The bad and your parenting journey

From Burnout to Purpose: How I Started My Business Supporting Parents of Premature Babies and Neurodiverse Families

Burnout isn’t something that happens overnight. It creeps up slowly, taking over bit by bit until you wake up one day feeling completely drained, with nothing left to give. That was me. Before the pandemic hit, I was working every single day without a break, pushing myself to the absolute limit. I was completely frazzled, physically and mentally exhausted, but I didn’t stop. I couldn’t stop. I felt like I had to keep going because slowing down felt like failure.

The Breaking Point Before Lockdown

I didn’t realise just how much I was running on empty until the world suddenly stopped. When the first lockdown was announced, it was—strangely—a relief. For the first time in what felt like forever, I was forced to slow down. At first, it felt unsettling. I had spent so long running on autopilot that stopping felt unnatural. But as the days passed, I realised something important: I had been ignoring myself, my health, and my well-being.

That pause gave me time to reflect, to reset, and to learn something I should have embraced long ago—listening to my body.

A Lesson I Wasn’t Ready to Accept

You would think that after nearly dying from sepsis, I would have learnt the importance of rest. When I was 15 minutes away from not surviving, my body had given me the clearest warning it possibly could. And yet, once I had recovered, I went straight back into the mindset of pushing through, ignoring the fact that I was no longer the person I used to be.

The truth is, I didn’t want to accept that my body had changed. That I had changed. I compartmentalised the experience, trying to move past it instead of acknowledging the lesson it was trying to teach me. It wasn’t until I became a mum that I fully embraced that lesson—because now, my well-being didn’t just affect me. It affected my daughter.

Building a Business with Purpose

Becoming a mother changed everything. It made me reflect on my own journey of being born prematurely, my struggles growing up, and the challenges my husband and I face as a neurodiverse family. It also made me realise that there are so many parents out there who feel isolated, who are struggling to navigate life with a premature baby or a neurodivergent child, and who just need to know they are not alone.

That’s why I started my business.

I wanted to create something meaningful—something that would provide support, empathy, and understanding for parents who feel overwhelmed. Whether it’s helping parents adjust after their baby’s NICU journey, providing a space for families navigating neurodiversity, or simply offering reassurance that they are doing the best they can—I wanted to be part of that.

And do you know what? It’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.

Listening to My Body and Prioritising Rest

The biggest shift for me has been truly listening to my body. If I need to rest, I rest. If I feel myself becoming overwhelmed, I take a step back. Because I now understand that pushing through exhaustion doesn’t make me stronger—it only leads to another crash.

I’ve learnt that slowing down isn’t failure. It’s necessary. It’s what allows me to continue helping others without sacrificing myself in the process.

Final Thoughts

Starting my business has been a journey of both personal and professional growth. It has allowed me to turn my struggles into something that can help others, and it has taught me to respect my own limits.

If you’re a parent of a premature baby or navigating neurodiversity, know this: You don’t have to do it alone. And if you’re someone who has been running on empty, pushing through without stopping—please listen to your body. Rest isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

If my journey resonates with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Let’s support each other. Like and subscribe to stay connected, and let’s build a community that understands, supports, and uplifts.

What’s the thing you’re most scared to do? What would it take to get you to do it?

The Lack of Mental Health Care During a Difficult Pregnancy: When You’re Unsure Your Little One Will Make It

Pregnancy is often portrayed as a time of joy, anticipation, and excitement. But for many parents, especially those facing complications, it is a period of intense fear, grief, and uncertainty. When your baby’s survival is in question, the world feels like it is standing still—yet the support for your mental health is often lacking.

Despite growing awareness around perinatal mental health, there remains a huge gap in care for parents experiencing high-risk pregnancies, recurrent loss, or the fear that their baby may not survive. I know this from experience, and I hear it echoed in the stories of so many other parents who have been through similar journeys.

