I can’t believe I am sat here writing another reflection post. It feels like 2024 has flown by, and what a remarkable year it has been in so many ways. I think this is definitely my biggest year yet, filled with unexpected challenges and delightful surprises.

Each year, so many people say, “this is going to be my year,” and people often laugh, thinking it’s just another cliché. But do you know what? I genuinely think this year has been my year. I’ve grown in ways I never anticipated, embraced opportunities that pushed me out of my comfort zone, and formed connections that have enriched my life beyond measure. From personal milestones to professional achievements, 2024 has been a tapestry of experiences that I will cherish for years to come.

So much has happened, so many changes have taken place and I now feel a sense of calm, almost like a gentle breeze that sweeps over a still lake. A sense of knowing who I am and what my purpose is has settled in my heart, providing clarity amidst the chaos of life.

My biggest year yet?

In this post, I want to take a look back at some of those key moments where I have embraced the change, sometimes without even realising it, each experience shaping me into the person I am today. From the small, everyday decisions that seemed inconsequential at the time to the major life events that tested my resilience, each chapter has contributed to my growth. It’s fascinating to reflect on these memories, as they highlight the evolution of my thoughts, beliefs, and aspirations, ultimately leading me toward a path that feels authentic and fulfilling.

I’ve chosen fourteen key points to reflect on, some good and some bad. They all have one thing in common, though, and that is that I have learnt something from each and every one of them. Each experience, whether positive or negative, has contributed to my personal growth in unique ways, shaping my perspectives and influencing my decisions moving forward. I’ve arranged it in terms of a timeline, allowing me to see the progression of my journey clearly, so let’s go right back to the beginning of the year, where it all began with a pivotal moment that set the tone for everything that followed…

Learning to stop people pleasing

I have been on a personal journey for the last eighteen months or so where I limit how much other people’s thoughts and opinions influence my decisions, allowing me to embrace my individuality with confidence. At the start of 2024, heavily pregnant and reflecting on the transformative experiences behind me, I sat and wrote down some bullet points of how I wanted my year to look, ensuring that each point resonated with my authentic self. Some of those points included changing my mindset, recognising the power of positive thinking, and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. This new perspective has not only empowered me but also fostered a deeper sense of gratitude for the journey I am on, shaping my vision for the future I desire.

I didn’t want to worry about what people thought anymore. I was about to become a mum and knew that my baby girl would be my main priority, the center of my world. With that change of perspective, came the realisation that I no longer wanted to do things just to please others; instead, I wanted to focus on nurturing my own happiness and well-being. It struck me that living for the approval of those around me had stifled my true self for far too long. Embracing my role as a mother, I wished to create an environment filled with love and independence, where my daughter could grow up knowing that her worth was not tied to the opinions of others. After all, the journey of motherhood was not only about raising a child but also about rediscovering my own identity and purpose in life.

This is a change that I’ve definitely embraced throughout 2024, and now I can’t imagine going back to the way things used to be. The transformation has brought numerous benefits to my life, enhancing my daily routines and overall mindset. I now find greater joy and satisfaction in the little things, appreciating moments that I previously overlooked. It’s fascinating to reflect on how my perspective has shifted so dramatically; I feel more empowered and in control of my choices than ever before. With this newfound clarity, I recognise that reverting to my old habits would mean sacrificing the growth and happiness I’ve cultivated. There’s a profound sense of fulfillment that I truly cherish, making it clear that I would never want to return to how it was before.

Having Nellie – learning to be a mum, good partner

To say I was nervous of giving birth was an understatement; it felt as though every moment leading up to it was filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety. If I’m brutally honest, I didn’t enjoy Christmas last year as much because I had my induction date hanging over me like a dark cloud, casting a shadow over the festive celebrations. I watched my loved ones joyfully revel in the festive spirit, but my mind was preoccupied with thoughts of the impending labour and what it would entail. When it came down to it, whilst it might not have been the birth that I envisaged, filled with serene moments and blissful scenes, it did mean that I could finally hold my baby girl in my arms, feeling her warmth against my chest and experiencing a love so profound that it made every worry and fear seem insignificant in comparison. The moment I laid eyes on her, all the anxiety melted away, replaced by an overwhelming sense of fulfilment and joy that I had never known before.

Having Nellie has been a steep learning curve for us as a family, but it has also been so incredibly rewarding in ways we never anticipated. I now couldn’t imagine my life without my little family, as she brings an overwhelming amount of joy and laughter into our home each day. Each milestone, from her first smile to her crawling, has filled us with pride and a sense of purpose. However, it hasn’t been a straightforward journey; there have been a lot of bumps in the road along the way. There are moments of pure chaos, and I’ve had to learn how to take care of and nurture this small human who has the ability to make you smile and want to tear your hair out at the same time. Balancing her needs with our own has sometimes felt like a juggling act, yet every challenge has deepened our bond and taught us invaluable lessons about patience, resilience, and love.

