When I imagined becoming a mum, I pictured dance classes, birthday parties, after-school clubs and all the things many parents take for granted.
Life with Isla has looked very different.
Recently we spent some time away at a caravan, making memories as a family. Watching the other children running around, joining in activities and making friends reminded me how much our lives have had to adapt.
There are things Isla can’t do that many children her age can. She can’t simply join a dance class, run around independently or take part in activities without extra support and planning. Sometimes that can be hard to watch as a parent.
But over the years, I’ve learned something important.
Comparison steals joy.
Because while Isla’s journey may look different, it is no less beautiful.
The milestones we celebrate may seem small to others, but to us they are everything. Every step, every new skill, every moment of independence has been fought for with determination, therapy, patience and love.
At the caravan, while other children were doing things Isla couldn’t, Isla was busy being herself. Smiling. Laughing. Exploring the world in her own way. Creating memories with her little sister, Violet, and baby brother, Arthur.
And that’s enough.
I’ve stopped wishing for the childhood I imagined and started embracing the childhood Isla has.
It isn’t the journey we expected, but it’s ours.
And despite the challenges, I wouldn’t change the incredible little girl who has taught us so much about resilience, patience and unconditional love.
Different doesn’t mean less.
It just means our adventures look a little different. 💜
Chloe x
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