Navigating a Pregnancy Filled With Fear

When I was pregnant with Amelia, I felt an overwhelming sense of anxiety and dread. I knew she was going to be born early, and I knew the risks that came with that. Every scan, every test, every moment of stillness in my womb carried the weight of uncertainty. And yet, throughout that terrifying journey, mental health support was almost non-existent.

Pregnancy-related mental health care is often reserved for postnatal depression or anxiety that emerges after birth, but what about the trauma that happens during pregnancy? What about the sleepless nights spent wondering if your baby will survive? The hospital visits filled with statistics and difficult conversations? The silent grief of preparing for a loss while still hoping for a miracle?

For parents in these situations, the usual support systems don’t always apply. Antenatal classes focus on birth plans, breastfeeding, and preparing for a healthy newborn. But what if your pregnancy is one of survival rather than celebration?

The Gaps in Mental Health Support

It’s estimated that 1 in 5 women experience a perinatal mental health condition, yet care is often reactive rather than proactive. If you’re lucky, you might have a midwife who notices your distress and refers you to a perinatal mental health team. But for many parents, the assumption is that the focus should be on the baby’s survival, not the emotional toll the pregnancy is taking.

Some key gaps in mental health care during a difficult pregnancy include:

• Lack of emotional support at scans and appointments – When you’re being told your baby is at risk, there’s rarely anyone there to support you emotionally. The focus is purely on the medical facts.

• No routine mental health checks for high-risk pregnancies – Despite the well-documented links between traumatic pregnancy experiences and postnatal PTSD, many parents are left to cope on their own.

• Few specialist services for those facing neonatal loss or extreme prematurity – Parents who know they may not bring their baby home often have to seek out their own support, rather than having it integrated into their care.

• A system that prioritises the physical over the emotional – Medical teams focus on what they can do to save your baby, but the emotional well-being of the parent often becomes an afterthought.

The Emotional Toll of Not Knowing

One of the hardest things about a difficult pregnancy is the not knowing. It’s living in limbo—trying to hope but fearing the worst. It’s being told to “stay positive” when you know the reality is far more complex. It’s trying to bond with a baby while protecting yourself from heartbreak.

For many parents, this uncertainty leads to:

• Heightened anxiety and panic attacks

• Sleep disturbances and nightmares

• Isolation from friends and family who don’t understand the experience

• Guilt for not being able to enjoy pregnancy like others

• Depression and emotional numbness

And yet, unless parents actively seek out support—often through charities or peer groups—many are left to carry this weight alone.

What Needs to Change?

There is a desperate need for better perinatal mental health care for parents going through complicated pregnancies. Some key changes that could make a huge difference include:

• Automatic referrals to perinatal mental health teams for high-risk pregnancies – If a pregnancy carries significant risks, parents should be proactively offered psychological support, not have to fight for it.

• Mental health professionals present at difficult medical appointments – Every time a parent is given distressing news, there should be someone there to help them process it.

• Bereavement and trauma-informed care integrated into antenatal services – Whether or not a baby survives, parents should be supported in navigating the emotional toll of their experience.

• Recognition that mental health care in pregnancy is just as important as physical health care – Emotional trauma doesn’t wait until after birth to take hold. It starts during pregnancy, and the earlier it’s acknowledged, the better the outcomes for both parent and baby.

Breaking the Silence

If you are currently going through a difficult pregnancy, please know that your feelings are valid. You do not have to put on a brave face or pretend that everything is okay. It’s okay to grieve, to feel afraid, to struggle. And if no one is offering you the support you need, keep asking—because you deserve that support.

To those who have been through this journey and felt unseen, unheard, and unsupported, I see you. Your pain, your strength, your love—it all matters. And it’s time the healthcare system started recognising that, too.

Have you experienced a lack of mental health support during a difficult pregnancy? Let’s start the conversation—share your thoughts in the comments. And if this post resonates with you, please like and subscribe for more discussions on parenting, mental health, and navigating life’s hardest moments.

