Is it wrong for a parent to brainwash her children? I mean, we all do it to some extent without even meaning to, right?

I know my parents brainwashed me early on to be suspicious of all marketing messages (they're out to get you!), to believe my hair just wasn't capable of growing long, and to think all chiropractors are quacks.

Funny thing, I grew out of all of these. I majored in advertising (now I'm out to get everyone else!) I grew my hair halfway down my back in college (whether it looked good on me or not--my hair was going to be long, dammit!) I now trust my chiropractor more than I trust most of the MDs out there (and have paid for approximately one wing of my chiropractor's house with all my business.)

So I guess brainwashing's not all it's cracked up to be. Which brings me to my own attempt, inadvertent though it may be.

You see, I've convinced my children, ages 3 and 5, that I'm the best driver on the roads, and anyone who I get annoyed at (and believe me, there are plenty) is less than competent. I don't think there's anything more rewarding than to be driving along, get ticked off at some idiot driver, try to hold my tongue for the sake of the young 'uns in the back seat, and have one of said young 'uns spout off with, "That person doesn't know how to drive!!!"

God love 'em.

I've got them snookered for now. I just enjoy it while it lasts, since I know one of these days I'm going to wake up and suddenly be the dumbest, most embarrassing mom alive.