Having Nellie also changed me and Ash as a couple, probably more than I realised it would. I felt like I had to learn how to be a good partner, in the same way that Ash did too, so that neither of us felt neglected. We both quickly discovered that communication became even more crucial in our relationship; we had to express our needs and concerns openly, ensuring we were constantly on the same page. Our life is now a lot busier, filled with the beautiful chaos of parenting, and so this is very much a work in progress. Each day presents new challenges and joys, pushing us to adapt and grow together, fostering a deeper bond as we navigate this journey together.

Loosing nan

I have spoken openly on my blog in recent months about my grief over losing nan, a remarkable woman who played a significant role in my life. Some of you may already know that nan had been struggling with her battle with dementia for some time, a condition that gradually took away pieces of her vibrant personality and left us all feeling a deep sense of loss each day. We knew the inevitable would happen eventually, yet the reality of her decline was often difficult to confront. We tried to cherish the moments we had together, sharing laughter and stories, but it felt like time was slipping through our fingers. However, nothing quite prepares you for that moment of finality when you realise she is gone, even if you think you will cope. It is a heartbreaking experience that reshapes your very being, leaving you to navigate a world that feels dimmer without her presence.

The week before I had Nellie, nan was taken to hospital, and it was a time filled with a whirlwind of emotions. Despite being heavily pregnant and living hours away, I felt a deep sense of responsibility and love that compelled me to make the journey. I was able to visit her and say my goodbyes, which I will be forever grateful for. Being able to hold her hand one last time and share stories of our cherished memories together filled my heart with warmth amidst the sorrow. I will always treasure those fleeting moments, as they became a poignant reminder of the bond we shared, and the love that transcends even the most difficult circumstances.

Growing up, I always used to tut when nan remarked that it was always one in and one out in our family. In other words, for every birth, there was a death, a cycle of life I was too young to appreciate at the time. Only now do I know how right she was, as I reflect on the bittersweet reality of family gatherings that often celebrated the joy of new beginnings while silently mourning old endings. My nan was the most caring person you would ever meet, her heart open and generous, filled with love for each family member she nurtured. She spent her life looking after others, always putting their needs above her own, and even right at the end, she waited with unwavering dedication, making sure that Nellie had entered this world safely and, most importantly, was healthy, adding another thread to the intricate tapestry of our family’s legacy. Her selflessness and strength remain a guiding light for us all, reminding us to cherish every moment we have together.

Whilst losing Nan when Nellie was just two weeks old was undoubtedly the hardest moment of my life, it definitely brought me closer to my family in ways I had never anticipated. Finding solace in the shared grief, our bond grew stronger as we supported one another through the pain of her absence. This experience profoundly changed my outlook on being a new mum, as I began to appreciate the value of every fleeting moment with Nellie. It made me cherish those small moments even more, from the gentle coos and giggles to the quiet, sleepy snuggles. I realised how precious and ephemeral these early days are, and I promised myself to savor every second, allowing the memory of Nan to inspire me to create a loving and connected family environment.

Buying a caravan

Speaking of nan, she loved a good caravan holiday, a tradition that brought the family together and created cherished memories that I hold dear. I have countless memories of our family trips away, spending quality time together as a family unit, sharing laughter and enjoying the simple pleasures of nature. The sound of the wind rustling through the trees and the smell of fresh air remain vivid in my mind. I also have so many memories in the later years where we would be driving down the motorway, excitement bubbling as we approached our destination, and nan would remark on how lovely someone’s caravan would look, sparking conversations about the different designs and decorations that reflected each family’s personality. These moments not only filled our hearts with joy but also strengthened the bond we shared as a family, creating a tapestry of experiences that I will always cherish.

I’ve always said that our family caravan holidays were some of the best trips I’ve ever taken. The thrill of packing up all our essentials, the anticipation of exploring new places, and the laughter shared are memories I treasure deeply. When I found out I was pregnant, I knew straight away that I wanted to buy a caravan so that we could make similar memories with Nellie to cherish for years to come. Imagining her little face lighting up as we set off on our adventures fills me with joy, knowing that we can create bonding experiences just like my family did for me, filled with exploration, wonder, and love that will strengthen our family ties.

It was a long drawn out process, trying to find the perfect caravan that would meet all our needs and desires. With some things in love, be it a house or a partner, people say you just know when it’s the right one; that feeling of warmth and certainty envelops you. After visiting numerous options, each one more underwhelming than the last, I walked into one particular caravan and just knew instantly that it was the one for us. The layout felt right, the colours were calming, and there was a special aura that resonated with us. So much so, that I refused to leave it until the deposit had been paid, convinced that if I stepped outside, it might disappear or someone else would swoop in and take it away. The thought of losing it made my heart race, and I could almost envision the countless adventures that awaited us within its walls.

