The Mum Tag!

Hi all!

Today I’m doing: The Mum Tag! I figured now that I have a toddler, it might be a good time to answer some questions about parenthood and things I’ve learnt along the way. I sourced the questions here. I hope you enjoy – let’s get into it!

1.) How old were you when you had your first child? 

I was 28 when I fell pregnant and gave birth at 29. 

2.) What was the hardest thing about being pregnant for 9 months? 

Probably the exhaustion and back pain. I was tired all the time and struggled to get comfortable in any position, especially towards the end. I’m lucky that I didn’t suffer with any morning sickness. 

3.) Can you think of any good things you enjoyed during those 9 months? 

Absolutely! I can think of so many good things! I loved feeling her kick and hearing her heartbeat. Finding out the gender was so special and watching my belly grow. Just being lucky enough to fall pregnant to begin with and create a human with the man I love. Overall, I really enjoyed being pregnant. 

4.) In your opinion, were all the things you had heard about childbirth accurate or way off.

I think the majority of us know (whether we’ve had children or not) that childbirth is painful…and it truly was! The contractions were on another level of pain. What I will say was way off, was being told it’s like an intensified period pain. For me, all of my labour was in my back, so it didn’t feel anything like menstrual cramping. I have no idea what it feels like to push or give birth vaginally due to needing an emergency c-section so I can’t comment on that part. 

5.) Would you have handled childbirth differently if you could re-do it? 

I would’ve gone in with no expectations because I had had a solid plan of giving birth naturally and without pain relief. When everything started to go downhill, all of those plans went out the window. It was hard to accept at first and I know it would’ve been easier had I just gone with the flow in the beginning. 

6.) What would be your advice for someone who is about to have a baby? 

I would tell them to have no expectations, go with the flow and don’t be hard on themselves. Just do the very best they can do and don’t strive for perfection because it doesn’t exist. Enjoy every single moment because it truly does fly by.

7.) What has been the hardest thing about being a mum? 

I would definitely say my internal critical dialogue and first-time mum anxiety. I was so hard on myself in the beginning and expected a lot. I have been working on this since and feel a lot better. Now I’m just being the best mum I can be and not striving for unattainable perfection. 

8.) What has been the most rewarding thing about being a mum? 

Where do I begin?! Watching my daughter grow into a happy, healthy little girl. Seeing her achieve new milestones. Making her laugh. Giving and receiving unconditional love from each other. Seeing my husband and toddler playing together. Knowing how much joy she brings to everyone. The list goes on! 

9.) What was the most surprising thing you discovered about being a mum? 

Just how incredibly strong and resilient I am. Not only when it came to her birth but also stepping up and being everything to her. I love it. I wouldn’t have it any other way! I’m also amazed at how many valuable lessons I have learnt in such a short time. 

10.) What is the best memory you have involving your child? 

Once again, I have too many to list! Hearing her laugh for the first time, giving birth to her, celebrating her first birthday, the first time she said ‘mama’, her first Christmas, swimming together and so many more. 

11.) What was the most exciting milestone? 

When she rolled over from back to front. It was very exciting and she looked so proud of herself! 

12.) What is the worst thing your child has ever done? 

We laugh about it now but when she was around 5 months old, her grandmother came to visit and as she was bouncing Abi on her lap, our little girl proceeded to do an explosive poop all over her Nanna’s legs and the couch! It was everywhere! My poor mother-in-law had to put all her clothes in the wash and sit in just a towel and underwear whilst waiting for everything to dry outside. She found it hilarious but I felt so bad for her! We will definitely be telling that story at her 21st birthday! 

13.) What habit did you wish your child didn’t have? 

She is in a biting and scratching phase which can be quite painful. It is her way of communicating with us, so we understand, but man it hurts when she sinks her teeth into our legs or rakes her little nails across our cheeks. 

14.) What habit of theirs makes you most proud? 

She waves hello and goodbye politely and listens when we say ‘no’ which is nice. She’s such a good-natured, happy little girl. She laughs at nothing all the time, it’s adorable! We are always proud of her. 

15.) Do you share any similarities with your child? (Both physical and personality) 

Yes! She has a similar facial structure to mine, especially the nose and mouth. We both had lots of thick curls when we were babies and the shape of her eyes reflects mine. Personality wise, she’s cheeky and stubborn like me but very loving and affectionate. 

16.) Where would you like your child to be in 10 years? 

Hopefully in Disney World! We want to take her there for her 10th birthday. But in general just happy, healthy and enjoying her life! 

17.) What was your first thought/feeling when you saw your newborn baby upon giving birth?

I can’t even answer this question without tearing up. I remembered thinking and saying out loud ‘she’s so beautiful’ and my heart was beating so loudly. I’ve never felt a love that strongly for anyone or anything in my life…

18.) Did you imagine that you would be a mum at the age that you became a mum? 

Absolutely! I had always wanted to get pregnant in my late twenties so I could spend quality time with just me and my husband first, travelling the world. I didn’t want to be too old a mother either (not that there is anything wrong with that) so 28 was the perfect balance. 

19.) Describe your child in one sentence? 

A cheeky angel full of joy and happiness. 

20.) How have you changed as a person since becoming a mum? 

I’ve learnt to let go and just enjoy the ride. Before Abi, I was a very structured person that thrived on a routine. I still do, but I’ve surrendered to the chaos that comes with having a child and that has made me a much more adaptable and relaxed person.

I hope you enjoyed this tag! If you’re a mum, feel free to do it and link me below so I can read your responses. Thank you for reading! 

Peace & Love xoxo