Q: Can you describe what it is like becoming
parents for the first time? What have the
first few weeks been like?
Becoming parents for the first time has put us
both completely out of our comfort zones and
also filled our hearts with a love we didn’t know
existed. Every day, we learn a little more about
our son and ourselves as parents.
Q: What was the most unexpected thing you
have experienced since becoming parents
so far?
Barry has been very surprised that newborn poo
doesn’t smell. I was taken aback by how clever
babies are, they know what they want and how
to do it, whether it is feeding, burping, pooping,
sneezing or sleeping – their little bodies have it
all figured out.
Q: What are the best things about becoming
parents and what are the hardest things so
far?
The hardest thing about being a mother is the
constant worrying and negotiation of time. You
have to adapt to the realisation that you always
have to think and plan ahead. The best thing is the
immense love and bond that you share and seeing
them develop every day.
For Barry, the hardest part is being away from
Miller and the best part is coming home to him.
Q: Has becoming parents changed the way
you see and feel toward your own parents?
Becoming parents hasn’t changed the way we
feel towards our own parents but it has prompted
new conversations about what pregnancy, birth
and parenthood was like for them.
Q: Are there any advantages or
disadvantages to becoming parents in the
public eye?
Like everything, it has had its positives and
negatives. Sometimes we do feel the line of
privacy is crossed. However, the support and joy
the public has shown us has been overwhelming
and we are so happy to share our special news
with everyone.
Q: Is there anything else we haven’t touched
on that you would like to share with other
expectant mums and dads who are about to
embark on the same journey?
We would say if you are trying to get pregnant
or are expecting, listen to everyone’s advice but
only take on board what works for you. What we
have learnt is everyone is different and you have
to figure out your own ways and what works for
your child, your relationship and your lifestyle.
Just relax and enjoy each day. You are not alone
and there is a lot of support out there if you need
it, so don’t stress.
TOP: Miller enjoying the comfy bed at
Palazzo Versace Hotel
MIDDLE: It's a tiring thing being a baby
BOTTOM: Special moments for lauren,
Barry and Miller
ALL IMAGES BY Alicia Abbot Photography
46 Pindara Magazine 2017