childhoodunplugged

The uniform is washed, ironed and hung back up in the wardrobe, the Christmas nibbles are making an appearance and we plan on living in nothing but our pyjamas for the next couple of weeks. This year is so different for everyone, and because of that it hasn’t really felt like Christmas to me until today, I mean, I love being festive and we’ve had the tree up since early November but I guess it’s just been a fake it ’til you make it situ for me until now. Anyone would think we’ve spent enough time at home this year but the break from the school routine was much needed for me! I’m starting to think a lot about this year now it’s coming to an end and I’m really digging deep to think about the things I’m grateful for and things I/we have achieved this year – the ultimate being that we are all here and healthy obviously, but when you really sit and think about it there is so much we can all be thankful for.

I’ve panicked and stressed over this Christmas more than I usually would which has done me no favours at all, but now I’m in a much more positive place with it all. I think it’s just been the uncertainty of it all, would we be able to see our loved ones? will the shops be open so I can buy gifts? is everyone going to stockpile again? I’m always quite organised anyway when it comes to Christmas so in hindsight I probably didn’t need to stress as much as I have done but that’s easy for me to say when my anxiety isn’t rearing it’s ugly head, I think not just as parents but as human beings in general we can be so harsh on ourselves sometimes and although I don’t ever make new years resolutions as such, in 2021 I want to be kinder to myself and stop beating myself up over the tiniest of things.

I cannot wait to get the big Christmas food shop done and indulge in the ‘special’ things that we don’t get all year round, and being all cosied up on the sofa watching the kids pester Ash for a screwdriver and the battery box with a Christmas Special of some kind on the TV. I could waffle on for an age but I haven’t yet wrapped a single present of the kids so I best crack on. Whatever you find yourself doing this Christmas just go easy on yourself, reach out if you need too, embrace how different this year is and strip it back to what really matters.

Merry Christmas,

My Lily,

Today is your first day in reception and although I’ve already let you go to nursery there’s something that feels a little bit different this time. I’m so excited for you to fully begin your accademic journey, for how much you’re going to learn, the friendships you’ll make and experiences you’ll have. Our time together during the week will be slightly more limited now you’re at school full time and I won’t pretend that I won’t miss you but thinking about how much you’re little imagination is going to develop, the friendships you’ll form that may last a life time and all of the memories you’ll make that will forever be imprinted on that precious little soul of yours.

You’re wise (and sassy) beyond your years and sometimes I forget that you are just four years young. You’ve been through, seen, and acomplished so much already in four years, from sailing in the Mediterrean Sea to becoming a big sister, to finding a love for rollercoaster rides to going on an aeroplane – just know that this is just the beginning sweetheart.

Some parents long for their children to become doctors, midwives, business owners, or teachers, I just want you to be happy, my babe. Happiness is the foundation for everything else you wish to do. It goes without saying that there will be times in life where you aren’t happy, people won’t be as kind, you will give more than you get back and you may even cross paths with some not very nice people – just know that when and if you do, mom is right there by your side should you ever need me. I’ll forever be your constant, your bestest friend and your biggest fan.

I am proud of you beyond words and have every confidence in you,

I love you to the moon and back,

Mom x

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Tag: childhoodunplugged

School’s Out For Christmas!

To My Daughter On Your First Day Of School.