A Word of Advice for Prospective Parents

As someone who has spent the better part of the last 2 years in a family way, I am aware that there is a lot of unsolicited advice being dealt to new and soon-to-be parents. Sure, it all comes from a good place. But by the time she brings new life into the world for the second time, a woman is sure to have been told to "sleep when the baby sleeps" 4,812 times. She will agree that this is a good idea. In theory. Meanwhile, she hasn't actually slept in a week and can't remember the last time she showered but if the laundry doesn't get done those kids are going to be naked. And possibly her husband, too. But THIS little gem is not only important, but useful and (unlike the sleeping mantra) actually possible. Here it is:
Become familiar with the set-up AND collapsing procedures of your stroller BEFORE you find yourself in a parking lot with two overtired and cranky kids, ready to haul the entire $400+ system into traffic in order to get the assistance of a vehicle in collapsing that behemoth into the neat little package you purchased 3 months ago from the sales person who folded the whole thing down with one finger.
If you do not heed this advice, some or all of the following scenarios are likely to occur:
a) You will injure yourself attempting to load the upright stroller into the back of your vehicle while passers-by (who obviously do not have children) give you inquisitive looks. But don't bother. It won't fit anyway.
b) Satisfying as it may seem at the time, if you choose the collapsed-by-oncoming-vehicle method you will soon be forced to put another $400+ directly into the pocket of whatever sadistic engineer designed that contraption in the first place.
c) You will be teaching your children a few expressions that you would be shocked to hear them repeat.
d) You will be forced to interrupt your spouse at work with a desparate "How the #@*! does this thing fold down?!" phone call.
It's the New Parent Walk of Shame. Don't let this be you.

The Offender: