The Mama Perspective | Mum Blog

Wow, my first Christmas as a mum of two has been magical, but it’s also been hard. The lead up is pretty draining, making sure everything is done, with support from their daddy of course. But still, I wish for a couple of quiet moments in the day. I long for the kids’ bedtime so I can then go to sleep – mostly when my youngest goes, I go too, to be honest.

I’ve been lucky to be on maternity leave and not have to worry about returning to work just yet, although it is actually a bit of a worry in my mind. I suppose that’s normal though. Motherhood has a way of holding excitement and worry at the same time.

Now, the house is cleared of rubbish – all the wrapping paper, boxes, and plastic packaging gone. And I do love a fresh house, even if it’s for two minutes before the chaos of toys and noise continues. All of the new toys and clothes have “a home,” as I like to call it, and there isn’t a present that my boys don’t love. They’re grateful, and we are too as their mum and dad, but the most important thing for us is presence over presents.

What was special about this Christmas?

It was Jack’s first Christmas, and he turned 7 months old on Christmas Day. It’s also the first year that Freddy has shown a clear understanding of Christmas – the countdown for Santa coming with his reindeers, delivering presents, leaving a carrot, cookie, and milk out! Then to ask on Christmas morning, “Why didn’t Rudolph finish all of the carrot?!” You realise how much you really need to learn and answer for when you have a kid in the “why” stage, don’t you?

Freddy’s excitement was the best part for me – and also the fact that he got his baby brother involved, even if he did want to open Jack’s presents as well as his own. The love between my two boys has grown stronger, and for that, my heart couldn’t be fuller. We’re seven months into this family-of-four life, and we didn’t get the picture-perfect moments early on, but over Christmas we’ve taken a few and they’re ones I’ll remember forever.

What a year it’s been

This year has also been a year of growth for me. A year of learning to say no when I don’t want to say yes, instead of doing it just to please someone. Becoming a mum has done that to me – especially becoming a mum of two – and in the best way. I’m learning to protect my energy, my time, and my presence, because that’s what my boys need most.

This Christmas was loud and tiring but real and full of love. And honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.