I realize that for some moms, the glaring judgements and unsolicited advice starts before the baby is even born, but I honestly never had to deal with any of that when I was pregnant. However, in the year since my son's birth people–both strangers and good friends (don't worry I'm not holding it against you)–have said some pretty crazy things to me.
I'm not one to care much about people's opinions about my choices, so it generally doesn't bother me, but sometimes I can't help but throw out a side-eye. I mean, would anyone have dared criticize where I choose to live before my son was born? I think not. Here are five of the most ridiculous things people have said to me since I became a mom:
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"You really need a yard." Gah–just stop it! It would be great if we owned a house and had a nice fenced in yard, but we don't and it doesn't really bother us or our son all that much. Having your own outdoor space is a luxury, not a necessity. Get a grip.
"Don't you get bored?" Trust me, there is no such thing as boredom when you spend your days chasing after a 1-year-old. There is literally always something to be done. And when I put my son to bed at night, I'm thoroughly exhausted. Even if I could go out after 8p.m., most of the time I wouldn't want to–I'd rather veg out with a good book or TV show and a pint of ice cream.
"How can you let him walk barefoot?" Contrary to your archaic ideas, bare feet are actually the safest option for new walkers, and yes, I've double checked with my pediatrician. So please, please mind your business or at least educate yourself before you come asking me questions.
"You better not ever cut his hair!" Or the contrary. If you want to tell me you like my son's hair, fine and thank you. But please do not give your opinion on what I should do with it. My husband and I are more than capable of deciding if, when and what kind of haircut he should have. The fact that my son's hair is long, doesn't mean that I'm at a loss for what to do with it and I'm in desperate need of help. I'm not.
"Just leave him with…" I will not just leave my son with anyone. As much as I'd love to be able to go out whenever I want, it means more to me that my son is in an environment that is not only safe, but one that he is comfortable in. So, please don't judge the fact that we don't often leave him with a sitter. Part of being a parent is making sacrifices and sometimes that means not going out for a drink at bed time.
Image via Shayne Rodriguez Thompson
