I am the antichrist of parenting

During my very short stint at parenting (a whole four and half months!), I have discovered there are two schools of thought for EVERYTHING amongst mothers. There’s the “acceptable” way of doing things and then there’s the “other way” of doing things which if you do this, expect finger pointing and sniggering behind your back. The methods I use to raise my baby tend to fall in the latter category. Not deliberately, it’s just the way things have worked out.

Firstly, I had a caesarean (gasp!) albeit an emergency one but I rather fancied it. So much so, that I am going to have an elective one next time around (double gasp!). The “acceptable” way of giving birth is the natural way so you can feel like a real woman and feel the sensation of birth, the way mother nature intended. Stick that.

Secondly, I don’t breastfeed my baby (gasp, ahh, clunk- that’s the sound of someone fainting and hitting the ground). Now I really did want to breastfeed and I would still like too however, I had trouble. Putting my baby on formula was the best thing for me at the time and to be honest, I’m glad I did because it has been smooth sailing ever since. Despite this, I still get “the look” from breastfeeding mothers when I announce I use formula.

Thirdly, I use disposable nappies and not the reusable variety. I am aware of the environmental impact and added financial burden however, as a 21st century gal, I figure I have better things to do with my precious time then to wash and soak nappies all day long but understand that other mums don't mind investing the time.

Other noteworthy no-nos which I have adopted include, using a dummy, circumcising my son and starting him on solids at four and half months.

In summary (yes there is a point to this tale),mothers are a funny bunch. When I became a mother I expected to enter this exclusive club where I would be welcomed with open arms. I expected streamers and balloons and a big banner which said “welcome. You’re now one of us!” (a bit over the top?). I imagined chatting with my fellow mothers about the joys of motherhood and how gifted our children are. Instead it’s all about comparing and judging each other.

OK, now here is my point (finally). Mothers, listen up. Pull your heads in. Being a mum is a tough gig so let’s be each other’s number one supporters rather than tough critics. Be open minded and respect the choices other mothers make.

This time I really am back

Phew!

Ok, so I know I promised last November that I would write stuff about our trip to Germany (I can't believe that was now over a year ago!) bu I've been busy. Yes, most of you know that I have been busy have a baby (now that's a damn good excuse for not blogging). Yes, Mark and I welcomed the beautiful Dylan in August 2011.

Before you start rolling your eyes, yes there will be baby posts (in fact my first real post will be baby related) but they will be more about my experiences as a new parent. I am still food obsessed and will still be posting heaps of recipes I've tried out (yes, I am now finding time to cook) and also reviews about places I've eaten recently.