References & Further Reading

• Sands UK – Pregnancy loss and baby death charity: www.sands.org.uk

• Tommy’s – Pregnancy and baby loss research and support: www.tommys.org

• Maternal Mental Health Alliance – Perinatal mental health care: www.maternalmentalhealthalliance.org

• Birth Trauma Association – Support for birth trauma and PTSD: www.birthtraumaassociation.org.uk

What do you complain about the most?

The Psychological Impact of Incontinence: Why Aren’t We Talking About This?

This morning, as I was getting dressed, I sneezed—and that was it. Pee on the floor. And in that moment, all the frustration, embarrassment, and sadness that I’d tried to push away came flooding back.

I’ve struggled with incontinence for as long as I can remember. As a child, I always had difficulty holding it in, and only years later did I find out that it was linked to my hypermobility and nerve damage. But before having my daughter, Amelia, I was too embarrassed to speak to anyone about it. I lived in quiet discomfort, brushing it aside, telling myself it wasn’t a big deal, or that I should just “deal with it.”

Then Amelia arrived, and everything got worse.

Why Are We So Embarrassed?

Incontinence, especially after childbirth, is incredibly common. We know this. We hear the statistics—one in three women experience postpartum urinary incontinence. But somehow, despite its prevalence, it remains a taboo topic.

We talk about feeding struggles. We talk about sleep deprivation. We talk about mental health challenges (and even that took a long time to be accepted). But when it comes to incontinence? Silence.

There’s an overwhelming sense of shame tied to bladder control issues, as if we’ve failed some invisible test of adulthood. Society tells us that losing control of bodily functions is something that happens in childhood or in old age—not in the prime of our lives, not when we’re raising our children. And that stigma makes it incredibly hard to ask for help.

The Emotional Toll of Incontinence

Living with incontinence isn’t just a physical struggle—it’s a psychological one too.

• Embarrassment and Isolation – The fear of accidents in public can make you want to withdraw from social situations. You second-guess leaving the house. You worry about car journeys, shopping trips, or even just standing in the playground at school pickup.

• Loss of Control – There’s something deeply unsettling about not being able to trust your own body. It chips away at your confidence. You feel betrayed by something that should be automatic.

• Impact on Mental Health – When you’re constantly worried about leaks, when you have to plan your life around toilet access, or when you feel like your body is no longer your own, it can take a huge toll on your mental wellbeing. Anxiety and depression are common in people with incontinence, but we don’t talk about that either.

My Turning Point: Seeking Help

For years, I suffered in silence. I assumed this was just my life now. It wasn’t until after having Amelia—when things got significantly worse—that I finally sought help. And you know what? I wish I had done it sooner.

There are options. There is support. And more importantly, there is absolutely no shame in needing that help.

Breaking the Silence

So why isn’t this conversation happening openly? Why are so many of us suffering in silence, pretending it’s not happening, making jokes about “mum wees” to cover up how deeply it affects us?

Because no one starts the conversation.

And that’s what I want to change.

If you’re struggling with incontinence—whether it started in childhood, after pregnancy, or for another reason—you are not alone. It doesn’t make you less of a parent, less of a person, or less of anything. It’s a medical condition, not a personal failure.

And it’s time we start talking about it.

Call to Action

Have you experienced incontinence after childbirth? Let’s open up the conversation. Share your experiences in the comments, or if you’re not comfortable doing that, send me a message. The more we talk about this, the more we normalise it—and the more people will feel empowered to get the help they deserve.

And if you found this helpful, please like, share, and subscribe—because you never know who might need to hear this today.

Rugby, Dancing, and a Welsh Girl’s Love for Sport

Sport is something that can bring people together, stir up national pride, and create unforgettable moments. For me, rugby has always been my favourite sport to watch—though, to be fair, as a Welsh girl, I probably didn’t have much of a choice in the matter. Rugby isn’t just a sport in Wales; it’s part of our identity. If I had dared to say I didn’t like it, I might have been politely (or not so politely) shown the border!

