So, you know that “one” mom… the one who puts her kid on a leash and lets her newborn sleep in a suitcase?
Oh yes, you do.
If you are reading this blog, you know “that mom”.
That mom is me.
Round of applause – “Mother of the Year Award” right here!
Alright – so maybe I’m not winning any “Mother of the Year” awards. However, having been repeatedly humbled over the past three months as I have struggled with raising my two kiddos in this foreign land, I have been forced to reflect on my formerly judgmental self when it came to how others handled their children in public.
Oh yes. I am now “that mom” with “those kids”.
So, to all the mothers out there who I secretly judged (before I had kids) for putting their child on a leash, or for caving in and buying that chocolate bar in the supermarket line – I am truly, truly sorry! I should have seen that moment of struggle for what it was, and done two very important things (neither of which involve thinking you should have handled it any differently).
1.) Given you an encouraging smile
2.) Asked you wear you bought the leash…
As further testimony to my new reality, I have included the following photos for your viewing pleasure:
#1: Suitcase Baby
For the record, Ben slept better in this suitcase than in any basinet, crib, playpen, baby carrier,or swing I have put him.
#2: The Leash
Oh yes. This funny little penguin has saved my daughter’s life, and my own sanity, more times than I care to admit!
At the end of the day, it turns out Shakespeare was right all along….
“Though this be madness, yet there is method in it.”
meredithdeannelifestyle.wordpress.com 
I’m so glad you’ve gotten the opportunity to bring Pororo into your lives! Pretty sure the Minions stole their look from him :). Love the suitcase idea too!
Lol – Oh Korea! 🙂
The suitcase looks amazingly comfortable and the leash like a pile of fun! Perhaps the leash could be called a love-tie or mommy’s-long-arm or a care-cord or something! Best wishes.
I love those names Amy! You are right – they are so much better than “leash”! I think I like mommy’s-long-arm best, haha!
Oh Mere! I cannot imagine the challenges that you and Jeff must be facing! You’re doing great!
P.S. Jase sleeps in a laundry basket sometimes!
Lol – I love it! I should try the laundry basket tip at home! 🙂
Ah! Yes! I can relate to your post on so many levels! Bringing your kids to a foreign country, you feel as though you are always on display. There is none of that, “hiding” or doing this “discretely” when your blonde haired children are the star attraction where ever you go!
I just want to encourage you, that however you choose to handle each and every situation, be consistent. It truly does pay off!
Awesome advice Car! It means a lot coming from someone who knows exactly what life in a foreign country is like!