I'm not even a mom, but I've been enjoying watching your Mumdays videos, from time to time. I think it makes me appreciate my mom and all moms even more, because they all struggled, they all had their ups and downs, yet here we are, here I am! Moms rock! You're wonderful Gi! All the best wishes from me :)
Gi, your rawness is beautiful! People will admit that parenthood is hard, but they usually try to conceal that they're struggling. By sharing your feelings, you are validating the same feelings that every other parent has. That's amazing. Thank you xx
When my son was a toddler, what I found most helpful was not parenting books but online communities of mommies. It's the most amazing thing in the world knowing that there are other people dealing with similar situations you are in. Sometimes you learn how to fix the problems you have, sometimes you don't, and that's perfectly fine because at least you are trying your best in your own way -- that's what others are doing as well. I'm so glad for young moms out there that you are here to openly talk about this and just be their friends. I know it means a lot to them. Thanks, Gi. 💚
One month ago I moved from England to Germany to work as an au pair for a year and my god I have suddenly got so much more respect for mums!!! I look after a 2 year old and a 4 year old girl and the amount of patience and strength you need is unbelievable. The first time I ever babysat the girls overnight, one of my little girls sat on my knee and cried for her mum for an hour, I cannot imagine what it is like to have to deal with things like this day in day out. All of you mums are doing a fantastic job, keep going!!! X
Oh Gi, I am right there with you, except my son is 26. He has special needs. Every night he wakes me 4-5 times for various reasons, many of which are critical. I have not had a night where I sleep more than two hours at a time since he was born. My average night is 5 hours sleep total. I love him beyond imagine and would give my life for him in less than a heart beat. A mom has to do what a mom has to do. Bless you dear.
You're so honest about parenting and that's why I love you way to many blogging/vlogging mums&families are only about the good stuff and it's refreshing to see someone being totally honest about the highs and lows of parenthood!
Your honesty is so beautiful. I hear so many stories from other parents about hard time with children. It's important to know that sometimes things don't go to plan but it's okay because everyone's going through it
Awwww You are a great mum. We've all been through it and you will survive it (I'm the mum of a 12 year old and a 15 year old - now I have trouble getting them OUT of bed!). I always used lavender bubble bath and baby lotion on them before they went to bed. I also picked up a trick from my mum - I used to gently stroke both my children around their foreheads - just one finger and their eyes automatically closed. It was a pain in the bum standing there for 10 minutes but, it worked a treat !! I still have the magic touch as I can get our labrador to sleep doing the same thing to her - gently stroking her forehead lol! Little ones can be so testing at times but, you will survive and look back at these memories fondly x
My Mom always did that with my kids when she would babysit. She would gently run her finger over their foreheads and kind of down the temples and it always worked.
Be strong, Gi! You're not an awful mom just because you cant put your kid to sleep!! I think it happens to every mom out there so don't beat yourself up!!! I'm too young to have kids but i already worked on a nursery and i learned how extremely hard it is to put a baby/kid to sleep. You got this girl! We already witnessed the great mom you are to both of your boys. Lots of love and sleep for you!! xx
Gi this video made me just want to give you a big cuddle and let you know you're doing a wonderful job! I don't have kids, but I've seen my wonderful mum foster many babies in the last 20 years, and she is such an inspiration. As are you. Big huge hugs to you and those of you mumming the shit out of life! I'm a midwife, and tell parents constantly that you cannot love your babies too much - kisses and cuddles and touch are what make us feel human and safe, and babies need that so much - but so do we as mums, as humans. So hug your babies super tight. And make sure someone you love hugs you too! Xxxxx
Oh my god, your timing is amazing. My little girl goes all out when she learns a new skill and likes to practise all hours of the day. This week she has learned to stand up, which is great apart from the fact that she can't sit down yet. This resulted in five different visits during the night to rescue my little mountain goat and try to calm her down again. This morning has consisted of a lot of coffee so far!! If it wasn't for my solid group of mum friends who totally get it I honestly think I'd go insane. Being a mum has definitely made me more supportive and empathetic of other people as this job is bloody hard work! Hope you get some sleep, I'm going to bed for half an hour xx
I'm howling with laughter at 'mountain goat' - my daughter used to climb out of the cot .... she's 15 now and won't bloomin' get out of bed !! I've also got a 12 year old son who seems to collect cups/plates and cutlery !! x
Gi, your honesty is refreshingly beautiful! We're all winging parenting with you! Before my 11mo was born I thought I had it all planned.. Baby would BF and have expressed bottles when I return to work .... Of course my baby refused all bottles from day 1 and 11 months later STILL refuses any bottle/cup. Needless to say I haven't actually been able to return to work, some days I think he's parenting me 😂 Keep your chin up Gi, you really do a marvellous job even on the nights when our babies have other ideas!! 🤗
could you see what bub does when you arent around. ive heard stories of weaning where they refuse when mum is around but when she isnt they will take a bottle.
We heard this too! We're currently in this process of leaving Dad with baby .. It's taken months but slowly it's getting better. Baby boy just seems completely perplexed by bottle teets, chewing them rather than sucking, it's been a learning curve to try and teach baby how to suck on a bottle!
Have you tried just letting him wait till you get home? I went back to work when my boy was 10 months, he refused all bottles/ cups of milk, so I just didn't leave any milk because he eats fine in the day, he just gets boob milk once we get home, then for bedtime, basically no sense in stressing about bottle feeding if he isn't gonna go for it.
Gi, you are amazing and the fact that you can see what is happening shows that! everyone has hard nights and with tom being away both of you are more fragile! hgs x
I'm not even a Mum (Mam for me), or not even close to being but my heart goes out to you and all the parents out there. No matter whether you are having a good day, or a bad day, you're doing something amazing. You're teaching a little human how to 'do' life - something no one actually knows how to do themselves! Keep going parents, you RULE!
Ive experienced exactly the same, i cried too then my little boy 2.5yrs old said "mummy are you ok?!" I cried even more! Its good to share the struggles! In that moment u feel your failing but its because your tired and emotional, the next morning its beaming smiles all around and a new day! Thanku for sharing Gi! Us mums have the best jobs!
You are such an inspiration. On the sleep department I have been VERY lucky. my 9 month old generally sleeps every night, give or take a few which of course is completely manageable. However the last few nights she's had a terrible cold and point blank refuses to sleep in her cot. In the moment I feel like I'm the only person to ever go through this and nobody understands how I feel so your video this morning put a big smile on my face. It's so easy to get down about these things but your positivity this morning after having a terrible night picked me right back up again. Thank you xx
That brought tears to my eyes! It's so hard when you love your little baby so much that you suddenly are challenged and have no idea what to do! What I found is that you have to be mean and say ENOUGH! Then no eye contact and just keep putting them in their bed and leaving them. They are testing their boundaries and we MUST show them who is boss. Otherwise they become the boss 😣😖 It feels hard at first but they appreciate having boundaries and respect us more for it, although at the time it doesn't feel like it it is worth it! Also, try 123 magic! I tried it with my son and it worked! He has ADHD. Basically when they start pushing it you say "that's 1!" If they keep at it "that's 2" then when and if they get to 3 you put them in time out. No explanation. They soon learn that they don't want to do time out and stop before it gets to that
Every child is different and every day caring for them can be a vastly different experience compared to the days before that. And when we have our babies it's a learn as you go thing. There are no manuals that can ever be specific to each child. (If only, that would be amazing). And there can be so many different factors that contribute to a good easy times. As there are to horrible emotionally draining demoralising times. That nothing could ever prepare you for when they hit. During the hard times. I would consider the saying "It takes a village to raise a child" And know in my heart that it must be true. My husband was away for weeks and months at a time. (Army - longest was 11 months away) And there I was with less than 2 hours of broken sleep in a 24 hours. Consistently. Not just tired, but trying to comfort a screaming baby. And I knew. I am not meant to be doing this alone. But alone I was. My health suffered. My sanity suffered. My respect for single parents grew. Parents who don't have the prospect of a partner eventually coming home, so they can just have a nap. Or anyone to lend a hand. A way to get some solid sleep. Or some housework done. Well lets just say. So much respect. I may not have handled things well. Or the way another parent would have. Or the way popular social circles deemed right for what ever piece of "recent studies" may be floating about. Or the "Back in my day" people. But I made the choices that felt right for that moment in that time. I was there for my boys. I gave them 100% of me. I gave them what they needed. They were always clothed fed and clean . Read to, sang to. Given every opportunity to sleep comfortably and safely. And deeply loved. I did the best I was able to do. Just like all of us. Who love, care for and want the best for our little people. We do the best we can. Because most of us don't have a village to help raise the child. Most of us are riding by the seat of our pants. Trying to live up to this unrealistic unholy standard of what a proper parent should be. And how the perfect child should be. It's all a lie. There is no true "model parent". There is no such thing as the "perfect child" to aspire to. What we have. Is you, the parent. And your child and this moment. And if your choice is to do what you feel is the best by them in that moment. Then you are a gift to your child. And forgive yourself for all the hard choices and possible missteps. It's an extremely difficult thing to learn on the job. Especially when the job, the rules and the goal posts are constantly changing. I'm not a crap mum and neither are you.
Oh Gi. I've been there! My daughter is 27 months. Thursday night she had a complete meltdown and screamed for 2 hours. I was at the end of my tether!! Honestly! I'm so glad for my mummy friends - what's app saved my sanity! Then she was so over tired Friday was a nightmare. But you are right, then they do something just too cute and all is forgotten! So glad that you are honest about it. Motherhood/parenthood is such a levelling experience - we are all in the same boat. My mother told me when I became a mum to be grateful the every day is a new opportunity to start again! So, new day, new start x
Oh Gi!! I've commented this on one of your videos before but I'm gonna say it again, I am not a mum and may not be for many years, but you are the type and mum and wife I'd aspire to be one day!! Your honesty on here is so refreshing it's lovely!! Maybe Buzz was missing Tom or something? Also congrats on the play button you're now at over 160 k and so deserve every one.
This video has made me cry, with compassion, and for knowing exactly the same feeling. There was a 3 month period where my 2 year old daughter Sofia just wouldn't go to bed, at one point I shut the door on her and she went crazy and I remember feeling like I had completely failed as a mum, that what kind of person would do this. It was my lowest point and I felt like I couldnt do anything right. U doing this video has inspired me and made me know that honesty is just amazing, and being a mum had the biggest highs and lows ever possible. Thanks Gi x
Hi Gi! I'm a 41 year old mum of a 7 year old girl who has a diagnosis of autism. I watch your channel regularly but have never subscribed or commented on ANY RUclips video before! However, this Mumsdays video really resonated with me. Autism and erratic sleep often walk hand in hand and it's no exaggeration to say I haven't slept well in the last 7 years! My daughter either doesn't settle, doesn't stay asleep or wakes very early. I work full time and regularly berate myself when I struggle...so THANK YOU! Thank you for being honest and open about your feelings. It made me really emotional to watch and did remind me that I'm not alone. You also reminded me that you can only do your best in that moment and that sometimes you just have to forgive yourself, pick yourself up and move on... So my first comment (and probably my last!) is one of gratitude! Love the videos, admire your honesty and think you have created a lovely little space here in the world of RUclips! Xxx
I absolutely love how honest you are about you and your children! No false hoods just absolute honesty it's so refreshing! We all have tough times I have a 2 year old and a 8 month old and there are tough times but the good times always out weigh the bad 😘😘😘
Thanks for your candidness. I've had four babies and have struggled with sleep problems with them all, even though my friends never seemed to have any problem whatsoever in getting their children to bed at a reasonable time. All of them slept in my bed, after starting their night on the sofa and then being carried upstairs to bed. It's all part of being a parent Hun......don't beat yourself up and continue being the caring beautiful young mummy that you are. x
I love how open and honest you are about how motherhood really is. I'm a mam of three children (13,6 and 3) my youngest is only just starting to sleep now and I thought we'd never get through it and to get through to the other side. Even now she sleeps I still wake. There's days when you feel like the worst mam in the world and that you can't do right for doing wrong x
thanks for always being so open about everything you talk about. a lot of the time celebs give the impression that their lives are perfect and its really refreshing X
One of the best things about you G, isn't that you are so painfully beautiful on the outside(because you are)but you are so insanely beautiful on the inside and it just shines through in all that you do. I feel so lucky that you share all that you do with us, and this video in particular really turned my day around from a tough one to a much better one. Thank you for always being so real and genuine and you! :)
I love this Gi the total honest face of mummy hood... Totally been in this position so many times I lay next to my little boys bed every night till he falls asleep there is so much pressure around sleep in our society do what you've got to do your doing amazing! X
OH MY!! I needed this video. I've been trying to solve our sleep issue at the moment. My son is 13 months and still nursing. I have tried to wean him off since around 10 months but he refuses. I haven't had a full nights sleep since I was 6 months pregnant, I have read so many books and blogs and I haven't found something that works for him yet. I always hear stories from my friends with children and their babies slept though early on and that's something I could only dream of.But after he has been pulling at my shirt and giving my his cheeky smile and I finally cave, his sweet little face just looks so content that it melts me enough to carry on. What a great idea for the comments too, I'm seeing so many women in similar positions and it calms me down a bit.
Gi thing is you are that naturally beautiful that even if you feel rough you don't look it. You're one of those lucky women that look incredible with or without make up. Jealous!! X
I feel your pain! I go through this almost daily! Being a mum is so stressful and such an emotional rollercoaster but once those beautiful little kiddies smile at you it makes so worthwhile ❤️
Congratulations Gi! When my boy was a baby he had colic and would absolutely SCREAM for hours starting right around the time I'd get home from work each day. I can't tell you how often I cried. I cried because he was screaming, I cried because he didn't scream if I got him to bed early enough, but if I got him to bed that early I'd only get to spend an hour with him after work. I cried trying to get him to sleep. Admitting you're struggling is a wonderful thing. Having a network of people to have your back is even greater. Thank you for being honest!
It's good to read and watch that we are not alone in this world of toddlers and babies! I have a 7 month old , a nearly 3 year old and a 8 year old! One very busy household. Suddenly my baby and toddler won't sleep , toddler won't go to bed let alone stay there and baby has suddenly decided he will wake every 2 hrs. So at least we are all up together, trying to work, run a house, and be awake all night! High five mums, your all doing great and we're in this together xxxx
The first year of my son's life was a nightmare when it came to sleeping. He would be up around 12-15 times a night even if he slept next to us. We saw multiple medical professionals to find out what was going on. It finally started to settle a little around 15 months and now he wakes up 3-5 times at 18 months which is a relief but still exhausting. I know exactly how you feel but I've learned overtime things will get better and we just have to push through these hard times! All the mommy communities I'm in are also great and supportive.
Gi it's so lovely to hear a mummy speaking so honest as a mummy I find getting my baby's sleeping routine to stay on track hope you get some sleep soon and big hugs for the times you feel like crying
Ah sending a big hug to you !! Making me cry. Thanks for sharing such a stressful time - it's great to know we're not the only ones that have a tough time xx
That brought a tear to my eye Gi. I found the age of 2 difficult with my Son (I guess they don't call it the terrible twos for nothing!!). The slightest change can have the biggest knock on affect. When I lost my 2nd child at 22 weeks pregnant, my Husband and I spent one night away from home. The first time this had ever happened, and what followed was over 9 months of disrupted bedtime routine and sleep to the point my Son would make himself sick from his hysterics. Not nice to watch but also that feeling of helplessness was palpable. Thank you for sharing the bad as well as the good. I love your vlogs, and I'm sending you lots of virtual hugs and love xx
Last night was a bad night in our house too our 3 year old and 11month old were both taking it in turns too wake up every hour in the night very drained tired mommy and I cried this morning knowing I had too get out if bed and face the day of nursery drop off and a very Wingey 11month old because he is over tired and will have a very Wingey 3year old when he's home from nursery because he will want too nap ...... Motherhood is so joyful , I'm happy you admit when you're defeated that's what I love about you and you're channel Gi keep it up you are amazing xx
I was a terrible sleeper as a child, can remember crying when my parents left the room and I'm 22 now. Apparently it changed when I started sharing a room with my little brother, I then went to bed no problem! You are so inspiring and doing great :) x
I think what you are doing is amazing. I am not a mom, but in my profession I see all the time so many mothers and fathers that feel guilty to talk about the "bad" things about parenting (specially to women and all this idealization on the "Mother" in all of us) and I think that it is so important to have a culture on honesty and being able to share our feelings and thoughts and open the discussion to a community of support where you really are able feel and know that you are not alone or the only one struggling. Cheers on, Gi.
Thanks for sharing, we are on holiday in Greece at the moment and on the flight over my toddler had the most horrific 20 minute melt down, we had to physically restrain her as she was thrashing and kicking her legs. I held her and silently sobbed, when she saw me crying she stopped, said 'mummy cry?' Keep sharing, it's nice to know we are all having our boundaries tested by our toddlers. xxx
Errrr....YES TO THIS! My baby is 1 (today actually) and has never slept through the night. He has refused a bottle from the start, really doesn't like it if he is not breastfed to sleep and the one time I tried a couple of minutes of controlled crying (against my instinct that it wouldn't work) he projectile vommed. I felt like such a failure BUT my Mummy Wolfpack were right with me (NCT group mums) and gave me a what's app slap around the chops, telling me to pull myself together. Every time I am on the floor thinking that this is never going to end, it will, and then I will miss the cuddles, miss the feeding, miss him looking so intensely into my eyes and miss him holding on to me like I'm an angel. Mum life = a roller coaster. We're on it and whatever journey you take, you just need to get through it in the way that is best for you and your babies.
You are such an amazing person, My 2 year old has made the transition from cot to bed and I have had a terrible time with her, but she is slowly getting better, I find that some soft gentle music helps her go to sleep, she does try to get around me with I want this I want that but I just be firm with her, I hate doing that but I have noticed that when i do she does eventually give up and goes to sleep cause she knows mummy won't budge! I love your vlogs, its nice to know that us mums are not alone, we all go through this and its nice to know we can discuss it and help each other, thanks for your vlogs, you really are an inspiration Gi!
Hi Gi Firstly, I watch all your videos, you're so refreshing and "normal". Secondly, thank you for this video, unfortunately I don't have kids, but hopefully one day I will, and I find your videos so inspiring. This one made me fill up when you got emotional. You're doing a great job and seem like such a lovely person. Keep up the great work and amazing videos xxx
I've been so excited and so scared about becoming a mom for so long but watching you and Tom is just so refreshing and wonderful! I now have a 3 and a half month old who sleeps pretty well but we have the odd night here and there where she just doesn't want to play ball and it's so hard! Especially with my fiancé back at work, it's tiring but as mothers we do just have to power on and if it weren't for your fabulous vlogs I think I would feel much harder in myself than I currently do!
