i would never

There are many things I thought I would never do as a parent. One of which was let my baby drink a carbonated beverage (at least it was a cherry limeade so no caffeine!). Ever since Benjamin randomly started drinking from a straw last week, you really have to watch your drinks. Drew leaves his straw cups everywhere & if Benjamin happens upon it, he will take it for his own. Here's some more things I thought I'd never do when I became a parent:

1. Let my child stand up in the basket of a shopping cart. Hey, what else are you going to do with the oldest, but still young kid? Sometimes those carts with extra seats aren't available. And if they are, they aren't the easiest to push around a store.

2. Spank. Yes, I did say spank & no it's not illegal. Hitting is abuse, spanking is not. I was so fearful about admitting that we spank because of all the controversy. But, we believe it is biblical and the right thing to do. Check out this book for more info on our view of discipline.

3. Let my child under the age of 2 watch TV. I know the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against this, but what can I say? Benjamin gets the occasional baby video. Especially on long car rides.

I know there's plenty more, but that's all my brain can squeeze out right now.