The Comforting Mum

Today, I decided to do something just for my youngest.

Every day, I carry this quiet guilt that she’s not in nursery. She loved it there—playing, learning, and making little friends. She started attending when she turned one, and it became such an important part of her routine. But everything changed when her father and I split. With no consistent support and no way to continue at university, I had no choice but to pull her out. And since then, it’s just been the two of us. No nursery. No childminder. No playgroups. Just me and her, day in and day out.

She’s been my little shadow through it all. And while I’m so grateful for the bond we’ve built, I also know how important it is for her to explore and enjoy life as a child. So today, even though my to-do list was overflowing, I made a choice—to give her a moment that was just for her.

I took her to the cinema to see Peppa Pig’s new baby sister. It may not sound like much, but for us, it felt like a big deal. The only showing was during her usual nap time (and trust me, that matters!), but I thought—why not? One day won’t hurt, and the chores will always be there waiting.

Of course, she reminded me exactly why nap time matters the moment we hit the car park. A full-blown toddler tantrum. I nearly turned the car around and headed home. But deep down, I knew she just needed a release—and a nap. I stayed calm (okay, mostly calm) and reminded myself that these moments, even the messy ones, are part of the story.

Once we were inside, it was all worth it. Her eyes lit up at the screen, she laughed, she danced in her seat, and for those 60 minutes, she was completely in her element. It was such a small act of love, but it felt so big. I watched her being a child—just being free and happy. No worries. No stress. And for a second, I felt that freedom too.

I had so much cleaning, organizing, and cooking to do today, but I reminded myself that the laundry will wait. The dishes will still be there. What won’t always be here is this version of her—the tiny hands, the cartoon giggles, the need for cuddles during a scary part of the movie.

This season of life is far from easy. But today reminded me that I can still choose joy—even in small, ordinary ways.

Reflection:

When was the last time you chose joy over your to-do list? As single mothers, it’s easy to get caught up in survival mode and forget that we’re allowed to pause. We’re allowed to create memories even when things aren’t perfect. So I’m asking you—what’s one small thing you can do for yourself or your little one this week, even if it’s messy, out of routine, or completely unplanned?

Let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your small, beautiful moments too.

Affirmation:

“I am allowed to pause the chaos and create joy in the midst of it.”

Signed,

The Comforting Mum 🤎