My daughter Poppy was less than a day old when I had my very first Mother’s Day, almost seventeen years ago. She was delivered at 18.34 on a Saturday evening by my mum, a midwife. How very special that was. The day after was Mother’s Day. My mum was the first person in the world to touch Poppy and when she handed her to me, I felt the most almighty surge of love. It was, and still is, indescribable. There are no words, no superlatives that will ever adequately describe the love a mother has for her children. And it was then that I realised how loved I must be by my own parents.

Motherhood is the greatest privilege I have ever been afforded. It’s the role I’m most proud of and it’s the role that challenges me more than any other. It evokes more emotions and leads to more tears (of all kinds), than I ever imagined. I don’t think many women will say being a mum is easy, but I think most will say it’s wonderful.

This tiny babe-in-arms will turn seventeen in a few weeks and will begin driving lessons. Her little brother at almost 15, stands taller and stronger than us both. I am the proudest mama on this planet. They are gorgeous, intelligent, bright young people with a strong voice. They aren’t afraid to stand up and be counted, to share their thoughts and opinions. On rare occasions these opinions, (and corresponding behaviour), have pushed me to my limits, but I want them to know that I will always listen. Even if I don’t like what they have to say, my ears and my arms are always open.

My dream is to give my children the roots and the wings they need to succeed in life; to find happiness and to reach their potential. I want them to be the very best versions of themselves and to be proud of who they are. My dream is that I will be a mother like my own.

Mother’s Day Love…

I bought this top when I was putting my Mother’s day gift guide together. It was love at first sight. I wear my heart on my sleeve, so why not have them everywhere else’s too? It’s made from sweatshirt material so is soft, cosy and tactile. It’s approachable, snuggly and safe. Yet it’s vibrant with a touch of sparkle and a sense of fun. I’d like to think this ruffle heart top reflects me as a mum.

The overall look is very real and somewhat “undone”. My hair went frizzy in the damp air and I look as tired as I felt. But this is me. This is Poppy and Harry’s mum.

…And The Perfect Red Shoes

I have my mum to thank/blame for my love of (red) shoes. She herself isn’t a shoe addict, but she used to sacrifice things for herself to afford gorgeous, well-fitting shoes for me. She often tells me how much pleasure this gave her. I must ask my dad if he felt similar joy- though I suspect the football boots of my two younger brothers were more his thing.

I have red kitten heeled boots and red strappy flats and now, these red court shoes. They’re from Lotus, one of my favourite shoe brands. I adore the gold-coloured trim and the scallop edge detailing. They’re so pretty and comfortable and I’m certain they’ll become a wardrobe staple, such is their classic, versatile shape.

Happy Mother’s Day. And Mum, thank you for being the most wonderful mum and granny we could wish for,