A List Of Things I Judged Before I Did Them Myself

Parenting was so much easier before I had kids. I used to have it all figured out, and boy, did I have opinions about things. Now, three kids later, I realize I was a stupid idiot. A big, stupid idiot.

Let's break down some of the things I was sure I would never do as a parent, but after having kids, I've done them.

Kid Leashes

I did this, and it was worth the judgy stares. Once I gave birth, I didn't want the child to wander off. Also, 9 months of throwing up and 12 hours of labor sucked. I started to leash that child as they walked from the booth to the bathroom. Helecopter parent? I guess I am.

Barefoot Kids

I totally remember wondering why any parent would let their kid leave the house without shoes. Get control of yourself I would whisper to my stupid 20-year-old self. And then I had kids and realized that basic activities, like going to the grocery store, are often 10 times harder with children. No shoes? We just have to run in fast to get toilet paper.

Co-Sleeping

I'm so tired. As I said earlier, parenting was so much easier before having kids. I used to think co-sleeping was for the weak. I am apparently weak because this still happens in our home.

Sugar

Nasty stuff. But if you take a good nap, I'll give you ice cream.

So now, with zero judgment, I look around at other moms and remember that we are all messes and have no idea what we're doing. It makes me feel better knowing I'm not alone.