Rugby: More Than Just a Game in Wales

For many of us in Wales, rugby isn’t just about the tries, the tackles, or the tension-filled moments of a Six Nations match—it’s about the heart and soul of our country. The atmosphere in the stadium, the sound of the anthem being belted out with passion, and the collective joy (or heartbreak) of the nation depending on the final whistle—there’s nothing quite like it.

Some of my favourite memories involve watching rugby, whether it’s an intense match that has me on the edge of my seat or just enjoying the camaraderie of supporting Wales with family and friends. Even if you’re not a massive sports fan, rugby in Wales is almost unavoidable. It’s in the schools, the pubs, the streets—you’ll hear discussions about the latest game or the upcoming season almost everywhere. And honestly, I love it.

Dancing: The Sport That Stole My Heart

While rugby is my favourite to watch, when it comes to actually participating in something active, I wouldn’t say I was ever into sports in the traditional sense. Instead, I found my love in dancing. Now, I’ll be the first to admit that I wasn’t exactly the most talented dancer, but that never stopped me from enjoying it.

Dancing is one of those things that lets you completely lose yourself in the moment. Whether it’s structured classes or just moving to music in the living room, it’s an incredible way to express emotions, feel free, and just have fun. The beauty of dancing is that it doesn’t matter if you’re good or not—you just have to love it. And I did.

Finding Joy in Sport, Whatever That May Be

Rugby and dancing might seem like two completely different worlds—one rough and tough, the other graceful and expressive—but for me, they both represent the same thing: passion. Sport isn’t just about winning or losing; it’s about the feeling it gives you. Whether it’s the adrenaline rush of watching a last-minute try or the pure joy of losing yourself in music, both experiences bring something special.

I might not be out on a rugby pitch or perfecting dance moves anymore, but the love for both stays with me. Rugby will always have a special place in my heart as part of my Welsh identity, and dancing will always remind me that joy doesn’t have to come from being the best—it comes from simply loving what you do.

What About You?

Do you have a sport that you love to watch or play? Is it something you grew up with, like rugby in Wales, or something you discovered along the way? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories!

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What are your favorite sports to watch and play?

If I Won the Lottery: How Money Could Help Me Support Families in Need

Winning the lottery is a dream many of us have imagined—but for me, it’s more than just about financial freedom. It’s about how money can be a powerful tool to make a difference. It could give me the opportunity to help parents of premature babies and neurodivergent families in ways I’ve always dreamed of.

While money doesn’t solve everything, it can enable us to create systems of support that make a lasting impact on people’s lives. For me, that would mean building a network of care, counselling services, and retreats to support families navigating their unique challenges.

Supporting My Family First

Before anything else, I’d ensure my family’s needs are taken care of. Like any parent, I want to make sure my daughter’s future is secure and that we have the stability to focus on what really matters. But once my family is looked after, I would turn my attention to helping others.

Building a Team to Help Families

One of the first things I’d do is hire a team of professionals to join me in my mission. Money can’t buy passion, but it can allow me to bring together skilled people who care about supporting parents of premature babies and neurodivergent children.

This team would include counsellors, mental health professionals, educators, and advocates—all focused on creating a system of care that supports families in ways that are practical, emotional, and empowering.

Creating a Mental Health Counselling Service

The emotional toll of having a premature baby or raising a neurodivergent child is immense. Parents often experience trauma, anxiety, and burnout but may not have access to the support they need.

With financial backing, I would establish a dedicated counselling service for these families. This wouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all approach—it would be tailored to the unique challenges parents face, offering specialised mental health support and practical strategies to help them thrive.

Expanding Retreats for Parents

The retreats I’m planning through The Good, The Bad, and Your Parenting Journey would also become bigger and better. I want to create safe, nurturing spaces where parents can recharge, connect with others who understand their journey, and access resources like counselling and workshops.