Thank you for being so honest and sharing the highest highs, and the lowest lows! So many people filter parenthood on social media, and it can give others unrealistic expectations of how their lives should be. I've recently started a new job and I'm now working 5 days a week - I think it's taken a toll on my 3yr old daughter who after months of being dry with no accidents, wet herself at preschool, and then today had to be put in time out at preschool for not having 'kind hands' with another child who snatched a toy from her 😢 I'm feeling massive 'working Mum guilt' and I'm sure it's down to all of the change she's had to go through lately. She was sad when she went to bed tonight, and said she wanted to "relax more with Mummy" - talk about pulling on my heartstrings! Bring on the weekend 👩👧 x
Oh Gi. I want to give you a hug. We went through this with my 3yo when she was 2. I did rapid return and one night I took her back to her bed every 2 secs for over 2hrs. After this night I changed tack and would close the door if she got out of bed. She cried a lot! But was back in bed asleep within 8 mins. So much better than the night before! We went through it again earlier this year and door closing didn't work! I was beside myself and really let it get to me. In the end I pulled myself together and bought some glow in the dark stars. Each night she goes to bed and stays there she gets a new star stuck up on her wall the following day. Has worked a treat!
Hi Gi, hugs too you if anyone hasn't had a night like this with a toddler they are either lying or it hasn't happened... yet. My 2 yr old normally goes to bed lovely bath, a couple of books in bed. Usually I lay him down, give him a kiss and cuddle, tell him how much I love him good night and close the door and I won't hear a peep out of him. On the occasion he will fake cry or get himself worked up and nothing I do will console him. It's hard being a mummy and sometimes you are pushed to your limit, but just always remember these bad nights are soon forgotton about. I always try to remind myself he won't be little for long and I will be so upset when the day comes when he doesn't need me to settle him too sleep and feel secure xx
My Dad passed away in 2012 and tomorrow would of been his 65th birthday, feeling quite down atm but your videos really help. thank you. also where did you get your top/ dress from? i love it xxx
also I'm sorry you felt like a crap mummy,you're an amazing mummy and if I am blessed enough to have children one day I hope I can be half as good as you xx
Gah! I feel your pain Gi! Of course our children are angels.. but def feel you with the sleep issue! I've had to rock / feed my 2yo to sleep his whole life, (due to studying and work) and tried everything to get him to self-settle.. he started climbing out of the cot at 11 months so bed training hasn't been easy since then. Tried everything and currently cuddling him in bed trying to wean off the boob. Snuggles are very precious and delighted that I'm his snuggy rather than a blanket to be quite honest! Keep going, you are an amazing mum. Loving this Mumdays malark btw - such a brill way to open mummy communications! Big chest bump to you! xx
We have all been there, my children are now 12 and 9, but oh my god those nights with my son are so fresh still in my mind, I remember feeling angry, sad and then guilty all in a few hours! But they become less and easier, and you get your evenings back eventually. Still get it wrong even now and things are so much easier but still lay awake feeling guilty over something I should or shouldn't have said or done!! This stage will ease and then it's something else, oh the joys of parenting!!!
you're a really great mum Gi and motherhood is the hardest job in the world and you're doing an amazing job! every mother has their struggles you aren't alone xx
my six month old daughter was poorly the other night and wouldn't settle i tried everything from rocking her to a dummy and she just screamed at me - i laid her on my chest whilst i laid in bed just not knowing what to do and she looked at me and just said "mummy, mummy" for the first time and i literally felt all of the stress melt away from me and i just snuggled her again and she fell straight to sleep xx
Hi Gi, I am not a mum myself, but I have baby sat many times in the last 8 years, for friends who back then had babies and toddlers. Some nights I would baby sit, it was very stressful and exhausting, especially when they were poorly with a cold or something. But you're right this is only a small part of looking after children and mostly being part of a child's life is wonderful and just magical. Keep up the good work Gi, ur doing awesome!!
I'm so glad you did this video. I'm a mum to 5, 4 and 19 month old children. I have exactly the same problem as you. My 19 month old was brilliant at going to bed, like Buzz would self soothe and go to sleep on his own. As my husband works away often and I didn't want him waking my two older children I started going in and holding his hand, this worked and I was able to creep out of the room...excellent! Now however, he wants me to sit by his cot all night holding his hand, as soon as he realises I'm not there he goes crazy and I mean CRAZY!!! Luckily my two older girls have now got used to his screams and sleep through it but as a mother who just wants to make their child happy and needs to sleep herself it's very hard to feel that it is just you and only your child that does this. You are an excellent mummy so never doubt yourself. Xx
I am only 14, but I still love these videos! My mum said i used to be like that most nights! My sister (who is 16) apparently used to just get up and sit outside her door until someone came to her! It's okay Gi, he will grow out of it x
This helped me so much today!! We're having a terrible time with sleep with my youngest and like u say u feel like the only one in the world! So this helped me feel like we're all in it together! 🙌🏼 xx
I'm not a mom, but I had one, and now that I am an adult there's no perfect parent. I'm 26 and I have really bad dreams and my dad is great at keeping it together and making me calm :) my mom was as well... as I've been told adults are really just faking it until they make it... John Green said once "I just have to fool this tiny human into thinking I know what I am doing..." that also seemed to me like good advice. Hope the boys are sleeping better lots of love :)
I'm a single mom to my 2 year old son (3 on Oct 24th this year) and I've been raising him since the day he was born.. I just found out 2 months ago (08/12/16) he has autism. It's been pretty tough getting him to bed bc I've tried giving him a bath before bedtime, reading him a book, rock him, non-affectionate, & even singing to him.. Absolutely nothing worked till I started giving him melatonin & WORKS!!!! Since then he now knows his EVERYDAY schedule!! Thanks Gi for making MUMDAY VLOGS!!!! ♥♥♥
I only have one child, he's 3 almost. He really tests my boundaries and I've been there where I was exhausted and just started crying. I've been a single mom for the most part of his life and some times have been really tough. He still doesn't sleep through the night and has got into the habit of wanting to get into my bed. I think we all do great we all do the best for our children and we just have to keep going! The good moment far outweigh the hard moment. Although in that moment all you can think of is the little devil really testing your patience! You're great :) x
Nights like that are so lonely and desperate. You feel like you are the only one, but your not. It's happened to me many times with my daughter, same age as Buzz. I end up sobbing with guilt for getting cross, but as you said the good times outweigh the bad and the next day it's all forgotten. One day we will wish for those nights back, when our baby is all grown up and doesn't want our comfort anymore. Love your vlogs, you brighten my day everytime I watch and make me remember I'm not alone. xx
my son was amazing with his sleep too, but had a horrible period a few months ago just before he turned 3. Putting him in his toddler bed didn't work because he just got up! it has all got better with time. I worked on his routine and just went on blind faith because it HAD to get better. I remember the tears too and it is awful but this will pass. I wouldn't say I'm well rested now but it is getting so much better!
I spend my weekend early mornings catching up with your videos, while my 2 year old is playing. She asked me what I was watching, I asked her to try and say your name, turned into "pyjama" haha. I wish I'd seen this video last week, because Tuesday was the worst night I've ever had putting her to bed. Normally she'll go down, we'll read her both a story and she'll drift off. But the tantrum started at tea time, she refused to eat, had a 20 minute tantrum while I ran her bath, she was fine in the bath, then I told her she was going straight to bed and she kicked off again. It took us ages to calm her down, it was so draining and it made me cry. And she went to bed not eating and I felt awful for doing it
I have so much respect for mums, they deal with so much! I am a youth worker and even dealing with mini-meltdowns in youth group or while I babysit for people is so difficult, so to be able to handle it all the time is so admirable! Also, just a thought, Buzz could be acting out at night because of separation anxiety from Tom being away, which may be why he really REALLY didn't want you to leave him. Hope they settle down soon and you manage to sleep!! :-)
Today I am a 'mombie'. I'm so tired. My 3 year old has been sleeping terribly the past few nights and I'm exhausted. He's up and down 4-5 times during the night then awake at 6am for the day. He will wake his big sister up who's 5 so then she's ratty due to being tired. We're a very sleepy house! My husband left about 4 months ago, just walked out and changed his mind on wanting a family so I'm doing this alone. I need sleep!! X
Aww G! This has happened to me with my little girl Freya. She used to self settle instantly but for a few months she'd be up all night screaming. She wanted me there, she didn't want me there, she wanted me to hold her, she didn't want me near her... It's so tough! But you are doing the best job possible!! Freya is back to her normal sleep now, thank goodness! (She's 20 months) My other little girl Athena is still fed to sleep for both naps and bed time, but it's the only way she'll sleeeeep ahhhh! (she's 4 months) Keep up the good work Mumma bear! :)
Gi they're only young once, he won't want snuggles when he's older and It's a big difference for him. Buddy being born, His own room, Tom away on tour. I'm too soft to let them cry it out so I'll be the same when my lo is that age!
