This article was originally posted in Selfish Mother.
There is a lot said about the negatives of parenting toddlers these days. The tantrums and endless questions. The relentless mess and threat of accidents. A complete lack of privacy and the constant anxiety that you’re not ‘doing it right’.
But whilst there are many downsides, there are some pretty awesome benefits…
A year ago today was my due date. To be honest, I had almost forgotten what it felt like to be pregnant. I know, how could I have forgotten *insert monkey holding head in hands emoji* but all the amazing, positive memories I’ve had since seem to have blocked out all my painful pregnancy and birth-related memories. Good job, otherwise I don’t think I could even consider having any more children. Continue reading
This year, I was lucky enough to be able to take eight months maternity leave from work. Whilst this precious time off with my daughter was absolutely the best time of my life so far, I was also keen to get back to ‘reality’ and the job that I love and had worked hard to get. I went along to regular keeping-in-touch meetings and childcare was sorted beforehand, as was my ‘set in stone’ return to work date so I felt super organised, in control and as ready to go back as I possibly could be. I wasn’t prepared for was how hard I would find it once I was back.
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“A party. A proper party…for a one year old? Why don’t you just be sensible and have a little tea party for family and close friends? I think a proper party for a one year old is a bit ridiculous. Who do you think you are? What a total waste of money.” Continue reading
Room temperatures
Before I had my daughter, I had absolutely zero knowledge (or interest) in what temperature a room should be. I’m now OBSESSED with it. As well as having a fancypants baby monitor that checks the room temperature in my daughters room, I also check the back up Groegg in there all the time, just in case the monitor one is broken!
I remember worrying about what I was going to do with all those days. Seven whole months. Well, eight including the full month that I sat on my arse watching Netflix and repeatedly Googling ‘How to start your labour’, whilst I impatiently awaited her arrival. I worried about how I wouldn’t be able to switch off from work and be a good mama. It’s hilarious really. (Although, I did take a few weeks to back off and stop checking work emails.) Continue reading
Before I had my daughter, I said a lot of stupid sh*t about being a parent. I judged others on their parenting skills and made bold, frankly ridiculous statements about how I was going to parent when I had zero experience of being one… Continue reading
How to survive a caravan holiday with kids under five
Caravanning with three under fives isn’t something that I thought I would find myself doing. Getting a tan and drinking cocktails by the pool is my idea of a relaxing break and they don’t tend to go hand in hand with caravan holidays.
So, disclosure I’m 32 and I can’t drive. I know, I know. I’m too old not to drive and now I’m a mama I need to get my shit together and pass my test. And I will. Soon. Maybe. But until then I am quite happy being a train wanker.
A week ago today, my daughter took a bottle of formula milk from her Dad. Might not sound like a big deal but it was an emotional day in the Evans’ household because up until now, our six month old daughter has refused ALL bottles.
