I started this feature to celebrate real mums. Mums are amazing and 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 part of a 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 over to Sophie!
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your family.
I’m Sophie. I live with my hubby and 2 year old daughter Matilda. We have been married 5 years this year. We met in the Army, we are both musicians. I left last year to become a Stay at Home Mum. I’m originally from Yorkshire but live down in Surrey. I miss all my family back up in the North, but hopefully will move back up there one day!
Describe a typical day in your life
At the minute we have quite busy days. M has just started swimming and ballet lessons so that is 2 mornings of the week. The other mornings we go to playgroups or meet up with friends. Lunchtime is at 12pm and then straight after she goes for her nap. That is normally for about an hour and a half. The afternoons we normally bake, do craft, or go outside for a walk to the park or a scoot around our estate. I like a chilled afternoon if we have had a busy morning! Teatime is when Daddy gets home around 5/5.30pm, we like to eat as a family. Then bathtime comes at 6.30pm and bed by 7.15pm. Obviously each day is different, and if the day is out of the norm, we just go with the flow!
What is the best thing about being a mum?
There is lots. The giggles we have, the conversations, the fun things. The bedtime snuggles. I want to bottle them all!
What have you found hardest about motherhood?
The discipline. Even though I have been in the Army and that is what I am used to. I know she needs to know the difference between right and wrong. Sometimes I think I am too hard on her as I forget she is still only little. I also struggle with the early mornings, I love my bed and hate it when we are apart for too long!
How has your body changed?
I am not too happy with it at the moment to be honest. I have wobbly bits..mainly my mummy tummy. I don’t mind it as it reminds me of my little girl, but I probably should try to manage it a bit better. I like cake and crisps too much though!!
Do you wear makeup? If so what does your routine look like?
I LOVE make-up. I wear it most days, it makes me feel better about myself and covers the terrible stress spots and dark circles! It’s normally quite an easy and simple routine of foundation, concealer, blusher, brows, mascara..the normal things! I can do it within about 5 minutes!
What’s in your handbag?
My nice handbag has become a nice backpack as I find it easier to carry round. It contains things like, spare knickers and leggings (for M!!) bottle of water, tangle teaser, paracetamol, purse, raisins (I find them everywhere!!!) umbrella. All the necessities.
What is your relationship with housework?
I like my home to be tidy, not the cleanest I guess but I find if it is tidy people think you have made the effort. I love it once it is hoovered, and I try to dust. I am getting M involved more so it doesn’t take as long!
How do you relax?
I like to blog, watch youtube and maybe have a little glass of wine whilst doing it. I also love to read my magazine and have a bath!
What’s the best parenting advice you have ever been given?
My Mum always told me, ‘Never wake a sleeping baby’. So I never have! I got told off from my health visitor for letting M sleep for 7 hours when she was a week old!
For any new mums out there, what would you like to tell them?
Don’t push them on, just go with the flow. Once they are walking, talking etc..you’ll want your gurgling, still baby back!!
What makes you happy?
Just being as a family having a normal day just spending time together!
And finally, complete this sentence:
I am a great mum because….. I am me..I am there for her for whatever she needs and always will be.
I find the discipline difficult sometimes too, my mum is always telling me I am too harsh on my girls but my inner teacher and love for order takes over sometimes!
You can find out more about Sophie and her world over at her blog Mum, M and More.
She is also on Twitter so go say hi!
If you would like to take part in my Real Mums series then email me at katy@whatkatysaid.com. x