I had big plans for having the “perfect” child and, for at least the first year, I did really well in following those goals. Only healthy food, no TV, alphabet drills…my son had the perfect beginning.
He’s now 13 months old, however, and, especially now that I’m expecting another baby, oh how times have changed! Here’s a few interesting things that I never expected of myself:
1. Happy Meals are glorious. James had his first last week – Chicken McNuggets and Apple Dippers! He loved them. And so did I.
2. I’m learning Spanish from Dora the Explorer. This has, to an extent, replaced “alphabet drills.”
3. I have to hide in the pantry to eat Girl Scout cookies. I’ve created a tiny, little Cookie Monster who will beg mercilessly until I give him a cookie. So I hide. I see no shame in that.
4. Particularly when he’s sick, I am not above appeasing my child with cookies and TV. Cookies and TV make me feel better when I’m sick, and it seems to work the same for a 1-year-old.
5. And on a sentimental note, I never thought that the tiny creature who wanted to be held all the time just a few short months ago would suddenly be entirely too independent for snuggle time with mommy. I have to fight the urge to sneak into his room at night to quietly pick him up and cuddle him. At least I’ll get myself a new little cuddle monster in 6 1/2 more months…
All this being said, I haven’t completely abandoned all my “good mommy” goals. James still eats relatively healthy – veggies, starch, and protein at every meal; fruits or whole grains for most snacks. We still read together every day. I have, however, relaxed. A lot. And I never expected that I would!
