Ideas I had on parenting BEFORE I had children

Before I actually had children, I thought I knew a lot about raising children and had certain ideas about how I would parent them. Of course, upon having children of my own, I realized that despite having a college degree in nursing specializing in neonatal and pediatrics and a few years experience as an aunt, nanny, and babysitter I know NOTHING!!! Now, I have to laugh when people without children spout off their theories about potty-training, feeding a child, controlling temper tantrums, etc. Wait until you have your own children...it is a whole different story.

Before I had kids, I was horrified at the sight of a young child on a "leash"/harness. I now own one, although I have only used it a handful of times. Before I had kids, I would see children 2+ in strollers and think their parents were lazy...now I understand the theory of containment. Before I had children, I knew my children would be potty trained by 18 months. Now, I change diapers on 2 children daily. Before I had children, I knew my children would eat whatever I put in front of them. Now, well...I still make Savannah at least try whatever I put in front of her, but she does eat a lot of chicken nuggets (yuck).

And, so I could go on. However, I think it is safe to say that we don't know until we are in the situation. I have learned to never judge another mother (or another person for that matter). You never know what she has or is going through. For the most part, we are all trying to do what is best for our kids and help them create magical childhoods, but we are after all, only human (but don't tell Savannah that...she still thinks I'm Supermommy...)

I Help You

Savannah is going throught the phase of wanting to help me with everything. I generally try to find ways to include her, but sometimes it gets difficult. I bought curtains and decided I didn't like the tab tops with the curtains and decided to turn them into regular panels. So, I got my sewing machine out and she immediately says "I help you." Hmmm...there's a concept... a 2 year old with a sewing machine and scissors....

Romancing the Cupboards

I am one of those very lucky women who have a romantic husband....much more romantic than I could ever imagine being! Ben and I were painting our cupboards the other night and he puts on old romantic songs. I had to laugh because normally I wouldn't consider being covered in primer attractive...then again I am not a man! Ben thought it was cute, although I personally think he just likes having a wife who knows how to handle a power drill and orbital sander....hmmm

I decided today that having 3 kids wouldn't be too big of a deal. I have such fun with the 3 kids that I think I wouldn't mind it. I have even figured out a way to still get stuff done around the house. Kids are great you know!?! They sure keep me humble. They pick up EVERYTHING you say... Savannah told me to "give her a break" today...wonder where she learned that ;)