So this morning Jill Woods challenged all of us in practice momentum to use a ChatGPT prompt.
“Can you please describe what I do in the style of a drunk person at a party explaining it to a friend?”
Loved mine.
“Okay, so, listen… hiccup… you know Laura, right? She’s like this superhero for parents, yeah? Like, she’s been through some stuff, like being born super early herself, and then her kid was, like, this tiny little miracle baby, right? So now she’s all about helping other parents who are freaking out ’cause their babies came too early or have special needs or whatever.
She writes these books—like, proper, emotional, inspiring books—and she’s got this podcast, yeah? hiccup And it’s all like, ‘Hey, you’re not alone!’ Plus, she’s helping families who are neurodiverse, like her and her husband, ’cause they’re both rocking that ADHD and dyslexia and stuff. And she’s doing retreats and blogs and… just making people feel, like, seen and heard, you know? Like the Oprah of preemie parents! hiccup But British. And cooler.”
Parenting a neurodiverse child comes with unique challenges and opportunities. As a parent, you want to nurture their strengths while supporting them through any difficulties they may face. Developing small, consistent habits in your daily life can make a world of difference in helping your child thrive. These habits are simple to implement but can have a significant positive impact on your child’s emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
1. Create a Predictable Routine
Neurodiverse children often thrive in structured environments where they know what to expect. A predictable routine can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of security.
• Use visual schedules with pictures or icons to represent different activities.
• Maintain consistent wake-up, meal, and bedtime routines.
• Prepare your child in advance for any changes to the schedule, using clear communication and visual aids where necessary.
2. Practice Active Listening
Neurodiverse children may express themselves differently or struggle to communicate their feelings. Active listening shows them they are heard and valued.
• Get down to their eye level and maintain open body language.
• Repeat back what they say to show you’ve understood, and ask clarifying questions if needed.
• Be patient, even if it takes them time to articulate their thoughts.
3. Celebrate Their Strengths
Every child has unique strengths and talents, and this is particularly true for neurodiverse children. Celebrate what makes them special and encourage their passions.
• Praise their efforts, not just their achievements.
• Provide opportunities for them to explore activities they enjoy, whether it’s art, music, technology, or nature.
• Build their confidence by reminding them of past successes.
4. Use Clear and Direct Communication
Many neurodiverse children benefit from simple, straightforward instructions. Avoid figurative language or overly complicated explanations.
• Break down tasks into small, manageable steps.
• Use positive language to explain what to do, rather than what not to do. For example, say “Walk inside, please” instead of “Don’t run.”
• Pair verbal instructions with visual cues whenever possible.
5. Teach Self-Regulation Techniques
Helping your child manage their emotions and energy levels is key to their overall well-being. Self-regulation techniques can empower them to handle stress or sensory overload.
• Introduce calming strategies like deep breathing, counting to ten, or using a weighted blanket.
• Create a sensory-safe space at home where they can retreat when feeling overwhelmed.
• Model self-regulation yourself by calmly managing your emotions during stressful situations.
6. Build Social Skills Through Play
Social interactions can sometimes be challenging for neurodiverse children. Play is a wonderful way to build these skills in a low-pressure environment.
• Role-play different scenarios, such as sharing toys or starting a conversation.
• Encourage cooperative games that promote teamwork and turn-taking.
• Use books and stories to discuss emotions and social cues.
7. Advocate and Educate
Be your child’s advocate in school, healthcare settings, and the community. At the same time, educate yourself and others about their specific needs and abilities.
• Work closely with teachers and therapists to create an Individualised Education Plan (IEP) or equivalent.
• Share your child’s preferences and communication styles with others who interact with them.
• Stay informed about neurodiversity and connect with other parents for support.
8. Prioritise Self-Care
Caring for a neurodiverse child requires patience and energy, so looking after yourself is essential.
• Set aside time for activities that recharge you, whether it’s reading, exercising, or spending time with friends.
• Seek support from family, friends, or parent groups who understand your experiences.
• Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Final Thoughts
Supporting your neurodiverse child doesn’t have to mean making drastic changes to your lifestyle. Small, thoughtful habits can create a nurturing environment where they feel supported and understood. By focusing on their strengths, maintaining clear communication, and fostering a sense of routine, you can help your child navigate their world with confidence and joy.
Call to Action:
If you found this article helpful, subscribe to my blog for more parenting tips, especially for neurodiverse families. Together, we can create a world where every child has the tools they need to thrive.
Today was a big milestone for our family—Amelia had her first day at crèche. It was a moment we had been preparing for, but when it finally arrived, I found myself filled with a mix of emotions. Letting go, even just a little, is such a delicate part of parenting. It’s a moment that feels so natural yet so incredibly hard.
As parents, our instinct is to hold on tightly. From the moment our children are born, we’re their protectors, nurturers, and safe place. But as they grow, there comes a time when we need to step back—not because we’re abandoning our role but because we’re giving them space to develop their own confidence, independence, and resilience.
A Bittersweet Milestone
Walking away from the crèche today, my heart felt heavy. I thought about all the little moments we’ve shared—the cuddles, the giggles, and even the hard days when Amelia just wanted to be held. But alongside the sadness, there was an undeniable sense of pride. Watching her take those first steps into a world that’s hers to explore was a reminder of just how far she’s come.
I’ll admit, it wasn’t easy. I worried—Would she be okay? Would she miss me? Would the staff notice if she felt overwhelmed? But deep down, I also knew that these questions are a natural part of letting go. They come from love.
Trusting the Process
Letting go doesn’t mean you stop being their parent. It means trusting the process. Trusting that your child is ready for this new chapter. Trusting the caregivers you’ve chosen. And, perhaps most importantly, trusting yourself as a parent to have equipped them with what they need.
Of course, independence doesn’t happen overnight. It starts small—with little steps that build over time. Today, it was Amelia’s first day at crèche. Tomorrow, it might be her first time tying her shoes or riding a bike. Each milestone is a reminder of the incredible journey we’re on as parents and the privilege it is to watch our children grow.
The Gift of Independence
Letting go is one of the most loving gifts we can give our children. It’s not about pushing them out of the nest but showing them that they have wings—and that we’ll always be there, cheering them on, no matter how far they fly.
For Amelia, this first day at crèche is a small step toward independence. For me, it’s a step toward understanding that while she’ll always be my little girl, she’s also her own person with a world to explore.
Reflection and Community
If you’re a parent who’s navigating the bittersweet moments of letting go, know that you’re not alone. We all experience those waves of pride, worry, and love as we help our children grow.
What milestones have you found most challenging or rewarding? How do you navigate the balance between holding on and letting go? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Let’s support each other through this incredible journey of parenthood.
Call to Action
If this blog resonates with you, consider sharing it with a fellow parent who might need a little encouragement today. Don’t forget to like and subscribe to my blog for more reflections on parenting, milestones, and navigating the ups and downs of raising children with love and intention.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Together, we can grow and support each other as we help our little ones thrive.
Vision boards are a creative way to visualise your dreams and goals, and involving your kids in the process makes it even more meaningful. It’s not only a bonding activity but also an opportunity to teach your children about goal-setting, creativity, and self-expression. Whether your child dreams of scoring their first goal in football, mastering a new skill, or planning a future adventure, creating a vision board together can help bring those ideas to life.
Here’s how you can create a vision board with your kids and why it’s a fantastic activity for the whole family.
Why Create a Vision Board with Your Kids?
1. Encourages Goal-Setting: Vision boards help children identify their aspirations and understand how to set goals, a skill they’ll carry with them for life.
2. Boosts Creativity: With magazines, stickers, drawings, and other materials, kids can unleash their imagination while crafting their vision boards.
3. Promotes Positive Thinking: Seeing their dreams visualised can motivate kids to think positively and stay focused on what excites them.
