7 things I’ve learnt from 7 years of Parenting

My firstborn turned seven this month (woah!). That means I have been doing this parenting thing for seven years now (WOAH!)

It has been a rollercoaster of a journey so far, just like most other parenting journeys. After a fair few years of this ride, I have learnt a few things – some funny, some profound. Here are seven of them.

1. Not all advice is good advice

From the moment you announce you’re expecting, advice starts rolling in – from family, friends, even strangers in the supermarket. Some of it is gold, but a lot of it… not so much. The real trick? Learning to trust your own instincts, educating yourself and doing what works for your family.

2. It’s hard to parent mini versions of yourself

Nothing prepares you for the moment you recognize your own stubbornness, sass, or quirks reflected in your child. Seeing little versions of yourself running around is both endearing and wildly frustrating. It’s also a humbling reminder of how we often need to “get the plank out of our own eye before looking at the speck of sawdust in others’ eyes”.

3. Parenting will stretch you in ways you never imagined

You think of yourself as a fairly gracious person, until you’re running on patchy few hours of sleep, calming a meltdown in the middle of the grocery store, or trying to buckle your toddler in their car seat. Parenthood tests your patience, your endurance, and is a huge lesson in showing grace!

4. Big love for little humans

It’s impossible to explain just how much love your heart can hold until you become a parent. It’s overwhelming, all-consuming, and sometimes even a little terrifying. But it’s also one of the most beautiful things in the world <3

5. Your kids will teach you things you never expected

From random facts about sport and TV shows to deep life lessons about kindness and resilience, your children will surprise you with their wisdom when you least expect it. They teach you that sometimes it is okay to lower your expectations or have a messy house. Their anger is short-lived and they find so much joy in the simplest of things which as adults we often overlook. It is no wonder then that Jesus said “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:2-3

6. ”Sorry, we’re running late” might become your new family tagline

Getting out the door with kids is an Olympic sport. Just when you think you’re ready, someone needs a last-minute toilet break, can’t find their shoes, or insists on bringing an entire collection of stuffed animals. Punctuality takes a hit, but it is sometimes a good lesson to learn to slow down.

7. They grow up sooo quickly!

This one hits hardest of all. One moment, they’re tiny bundles in your arms, and the next, they’re off to school, riding bikes, and developing their own little personalities. The days can feel long, but the years fly by. And while we can’t slow time, we can hold onto the memories.

That’s why I love capturing candid family moments – because one day, these simple and sweet memories will be the ones we miss the most.

Would you like to freeze your precious family moments as lifelong keepsakes? Message me below – I would love to hear from you! You can also see more of my work here 🙂