Thursday, April 03, 2008

I KNOW I Shouldn't Care What Other People Think...

But unfortunately...I do. BUT I care more about keeping my kid!

I'm going to Target tomorrow and getting this:



for our flight to NY next week (It's a "toddler harness" - basically, a kid leash). I remember, before when I thought I knew everything and didn't have a clue motherhood, I saw one of these that wasn't disguised as a stuffed animal backpack and thought it was so weird. Of course when it looked like an actual dog leash, it was more weird. The cute pseudo backpack design of this toddler harness takes the sting out of the whole idea in my opinion. I hope the other passengers in the airport feel the same way.

But, I'm trying to not care so much about what other people think. "Trying" is the key word here. This is a real challenge for me. But after our last experience flying, when my 1 1/2 year old daughter was more interested in getting trampled on by running through the crowd of passengers during our 1 1/2 hr. wait to board, than waiting patiently in her chair as most toddlers do (ha). After having to let go of the fear that my tiny precious little treasure could be swiped out of sight by one of the million and 1/2 strangers swarming around her- so that she could be free to run and walk without being constantly parent-handled - I'm somewhat gun shy and...WANT TO KEEP MY KID. So - I'm forcing myself to not care what people think of us. I'm just going to have to tune everybody out - which I'm s l o w l y learning to do.

So, if you see me at the airport, please don't judge me. Yes, I'm trying to control my child, but only because I don't want to lose her! :-D

12 comments:

Donna Reed In Blue Jeans said...

I used one with my oldest daughter. I didn't with my twins, though. I just never let them out of their stroller. EVER! And never went anywhere. lol. I think you are being a smart parent.

Restless Ink said...

Thank you!

Anonymous said...

If it makes you feel any better, I would do the exact same thing! I think my daughter is about a month or so older than yours, I can barely keep her from zoom'ing off in a bookstore...nevermind an AIRPORT.

Grip that leash with your head held high!! Your little one is lucky that you're thinking of her safety ahead of time.

Anonymous said...

Pre-motherhood, I was horrified seeing parents with kids on a leash. Then, when my daughter started walking, I did something I never thought I'd EVER do - I bought one. We lived in a city, and every time we went to outdoor events, I was so freaked out that I'd lose her, no matter HOW tightly I had a hold of her hand.

My brother was SOOO embarrassed to be seen with me and my kid on a leash. And I was more than a little self conscious. (It was pretty awful looking ...) But just like you, I felt MP's safety was more important than my insecurities.

Plus, the one you've picked out is pretty cute - people might not even be able to tell!

Donna Reed In Blue Jeans said...

Hi again, I thought you might like to check out this link too. It's a kid alarm. lol. I think it's brilliant!
http://www.mypreciouskid.com/child-locator.html

Restless Ink said...

Bekkah: Thank you - I appreciate the moral support!

Mommy Pie: Thanks to you as well; it's definitely reassuring knowing that you went through a similar experience.

Corinne: Thanks! I'll check it out. Hey, if we have alarms on our cars, why wouldn't we have one for our kid!

Unknown said...

Good for you - you shouldn't care what people think! That's such a hard age for kids to be still, you are constantly running after them. Oh, and glad you want to keep your kids - sometimes it's ify - smiles!

Restless Ink said...

Wifey: that's true - talk to me in 15 years...

AngelConradie said...

oh my friggin word i wish i'd had one of those for my totally hyperactive instantly climbing slash disappearing damien when he was little...
i applaud you, its safe and smart!

Restless Ink said...

Thanks Angel:-) BTW, I got it. Now I hope she doesn't throw a fit while I put it on her like she did when I 1st got it! People really WILL have grounds to call Child Protective Services on us! Ugh.

Grim Reality Girl said...

You know your kid and you know your needs -- glare at those who dare to look at your funny. This gadget is much more attractive than the dog leashes that my best friend used when traveling with 4 boys (6 and under no less). People only stare at her because they feel sorry for her.... Anyway... good for you! Smart choice!

Restless Ink said...

Thanks Grim Reality...it is cute huh? maybe your friend can get 4 of these. I got it at Target BTW. Cheap too.