Potty training is the worst. For some parents, I'm sure it's just part of the whole growing up process and for others (read: me) it's a residual reminder I have no idea what I'm doing. I really admire those who claim to have trained their toddler with zero incidents but, sadly, I've experienced many potty training moments that prove I'm a hot mess. I'm not admitting defeat, although those early morning clean-ups are when I seriously daydream about grabbing the keys and taking a long drive to anywhere (and until that mess up and cleans itself).
Training my daughter wasn't exactly "easy," because she was the first child and I really didn't know how any of the parenting stuff worked. We tried the no-diaper method, sticker charts and rewards, and all the things experts say will help move things along in the right direction. Looking back, we started her on the potty training path way too early, and I often regret the unnecessary pressure I put on both of us. My son is taking a little bit longer to potty train. Having just turned five, there's a stronger fear of going to the bathroom with him than there ever was with my daughter. He'll hold it all day and until there's a mess I (or my partner) have to deal with. In other words, it's not fun for any of us.
In all these years of trial and error I can say, without a doubt, that I'm no expert. In fact, I'm pretty terrible and my standards have lowered to "just make it near the toilet." On that note, here are some of the potty training moments I've experienced that'll prove you're a hot mess mom. Don't worry, there's no shame here.