Dress Up

When Kurt and I talked about having children, and even after Erin was born, I prided myself in knowing that I was going to treat my child as a person, not as a doll or an accessory. So many parents I know buy matching parent and child outfits or really fancy clothes so their children look more like mini adults. I just KNEW that would not be me.

Sure, I like Erin to look cute - what mother wouldn't want that for her daughter? However, I'm rather practical. I believe in buying clothes that are cute, but comfortable and functional. Sure, for special occasions we'll go with the fancy stuff and if someone buys her an adorable outfit, we'll definitely put her in it and be very appreciative. But, no, I don't buy matching mommy/daughter outfits or clothes that make her look like an adult. We're trying not to raise another Jon Benet Ramsey.

So, it came as a shock to me when I was looking at my daughter's photos that I am just like those "other" moms. The only difference is that Kurt and I play "dress up" with Erin by making her wear (or not wear) really embarrassing clothes. All you have to do is look through her websites to see what I mean.

Sure there are minor things like socks that look like shoes, shamrock bibs, hooded bear towels, mouse hats, jester hats, bike helmets, and funny hooded jackets. Sure she's had chips and salsa on her lap, and even the traditional naked bath tub, or bear skin rug photos. And yes, we did get a bit into the holidays with her sweat pea Halloween costume and her snowman outfit for Christmas. However, all of that was pretty understandable.

I think it may have started to go a little awry with the photo of Erin in her oxygen mask that I refer to as "Luke I am Your Father". However, it really didn't dawn on me until I saw the picture of Erin wearing my lunch bag on her head like a robot, and then realized that earlier today her Daddy put a box on her head to show me how Erin could look like Frankenstein.

So, I confess, I didn't have a child so I could play "dress up" with her, but I guess that is just one of those parenting skills you develop over time. For some reason, I get the feeling the fun has just started. Be on the look out for more embarrassing photos. Sorry Erin!