I’ve loved the trips away we have had so far, each adventure filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories. Every experience has brought us closer together as a family. I can’t wait to get back on the road once again in 2025, eager to discover new destinations and create even more magical experiences that we can look back on fondly for years to come. The thrill of the journey and the excitement of what lies ahead keep my wanderlust alive!

Turning 30 – the highs and the lows

I feel like turning thirty was something I much anticipated, a milestone that promised to bring a sense of achievement and new beginnings, but when it came to it, it just passed in the blink of an eye, almost unceremoniously. Whilst some people have big parties or holidays filled with laughter and memories, the reality for me was quite different; I was a new mum, navigating the beautiful yet challenging journey of caring for my baby. Each day was a blend of joy and exhaustion, filled with late-night feedings and the sweet sounds of cooing. The joy of motherhood consumed my attention, and amidst the chaos, I was also trying to get through postpartum life, confronting the emotional and physical changes that come with it. Reflection on my turning thirty felt overshadowed by this new role, and yet, there was a growing realisation that motherhood itself was a significant chapter, filled with its own milestones and moments worth celebrating.

In amongst all of that, I was also grieving too, so I decided to have a slightly smaller celebration that would still allow me to honour the moment without overwhelming myself. A simple family day out to Monkey World the weekend before added a touch of joy amidst the sombre feelings, as I enjoyed watching the playful antics of the monkeys while surrounded by my loved ones. This outing offered a welcome distraction and a chance to create happy memories together. Following that, I spent a relaxing birthday with Nellie. Finally, finishing it off with a romantic meal out, our first and only one as parents so far. Savouring both the food and the quiet intimacy of the evening was just what I needed to help me navigate the complexity of my emotions during this time.

Our first family holiday

I booked our first family holiday back in February and eagerly awaited May to come round so we could enjoy it. The anticipation built day by day, as I envisioned the joyful moments we would share as a family exploring new places together. Within that short time, I meticulously planned out each of our days, creating a perfect balance so that we could have the best of both worlds of relaxing and sightseeing too. With the itinerary in hand, I felt a sense of thrill, picturing our laughter echoing through the lanes as we embarked on our adventures, discovering the hidden gems of our destination together.

The Lincolnshire countryside was beautiful, with its flat open grounds and picturesque landscapes, and there is so much history in the area, especially related to aviation, that it didn’t disappoint. From the quaint villages that dot the landscape to the remnants of historical airfields, there’s a palpable sense of nostalgia and adventure that envelops you. I was also able to get some content for Kelly Aviation, which proved invaluable for my projects, as it really helped me in the months that followed, allowing me pre-plan my content like never before.

Trying to balance being mum to nellie and Trixie

If you’ve been a follower of my blog for a while, you will know that my dog Trixie has always been my baby. I have to admit I was really apprehensive about how life with a dog and a new baby would go, as I feared that my attention might be divided, causing Trixie to feel neglected or second best. It hasn’t been easy and has definitely caused moments of upset along the way, where I found myself torn between Trixie’s playful demands and my baby’s needs for care and comfort.

Ultimately, that is just down to me trying to find the right balance of being a mum to both of them, learning to adapt our routines to include Trixie in family activities whenever possible. I’ve been working hard to ensure that Trixie feels just as loved and valued as ever, which has been a rewarding journey. Now, Nellie adores Trixie, often giggling at her silly antics, and they love nothing more than watching each other, sharing a bond that fills our house with joy and laughter, making each day brighter and more fulfilling as a family.

Learning to juggle all aspects of my life

I was very naive when I was pregnant, thinking that I would still have time to do all the things I had done previously. Life with a baby comes with so many more responsibilities that everything else takes a back step, and I quickly found myself overwhelmed by the new routine. I wish I had prepped more for this by writing posts in advance for my blog, but I didn’t take that opportunity seriously enough.

Instead, I scrambled around for people to guest post for me; while I was fortunate to connect with some lovely contributors who brought fresh perspectives, the reality was that I still didn’t get to post as often as I wanted to. This disruption in my routine meant that my views went down considerably, significantly affecting my engagement with the audience I had worked so hard to cultivate. It has been a struggle during the second half of the year to get those numbers back up, and I’ve learned that planning ahead is crucial in maintaining not just my blog, but my sense of identity as a content creator amidst the whirlwind of motherhood.

When my maternity leave came to an end, I felt like I was suddenly juggling so much more than ever before. Trying to look after a baby, nurture a relationship, maintain a home, and manage two businesses was extremely difficult, and at times, overwhelming. However, it also provided me with a valuable opportunity to really sit down and contemplate the various paths I wanted to take moving forward.