With the financial ability to expand these retreats, I could make them accessible to more families, adding resources like on-site child care and covering costs for those who might otherwise not be able to attend. These retreats wouldn’t just be a break—they’d be a lifeline.

Using Money as a Force for Good

While winning the lottery might seem like an unlikely dream, the truth is that money can be a powerful tool to help people. With the right resources, I could make these ideas a reality faster—but that doesn’t mean they’re impossible without it. Every step I take, even without a lottery win, is about moving closer to these goals of support, compassion, and empowerment.

A Call to Action

Money can help create change, but so can community. If this vision resonates with you, I’d love for you to join me in building it. Follow The Good, The Bad, and Your Parenting Journey, like, subscribe, and share this mission with others. Together, we can create a world where families of premature babies and neurodivergent children feel seen, supported, and empowered.

References

• Personal experiences as a parent of a premature baby and neurodivergent family member.

• The mission of The Good, The Bad, and Your Parenting Journey.

• Planned retreats and counselling services under development.

What would you do if you won the lottery?

Looking Forward to Reading Classics with Amelia: Rediscovering Roald Dahl’s Magic

As a parent, one of the greatest joys I’ve experienced is introducing Amelia to the world of books. Watching her little eyes light up as we dive into stories is nothing short of magical. It’s a reminder of how stories can connect us, spark our imaginations, and sometimes teach us important lessons in the gentlest of ways.

One author I’ve been particularly looking forward to sharing with Amelia is Roald Dahl. His books hold a special place in my heart, not just because they’re wonderfully quirky, but because they’ve stood the test of time, enchanting generations of children and adults alike.

Among his works, The Vicar of Nibbleswicke is one that I can’t wait to read with her. It’s one of those hidden gems that doesn’t often get as much attention as Matilda or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, but its message and humour make it so special.

For those who haven’t read it, The Vicar of Nibbleswicke is a short, light-hearted story about a vicar who develops a unique form of dyslexia after moving to a new parish. He begins to say words backwards without realising it, leading to hilarious misunderstandings. But beneath the humour is a gentle nudge towards compassion and understanding for those who experience the world differently.

As a parent navigating my own journey with neurodiversity, I find the story’s message particularly meaningful. It’s a wonderful way to introduce Amelia to the idea that everyone’s brains work a little differently and that’s perfectly okay. Books like this help start conversations about kindness and acceptance—conversations I want Amelia to grow up having.

Roald Dahl’s ability to weave important messages into his stories without losing that sense of fun is what makes his books timeless. I can picture us giggling together over the silly mix-ups in The Vicar of Nibbleswicke, and maybe even using it as a springboard to talk about some of the quirks we all have.

Of course, I’m also looking forward to diving into some of Dahl’s other classics with Amelia—whether it’s learning about bravery and wit in Matilda, or dreaming big in James and the Giant Peach. These stories don’t just entertain; they teach, inspire, and create lifelong memories.

For now, though, I’m cherishing the excitement of knowing these moments are ahead. Sharing these timeless tales will be as much about rediscovering them myself as it is about watching Amelia discover them for the first time.

If you’re a fellow parent, what are some of your favourite childhood classics that you can’t wait to share with your little ones? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to add some new recommendations to our reading list!

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References:

• Dahl, R. The Vicar of Nibbleswicke. London: Jonathan Cape, 1991.

• Dahl, R. Various works. Accessible via Penguin Random House UK.

What books do you want to read?

A Rainy Day Tradition: Family Fun in Whitby

When I think back to my childhood, one tradition always brings a smile to my face: our family holidays to Whitby. It wasn’t just my family; we went with my mum and dad’s best friends and their children. These trips were packed with laughter, connection, and the occasional rainy day activity that would unknowingly shape me for years to come.

Anyone who knows the unpredictability of British weather will understand why rainy day plans were essential. On one such wet day, our parents introduced us to what became a cherished tradition: jigsaw races.

