We ask four mummy bloggers what it actually means to be a parent; you may be surprised at their answers…
From sharing valuable life lessons they’d like to pass on to their children, to revealing their most precious parenting moment, here four UAE mummy bloggers offer some honest insights…
Kat Lebrasse
See her blog at: lebrasse.com
What’s the best thing about being a mum?
The absolute joy I get from Poppy every single day. Nothing beats being witness to all of the new developments she makes and the complete innocence of the smile she beams when she realises she’s achieved something new. I’m also undeniably partial to the fact that I now have an infallible companion wherever I go. We’re besties!
What’s your fondest mommy moment so far?
Every day is special, but if I have to choose just one it would be the first moment Poppy learnt to kiss. It’s actually very new to her skill set. Just the other day I went to smother her with my usual bevy of kisses and she leant forward to smack one right back to me on the lips. It was unbelievably precious.
What’s the most valuable lesson your mum ever gave you that you would like to pass on to your daughter?
Be yourself unapologetically. It’s very important to me that Poppy is happy within herself and understands that she is her own individual. I hope that she grows into a strong, self-confident woman.
How and where will you celebrate Mother’s Day?
Our family will celebrate Mother’s Day over a roast lunch on the beautiful terrace of Gaucho in DIFC. Seeing as the weather in Dubai is still outdoor-friendly, I like to make the most of it and get as much fresh air as possible.
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Helen Farmer
See her blog at: The Mothership
What’s the best thing about being a mum?
Everything is new. I have discovered a reservoir of love to give my daughter that I never knew existed, and it never seems to diminish (although it’s definitely more of a puddle when she’s wailing at 4am ). Seeing her grow and develop, and find joy in everything, is wonderful, and it has been eye-opening to have a purpose beyond myself.
What’s your fondest mummy moment so far?
There are so many, from big milestones to fleeting moments that have added up to this amazing little person. At the moment though, it’s hearing her laugh – and it’s a proper cackle, that’s full of mischief.
What’s the most valuable lesson your mum ever gave you that you would like to pass on to your daughter?
That you can only do your best in that moment. There’s so much pressure on mums, from ‘successful’ breastfeeding to making sure they get into the best schools, but a lot of pressure is self-inflicted. I forgive myself more since becoming a mum – I’m trying my best, and sometimes that means Phoebe eats chicken nuggets and watches TV (shock horror…) so I can get some peace, and sometimes it means cooking up fresh food and reading her stories for hours. If you can look back on your day and think ‘I did my best’ then you’re doing great in my book.
How and where will you celebrate Mother’s Day?
I’m dropping some pretty heavy hints about breakfast in bed, then will spend the morning with Phoebe at the beach and get some work done before dinner at home with my husband.
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Louis Emma Clarke
See her blog at: Mum of Boys
What’s the best thing about being a mum?
It sounds obvious, but I love watching two little people grow up. It happens so slowly you hardly notice, but one day, you wake up and your baby has turned into a child, with their own personalities, interests and ideas about the world. That’s just an amazing privilege to watch. The pressure to get it right can be overwhelming at times, but I count my lucky stars for them every single day.
What’s your fondest mummy moment so far?
The first time that the boys played together. Wilfred was about nine months old and just learning to crawl. It had been a hard nine months learning to juggle two children under two without any family around, but here was the reward. He chased his brother around the house on his hands and knees, while they both squealed with laughter. It was a glimpse of the future and since that moment, their relationship has grown stronger by the day (albeit the odd fight over who owns a toy).
What’s the most valuable lesson your mum ever gave you that you would like to pass on to your children?
Everything in moderation. My siblings and I spent most of our time on our bikes outside our house, running around the garden, eating healthy home-cooked food, and partaking in every sport under the sun after school, but on the flip-side, my mum wasn’t the kind to ban watching TV, outlaw the occasional McDonalds, or crack down on penny sweets from the corner shop when we got our pocket money. We were healthy, active kids and we knew that the treats were just that; occasional treats. This is definitely my philosophy on motherhood too. My boys love running, jumping, and scooting – but they enjoy the odd ice cream and lazy weekend movie too. The perfect balance.
How and where will you celebrate Mother’s day?
Mother’s Day isn’t a big deal in our house, as they boys are too young to be aware of it, which means they rely on their Dad! That usually means a hastily purchased card when my back is turned in the supermarket. I don’t honestly mind, as the boys make me feel appreciated every day, and as corny as it sounds, they are my reward. Luckily for my husband, Wilfred’s nursery has organised a Mother’s Day event this year where I’m invited into the classroom to do some craft with him. It’s a lovely idea, and coming home with something we have made together beats a big bunch of flowers any day.
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Corrine Fuchs
See her blog at: Mommyindubai
What’s the best thing about being a mum?
My children are my trophies and give me energy to live and make the best of each day. They give me a purpose to live life to the fullest. Everyday is a new adventure; sometimes challenging but nevertheless it is rewarding. It is such a powerful feeling to love them unconditionally and see them maneuver through life’s challenges with me by their side. Not to mention my number one fan club.
What’s your fondest mummy moment so far?
Every day is a moment I cherish for life. Be it a bike ride in our community; spending a sunny morning gardening while the kids help me sow and plant seeds and pick fresh fruit and vegetables off the trees we once planted together now baring fruit; travelling around the world making memories; and enjoying the great outdoors and sights of UAE. And I can’t forget the most important words that melt my heart like butter…hearing my little ones tell me how much they love me!
What’s the most valuable lesson your mum ever gave you that you would like to pass on to your children?
Practice makes perfect.
How and where will you celebrate Mother’s Day?
Seeing as I am Canadian, sadly I will have to wait until Sunday May 8th! Mother’s Day is usually a day I get to have all for myself. I like to start ‘my day’ with my children and husband at my favourite breakfast spot. I then spoil myself with “me time” which most likely will involve some type of spa treatment (mani/pedi).
Images: Supplied