4. Strengthens Family Bonds: Sitting together, talking about dreams, and creating something meaningful allows you to connect with your children on a deeper level.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Vision Board
1. Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need:
• A large piece of paper, cardboard, or corkboard
• Old magazines, newspapers, and printouts
• Glue, scissors, and tape
• Markers, crayons, or coloured pencils
• Stickers, glitter, or other decorative items
Let your kids help gather materials. It’s a great way to get them excited about the project.
2. Set the Mood
Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you can spread out and work together. Play some relaxing or upbeat music, depending on your family’s vibe.
3. Discuss Their Dreams and Goals
Start by talking with your kids about their aspirations. Ask questions like:
• What do you want to learn or achieve this year?
• Is there something new you’d like to try?
• What are your favourite hobbies or places you want to visit?
This conversation will help them focus on what they want to include on their vision boards.
4. Choose a Theme
Encourage your kids to think about a theme for their vision boards. Examples might include:
• “My Dream Adventure”: Travel and exploration goals
• “Super Skills”: New abilities they want to learn
• “What Makes Me Happy”: Things that bring them joy
A theme gives structure to their vision boards but isn’t mandatory—let them follow their hearts!
5. Get Crafting
Let your kids cut out pictures, quotes, and words that resonate with their goals. They can also draw or write on their vision boards. Help them arrange the materials before gluing or taping them down.
Encourage creativity! There’s no right or wrong way to make a vision board.
6. Add a Personal Touch
Ask your kids to include their names, favourite colours, or a special drawing. Personal touches make the vision board uniquely theirs.
7. Display the Vision Boards
Once the boards are complete, choose a special spot to display them, such as their bedroom, a family space, or a study area. This way, they can look at their boards daily and feel inspired.
Tips for Success
• Be Supportive: Let your kids lead the project while you guide and encourage them.
• Focus on Positivity: Keep the mood upbeat and fun—this is about dreaming big and feeling good.
• Revisit and Update: Over time, revisit the boards together. Celebrate any accomplishments and update goals as needed.
The Benefits Beyond the Craft
Creating a vision board with your kids is more than just an arts-and-crafts activity. It teaches them the power of visualisation, goal-setting, and perseverance. Plus, it provides a special memory for your family and gives you insight into your child’s hopes and dreams.
So, grab your supplies and get started on this fun and meaningful project. Who knows? You might just feel inspired to create your own vision board alongside your children!
Call to Action
If you enjoyed this blog, make sure to like, share, and subscribe for more creative parenting tips and family activities. Have you created a vision board with your kids? Share your experience in the comments below!
As parents, we often find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of everyday life—meal preparation, school runs, bedtime routines, and countless other responsibilities. It’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture in the hustle and bustle. However, special moments of reflection, such as Epiphany, offer us a chance to pause, look back, and truly appreciate the journey of parenthood.
Epiphany, traditionally celebrated on the 6th of January, symbolises the revelation of something meaningful. For many of us, it’s a time to reflect on what truly matters and to focus on gratitude. Here are some lessons I’ve learned about reflection and gratitude as a parent—lessons that might resonate with you, too.
1. The Gift of Small Moments
Parenthood is a collection of small, seemingly ordinary moments that, when pieced together, create something extraordinary. Whether it’s the way your child’s face lights up when they see you or the quiet moments when they fall asleep in your arms, these are the gifts we can easily overlook.
Take time to reflect on the small moments that bring joy. Write them down, share them with your partner, or simply hold them close. These are the memories that will warm your heart on the toughest days.
2. Gratitude is a Habit, Not a Feeling
Gratitude isn’t just about feeling thankful when things go well; it’s about actively choosing to find something to be grateful for, even in challenging times. As a parent, we’ve all had days when nothing seems to go right. But even on those days, there’s always something to be grateful for—a smile, a hug, or even the lesson we’ve learned from the struggle.
Building a habit of gratitude, perhaps through a gratitude journal or family gratitude discussions, can help us focus on the positives and cultivate resilience.
3. Reflection Helps Us Grow
Looking back on the past year, or even the past week, can reveal how much we’ve grown—not just as parents but as individuals. What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them? What lessons have you learned from your children?