We’d split into teams, usually pairing the younger ones with an easier puzzle while the adults tackled something far more challenging. My team always had a 50-piece puzzle, while the grown-ups wrestled with a 1,000-piece masterpiece. The race was on, with plenty of cheering and excitement as each piece fell into place.

Once the jigsaws were completed, the fun wasn’t over—we’d move on to bingo. I can still hear the numbers being called out and remember the thrill of winning a prize, no matter how small.

At the time, I just thought it was all about having fun. Now, I can see the deeper purpose behind those activities. The jigsaw puzzles helped with motor skills, focus, and problem-solving, while bingo was a fun way to learn numbers and develop social skills. Without even realising it, we were learning through play.

Looking back, I appreciate how these simple traditions connected us as a family and created a sense of belonging. They taught me how little moments, like piecing together a jigsaw on a rainy day, can leave a lasting impression.

Today, I try to carry those lessons forward with my own family. I want to create traditions that bring joy, connection, and even a bit of learning along the way.

What about you? Do you have any family traditions from childhood that you cherish? Have you created new ones with your loved ones? Let’s share ideas to keep the magic of family traditions alive.

Call to Action:

If you enjoyed reading this, please like, share, or comment with your own family traditions. Let’s inspire each other to create memories that last a lifetime!

Write about a few of your favorite family traditions.

Why Self-Care Is a Must for Every Parent

Parenting is one of the most rewarding yet challenging roles we’ll ever take on. As parents, we often pour so much of ourselves into looking after our children that we forget about our own needs. Yet, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Taking care of yourself benefits not only your mental and physical health but also your children and family as a whole. Here’s why self-care is a must for every parent and how you can make it a priority in your daily life.

The Importance of Self-Care in Parenting

Parenting is like running a marathon. To keep going, you need energy, resilience, and focus—and self-care is the fuel that keeps you moving forward. Here are some key reasons why self-care is crucial:

1. Your Well-Being Impacts Your Child’s Well-Being

Children are incredibly perceptive, and they absorb the emotional energy around them. When you’re stressed, exhausted, or overwhelmed, it can affect their mood and sense of security. By prioritising self-care, you model healthy habits for your children and create a calmer, more stable environment.

2. Preventing Burnout

Parenting can be physically and emotionally draining, especially when juggling work, family, and other responsibilities. Without taking time to recharge, it’s easy to reach the point of burnout. Regular self-care helps you manage stress and maintain the energy you need to meet the demands of parenting.

3. Strengthening Relationships

When you’re rested and emotionally balanced, you’re better equipped to nurture positive relationships—not just with your children but with your partner, friends, and family. Self-care enables you to be present and engaged in these relationships.

What Does Self-Care Look Like for Parents?

Self-care doesn’t have to mean extravagant spa days or lengthy getaways (though those are nice too!). It’s about integrating small, meaningful habits into your routine that replenish your energy and improve your well-being. Here are some ideas:

• Sleep: Prioritise getting enough rest. If you have a newborn or young children, nap when they nap or ask for help to catch up on sleep.

• Nutrition: Eating well fuels your body and mind. Make time for balanced meals and stay hydrated.

• Exercise: Even a short walk can do wonders for your mood and energy levels.

• Hobbies: Engage in activities that bring you joy and allow you to unwind, whether it’s reading, gardening, painting, or crafting.

• Mindfulness: Practices like meditation, yoga, or simply taking deep breaths can help reduce stress and improve focus.

• Connection: Spend time with friends or join support groups where you can share experiences with other parents.

• Ask for Help: Whether it’s from your partner, family, or friends, don’t hesitate to lean on your support network.

Overcoming the Guilt of Self-Care

Many parents struggle with guilt when they take time for themselves. It’s important to remember that self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. When you care for yourself, you’re better equipped to care for your family.

Think of self-care as putting on your own oxygen mask first—you can’t help anyone else if you’re running on empty. Reframing self-care as an investment in your family’s well-being can help shift your perspective.

