I've read enough news articles to know that talking on your cell phone while driving is not a good idea.

That's why a year or so ago I decided I wasn't going to get into the habit of doing that, especially because I have kids in the van and already am distracted enough. Instead, I usually make my calls while I'm parked.

I also have been trying to point out to my kids the dangers of talking and driving, hoping the message will get through. I guess it has.

While driving home early one evening, I remembered that I wanted to tell my husband something before I left work about that night's activities and had forgotten. I picked up the phone and started to dial.

I heard my 6-year-old in the back make a noise and looked in the mirror to see him shaking his head no.

"Mom, drive safe," my oldest said.

Reprimanded with my own words, I put down the phone. I realized later that if I want my children to believe what I say, I have to follow my own rules 100 percent of the time.

With kids, everything is black and white. Either you make calls while you are driving or you don't. There is no gray area, no sometimes it’s OK, like when you can get two things done at once.

I know I won't be doing that again. It was an easy call to make.