What I Thought It Was Going to Be Like Being a Mum vs How It Really Is

To be completely honest, baby life is a lot like I imagined. I was under no illusion that it would be easy. We had a LOT of time to consider how different life would be after trying for three years. Plus, I wanted a baby years before J was ready, so I’d been imagining life with a little one for about seven years before Monty came along.

We were always pretty low-key, so I figured a baby would fit perfectly into our lives. I much prefer a cosy night at home over a night out anyway. But even with all that mental prep, there have been a few surprises along the way.

There’s a lot less time for us as a couple and for ourselves individually. It’s also getting harder as Monty gets older—fewer naps mean less time to work or get things done, and I find myself constantly thinking of ways to entertain him. Our days are split into blocks of responsibility: baby, dogs, work, house. Sometimes it feels like we’re just passing the baton back and forth, and we don’t truly get to spend time together until the weekend.

I didn’t expect time to be so dictated by nap times, feed times, and play times. Some days can feel so regimented, and leaving the house is a full-on mission. There’s so much to remember and take with us that it sometimes feels like packing for a mini holiday! I also feel like there’s only so much of me to go around. Once I’ve given my time to Monty, the dogs, keeping the house tidy, cooking, and spending quality time with J, there’s just no time left for myself. I do miss those 5pm moments where I’d light candles and curl up in bed with my laptop.

Through it all, I’ve learned some big lessons: Patience. I used to be the most impatient person ever, but Monty’s taught me to slow down and relax a little. I’ve also developed a new level of empathy. I did have empathy before but sparingly, if I’m honest. Now, when Monty cries, I feel so calm and understanding, knowing he’s just having a tough time. It’s spilled over into all areas of my life too.

I’ve learned to take each day as it comes. Some days are harder than others, and my energy levels are all over the place. I’ve realized I just have to go with the flow. I’ve also learned the importance of making the bed every single day. I used to be so strict about it, and since Monty came along, it’s slipped sometimes. But having one tidy, serene space at the end of the day makes me feel like I’ve got my life together, even when everything else is chaos.

The biggest lesson? Trusting my instincts. I heard this all the time before having Monty, but you don’t fully get it until you’re in it. Somehow, you just KNOW what your baby needs. And just as importantly, I’ve learned to let J figure things out too. As a mum, it’s so tempting to swoop in when Monty’s crying because I know what to do. But it’s crucial to step back and let J find his own way as a dad.

Motherhood is everything I imagined and so much more. It’s exhausting, overwhelming, and absolutely magical all at once. And I wouldn’t change it for the world.

Monty’s Favorite Toys

Monty absolutely loves his tummy time mirror toy, dinosaur bath toys, galaxy star projector, and dancing saxophone caterpillar! The mirror keeps him engaged during tummy time, while the dinosaur bath toys make bath time fun and playful. The galaxy star projector creates a calming bedtime atmosphere, and the dancing saxophone caterpillar always gets him smiling and entertained!

Some Of Our Favorite Baby Products

We use Infacol, HiPP Organic Formula, Aveeno 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner, and Aveeno Moisturizing Lotion every day for Monty! Infacol helps relieve his gas, and he loves the HiPP formula—it’s gentle on his tummy. The Aveeno shampoo keeps his hair soft, and the lotion keeps his skin smooth. These products are daily must-haves for us!

My Go To Mom Products For Self Care

I love using Revive Collagen, the Neom Night Sleep Diffuser, Neom Sleep Oil Blend, and my hair turban! Revive Collagen has been amazing for my hair growth and skin, giving me a healthy glow. The Neom Night Sleep Diffuser and Sleep Oil Blend are lifesavers when I need a good night's rest—they create the most relaxing atmosphere. And my hair turban is perfect for wrapping my hair after a shower, keeping it smooth and frizz-free. These products are must-haves in my routine!