Creating a Self-Care Plan

Self-care isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one parent might not work for another. Start by identifying activities that help you feel rested, recharged, and happy. Then, schedule them into your routine, even if it’s just 10 minutes a day.

Here are some tips for making self-care a habit:

• Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to commitments that overwhelm you.

• Start Small: Incorporate simple self-care practices into your daily life.

• Plan Ahead: Schedule self-care activities like you would any other important appointment.

• Involve Your Partner: Share parenting responsibilities and support each other in finding time for self-care.

A Final Thought

Self-care isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present and healthy for yourself and your family. By prioritising your well-being, you’re not only improving your quality of life but also giving your children a happier, more resilient parent.

So, take a moment today to ask yourself: What do I need right now? Then, give yourself permission to make self-care a priority. Because when you take care of yourself, you’re taking care of your family too.

If you found this helpful, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this blog with other parents who might benefit. Let’s create a community where parents feel supported, understood, and empowered to thrive!

Discovering Llandudno: The Alice in Wonderland Trail

Llandudno, my picturesque hometown in North Wales, is known for its stunning views, charming Victorian architecture, and a fascinating connection to one of the most beloved children’s stories of all time: Alice in Wonderland. This connection is celebrated through a series of enchanting statues and installations dotted around the town, inviting visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in the whimsical world of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale.

The Alice in Wonderland Connection

The link between Llandudno and Alice in Wonderland lies in the real-life Alice Liddell, the inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s Alice. While there’s no definitive proof that Llandudno directly influenced Carroll’s work, Alice’s family frequently holidayed in the town, staying at Penmorfa, a grand house built by her father. This association has been lovingly embraced by Llandudno, bringing the fantastical characters of Wonderland to life throughout its streets.

The Alice in Wonderland Trail

One of the most exciting additions to Llandudno since I moved away has been the creation of the Alice in Wonderland Trail. This magical experience is not only a wonderful way to explore the town but also a chance to step into a storybook world. Featuring sculptures, interactive apps, and colourful artwork, the trail takes you on a journey to meet iconic characters such as the White Rabbit, the Mad Hatter, and the Queen of Hearts.

Here are some highlights of the trail:

1. The White Rabbit

Start your adventure by spotting the White Rabbit statue, a charming figure perched in the town centre, as if he’s checking his pocket watch and urging you to follow him deeper into Wonderland.

2. Alice Statue

A life-size bronze statue of Alice greets visitors in the Happy Valley Gardens. Her pose captures the curiosity and wonder of the story, making it a perfect photo opportunity.

3. Mad Hatter’s Tea Party

Near the Promenade, you’ll find the Mad Hatter enjoying his iconic tea party. The intricate details of this statue are a joy to discover, from the teacups to the mischievous expressions on the characters’ faces.

4. Queen of Hearts and the Playing Cards

Keep an eye out for the Queen of Hearts, whose regal yet slightly intimidating presence is softened by the whimsical playing cards that surround her.

Interactive Experiences

To enhance your visit, the Alice in Wonderland app offers an interactive guide to the trail. Using augmented reality, the app brings the statues to life, telling the story of Alice’s adventures as you explore. It’s an engaging way to keep children entertained while learning about the history of Llandudno and its connection to the tale.

A Personal Connection

Growing up in Llandudno, I always loved the town’s Victorian charm and natural beauty. Although the Alice in Wonderland statues and trail were created after I moved away, I’m thrilled to see this imaginative celebration of the town’s history. Later this year, I’m looking forward to returning with my daughter to explore the trail together. I can’t wait to share with her the magic of the characters and the special charm of my hometown.

Why Visit Llandudno for Alice in Wonderland?

Llandudno’s blend of Victorian charm and natural beauty makes it the perfect setting for this magical trail. You can stroll along the North Shore Promenade, take in the breathtaking views of the Great Orme, and lose yourself in the story of Wonderland. The trail not only celebrates Alice but also highlights the town’s rich heritage, making it a must-visit destination for families and literary enthusiasts alike.

