I’ve been biting off and chewing A LOT of words since becoming a parent. As a non-parent, I talked soooo much crap about what I would neeeeeever do.
-I would never feed my child fast food.
-I would never let my kid play in dirt.
-I would never take a kid under 5 to Disney World.
First time parents put sooooo much stress on themselves. Between what doctors say, what their parents say, what scientific research says and what snotty women at playgroups say, it ends up being A LOT of unnecessary stress.
We’re so focused on trying to do the right thing and not do the wrong thing that we forget to live. We forget that these moments are precious and that the dumb little details aren’t important.
We forget that our children are only little for so long. And that they don’t know what PERFECT or IDEAL is. It’s the little things that matter to them. Like spinning in a teapot.
Tiny humans are incredible because they can make you see this when you forget. When you’re hustling and bustling and stressed out over getting somewhere on time or when you can’t locate your keys, their innocence and their sheer awe of the world has a way of making you feel like a kid again.
Especially when you spot Mickey Mouse.
Children are incredible. Germy, loud and exhausting, yes but wondrous and spectacular? DEFINITELY!
This is SO true! I feel like too many people judge parents. When in fact we’re harder on ourselves than anyone could ever be. I think people should focus on the positive and uplift others than put them down. Your daughter is adorable btw! Did she enjoy Disney? I’ve wanted to take my son (he’s 15 months) there for the longest time but don’t know if he’s too little.
i love this and Elle is the best!! you lost me on the spinning teacups but quickly regained me with those adorable toddler timbs. I’d like them in adult sizes!
I promise you…that girl has better shoes than I do!
This is so true. I think back on all the “I would NEVER” statements I made pre-child and just have to laugh… lol
So true! I made many of those statements pre-children.
Great article I can think of several things that I would say, I would never let my kids do that…
It is somewhat funny watching first time moms trying to do what every one else tells them. It is a learning experience. By the second kid they are learning to enjoy more.
Funny, I see nothing wrong with playing in dirt or going to Disneyland. I think those things are good for kids!
Not playing in dirt is a relatively new phenomena! Heck growing up I jumped in mud puddles–made mud pies etc etc etc–notice I am still here and HEALTHY!!
I never said I didn’t want to take my kids to disney world if they were under 5. My little guy has been going every year since he was 11 months old.
Good for you! I remember always seeing little kids looking so miserable at WDW during those sweltering days and I vowed to never put my kids through that. It’s always easier when you live close to the mouse, though.
Its funny what we say before and what we do after having kids!
My son has been going to Disney since he was 4. He loves it.
We took my daughter to Disney when she was 5 and she did really well.
Looks like an amazing time <3
My husband and I take all our little ones to Disney for the 1st birthdays and we know they will not remember it, it is more in the moment and their experiences and facial experiences will last a life time in my heart!
I love this post. I am apart of a mom group and sometimes you are right there are moms that totally complicate parenthood. I say just love your kids, teach them right from wrong, let them grow and never ever stop telling them you love them or stop hugging them. That’s all that matters. Beautiful post and beautiful child!!
Aww.awesome post! I wish I could be a toddler again for a day. Lol
So true! We just need to let our kids be kids, and celebrate the wonders of the world with them. Love the photos!
And they grow up so quickly!! Enjoy that precious little smile 🙂
it is the little things that matter. And you’re right, they soon grow up to learn ‘ideal’ so it’s best to enjoy little while it’s big. 🙂
I totally agree. We can try to do what’s best for them, but not try to be perfect!
Adorable!!!
Omgosh! Yes 100000%. Toddlers live and let live and have no worries in the world. We should totally strive to be like them. YOUR toddler is adorable!
Oh my gosh, Brittany, these pictures are amazing, as are the words spoken here! The joy in her face is beautiful and contagious – I was smiling just seeing that! Lovely post, beautiful family, fantastic and real mama!
Awe your daughter is precious and I adore your perspective on parenting. It is so refreshing! They definitely keep you honest and make you wonder what else is going on in their little brains. I love this so much! Thanks for sharing!
Parenting is all about living and learning. I just laugh to myself whenever i hear a first time expecting parent begin a sentence with “I’ll never or I’ll always”