Been there, those nights are soooo tough. Feel like it's the hardest job in the world. Does get better. Emotional roller coaster isn't it and thanks for such an honest video. My daughter is 14 months and sleeping much better now. Never thought it would get better xx
Gi, this video has been the type of video I've needed to see. I've got a 3 week old boy who has recently got colic and the past 2/3 days have been awful. he's refusing to give up his wind and then screams and cries because hes in pain with it and he's also refusing to go to sleep, anything I tried to soothe him didn't seem to work which is heartbreaking because all I want to do it make it better for him. I ended up having a mini break down yesterday thinking I was doing an awful job but i think its because i was over tired but then a few hours later he was fine again back to his bubble happy self which made me feel better. but atleast I now know I'm not the only one who has moments like this and we are all doing a good job. 😊 hope you're well. much love xxxxxxx
Owweee bless you. Xxx sorry you had such a rough one. I had my babies in 2000 /2 /4 so no online mum network . Luckily my brother was a posty so didn't mind a call at four am to chat !!! It really got me thru those early days! I love that you are so open and honest , I always speak the truth when it comes to parenting! It's flipping hard, there's no training for these moments!! Xxx
You are doing an amazing job and we all have those moments where we feel absolutely crap! Maybe Buzz felt confused about sleeping if you were changing the subject away from bedtime? Even if you were trying to soothe him from crying? He maybe felt your anxiousness about getting him down! Does Buzz have a bear or a comforter that he could "put to bed" first to keep the bedtime routine light hearted? Hope something works soon! I think children always have rough patches of sleeping much like us! ❤️ keep smiling, your boys are beautiful and you always do a fab job! He will always love you even if it means a night crying at you and you feeling like the worst person in the world! Your his mummy after all! His world! Xx
oh Gi I totally feel for you. I have an 8 year old who is fab at going to bed, an 8 month old who usually sleeps okay but my 3 year old son is a bloody nightmare and won't self settle. he will only contemplate bed if either myself or my husband lie next to him which usually results in one of us falling asleep and then the evening and adult time is over! So frustrating. thanks for your honest vlog! it's nice to know you're not alone xx
It's nice to have a place to vent, thank you for this Gi. My little boy is 9 months. Right now he's super poorly and the last two nights he's only slept 3-4 hours, at first he'd only sleep while being rocked but then even that wouldn't work and he just screamed and sobbed. It was awful! I have got his cold too so I'm a bit of a state. I'm a single mum too, his dad and I separated back in May. I've moved to the other end of the country so I'm near my parents for some support, got a new job, a new house, everything is so overwhelming. I don't know how I'm going to cope with nights like last night when I'm working full time. My dad's just taken him for a walk so I can rest but I'm so anxious about everything I can't close my eyes! I hope things get easier in time 😪
Being a parent is certainly a rollercoaster..... my 7 year old twins moved into their own room in april when we moved house. All of a sudden my daughter went from sleeping very well (in our hold house) to not sleeping, crying, being scared, waking up through the night, sleep walking.... she basically regressed so much it was back to having a new born again. Its took her 6 months to adjust to having her own room away from her twin brother. Its a life journey that we learn from every day. I have an autistic teenager also, who surprisingly settled well into the new house.... life is busy, testing and yes, I cry often, but only cause I love my 3 kids so much....
I really hate this weather ! It has so much to do with the unsettling that the wee ones are having just now X I know how bad you feel but it was a warm Crap shocking night ! That's how I survive these nights. The smile they give us after washes it all away. You are human !!! And we're not bad xxx
Parenting is the most amazing and the most difficult thing ever, I believe that each different for each child and parent. My Son, when he was 12 months old, did the same as Buzz. It's the hardest thing in the world! In the end sitting with him and moving slowly out of the room bit by bit helped. Chin up!
I'm a bit late to this but my kids caused me a total meltdown on Thursday, being naughty, over tired, acting up, asking for things then crying because I'd go the wrong one, teething, not knowing what they wanted etc etc. it was awful! I broke down and shouted, slammed things and generally lost it. hubby came home and sent me off for a bath where I sobbed for a good half hour! Both kids were asleep when I emerged from the bathroom and all was lovely the next morning. we all have blips and moments where it all gets a little too much, but thankfully they won't be the moments our kids remember!
it's amazing to hear u tell this story because tats happened to me loads of times. I'm so glad I'm not alone an other people go thru this to thank u xx
that was so refreshing to watch. thank u for sharing. I have a 6 yr old 4 yr old and a new born and my 4 year old is and always has been the worst sleeper. when she was born she stayed awake for 13 hours which like Wat brand new baby stays awake that long. she has always fought her sleep and for a good 2 years night times wer jus dreadful. her lack of sleep caused her to have really bad tantrums and for ages it really used to upset me cos I felt I was doing something wrong. she's not as bad now altho she's in school now so.alot more tired than before in d evenings. I love that u shared ur experience and that it's not only me who sometimes sits and cries cos it gets too much. more people need to speak and share that mother hood as wonderful and life changing as it is...it's bloody hard and nothing to beat ur self up over if ur having a hard time. I jus wish more people would be honest n not try pretend they r perfect cos let's face it none of us are!
I wore that T shirt for a whole year Gi. My hubby was working 3 jobs to keep us afloat so when he did finally get home to get some shuteye I would leap out of bed if i heard my son cry to feed or rock him back to sleep. By age 2 he was a nightmare. In the end the doctor told me I had to be tougher than my kid. I made my hubby sleep downstairs on the couch for a week. 1st night he cried 4 hours solid but I would go in every 15mins, lay him down, no talking, leave. I thought he was going to have a stroke. Eventually he passed out sobbing. It was heartbreaking. I bought myself earplugs for 2nd night - the same thing but he gave up after 2hours and 45 mins. 3rd night, half an hour. By the fourth night he woke, cried a minute and went back to sleep. He has slept through ever since. It was by far the hardest thing I ever did but in the longrun was the best thing as we now both get enough good, deep sleep. Hang in there girlie!
I'm not a mom, but 12 years ago (when I was 12), my little brother was born. His mom was not present, so it fell to me to raise him and I can DEFINITELY relate to those nights! He was colicky for several months, and he would scream and cry for so long that there was absolutely nothing left in me - I would sob right along with him until he finally fell asleep. Even after getting over colick, we would still occasionally have those nights. There's nothing wrong with breaking down every once in awhile - raising a child is INCREDIBLY difficult work, but those difficulties are overshadowed the second they walk up and grab your hand or touch your face. Stressful little nuggets, but we gotta love them! ❤❤
Oh chick, it's so tough when you have nights like that. You are such a lovely mum. My daughter currently has some epic meltdowns and it's tough but I hope it's just a phase. We all have terrible nights sometimes. Mine are 5 and 7 and a couple of weeks ago were awake alternately having nightmares ever two hours. I was sooooo tired the next day but thankfully it was a one off. You're doing a great job, it can be the toughest thing ever. x
Gi I totally understand how it feels to just feel emotionally drained like that. I've mentioned this before on another video but I'm a teacher, and we've just finished up a big school concert at the school where I work, and last Tuesday my year one students were just so relentlessly silly and I was stressed about the concert, and they were excited about our night performance that...I cried. In front of them, I properly cried and had to excuse myself and let another teacher watch them for five minutes...it was awful. But they do understand, they feel it when you're upset. I hope that your nights with your boys get better and that you are getting some very well earned sleep
My niece does this sometimes. She doesn't want to go down because mom isn't at home. Sometimes she won't see mom for a couple of days, because of her moms work schedule. So I put her to bed and some days she makes me want to cry. I'm sure you all miss Tom! I hope that you have a better night tonight! :) And terrible 2's are so hard, especially when you have to deal with it by yourself. You are an amazing mom, don't let one bad night get to you!
Oh Gi , I don't usually comment on anything but this video made me emotional, my girls are now 19 and 14 but I remember them driving me to tears when they were younger . Being a mum is the hardest job in the world and unfortunately doesn't get any easier trust me!! Stay strong x
Gi you are doing amazing. I have two children and my first fought bedtime with all he had. I decided I was going to learn about sleep and my second child was so much easier but not because they didn't have tricky times but because I knew why and I knew I was doing the right things. I am now becoming a sleep educator to help other parents through this hard time. You are trusting your gut and that is the important thing. If you are not comfortable letting him cry it out, don't! He has a lot of changes going on with a new brother, Tom away, new bed. He needs you as his constant right now and that is understandable. Stick to your routine as you have been. make sure he is not over tired and fill his bucket everyday. Meaning make sure he is getting enough food, drink, play time, quiet time and you time. Children need comforting touch though out the day, as do adults. Massage is a great way to do this before bed. Do a massage story on his back while you say a nursery rhyme or song. Does wonders to help them sleep. You are doing great! keep it up!
That was us last night! Thank you for sharing as I was really struggling. Our 22 month old was screaming till 11pm when my fella took over, I had to walk away. She eventually went to sleep at 12.45! At that point our 11 month old woke to nurse...! X
you are doing great Gi! I don't have kids yet cause I'm only 22 and I just finished college, but it doesn't take having kids to realize that you are a great mom!! PS: I love the positive energy in your videos❤
I'm not even a mom, but I've been enjoying watching your Mumdays videos, from time to time. I think it makes me appreciate my mom and all moms even more, because they all struggled, they all had their ups and downs, yet here we are, here I am! Moms rock! You're wonderful Gi! All the best wishes from me :)
Gi, your rawness is beautiful! People will admit that parenthood is hard, but they usually try to conceal that they're struggling. By sharing your feelings, you are validating the same feelings that every other parent has. That's amazing. Thank you xx
When my son was a toddler, what I found most helpful was not parenting books but online communities of mommies. It's the most amazing thing in the world knowing that there are other people dealing with similar situations you are in. Sometimes you learn how to fix the problems you have, sometimes you don't, and that's perfectly fine because at least you are trying your best in your own way -- that's what others are doing as well. I'm so glad for young moms out there that you are here to openly talk about this and just be their friends. I know it means a lot to them. Thanks, Gi. 💚
One month ago I moved from England to Germany to work as an au pair for a year and my god I have suddenly got so much more respect for mums!!! I look after a 2 year old and a 4 year old girl and the amount of patience and strength you need is unbelievable. The first time I ever babysat the girls overnight, one of my little girls sat on my knee and cried for her mum for an hour, I cannot imagine what it is like to have to deal with things like this day in day out. All of you mums are doing a fantastic job, keep going!!! X
Oh Gi, I am right there with you, except my son is 26. He has special needs. Every night he wakes me 4-5 times for various reasons, many of which are critical. I have not had a night where I sleep more than two hours at a time since he was born. My average night is 5 hours sleep total. I love him beyond imagine and would give my life for him in less than a heart beat. A mom has to do what a mom has to do. Bless you dear.