Reflection allows us to appreciate our progress and recognise the strength we’ve developed through parenting. It’s not about perfection; it’s about growth and learning together as a family.
4. Embracing the Present
Epiphany reminds us to treasure the present moment. Children grow up so quickly, and each stage of their life brings its own unique joys and challenges. By practising mindfulness—whether through meditation, mindful parenting techniques, or simply being fully present during playtime—we can create deeper connections with our children.
5. The Importance of Community
Parenthood can feel isolating at times, but reflecting on the support we receive from family, friends, and other parents can foster a deep sense of gratitude. Whether it’s a listening ear, advice, or simply knowing someone else understands your journey, community is invaluable.
Consider reaching out to other parents or joining a support group. Sharing your experiences and hearing others’ stories can bring perspective and a sense of belonging.
Closing Reflections on Epiphany
As we step into this new year, let Epiphany serve as a reminder of the power of reflection and gratitude. Take a moment to pause, look back on your parenting journey, and appreciate how far you’ve come. Celebrate the small victories, embrace the challenges, and hold onto the moments of joy and connection that make it all worthwhile.
Parenthood is a gift—one that teaches us resilience, patience, and above all, love. Let’s move forward with hearts full of gratitude and a renewed commitment to cherish every moment with our children.
Call to Action
If this resonates with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. What lessons have you learned about reflection and gratitude as a parent? Share your experiences in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more stories, tips, and inspiration for the parenting journey!
As we step into a brand-new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what we want to achieve as a family in 2025. Setting family goals isn’t just about ticking off resolutions; it’s about building deeper connections, fostering growth, and creating shared experiences. Whether you’re navigating the joys and challenges of parenting, neurodiversity, or raising a premature baby, having a roadmap for the year ahead can bring clarity and purpose.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting meaningful family goals for 2025.
1. Reflect on the Past Year
Before diving into new goals, take time to reflect as a family on the past year. Ask yourselves:
• What were our highlights in 2024?
• What challenges did we face, and how did we overcome them?
• What did we learn about ourselves and each other?
This reflection helps you celebrate your successes and identify areas for growth.
2. Involve Everyone
Goal-setting is most effective when it’s a collaborative effort. Gather the whole family, including children of all ages, to contribute their ideas. Even younger children can share their dreams or things they’d like to do more of in the coming year.
Tip: Use a visual tool, like a whiteboard or a large piece of paper, to jot down everyone’s input. Seeing it all together can spark inspiration and excitement.
3. Identify Your Family Values
Goals rooted in your family’s core values are more likely to resonate and stick. Take a moment to discuss:
• What’s most important to us as a family?
• How do we want to grow together?
For example, if kindness is a key value, you might set goals around volunteering or helping others. If health is a priority, consider goals for staying active and eating well.
4. Break Goals Into Categories
To ensure your goals are well-rounded, divide them into categories such as:
• Relationships: Spending quality time together, improving communication, or supporting each other’s individual needs.
• Health and Wellness: Exercising as a family, preparing healthy meals, or prioritising mental health.
• Personal Growth: Encouraging hobbies, exploring new interests, or celebrating achievements.
• Financial Goals: Saving for a holiday, reducing debt, or teaching children about budgeting.
• Giving Back: Volunteering, donating, or supporting a local cause.
5. Be Specific and Realistic
The best goals are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Instead of saying, “Spend more time together,” specify how and when, such as, “Have a family movie night every Friday.”
Example Goals:
• Go for a family walk every Sunday morning.
• Save £1,000 for a family holiday by December.
• Dedicate one hour each week to a no-tech family activity.
6. Create a Family Vision Board
A vision board is a fun and creative way to visualise your family’s goals. Gather magazines, print photos, or draw pictures that represent what you hope to achieve. Display it somewhere prominent, like the kitchen or living room, as a daily reminder of your aspirations.
