The last year has been a tough one. It seems weird writing this type of post in April, but at the end of my first year at university and through the summer, I had a really bumpy, up and down time.
I set fire to my kitchen and had someone smash into me on a driving test (yes really). Now though, I feel like I have come really far and I’m proud of myself. I’ve booked up my next attempt at a driving test (I left it for a year to get my confidence back) and have almost finished year two at university.
This year, I also feel that I have become a better parent. I feel I have become more patient and lenient with Lily. I am very much in the ‘super strict’ parent camp. I thought it would be the best style for me, and although I still am quite strict, I’ve learnt to pick my battles wisely.
A friend of mine commented the other day that “living with a toddler is like living with a girl constantly on her period – you’re constantly walking on eggshells!” and they’re right. Toddlers are some of the most independent little souls you’ll find. I find myself continuously hearing the phrase “I do it myself mummy thanks” and all you can do is let them get on with it!
It’s hard to do that comfortably. As a parent, your natural instincts are to protect and care for and you’ve spent the past couple of years doing everything for them. I never expected I’d have to let go of that until Lily was much older, but even the smallest things have started to become her things. The biggest shock was potty training. She needed our help before, whereas now, she will happily go by herself, wipe and wash her hands and needs very little help.
I’m proud that I’ve been able to let her have that bit of freedom to start thinking about what she is doing and how she can do it by herself. Fingers crossed I will be able to let go when she’s older too.
What is hard for you about letting go of the small things? I’m sure it’s the hardest part of parenting because you don’t expect it.
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