As I pull her up off my lap, tears are streaming down her face and she is gulping her cries back. "I'm so sorry I had to do that, Lacey. But when you disobey the rules, I have no choice but to punish you. It's the only way you will learn to not disobey me. Next time I have to spank you it will be harder and longer, maybe with a paddle, so it doesn't hurt my hand," I continue. "Now go to the bathroom, stop crying and wash your face. Dinner is ready."

She leaves the room with her head down. About 5 minutes later, she comes back into...