7. Check In Regularly
Setting goals is just the first step—staying accountable is key. Schedule monthly or quarterly check-ins to discuss progress, celebrate wins, and adjust goals if needed. These check-ins can also be a chance to bond and reinforce your shared commitment.
8. Celebrate Milestones
Acknowledging your achievements along the way is just as important as reaching the end goal. Celebrate milestones with small treats, family outings, or simply by recognising each other’s efforts. This keeps motivation high and reinforces positive behaviours.
9. Prioritise Flexibility
Life is unpredictable, and goals may need to shift as circumstances change. Embrace flexibility and be kind to yourselves if things don’t go as planned. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.
10. Focus on Connection Over Perfection
Family goals should bring you closer, not add stress. Prioritise connection and joy in everything you do. Even if you miss some targets, the time spent working together is what truly matters.
Call to Action
What are your family’s goals for 2025? Share your ideas in the comments below! If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to like and subscribe for more tips on parenting, family life, and navigating the challenges and triumphs of the journey.
This morning, as I sat down to write, I came across a prompt that really made me think: “What would you do differently?”
At first, I wasn’t sure how to answer, but then it hit me. Last year, I made a decision to do something differently—and it has made all the difference. I committed to doing one thing for myself every single day.
It sounds simple, doesn’t it? But as parents, we know how hard it can be to prioritise ourselves. We’re constantly putting our children first, trying to meet their needs, often at the expense of our own. Slowly, without even realising it, we lose touch with who we are outside of being “Mum” or “Dad.”
Parenthood is transformative, no matter how you come into it—whether you carry your child, become a parent through surrogacy, or welcome them through adoption. It changes you, and that’s a beautiful thing. But it’s also easy to lose yourself in the process.
As a new parent, I remember feeling like I had to completely redefine who I was. The person I was before didn’t feel like the person I had become. The transition into parenthood can feel overwhelming and, at times, isolating.
What I’ve learned is this: To be the best parent I can be, I have to look after myself too.
So, every day, I do something just for me.
Sometimes, it’s as small as sipping a cup of tea in peace or taking five minutes to write in a journal. Other days, it’s carving out time to read a book, take a walk, or even sit quietly and reflect. It doesn’t have to be a big gesture, but it has to be mine.
Why? Because as the saying goes, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
When we take care of ourselves, we’re not only recharging; we’re also showing our children the importance of self-care. We’re teaching them that looking after your wellbeing is part of being a healthy, happy person.
If you’re a parent reading this, I want to ask you the same question I asked myself this morning: What would you do differently?
And here’s another: What can you do for yourself today?
It doesn’t matter if it’s small or simple. What matters is that you make space for you. Because you deserve it.
Remember, taking care of yourself is part of taking care of your little ones.
Let’s make it a habit to fill our cups, so we can give the best of ourselves to those we love most.
If this post resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment below or share this with another parent who might need a reminder to take care of themselves. And don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more reflections on parenting, self-care, and the journey of finding ourselves in this beautiful chaos.
Parenting is a journey like no other—full of love, joy, and the kind of growth that stretches your heart and soul in unimaginable ways. But let’s be honest: it can also feel overwhelming, isolating, and relentless. When you add mental health challenges into the mix, the weight can feel unbearable at times.
If I had a billboard on the highway, it would carry a message that many parents desperately need to see—a message of hope, support, and understanding. In big, bold letters, it would say:
“You’re Doing Better Than You Think, and It’s Okay to Ask for Help.”
Image made by AI to demonstrate the billboard 
Why This Message Matters
Parenting is often romanticised, with social media filled with highlight reels of perfectly dressed children, smiling faces, and picture-perfect family outings. But behind the scenes, many parents are grappling with feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression. For some, the journey into parenthood may have begun with birth trauma or a stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). For others, it might be the daily challenge of raising a neurodivergent child while managing their own neurodiversity.
I know firsthand how easy it is to feel alone in this journey. As a parent who has navigated both the heartache of having a premature baby and the ongoing challenges of neurodiversity within our family, I’ve felt the pressure to appear as though I have it all together. The truth is, none of us do. And that’s okay.
