Real Mums #02 Mum in a Nutshell

I started this feature to celebrate real mums. Mums come in all shapes and sizes but sometimes we can feel alone, we can feel as though we are the only ones struggling to keep on top of things. I want to lift the lid on motherhood so we can all feel a part of sisterhood, to feel proud about our own achievements and know that we are doing the best we can!

Without further a do let me hand you over to Ali!

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your family.

We’re a full blue team family of 5, me, hubby, Teenager, Tween and Baby (all boys).

Describe a typical day in your life

I start the day by hollering to tween and teenager to get out if bed while I get Baby R breakfast. The older boys get their own breakfasts, I put everything out on our table the night before along with tween’s packed lunch. I walk tween to school, this involves pushing baby R in the buggy up 3 very steep hills. (I don’t need a gym membership living in a very hilly little village!) Then it’s time to take the dog for a walk, usually down the beach, I can’t complain when I have views like this on my morning walk, it’s beautiful.

Then I usually meet friends for coffee or catch up on house work. I try and use Baby R’s nap times to work on my blog if I’m home. I’ve got a very easy going life style as I’m on maternity leave. Things will be very different next year!

What is the best thing about being a mum?

I was always meant to be a mum- I love everything about it. I know it’s corny, but my boys have made my life complete and everything very much centers around them. I don’t feel that Ive sacrificed anything, they’ve enriched me and made me a better person. I love cuddles and smiles with my baby, chats and debates with my tween and sharing a joke with my teenager. I’m very close to my boys, they go everywhere with me, although teenager is choosing time with his friends more these days. Tween however, wants to buy a house next door when he grows up. They all make me very proud.

What have you found hardest about motherhood?

Not being able to make everything better. Both older boys have struggled in school at times and its hard not being able to help. I’ve done what I can but other than sit in the classroom, I am limited. I also find it hard seeing them grow up and not be there to protect them all the time. Teenager wanted to go to a friend’s house for new year’s eve and was shady about arrangements, it’s hard letting go and to trust them when their safety’s at stake.

How has your body changed?

I’m lucky as I’ve lost the baby weight quickly (all the hills!) but nothing’s as trim as it was. I don’t wear a bikini anymore. However i’m not worried, nothing’s gone too far south- yet! Although I did take out my belly button piercing this year as I won’t be showing anyone my midriff. I’m not sure how confident I’ll be once Ive lost my breastfeeding boobs though!

Do you wear makeup? If so what does your routine look like? 

Yes! I never leave the house without mascara. I cleanse, tone and moisturise twice a day and wear Bare Minerals face powder. It’s all quite natural but I do like to try and scrub up everyday.

What’s in your handbag? 

My handbag at the moment is also my nappy bag so aside from the usual baby paraphernalia, I have my purse, lip balm, hand cream and mints- god that makes me sound old!

What is your relationship with housework?

With having a dog I hoover every day. I’m not ocd, but I do spend an hour or so cleaning and tidying everyday. It bugs me if its too messy. Is that ocd? I’m worried now.

How do you relax?

I browse the web and blog. I like to read but get so involved in a book it consumes me so can only read on holidays. I also love sharing a caramel latte with friends or my husband.

What’s the best parenting advice you have ever been given?

Try and see a situation from your child’s eyes. I know mother always knows best but she can be wrong sometimes and when I am I apologise.

For any new mums out there, what would you like to tell them?

Dont compare, every baby is different.

What makes you happy?

Family time where we’re all happy, I love it when a plan comes together as well. I’ve made big plans this next year and when things go as planned I’m buzzing.

And finally, complete this sentence:

I am a great mum because….. I listen and don’t tease, I take their opinions seriously and try to speak to them like I would like to be spoken to. I’m not perfect- I’m a terrible nag, but if I do find I’ve been over doing it then I’ll try and say something positive.

Thank you so much Ali! I really enjoyed reading your answers and I am sure others will too! How lucky to live by the coast!!

I really like the advice you were given- I think I need to look at situations through Little G’s eyes much more!

You can find out more about Ali and her world over at her blog Mum in a Nutshell. 

You can also say hi on Facebook, Twitter and find her on Instagram and Pinterest! 

 If you would like to take part in my Real Mums series then email me at katy@whatkatysaid.com. x