Plan Your Visit

• Getting There: Llandudno is accessible by train, bus, and car, with plenty of parking options.

• Where to Stay: Choose from a range of accommodations, including family-friendly hotels and cosy B&Bs.

• Best Time to Visit: The trail is open year-round, but spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the gardens and seaside views.

Conclusion

Llandudno’s Alice in Wonderland statues and trail offer a magical experience that combines storytelling, art, and history. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Lewis Carroll’s tale or simply looking for a unique family outing, this charming town has something for everyone. I’m counting down the days until I can explore the trail with my daughter, creating new memories in the place that holds so many from my childhood.

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Name an attraction or town close to home that you still haven’t got around to visiting.

How Fun is Redefined as a Parent: Embracing the New Joys of Parenthood

Becoming a parent changes everything—your priorities, your routines, and even your definition of fun. Activities that once seemed like the pinnacle of enjoyment often take a back seat, replaced by new moments of joy that you couldn’t have imagined before. Parenthood is a shift, but it doesn’t mean you lose fun; instead, you discover a whole new world of happiness.

Here, I’ll explore five activities that were fun before becoming a parent and how they’ve evolved. I’ll also suggest five activities tailored for parents with young children that bring joy in this new chapter of life.

Five Activities That Were Fun Before Parenthood and How They’ve Changed

1. Spontaneous Nights Out

Before: Jumping in a taxi for a night of dinner, dancing, and late-night cocktails.

Now: “Spontaneous” is when the kids fall asleep early, and you binge-watch a series with snacks that don’t involve a bedtime story.

2. Lazy Sundays

Before: Sleeping in, reading in bed, and leisurely brunches.

Now: Mornings start early with cartoons and cereal spills, but the sound of your little one’s giggles as they play is a different kind of sweet reward.

3. Travel Adventures

Before: Jetting off to exotic destinations with an itinerary full of activities.

Now: Packing a suitcase full of nappies and snacks for a trip to the nearest zoo or park feels like a major expedition. But seeing the world through your child’s eyes brings magic to even the simplest outings.

4. Spa Days and Relaxation

Before: Long, luxurious spa treatments.

Now: A hot shower alone feels like a mini-retreat. But cuddles during storytime and your child’s small hand in yours can be just as soothing.

5. Dining Out

Before: Fancy meals in quiet restaurants.

Now: Family-friendly cafes with crayons on the table and menus with chicken nuggets. The real joy? Watching your child’s face light up as they discover their favourite food.

Five Fun Activities for Parents of Young Children

1. Messy Play at Home

Embrace creativity with finger painting, water play, or homemade playdough. It’s messy, yes, but seeing your child explore textures and colours is a delight.

2. Family Movie Nights

Create a mini-cinema at home with popcorn and blankets. Watching animated films together allows you to relive your childhood while making memories with your little one.

3. Nature Walks and Treasure Hunts

Head out for a walk and turn it into an adventure. Collect leaves, spot birds, or count how many dogs you see. It’s a great way to bond while enjoying fresh air.

4. Cooking Together

Let your child be your sous chef for simple recipes like pizza or cupcakes. They’ll love being part of the process (and taste-testing their creations!).

5. Dance Parties

Put on some music and let loose in the living room. It’s great exercise, an instant mood booster, and fun for everyone, no matter their age.

Conclusion: Finding New Joys in Parenthood

As parents, we often find that fun isn’t gone—it’s simply been redefined. The activities we once enjoyed may have shifted, but the joy of watching your child grow and experience the world often outweighs the spontaneity or luxury of your previous life. Parenthood comes with challenges, but it also offers unparalleled moments of happiness that reshape how we experience fun.

Call to Action

If you’ve found new ways to have fun as a parent or want more ideas for activities to enjoy with your children, subscribe to my blog for more tips and stories. Together, we can navigate this beautiful journey of parenting!

List five things you do for fun.