BATH BOOK BED

A ROUTINE FOR LIFE ISSUE 235 JULY & AUGUST 2018

As a 32-year-old first-time mom, I’m enjoying every step of the way. I’m amazed by how I know exactly what to do with James. There’s a deep connection with your child and your inner self that’s indescribable.

It can get very busy. Being a perfectionist, I never imagined me functioning in a house where things – even myself – are just a big mess sometimes. Toys lying all over, food or tea left half-way, and the kitchen getting left in a state.

I must keep track of important dates like his vaccinations and the household admin. I’ve come to love these crazy little things.

Motherhood comes with its own challenges but you quickly learn and move on. One of my biggest was not being able to breastfeed. I had to make peace with putting James on the bottle full-time.

The first few months were hectic. I had postnatal depression. James had gastroesophageal reflux. But today these are all things of the past.

I wouldn’t change motherhood for anything in the world. I have come to grow on this new journey, which is taking me places I’ve never imagined. OLIVIA BRITAIN, CAPE TOWN

A R700 BABY CITY GIFT VOUCHER GOES TO THE BEST LETTER EACH MONTH. SO SHARE YOUR VIEWS ON PARENTING, AND YOUR STORY COULD MAKE YOU A WINNER!