Carolyn writes at Hooked and Happy. She’s the mother of two beautiful little girls and a jill of all trades (crafting, crocheting, cooking, coffee drinking). Her blog is a wealth of information, from activities to do with your kids, delectable recipes, tips and tricks (for things like blogging, parenting, cooking, and tons more), crafts to do with your kids, and posts for you do-it-yourselfers. I think I could spend all day just pinning things from her site to do later (like these adorably easy wrap bracelets).

I’m so glad I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Carolyn, and will be able to get to know her even better (of course, we’re both on Instagram!).

Thanks for being here, Carolyn!

I had ideas. Big ideas on how I would and would not parent.

You see, I waited some time before having children, and this time allowed me to watch other parents.

And as I observed parent friends, family, and strangers, I mentally took notes of what I liked and didn’t like, and what I definitely would not do as a parent.

My never-list wasn’t that long, but it did contain some things I swore I would NEVER do, or let happen.

1. My car would NEVER become a dumping ground. I’d remove all things (toy, snack cups, etc.) brought into the car once we completed our errand/road trip/outing.

Reality: Last week I found a sippy cup with curdled milk, a melted crayon in the console, and enough crumbs to feed my family for a week.

2. My kids would NEVER go to bed dirty. That’s just gross, right?

Reality: At least 50% of the time, my kids have a “wipe bath” and it is just as good as the real thing, especially if I am tired. I figure if I get their face, hands, feet, and butt, it is all good. And if I can’t do that, well sometimes it is easier to put them to bed and change the sheets. (If I remember).

3. I’ll NEVER let laundry overtake me. Why don’t Moms just do it every 2nd day or so?

Reality: Laundry sucks. Some days, after I’ve finished 3, or 4 loads, I let my daughters go naked just so they don’t make any more dirty clothes.

4. A bribe will NEVER leave my lips.

Reality: Do you know how much faster/cooperative children can be if a cookie is guaranteed? I do.

What did I learn? What has parenting taught me? Besides humility, it would have to be never say never.

And to lower my expectations to a level of reality.

What did you think you’d never do as a Parent, but find yourself doing?

You can find Carolyn at her blog, Hooked and Happy, pinning her Pinterest pins, tweeting at @hookdandhappy, and on her Facebook page.