The Link Between Parenting and Mental Health
Parenting has a profound impact on mental health. From sleep deprivation and the stress of juggling responsibilities to the fear of not being enough for your children, it’s a constant balancing act. For parents of premature babies or children with additional needs, the stakes feel even higher. Every decision can feel loaded with worry about your child’s future.
And yet, society doesn’t always make space for these honest conversations. Many parents are left feeling as though they’re failing when, in reality, they’re simply human.
What I Want Parents to Know
If you’re reading this, here’s what I want you to take away:
1. You’re Not Alone: Whatever challenges you’re facing, there’s someone out there who understands. Reach out to parent groups, support organisations, or trusted friends and family.
2. It’s Okay to Ask for Help: Whether it’s professional mental health support, respite care, or simply a shoulder to cry on, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
3. Your Mental Health Matters: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritising your mental well-being isn’t selfish; it’s essential for your family’s health and happiness.
4. You’re Enough: Parenting is not about being perfect. It’s about showing up, doing your best, and loving your children through the highs and lows.
What My Billboard Would Achieve
I imagine my billboard standing tall and bright, catching the eye of parents on their way to work, school drop-offs, or even therapy sessions. It wouldn’t solve every problem, but it would plant a seed—a reminder that they are not invisible, that their struggles are valid, and that support is available.
Parenting doesn’t come with a manual, and neither does navigating mental health. But with messages of hope and community, we can begin to break down the stigma and build a world where no parent feels alone in their journey.
Call to Action
If this message resonates with you, take a moment to share it with a fellow parent who might need to hear it. Let’s start a conversation about the real challenges of parenting and mental health. Together, we can create a community of understanding and support.
To keep these conversations going, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow for more blogs on parenting, mental health, and the beautiful chaos of raising children. Let’s build a world where every parent feels seen and supported.
If you had a freeway billboard, what would it say?
Life often feels like a whirlwind of responsibilities, goals, and emotions, especially as parents. In the midst of it all, it’s easy to focus solely on what lies ahead: our children’s futures, our family’s well-being, and our own personal growth. But there is immense value in looking back, reflecting on the past, and understanding how it shapes our present and our future.
The Power of Reflection
Taking the time to reflect on your journey can be transformative. Whether you’re a parent of a neurodiverse child, navigating the challenges of prematurity, or simply striving to be the best version of yourself, looking back allows you to:
1. Recognise Growth
Think about where you were a year ago, five years ago, or even a decade ago. The challenges you faced, the lessons you learned, and the strength you’ve gained are all testaments to your resilience. Acknowledging this growth is crucial in building confidence and hope for the future.
2. Heal Old Wounds
The past isn’t always easy to revisit. For many of us, it holds moments of grief, loss, or trauma. But allowing yourself to gently reflect on these experiences can help you process lingering emotions, leading to healing and clarity.
3. Celebrate the Wins
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to forget to celebrate the victories, big and small. Looking back gives you the opportunity to honour those moments when you persevered, achieved something meaningful, or simply made it through another challenging day.
Looking Back as a Parent
As a parent, reflection takes on a whole new dimension. It’s not just about your personal growth; it’s also about the journey you’ve been on with your children. Looking back can help you:
• See Progress in Your Child’s Development
Whether they’ve taken their first steps, learned a new skill, or overcome a significant hurdle, reflecting on your child’s milestones reminds you of their incredible potential.
• Reconnect with Your “Why”
Parenting can be exhausting and overwhelming, but looking back at moments of joy, connection, or even the struggles that brought you closer to your child, can reignite your sense of purpose.
• Shape the Future
By reflecting on what has worked and what hasn’t, you can make more informed decisions about how to approach challenges, nurture your child’s growth, and care for yourself.
The Balance Between Past and Future
While looking back is important, it’s equally crucial to strike a balance. Dwelling on the past can sometimes hold us back, especially if we get caught in cycles of regret or self-criticism. Instead, use reflection as a tool for growth. Look back with compassion—for yourself, your circumstances, and others—and use what you’ve learned to create a brighter future.
