is a good idea to do the escalator, you have your hands full." She says. I reply with a kind, but direct response of, "yes, don't worry about me I have got this under control." At that point I thought the issue had passed. She then proceeds to say "Well, I don't want to get into horror stories, but I once saw a mother accidentally let go of the stroller and her baby got seriously injured." Gee, lady, thanks a million for that one! So again, I reply kindly with, "You know what? I love my kids, and I am not going to let anything happen to them." But this is my turning point...drum roll please..."I would appreciate it if you would mind your own business!" Ohhh...you go Haley! I have never said that ever, at least in serious, non-joking instance. I was so proud.

Instance #2: We were just arriving at the indoor play-place at the mall. Eli was asleep in the stroller, and the kids had already made it in. I know that strollers are not really permitted in the area, it is a tight squeeze. But on the opposite end from where the entrance is, was an entire empty bench. So I set my sights and decide to go for it. Then this mother, let me see if I can draw and accurate picture of her: major mom jeans, in a lovely acid wash; a pale yellow sweatshirt with an airbrushed picture of Eeyore of Winnie the Pooh fame; disgusting old sneakers; large, round tortoise shelled glasses; and frizzy hair. Got it? Well, she was the self proclaimed play area monitor, and told me that strollers aren't allowed in there. I said to her "oh, well, there is an empty bench and I have a sleeping newborn. I am going in." And for the SECOND time today I said "I would appreciate it if you mind your own business." I was on fire. I was a force to be reckoned with! Then the whole time I was there, she and her friend were sitting there staring at me and pointing and whispering to each other. And I, of course returned the stare, with what we in high school liked to call a "crusty face".

Some of you may read this and think that this is hardly a blog-worthy story, but it is big for me. I am a friendly person, and can get along with anyone. But I am sick of trying to be nice all the time and getting walked all over because I am scared of sticking up for myself. I didn't know these two women, therefore felt it necessary to start my assertive-ness now.