You're so honest about parenting and that's why I love you way to many blogging/vlogging mums&families are only about the good stuff and it's refreshing to see someone being totally honest about the highs and lows of parenthood!
Your honesty is so beautiful. I hear so many stories from other parents about hard time with children. It's important to know that sometimes things don't go to plan but it's okay because everyone's going through it
Awwww You are a great mum. We've all been through it and you will survive it (I'm the mum of a 12 year old and a 15 year old - now I have trouble getting them OUT of bed!). I always used lavender bubble bath and baby lotion on them before they went to bed. I also picked up a trick from my mum - I used to gently stroke both my children around their foreheads - just one finger and their eyes automatically closed. It was a pain in the bum standing there for 10 minutes but, it worked a treat !! I still have the magic touch as I can get our labrador to sleep doing the same thing to her - gently stroking her forehead lol! Little ones can be so testing at times but, you will survive and look back at these memories fondly x
thanks for the tips!
My Mom always did that with my kids when she would babysit. She would gently run her finger over their foreheads and kind of down the temples and it always worked.
Oh god I originally read that as a mum of 12
Forr3ster ROTFL!!!! No two is definitely enough lol ! x
+Forr3ster my mums a mum of 12....... •_• whats wrong with that I like having a big family, :\
Be strong, Gi! You're not an awful mom just because you cant put your kid to sleep!! I think it happens to every mom out there so don't beat yourself up!!! I'm too young to have kids but i already worked on a nursery and i learned how extremely hard it is to put a baby/kid to sleep. You got this girl! We already witnessed the great mom you are to both of your boys.
Lots of love and sleep for you!! xx
Gi this video made me just want to give you a big cuddle and let you know you're doing a wonderful job! I don't have kids, but I've seen my wonderful mum foster many babies in the last 20 years, and she is such an inspiration. As are you. Big huge hugs to you and those of you mumming the shit out of life!
I'm a midwife, and tell parents constantly that you cannot love your babies too much - kisses and cuddles and touch are what make us feel human and safe, and babies need that so much - but so do we as mums, as humans. So hug your babies super tight. And make sure someone you love hugs you too! Xxxxx
Oh my god, your timing is amazing. My little girl goes all out when she learns a new skill and likes to practise all hours of the day. This week she has learned to stand up, which is great apart from the fact that she can't sit down yet. This resulted in five different visits during the night to rescue my little mountain goat and try to calm her down again. This morning has consisted of a lot of coffee so far!! If it wasn't for my solid group of mum friends who totally get it I honestly think I'd go insane. Being a mum has definitely made me more supportive and empathetic of other people as this job is bloody hard work! Hope you get some sleep, I'm going to bed for half an hour xx
I'm howling with laughter at 'mountain goat' - my daughter used to climb out of the cot .... she's 15 now and won't bloomin' get out of bed !! I've also got a 12 year old son who seems to collect cups/plates and cutlery !! x
THIS is where we are right now too lol
Gi, your honesty is refreshingly beautiful! We're all winging parenting with you!
Before my 11mo was born I thought I had it all planned.. Baby would BF and have expressed bottles when I return to work .... Of course my baby refused all bottles from day 1 and 11 months later STILL refuses any bottle/cup. Needless to say I haven't actually been able to return to work, some days I think he's parenting me 😂
Keep your chin up Gi, you really do a marvellous job even on the nights when our babies have other ideas!! 🤗
could you see what bub does when you arent around. ive heard stories of weaning where they refuse when mum is around but when she isnt they will take a bottle.
We heard this too! We're currently in this process of leaving Dad with baby .. It's taken months but slowly it's getting better. Baby boy just seems completely perplexed by bottle teets, chewing them rather than sucking, it's been a learning curve to try and teach baby how to suck on a bottle!
Have you tried just letting him wait till you get home? I went back to work when my boy was 10 months, he refused all bottles/ cups of milk, so I just didn't leave any milk because he eats fine in the day, he just gets boob milk once we get home, then for bedtime, basically no sense in stressing about bottle feeding if he isn't gonna go for it.
Thanks for the advice, so far we've managed 4 hours away and still trying so fingers crossed!
Gi, you are amazing and the fact that you can see what is happening shows that! everyone has hard nights and with tom being away both of you are more fragile! hgs x
I'm not even a Mum (Mam for me), or not even close to being but my heart goes out to you and all the parents out there. No matter whether you are having a good day, or a bad day, you're doing something amazing. You're teaching a little human how to 'do' life - something no one actually knows how to do themselves! Keep going parents, you RULE!
You're so honest and sweet. And don't forget, you can't always be "the best friend" when you're also the parent. But you do amazing! Love you Gi!
Ive experienced exactly the same, i cried too then my little boy 2.5yrs old said "mummy are you ok?!" I cried even more! Its good to share the struggles! In that moment u feel your failing but its because your tired and emotional, the next morning its beaming smiles all around and a new day! Thanku for sharing Gi! Us mums have the best jobs!
You are such an inspiration. On the sleep department I have been VERY lucky. my 9 month old generally sleeps every night, give or take a few which of course is completely manageable. However the last few nights she's had a terrible cold and point blank refuses to sleep in her cot. In the moment I feel like I'm the only person to ever go through this and nobody understands how I feel so your video this morning put a big smile on my face. It's so easy to get down about these things but your positivity this morning after having a terrible night picked me right back up again. Thank you xx
That brought tears to my eyes! It's so hard when you love your little baby so much that you suddenly are challenged and have no idea what to do! What I found is that you have to be mean and say ENOUGH! Then no eye contact and just keep putting them in their bed and leaving them. They are testing their boundaries and we MUST show them who is boss. Otherwise they become the boss 😣😖
It feels hard at first but they appreciate having boundaries and respect us more for it, although at the time it doesn't feel like it it is worth it!
Also, try 123 magic! I tried it with my son and it worked! He has ADHD. Basically when they start pushing it you say "that's 1!" If they keep at it "that's 2" then when and if they get to 3 you put them in time out. No explanation. They soon learn that they don't want to do time out and stop before it gets to that
Every child is different and every day caring for them can be a vastly different experience compared to the days before that.
And when we have our babies it's a learn as you go thing. There are no manuals that can ever be specific to each child. (If only, that would be amazing).
And there can be so many different factors that contribute to a good easy times. As there are to horrible emotionally draining demoralising times. That nothing could ever prepare you for when they hit.
During the hard times. I would consider the saying "It takes a village to raise a child" And know in my heart that it must be true.
My husband was away for weeks and months at a time. (Army - longest was 11 months away)
And there I was with less than 2 hours of broken sleep in a 24 hours. Consistently. Not just tired, but trying to comfort a screaming baby. And I knew. I am not meant to be doing this alone.
But alone I was. My health suffered. My sanity suffered.
My respect for single parents grew. Parents who don't have the prospect of a partner eventually coming home, so they can just have a nap. Or anyone to lend a hand. A way to get some solid sleep. Or some housework done. Well lets just say. So much respect.
I may not have handled things well. Or the way another parent would have. Or the way popular social circles deemed right for what ever piece of "recent studies" may be floating about. Or the "Back in my day" people.
But I made the choices that felt right for that moment in that time. I was there for my boys. I gave them 100% of me. I gave them what they needed.
They were always clothed fed and clean . Read to, sang to. Given every opportunity to sleep comfortably and safely. And deeply loved.
I did the best I was able to do.
Just like all of us. Who love, care for and want the best for our little people.
We do the best we can. Because most of us don't have a village to help raise the child.
Most of us are riding by the seat of our pants. Trying to live up to this unrealistic unholy standard of what a proper parent should be. And how the perfect child should be.
It's all a lie. There is no true "model parent". There is no such thing as the "perfect child" to aspire to.
What we have. Is you, the parent. And your child and this moment. And if your choice is to do what you feel is the best by them in that moment.
Then you are a gift to your child.
And forgive yourself for all the hard choices and possible missteps. It's an extremely difficult thing to learn on the job. Especially when the job, the rules and the goal posts are constantly changing.
I'm not a crap mum and neither are you.
Oh Gi. I've been there! My daughter is 27 months. Thursday night she had a complete meltdown and screamed for 2 hours. I was at the end of my tether!! Honestly! I'm so glad for my mummy friends - what's app saved my sanity! Then she was so over tired Friday was a nightmare. But you are right, then they do something just too cute and all is forgotten! So glad that you are honest about it. Motherhood/parenthood is such a levelling experience - we are all in the same boat. My mother told me when I became a mum to be grateful the every day is a new opportunity to start again! So, new day, new start x
Oh Gi!! I've commented this on one of your videos before but I'm gonna say it again, I am not a mum and may not be for many years, but you are the type and mum and wife I'd aspire to be one day!! Your honesty on here is so refreshing it's lovely!! Maybe Buzz was missing Tom or something?