A Personal Note
For me, the act of looking back has been a lifeline. My journey, shaped by loss, prematurity, and neurodiversity, has been far from easy. But by reflecting on the struggles I’ve faced, I’ve been able to find purpose: helping other parents feel seen, supported, and understood. These reflections remind me that even in the hardest times, there is hope, strength, and the possibility of a better tomorrow.
So, I encourage you to take a moment today to pause and reflect. What have you overcome? What lessons have you learned? And how can those experiences guide you as you move forward?
Call to Action
If this blog resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your reflections in the comments below, and don’t forget to like and subscribe for more content aimed at supporting parents on their journey. Together, we can build a community where we grow, learn, and thrive.
Do you spend more time thinking about the future or the past? Why?
Turning 40 often comes with a mix of reflection, celebration, and perhaps a little trepidation about stepping into a new decade. For me, however, my 40th birthday was marked by the greatest gift I could have ever received—a moment that would change my life forever.
That birthday wasn’t like any other. It happened during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the UK was still under the rule of six. Celebrations were quieter, smaller, and more intimate. For my birthday, it was just me, my now-husband, my mum and dad, my sister, and her then-boyfriend. While the restrictions limited the guest list, they amplified the meaning of the day. Surrounded by the people I hold closest, it was a celebration of love, family, and connection.
That day, my now-husband asked me to marry him. He didn’t just propose with any ring, but with my mum’s. A ring that no longer fit her but held decades of family history and love. He had it upgraded, adding his own thoughtful touch while keeping its sentimental value intact. That alone brought tears to my eyes.
It wasn’t just about the ring; it was about what it symbolised. The proposal represented not only his love for me but also the security and partnership that marriage brings. In that moment, I felt the fullness of what it means to have someone truly see you, love you, and plan a future with you.
But that wasn’t the only gift he gave me. He also gave me the chance to become a mum. Our beautiful daughter is the most precious part of our lives, a reminder of the love and strength we share as a family.
Looking back, I realise how the pandemic shaped that milestone in unexpected ways. The restrictions may have limited the scale of the celebration, but they magnified its intimacy and importance. The day wasn’t about extravagant parties or large gatherings; it was about love, connection, and the promise of a future together.
When I reflect on that time, it wasn’t just the proposal or the ring that made it special. It was the thoughtfulness, the meaning, and the promise of a future filled with love, family, and togetherness. My husband didn’t just give me a ring; he gave me his heart, his commitment, and the gift of being a mum.
How to Cherish Your Milestones
1. Find Meaning in Symbolism: Whether it’s a ring, a letter, or a family heirloom, the value of a gift lies in its meaning. Look beyond the material and focus on the story it tells.
2. Celebrate Family Connections: Moments like proposals or becoming a parent remind us of the love and connections that matter most. Embrace them fully.
3. Adapt to Circumstances: Life doesn’t always go as planned, but even amidst restrictions, we can find beauty and meaning in small, quiet celebrations.
4. Appreciate Parenthood: If you’re a parent, pause to appreciate the incredible journey you’ve embarked on. It’s one of life’s most precious gifts.
Closing Thoughts
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from that moment, it’s that the best gifts in life are those that come from the heart. Whether it’s a proposal, a gesture, or a shared journey like parenthood, these are the things that stay with us forever.
To those reading this, I hope my story reminds you to appreciate the people in your life who bring meaning, joy, and love into your world. Because, in the end, it’s those connections that truly matter.
References
1. “Symbolism in Engagement Rings,” Bridal Magazine, 2023.
2. “The Emotional Value of Family Heirlooms,” Family Today, 2022.
3. “Celebrating Milestones During the Pandemic,” Living Through COVID, 2021.
4. “How Parenthood Transforms Your Life,” Parenting Matters, 2021.
5. Personal reflections and experiences, Laura Johnstone.
Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to include!
The bad and your parenting journey 