Just Another Mum Blog

Parenthood is messy, exhausting, and full of “I can’t do this” moments — and that’s okay. Small Steps is my approach to parenting without shame, embracing the tiny wins, and trying again when we can. One small step at a time.

I spent pregnancy imagining motherhood as cosy lattes, wholesome routines, and a baby who definitely wouldn’t fling food at the dog. Reality? I’ve downed more reheated tea than sleep, my toddler crawls around pants-free like it’s a lifestyle, and Ms Rachel has basically become my third parent. Here’s my brutally honest, mildly chaotic, accidentally funny recap of my first 12 months of motherhood — expectation vs reality, in all its messy glory.

These are the toys that actually get played with — not just stared at, ignored, or launched across the room. From a wooden farm box to a DIY box castle ball pit, my 1-year-old’s favourites spark imagination, support independent play, and even give me a few precious minutes of peace.

Mum rage isn’t a failure — it’s often unmet support. A personal, honest look at maternal rage and why silence makes it worse.

Handprint Christmas ornaments that actually survive the festive chaos 🎄 Minimal ingredients, zero painting, and perfect keepsakes — even if your little one disagrees with the process. Fun, simple, and very real.

🌱 Why I Started a TV Detox When I thought about the kind of mother I wanted to be, I imagined days full of activities, learning, connection — and no one zoning out in front of a screen. So when I decided to try a TV detox, it wasn’t out of confidence. It came from guilt and shame. I had started leaning on the TV to get through the days — something I never imagined I would do — and it made me feel like I was failing. What I didn’t realise at the time was how much screen time

🤯 OMG teething . WHY? Why did evolution say, “You know what would be fun? Let’s give babies razor-sharp gums and make them chew their way to teeth while their parents slowly crumble.” If seeing your baby in pain isn’t enough, there’s also the biting, the oceans of drool, and the kind of sleepless nights that make you question every life choice you’ve ever made. But fear not — here are the five things that saved my sanity (or at least slowed the decline). Some links in this p