Charlie O'Brien Blog: A first Christmas as a family of four

by Charlie O'Brien

Although I’ve been a mum for almost three years - this felt like my first 'proper' Christmas with children. I think because my son Noah was really excited and (sort of) grasped the concept of Father Christmas this year.

Like most people - I’ve shared the best snippets of the festive season on my social channels - the cute Christmas PJs and the beautiful plates all ready for Santa and his reindeer.

But let’s be honest - that isn’t the whole truth is it? Christmas means routines being turned on their heads and having to spend longer than usual in the company of relatives while your kids get wild and over excited.

Our first Christmas as a family of four Picture: Ben O’Brien Photography

So here are a few observations and things that have happened during my Christmas!

Overtired toddlers - the excitement is just too overwhelming for small people. Christmas Day and Boxing Day absolutely knackered my toddler. To the point where he asked to go home, skip dinner, and go straight to bed.
Fussy eating doesn’t stop - a far cry from the dream of us all sitting around and eating festive food. Noah had two fish fingers on Christmas Day. Admittedly he did try turkey on Boxing Day but shoved so much into his mouth than he then had to spit it into my napkin when my relatives weren’t looking.
Sleepless nights don’t stop - in fact they’re worse. Because a baby who hasn’t napped properly during the day doesn’t sleep well at night. Contrary to all the older relatives who said to me 'oh, she will sleep well tonight!' NO SHE WON'T!
Breastfeeding politics - at least three people offered me a private place to feed over the festive period. I think it may have put their noses slightly out of joint when I politely declined and carried on feeding in front of everyone. Why should I miss out?
Travelling with kids - I’m writing this blog, on my phone, feeling more than a little sick, on the long 200 mile journey to see my husband’s family. We’ve got more stuff crammed in the car than a football team, have already stopped twice for wees and feeds and somehow need to keep two small people entertained and happy for another 150 miles. Help!
Where do you put all the new STUFF? I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who gave my children lovely gifts. Of course I am. But where the hell do you put it all? My living room currently looks like Toys R Us in the January sales.