Parenting is a Contact Sport?

I will be the first to admit that I am an emotional pregnant woman. The hormones are in full swing and I have found myself straight up weeping about ridiculous things like not being able to make a decision on which was the best baby monitor (this was repeated when choosing a stroller). I was somewhat prepared for this. What I wasn't fully prepared for was how much it would shock and hurt me if someone questioned me. I would find myself in a full out spiral of despair wondering if I really was making a terrible mistake in registering for X stroller or Y monitor and if I can't make these kinds of decisions how will I ever choose a childcare provider?! Or heck, make any of the million decisions that lie ahead of me?!

I usually do okay with my level of confidence. I don't need much support to feel safe in my decisions; just a few key players and I'm good to go. However, this whole becoming a mother thing has left me shaking in my boots and I've found it hard to be confident in the choices I've been making. Last night I poured this woe out to my friend Katie and I was amazed at how at ease I felt after hearing her reassurance that I was going to be fine. Her calm reasoning that everyone cares as much as you do and all any of us want is for our kids to be happy and healthy gave me a better perspective. Questioning isn't always judgment and it's okay for me to disregard the opinions of close friends on matters of baby gear and such. I need to trust my gut. But, it is good to know we can ask questions of friends and family when we feel confused.

So other parents, I hope I never make you feel judged. And I know you don't want me to feel that way. So let's just all agree that we all love each other and our kids and want what is best for them. No judgments or snide comments. It's okay to disagree because we have to make things work for our particular family dynamic. So maybe I'll end up doing things you might find crazy and vice versa. It's okay if at the end of the day everyone is safe, happy and loved.