Also congrats on the play button you're now at over 160 k and so deserve every one.
This video has made me cry, with compassion, and for knowing exactly the same feeling. There was a 3 month period where my 2 year old daughter Sofia just wouldn't go to bed, at one point I shut the door on her and she went crazy and I remember feeling like I had completely failed as a mum, that what kind of person would do this. It was my lowest point and I felt like I couldnt do anything right. U doing this video has inspired me and made me know that honesty is just amazing, and being a mum had the biggest highs and lows ever possible. Thanks Gi x
Hi Gi! I'm a 41 year old mum of a 7 year old girl who has a diagnosis of autism. I watch your channel regularly but have never subscribed or commented on ANY RUclips video before! However, this Mumsdays video really resonated with me. Autism and erratic sleep often walk hand in hand and it's no exaggeration to say I haven't slept well in the last 7 years! My daughter either doesn't settle, doesn't stay asleep or wakes very early. I work full time and regularly berate myself when I struggle...so THANK YOU! Thank you for being honest and open about your feelings. It made me really emotional to watch and did remind me that I'm not alone. You also reminded me that you can only do your best in that moment and that sometimes you just have to forgive yourself, pick yourself up and move on...
So my first comment (and probably my last!) is one of gratitude! Love the videos, admire your honesty and think you have created a lovely little space here in the world of RUclips! Xxx
I absolutely love how honest you are about you and your children! No false hoods just absolute honesty it's so refreshing! We all have tough times I have a 2 year old and a 8 month old and there are tough times but the good times always out weigh the bad 😘😘😘
Thanks for your candidness. I've had four babies and have struggled with sleep problems with them all, even though my friends never seemed to have any problem whatsoever in getting their children to bed at a reasonable time.
All of them slept in my bed, after starting their night on the sofa and then being carried upstairs to bed.
It's all part of being a parent Hun......don't beat yourself up and continue being the caring beautiful young mummy that you are. x
I love how open and honest you are about how motherhood really is. I'm a mam of three children (13,6 and 3) my youngest is only just starting to sleep now and I thought we'd never get through it and to get through to the other side. Even now she sleeps I still wake. There's days when you feel like the worst mam in the world and that you can't do right for doing wrong x
thanks for always being so open about everything you talk about. a lot of the time celebs give the impression that their lives are perfect and its really refreshing X
One of the best things about you G, isn't that you are so painfully beautiful on the outside(because you are)but you are so insanely beautiful on the inside and it just shines through in all that you do. I feel so lucky that you share all that you do with us, and this video in particular really turned my day around from a tough one to a much better one. Thank you for always being so real and genuine and you! :)
I love this Gi the total honest face of mummy hood... Totally been in this position so many times I lay next to my little boys bed every night till he falls asleep there is so much pressure around sleep in our society do what you've got to do your doing amazing! X
OH MY!! I needed this video. I've been trying to solve our sleep issue at the moment. My son is 13 months and still nursing. I have tried to wean him off since around 10 months but he refuses. I haven't had a full nights sleep since I was 6 months pregnant, I have read so many books and blogs and I haven't found something that works for him yet. I always hear stories from my friends with children and their babies slept though early on and that's something I could only dream of.But after he has been pulling at my shirt and giving my his cheeky smile and I finally cave, his sweet little face just looks so content that it melts me enough to carry on. What a great idea for the comments too, I'm seeing so many women in similar positions and it calms me down a bit.
Gi thing is you are that naturally beautiful that even if you feel rough you don't look it. You're one of those lucky women that look incredible with or without make up. Jealous!! X
yep.
I feel your pain! I go through this almost daily! Being a mum is so stressful and such an emotional rollercoaster but once those beautiful little kiddies smile at you it makes so worthwhile ❤️
I love how honest u are...I feel like so many mums pretend that life is perfect and never talk about how hard it is
Congratulations Gi! When my boy was a baby he had colic and would absolutely SCREAM for hours starting right around the time I'd get home from work each day. I can't tell you how often I cried. I cried because he was screaming, I cried because he didn't scream if I got him to bed early enough, but if I got him to bed that early I'd only get to spend an hour with him after work. I cried trying to get him to sleep.
Admitting you're struggling is a wonderful thing. Having a network of people to have your back is even greater. Thank you for being honest!
It's good to read and watch that we are not alone in this world of toddlers and babies!
I have a 7 month old , a nearly 3 year old and a 8 year old! One very busy household. Suddenly my baby and toddler won't sleep , toddler won't go to bed let alone stay there and baby has suddenly decided he will wake every 2 hrs. So at least we are all up together, trying to work, run a house, and be awake all night! High five mums, your all doing great and we're in this together xxxx
The first year of my son's life was a nightmare when it came to sleeping. He would be up around 12-15 times a night even if he slept next to us. We saw multiple medical professionals to find out what was going on. It finally started to settle a little around 15 months and now he wakes up 3-5 times at 18 months which is a relief but still exhausting. I know exactly how you feel but I've learned overtime things will get better and we just have to push through these hard times! All the mommy communities I'm in are also great and supportive.
Gi it's so lovely to hear a mummy speaking so honest as a mummy I find getting my baby's sleeping routine to stay on track hope you get some sleep soon and big hugs for the times you feel like crying
Ah sending a big hug to you !! Making me cry. Thanks for sharing such a stressful time - it's great to know we're not the only ones that have a tough time xx
That brought a tear to my eye Gi. I found the age of 2 difficult with my Son (I guess they don't call it the terrible twos for nothing!!). The slightest change can have the biggest knock on affect. When I lost my 2nd child at 22 weeks pregnant, my Husband and I spent one night away from home. The first time this had ever happened, and what followed was over 9 months of disrupted bedtime routine and sleep to the point my Son would make himself sick from his hysterics. Not nice to watch but also that feeling of helplessness was palpable. Thank you for sharing the bad as well as the good. I love your vlogs, and I'm sending you lots of virtual hugs and love xx
Last night was a bad night in our house too our 3 year old and 11month old were both taking it in turns too wake up every hour in the night very drained tired mommy and I cried this morning knowing I had too get out if bed and face the day of nursery drop off and a very Wingey 11month old because he is over tired and will have a very Wingey 3year old when he's home from nursery because he will want too nap ...... Motherhood is so joyful , I'm happy you admit when you're defeated that's what I love about you and you're channel Gi keep it up you are amazing xx
I was a terrible sleeper as a child, can remember crying when my parents left the room and I'm 22 now. Apparently it changed when I started sharing a room with my little brother, I then went to bed no problem! You are so inspiring and doing great :) x
I think what you are doing is amazing. I am not a mom, but in my profession I see all the time so many mothers and fathers that feel guilty to talk about the "bad" things about parenting (specially to women and all this idealization on the "Mother" in all of us) and I think that it is so important to have a culture on honesty and being able to share our feelings and thoughts and open the discussion to a community of support where you really are able feel and know that you are not alone or the only one struggling. Cheers on, Gi.
Thanks for sharing, we are on holiday in Greece at the moment and on the flight over my toddler had the most horrific 20 minute melt down, we had to physically restrain her as she was thrashing and kicking her legs. I held her and silently sobbed, when she saw me crying she stopped, said 'mummy cry?'
Keep sharing, it's nice to know we are all having our boundaries tested by our toddlers. xxx
Errrr....YES TO THIS! My baby is 1 (today actually) and has never slept through the night. He has refused a bottle from the start, really doesn't like it if he is not breastfed to sleep and the one time I tried a couple of minutes of controlled crying (against my instinct that it wouldn't work) he projectile vommed. I felt like such a failure BUT my Mummy Wolfpack were right with me (NCT group mums) and gave me a what's app slap around the chops, telling me to pull myself together. Every time I am on the floor thinking that this is never going to end, it will, and then I will miss the cuddles, miss the feeding, miss him looking so intensely into my eyes and miss him holding on to me like I'm an angel. Mum life = a roller coaster. We're on it and whatever journey you take, you just need to get through it in the way that is best for you and your babies.
You are such an amazing person, My 2 year old has made the transition from cot to bed and I have had a terrible time with her, but she is slowly getting better, I find that some soft gentle music helps her go to sleep, she does try to get around me with I want this I want that but I just be firm with her, I hate doing that but I have noticed that when i do she does eventually give up and goes to sleep cause she knows mummy won't budge! I love your vlogs, its nice to know that us mums are not alone, we all go through this and its nice to know we can discuss it and help each other, thanks for your vlogs, you really are an inspiration Gi!
Hi Gi
Firstly, I watch all your videos, you're so refreshing and "normal". Secondly, thank you for this video, unfortunately I don't have kids, but hopefully one day I will, and I find your videos so inspiring. This one made me fill up when you got emotional. You're doing a great job and seem like such a lovely person. Keep up the great work and amazing videos xxx
I've been so excited and so scared about becoming a mom for so long but watching you and Tom is just so refreshing and wonderful! I now have a 3 and a half month old who sleeps pretty well but we have the odd night here and there where she just doesn't want to play ball and it's so hard! Especially with my fiancé back at work, it's tiring but as mothers we do just have to power on and if it weren't for your fabulous vlogs I think I would feel much harder in myself than I currently do!
Thank you for being so honest and sharing the highest highs, and the lowest lows! So many people filter parenthood on social media, and it can give others unrealistic expectations of how their lives should be.
