Warnings in love from one mom to the next

You worry for nights and days before you become a mom.. about what your child will look like, act like, their health, habits and the list goes on and on. But in my experience, the baby is the BEST part about being a mom.
Many times what gets you down or makes you want to scream is the other moms (or even worse) the people who aren't moms and still think they know everything.
Phoenix is only three months old and I've already had my fair share of people making negative comments or doubting me. I expected to have a lot of "advice" since I'm only 20 and many seem to doubt young moms. But sometimes it goes too far. If your baby is wearing socks someone is bound to say they don't match the outfit or it's too warm for socks. However; if they're not, someone is bound to say they need socks.. Likewise, if you have a carseat cover someone will say they want to see the baby and if you don't, it's far too cold to be without one.
And the examples could go on and on. Bottom line and the point of this article is IT'S GOING TO HAPPEN. No matter the efforts you make to be prepared or the articles you read, questions you ask the doctor- someone will always be there to say you're doing it wrong or give you advice that really isn't always wanted. Here is what I have learned to do

First- with a smile on your face (no matter how fake it may feel) say "Thank you, that's a good idea"/ "I'll have to try that" whoever is giving you this advice more than likely won't be there to watch your every move at home and unless you tell them so won't know whether or not you're following their advice.
OR Second- if the fake "smile and wave" isn't quite your thing you can politely say "This is what the doctor told me to do" or explain you've researched it/tried it and found it to be a good idea.

Though you may be hurt by people's comments or doubting you (Believe me, I've been there) responding with your best manners will often get you further than a snide remark or rolling your eyes/huffing off.
Most people really don't realize what they're doing is hurtful or wrong (especially those who don't have children yet.. until you have children you think you know everything.. it's not until you have one that you're humbled) they probably think they're helping or giving sound advice and often don't realize just HOW MUCH advice you've been given that contradicts each other.

Stick to what you know
Seek help for what you don't
Be humbled when you find it
Don't be offended when someone tries to help
Help those you can
Remember what you've found
Use it where it's applicable

and most importantly- remember that moms are really all in it together. No matter how old their babies are.