Me as a toddler
My “don’t mess with me” attitude started when I was very young. My mom said I didn’t like strangers. I would cry incessantly if anyone other than my mom, dad, or sister tried to carry me. I had a habit of disliking my teachers on the first day of school and whining my pants off – hmmm, wondering where my 6 year old gets it from.
In grade school, I refused to eat my mom’s delicious Chinese food and insisted on Kool-Aid and McDonalds. I once forced myself to vomit the garlic spinach stir-fry she made just to make the point that I. Did. Not. Like. Spinach!
As a teenager, I gave my mom hell. I would argue to no end why I thought it was a perfectly good idea for me (as a 16 year old) to sleep over at my friend’s party with my boyfriend. When she didn’t agree, I cried, pleaded, and basically acted as a total pain in the ass until she gave in. Thank goodness I don’t have girls.
As an adult, everyone knew not to call me before noon on the weekends because I was sleeping in. If you dared to call early, well, you’d get an ear full from me.
I’ve always been opinionated, assertive, and well, maybe a little bratty. Now that I’m a mom, all that has transferred to my kids. I will argue to no end the benefits of breastfeeding and being a working mom. I will defend my kids’ food choices and my 6 year old’s lack of interest in sports.
Funny enough, when it comes to me these days I’ve let a lot go. I’ll argue on behalf of my kids, but I’m too tired and lazy to do it for myself. I guess that’s the evolution of the “don’t mess with me” attitude.
This post was written by
Tracey Black is the founder and editor-in-chief for Don't Mess with Mama, the sassy mom's guide to parenting, green living and travel. She is a regular contributor to Redbook's Mamarama blog, and a social media strategist working with eco-friendly brands such as Stonyfield, Juice Beauty and others. She has three boys and lives in San Diego, Calif.
I love this post! I have actually become more vocal since I had children, I’m a late bloomer and it took me a while to find my voice. Now I’m sure people would like me to loose it from time to time! Lol! I found you through “…boystown” and am so glad I did! I’m now a happy new follower!
Hi there! Following along from SortaSuperMom’s blog. Isn’t it funny how much we change as a parent? With the birth of my kids, I saw the death of my confidence. Looking to get that back, though.
You looked so pretty in this photo!!!
I got here through the versatile blog award!
Thanks for stopping by! I’m going to do a post soon on ugliest school pictures to counter this one.
Hi im a new follower from the uk
Really liked your blog very much
I will be coming back
please come visit me anytime
http://www.jollyjillys.blogspot.com
Thanks for visiting!
Love this toddler picture of you! You were busy after we got off the phone last night! Thanks again for the moral support…
Anytime, Jeanne! Working moms always need moral support.