I've recently started a new job and I'm now working 5 days a week - I think it's taken a toll on my 3yr old daughter who after months of being dry with no accidents, wet herself at preschool, and then today had to be put in time out at preschool for not having 'kind hands' with another child who snatched a toy from her 😢 I'm feeling massive 'working Mum guilt' and I'm sure it's down to all of the change she's had to go through lately.
She was sad when she went to bed tonight, and said she wanted to "relax more with Mummy" - talk about pulling on my heartstrings! Bring on the weekend 👩👧 x
Oh Gi. I want to give you a hug. We went through this with my 3yo when she was 2. I did rapid return and one night I took her back to her bed every 2 secs for over 2hrs. After this night I changed tack and would close the door if she got out of bed. She cried a lot! But was back in bed asleep within 8 mins. So much better than the night before!
We went through it again earlier this year and door closing didn't work! I was beside myself and really let it get to me. In the end I pulled myself together and bought some glow in the dark stars. Each night she goes to bed and stays there she gets a new star stuck up on her wall the following day. Has worked a treat!
Hi Gi, hugs too you if anyone hasn't had a night like this with a toddler they are either lying or it hasn't happened... yet. My 2 yr old normally goes to bed lovely bath, a couple of books in bed. Usually I lay him down, give him a kiss and cuddle, tell him how much I love him good night and close the door and I won't hear a peep out of him. On the occasion he will fake cry or get himself worked up and nothing I do will console him. It's hard being a mummy and sometimes you are pushed to your limit, but just always remember these bad nights are soon forgotton about. I always try to remind myself he won't be little for long and I will be so upset when the day comes when he doesn't need me to settle him too sleep and feel secure xx
My Dad passed away in 2012 and tomorrow would of been his 65th birthday, feeling quite down atm but your videos really help. thank you. also where did you get your top/ dress from? i love it xxx
also I'm sorry you felt like a crap mummy,you're an amazing mummy and if I am blessed enough to have children one day I hope I can be half as good as you xx
Gah! I feel your pain Gi! Of course our children are angels.. but def feel you with the sleep issue! I've had to rock / feed my 2yo to sleep his whole life, (due to studying and work) and tried everything to get him to self-settle.. he started climbing out of the cot at 11 months so bed training hasn't been easy since then. Tried everything and currently cuddling him in bed trying to wean off the boob. Snuggles are very precious and delighted that I'm his snuggy rather than a blanket to be quite honest! Keep going, you are an amazing mum. Loving this Mumdays malark btw - such a brill way to open mummy communications! Big chest bump to you! xx
We have all been there, my children are now 12 and 9, but oh my god those nights with my son are so fresh still in my mind, I remember feeling angry, sad and then guilty all in a few hours! But they become less and easier, and you get your evenings back eventually. Still get it wrong even now and things are so much easier but still lay awake feeling guilty over something I should or shouldn't have said or done!! This stage will ease and then it's something else, oh the joys of parenting!!!
you're a really great mum Gi and motherhood is the hardest job in the world and you're doing an amazing job! every mother has their struggles you aren't alone xx
my six month old daughter was poorly the other night and wouldn't settle i tried everything from rocking her to a dummy and she just screamed at me - i laid her on my chest whilst i laid in bed just not knowing what to do and she looked at me and just said "mummy, mummy" for the first time and i literally felt all of the stress melt away from me and i just snuggled her again and she fell straight to sleep xx
Hi Gi, I am not a mum myself, but I have baby sat many times in the last 8 years, for friends who back then had babies and toddlers. Some nights I would baby sit, it was very stressful and exhausting, especially when they were poorly with a cold or something. But you're right this is only a small part of looking after children and mostly being part of a child's life is wonderful and just magical. Keep up the good work Gi, ur doing awesome!!
You're such a great mum. And every child has such nights. We all love you. Big hug from an older mum in The Netherlands 💋💋💋
I'm so glad you did this video. I'm a mum to 5, 4 and 19 month old children. I have exactly the same problem as you. My 19 month old was brilliant at going to bed, like Buzz would self soothe and go to sleep on his own. As my husband works away often and I didn't want him waking my two older children I started going in and holding his hand, this worked and I was able to creep out of the room...excellent! Now however, he wants me to sit by his cot all night holding his hand, as soon as he realises I'm not there he goes crazy and I mean CRAZY!!! Luckily my two older girls have now got used to his screams and sleep through it but as a mother who just wants to make their child happy and needs to sleep herself it's very hard to feel that it is just you and only your child that does this. You are an excellent mummy so never doubt yourself. Xx
I am only 14, but I still love these videos! My mum said i used to be like that most nights! My sister (who is 16) apparently used to just get up and sit outside her door until someone came to her! It's okay Gi, he will grow out of it x
This helped me so much today!! We're having a terrible time with sleep with my youngest and like u say u feel like the only one in the world! So this helped me feel like we're all in it together! 🙌🏼 xx
I'm not a mom, but I had one, and now that I am an adult there's no perfect parent. I'm 26 and I have really bad dreams and my dad is great at keeping it together and making me calm :) my mom was as well... as I've been told adults are really just faking it until they make it... John Green said once "I just have to fool this tiny human into thinking I know what I am doing..." that also seemed to me like good advice. Hope the boys are sleeping better lots of love :)
I'm a single mom to my 2 year old son (3 on Oct 24th this year) and I've been raising him since the day he was born.. I just found out 2 months ago (08/12/16) he has autism. It's been pretty tough getting him to bed bc I've tried giving him a bath before bedtime, reading him a book, rock him, non-affectionate, & even singing to him.. Absolutely nothing worked till I started giving him melatonin & WORKS!!!! Since then he now knows his EVERYDAY schedule!!
Thanks Gi for making MUMDAY VLOGS!!!! ♥♥♥
I only have one child, he's 3 almost. He really tests my boundaries and I've been there where I was exhausted and just started crying. I've been a single mom for the most part of his life and some times have been really tough. He still doesn't sleep through the night and has got into the habit of wanting to get into my bed. I think we all do great we all do the best for our children and we just have to keep going! The good moment far outweigh the hard moment. Although in that moment all you can think of is the little devil really testing your patience! You're great :) x
I had a reduced to tears moment with my 9month old last night but like always it's so worth it for the smiles x
Nights like that are so lonely and desperate. You feel like you are the only one, but your not. It's happened to me many times with my daughter, same age as Buzz. I end up sobbing with guilt for getting cross, but as you said the good times outweigh the bad and the next day it's all forgotten. One day we will wish for those nights back, when our baby is all grown up and doesn't want our comfort anymore. Love your vlogs, you brighten my day everytime I watch and make me remember I'm not alone. xx
my son was amazing with his sleep too, but had a horrible period a few months ago just before he turned 3. Putting him in his toddler bed didn't work because he just got up! it has all got better with time. I worked on his routine and just went on blind faith because it HAD to get better. I remember the tears too and it is awful but this will pass. I wouldn't say I'm well rested now but it is getting so much better!
I spend my weekend early mornings catching up with your videos, while my 2 year old is playing. She asked me what I was watching, I asked her to try and say your name, turned into "pyjama" haha.
I wish I'd seen this video last week, because Tuesday was the worst night I've ever had putting her to bed. Normally she'll go down, we'll read her both a story and she'll drift off. But the tantrum started at tea time, she refused to eat, had a 20 minute tantrum while I ran her bath, she was fine in the bath, then I told her she was going straight to bed and she kicked off again. It took us ages to calm her down, it was so draining and it made me cry. And she went to bed not eating and I felt awful for doing it
I have so much respect for mums, they deal with so much! I am a youth worker and even dealing with mini-meltdowns in youth group or while I babysit for people is so difficult, so to be able to handle it all the time is so admirable! Also, just a thought, Buzz could be acting out at night because of separation anxiety from Tom being away, which may be why he really REALLY didn't want you to leave him. Hope they settle down soon and you manage to sleep!! :-)
Today I am a 'mombie'. I'm so tired. My 3 year old has been sleeping terribly the past few nights and I'm exhausted. He's up and down 4-5 times during the night then awake at 6am for the day. He will wake his big sister up who's 5 so then she's ratty due to being tired. We're a very sleepy house! My husband left about 4 months ago, just walked out and changed his mind on wanting a family so I'm doing this alone. I need sleep!! X
Aww G! This has happened to me with my little girl Freya. She used to self settle instantly but for a few months she'd be up all night screaming. She wanted me there, she didn't want me there, she wanted me to hold her, she didn't want me near her... It's so tough! But you are doing the best job possible!! Freya is back to her normal sleep now, thank goodness! (She's 20 months)
My other little girl Athena is still fed to sleep for both naps and bed time, but it's the only way she'll sleeeeep ahhhh! (she's 4 months)
Keep up the good work Mumma bear! :)
when you're far too young to be a mum but you love Gi so much you watch all her material
Gi they're only young once, he won't want snuggles when he's older and It's a big difference for him. Buddy being born, His own room, Tom away on tour. I'm too soft to let them cry it out so I'll be the same when my lo is that age!
Been there, those nights are soooo tough. Feel like it's the hardest job in the world. Does get better. Emotional roller coaster isn't it and thanks for such an honest video. My daughter is 14 months and sleeping much better now. Never thought it would get better xx
We all think you're a fabulous mummy Gi!! You're pretty inspirational. I'm glad the horrid moments haven't dampened your spirit :) xx
Gi, this video has been the type of video I've needed to see. I've got a 3 week old boy who has recently got colic and the past 2/3 days have been awful. he's refusing to give up his wind and then screams and cries because hes in pain with it and he's also refusing to go to sleep, anything I tried to soothe him didn't seem to work which is heartbreaking because all I want to do it make it better for him. I ended up having a mini break down yesterday thinking I was doing an awful job but i think its because i was over tired but then a few hours later he was fine again back to his bubble happy self which made me feel better. but atleast I now know I'm not the only one who has moments like this and we are all doing a good job. 😊 hope you're well. much love xxxxxxx
Owweee bless you. Xxx sorry you had such a rough one.
I had my babies in 2000 /2 /4 so no online mum network . Luckily my brother was a posty so didn't mind a call at four am to chat !!! It really got me thru those early days!
I love that you are so open and honest , I always speak the truth when it comes to parenting! It's flipping hard, there's no training for these moments!! Xxx
You are doing an amazing job and we all have those moments where we feel absolutely crap! Maybe Buzz felt confused about sleeping if you were changing the subject away from bedtime? Even if you were trying to soothe him from crying? He maybe felt your anxiousness about getting him down! Does Buzz have a bear or a comforter that he could "put to bed" first to keep the bedtime routine light hearted? Hope something works soon! I think children always have rough patches of sleeping much like us! ❤️ keep smiling, your boys are beautiful and you always do a fab job! He will always love you even if it means a night crying at you and you feeling like the worst person in the world! Your his mummy after all! His world! Xx
I love how honest you are. I have an 8 month old and 2&half year old and I soooo understand how trying it is. X
oh Gi I totally feel for you. I have an 8 year old who is fab at going to bed, an 8 month old who usually sleeps okay but my 3 year old son is a bloody nightmare and won't self settle. he will only contemplate bed if either myself or my husband lie next to him which usually results in one of us falling asleep and then the evening and adult time is over! So frustrating. thanks for your honest vlog! it's nice to know you're not alone xx
Love your honesty, hang in there mothering two little boys has in its ups and downs but you and Tom are great parents!
It's nice to have a place to vent, thank you for this Gi. My little boy is 9 months. Right now he's super poorly and the last two nights he's only slept 3-4 hours, at first he'd only sleep while being rocked but then even that wouldn't work and he just screamed and sobbed. It was awful! I have got his cold too so I'm a bit of a state. I'm a single mum too, his dad and I separated back in May. I've moved to the other end of the country so I'm near my parents for some support, got a new job, a new house, everything is so overwhelming. I don't know how I'm going to cope with nights like last night when I'm working full time. My dad's just taken him for a walk so I can rest but I'm so anxious about everything I can't close my eyes! I hope things get easier in time 😪
Being a parent is certainly a rollercoaster..... my 7 year old twins moved into their own room in april when we moved house. All of a sudden my daughter went from sleeping very well (in our hold house) to not sleeping, crying, being scared, waking up through the night, sleep walking.... she basically regressed so much it was back to having a new born again. Its took her 6 months to adjust to having her own room away from her twin brother. Its a life journey that we learn from every day. I have an autistic teenager also, who surprisingly settled well into the new house.... life is busy, testing and yes, I cry often, but only cause I love my 3 kids so much....
I really hate this weather ! It has so much to do with the unsettling that the wee ones are having just now X I know how bad you feel but it was a warm Crap shocking night ! That's how I survive these nights. The smile they give us after washes it all away. You are human !!! And we're not bad xxx
Parenting is the most amazing and the most difficult thing ever, I believe that each different for each child and parent.
My Son, when he was 12 months old, did the same as Buzz. It's the hardest thing in the world!
In the end sitting with him and moving slowly out of the room bit by bit helped.
Chin up!
I'm a bit late to this but my kids caused me a total meltdown on Thursday, being naughty, over tired, acting up, asking for things then crying because I'd go the wrong one, teething, not knowing what they wanted etc etc. it was awful! I broke down and shouted, slammed things and generally lost it. hubby came home and sent me off for a bath where I sobbed for a good half hour! Both kids were asleep when I emerged from the bathroom and all was lovely the next morning. we all have blips and moments where it all gets a little too much, but thankfully they won't be the moments our kids remember!
it's amazing to hear u tell this story because tats happened to me loads of times. I'm so glad I'm not alone an other people go thru this to thank u xx
Thank you for sharing this! My 16 month old fed at 12, 2,3,4,5 and 6. I am a zombie today! This is the hardest job in the world but also the best!
that was so refreshing to watch. thank u for sharing. I have a 6 yr old 4 yr old and a new born and my 4 year old is and always has been the worst sleeper. when she was born she stayed awake for 13 hours which like Wat brand new baby stays awake that long. she has always fought her sleep and for a good 2 years night times wer jus dreadful. her lack of sleep caused her to have really bad tantrums and for ages it really used to upset me cos I felt I was doing something wrong. she's not as bad now altho she's in school now so.alot more tired than before in d evenings. I love that u shared ur experience and that it's not only me who sometimes sits and cries cos it gets too much. more people need to speak and share that mother hood as wonderful and life changing as it is...it's bloody hard and nothing to beat ur self up over if ur having a hard time. I jus wish more people would be honest n not try pretend they r perfect cos let's face it none of us are!
I wore that T shirt for a whole year Gi. My hubby was working 3 jobs to keep us afloat so when he did finally get home to get some shuteye I would leap out of bed if i heard my son cry to feed or rock him back to sleep. By age 2 he was a nightmare. In the end the doctor told me I had to be tougher than my kid. I made my hubby sleep downstairs on the couch for a week. 1st night he cried 4 hours solid but I would go in every 15mins, lay him down, no talking, leave. I thought he was going to have a stroke. Eventually he passed out sobbing. It was heartbreaking. I bought myself earplugs for 2nd night - the same thing but he gave up after 2hours and 45 mins. 3rd night, half an hour. By the fourth night he woke, cried a minute and went back to sleep. He has slept through ever since. It was by far the hardest thing I ever did but in the longrun was the best thing as we now both get enough good, deep sleep. Hang in there girlie!
I'm not a mom, but 12 years ago (when I was 12), my little brother was born. His mom was not present, so it fell to me to raise him and I can DEFINITELY relate to those nights! He was colicky for several months, and he would scream and cry for so long that there was absolutely nothing left in me - I would sob right along with him until he finally fell asleep. Even after getting over colick, we would still occasionally have those nights. There's nothing wrong with breaking down every once in awhile - raising a child is INCREDIBLY difficult work, but those difficulties are overshadowed the second they walk up and grab your hand or touch your face. Stressful little nuggets, but we gotta love them! ❤❤
Oh chick, it's so tough when you have nights like that. You are such a lovely mum. My daughter currently has some epic meltdowns and it's tough but I hope it's just a phase. We all have terrible nights sometimes. Mine are 5 and 7 and a couple of weeks ago were awake alternately having nightmares ever two hours. I was sooooo tired the next day but thankfully it was a one off. You're doing a great job, it can be the toughest thing ever. x
I have been exactly like that and felt awful.. but it helps so much to know that I'm not my own.. and overtired makes us emotional x
Gi I totally understand how it feels to just feel emotionally drained like that. I've mentioned this before on another video but I'm a teacher, and we've just finished up a big school concert at the school where I work, and last Tuesday my year one students were just so relentlessly silly and I was stressed about the concert, and they were excited about our night performance that...I cried. In front of them, I properly cried and had to excuse myself and let another teacher watch them for five minutes...it was awful. But they do understand, they feel it when you're upset. I hope that your nights with your boys get better and that you are getting some very well earned sleep
My niece does this sometimes. She doesn't want to go down because mom isn't at home. Sometimes she won't see mom for a couple of days, because of her moms work schedule. So I put her to bed and some days she makes me want to cry. I'm sure you all miss Tom! I hope that you have a better night tonight! :) And terrible 2's are so hard, especially when you have to deal with it by yourself. You are an amazing mom, don't let one bad night get to you!
Oh Gi , I don't usually comment on anything but this video made me emotional, my girls are now 19 and 14 but I remember them driving me to tears when they were younger . Being a mum is the hardest job in the world and unfortunately doesn't get any easier trust me!! Stay strong x
Gi you are doing amazing. I have two children and my first fought bedtime with all he had. I decided I was going to learn about sleep and my second child was so much easier but not because they didn't have tricky times but because I knew why and I knew I was doing the right things. I am now becoming a sleep educator to help other parents through this hard time. You are trusting your gut and that is the important thing. If you are not comfortable letting him cry it out, don't! He has a lot of changes going on with a new brother, Tom away, new bed. He needs you as his constant right now and that is understandable. Stick to your routine as you have been. make sure he is not over tired and fill his bucket everyday. Meaning make sure he is getting enough food, drink, play time, quiet time and you time. Children need comforting touch though out the day, as do adults. Massage is a great way to do this before bed. Do a massage story on his back while you say a nursery rhyme or song. Does wonders to help them sleep. You are doing great! keep it up!
I'm not a mum myself, but I really enjoy watching this mumdays! You're amazing gi, never forget that :)
That was us last night! Thank you for sharing as I was really struggling. Our 22 month old was screaming till 11pm when my fella took over, I had to walk away. She eventually went to sleep at 12.45! At that point our 11 month old woke to nurse...! X
Oh Gi, I don't have kids yet but I feel for you. I think you are doing amazing and you always see the bright side of things. Xxx
you are doing great Gi! I don't have kids yet cause I'm only 22 and I just finished college, but it doesn't take having kids to realize that you are a great mom!! PS: I love the positive energy in your videos❤