This period of reflection has had a profound impact on my creative process; I feel like my blog posts are now written with so much more depth and purpose because I only want to put out work that resonates with both me and my audience. My YouTube channel is now evolving in a way that adds genuine value and entertainment, rather than just posting out of a sense of obligation. I’ve been focusing on creating content that sparks joy and connects with viewers on a deeper level.

As for Kelly Aviation, while that important venture took a bit of a backseat this year due to my busy schedule, I’ve already got some exciting plans in place to revamp and reinvigorate it, ensuring it can thrive alongside my other commitments. 2024 has definitely been about me finding the balance, and I am genuinely excited about what the future holds.

Airshows with a baby

If you ask anyone into aviation if they could enjoy an airshow, make content, and still look after a baby, they would absolutely say no. But I don’t like it when the answer is no, and so I set about making sure that I could still do all of those things without compromising on the experience. It required a considerable amount of planning, which included researching airshow schedules, packing adequate supplies for the baby, and organising my equipment for content creation in a manner that was both efficient and practical. We had an enormous amount of stuff to take with us, from nappies and toys to cameras equipment, but I was determined to make it work.

In fact, we did it six times, each time learning something new that made our next outing even smoother. Through this process, not only did I manage to capture breathtaking moments that highlighted the beauty of aviation, but I also created cherished memories with Nellie, proving that parenting and passions can indeed coexist beautifully.

I’m particularly proud of this achievement, as it represents not just a personal milestone but also a testament to the hard work and dedication put in. As I reflect on the journey that has brought me here, I feel a sense of accomplishment that fuels my passion even further.

Whilst I’m looking forward to the next airshow season, I know that doing airshows with a toddler in tow is going to be a whole new challenge, one that will require careful planning and flexibility. Balancing the excitement of displays with the needs and whims of a young child will undoubtedly test my skills in ways I have yet to experience, but I am eager to embrace this adventure and create cherished memories along the way.

Seeing Busted

I was so disappointed in 2023 because I had the opportunity to go and see Busted on tour in Birmingham, but couldn’t go at the time. So when I had the opportunity to see them at a much smaller, more local venue, I jumped at the chance without a second thought. The excitement bubbling within me was almost palpable, as I imagined the intimacy of the smaller crowd, feeling connected to the band in a way that a large arena couldn’t provide.

It also marked the first time I had left Nellie to do something just for me, which made the experience even more special, as it symbolised a moment of personal growth and freedom. I had a blast singing along to songs that really marked and signified my childhood and growing up, the nostalgia washing over me with every familiar chord, transporting me back to simpler times filled with joy and laughter, creating new memories while cherishing the old ones.

Trixie gets attacked

This is definitely one of the worst moments, not just of 2024, but also of my life. When I got the phone call to say that poor Trixie had been attacked by another dog, time just stood still, and a wave of dread washed over me. I couldn’t help but replay that moment over and over in my mind, imagining the fear and pain she must have experienced.

For a few weeks, Trixie was left fighting for her life, her will to survive ultimately beating her horrific injuries, and every visit to the vet felt like an eternity filled with anxiety. I think it has scarred all of us as a family; the trauma of that incident lingers in our minds, and our once carefree outings are now tinged with caution. I am certainly more apprehensive when out for walks with Trixie, my heart racing at the smallest noise that might signal danger.

Whilst her physical injuries have healed, I’m also very wary of any mental scars there may be, concerned about how this has affected her happiness and trust. But on the whole, Trixie is back to the happy girl she always was, just with a few more aches and pains, and we’re doing our best to ensure she feels safe and loved as we navigate this new chapter together.

Moving home

When they say moving home is one of the most stressful things in life, I now believe it. I’ve moved a couple of times previously, but nothing prepared me for how stressful moving home with a baby is. The challenges of packing, organising, and planning all took on a new level of difficulty with a little one in tow.

There were boxes everywhere for what felt like months because I just didn’t have the time to look through them and find homes for the things I owned. Each day was a whirlwind of baby naps, feedings, and trying to sneak in some organisation time. Even simple tasks became monumental when trying to balance the needs of my baby and the chaos of moving.

We have a long way to go to make it our home, but I’m excited to get started on the renovations that will truly reflect our family’s personality. I envision creating a cosy space where we can make lasting memories together. I’m hoping to document this entire process over on my YouTube channel, so make sure you’re subscribed to follow along on this journey as we transform our new house into a home.

Stepping out of my comfort zone

I never thought 2024 would be the year that I stepped out of my comfort zone, but it really has been. There’s nothing notable that I could use as an example, however, I feel like I can do so much more. I don’t know if it’s just from turning thirty, because that is definitely a mind shift, or if it’s since becoming a mum, which has profoundly changed my perspective on challenges and fears. But what I do know is that so many things that I once wouldn’t do, or would have major anxiety leading up to it, I can now do without even thinking about it.

Simple tasks that would have overwhelmed me in the past now feel like a breeze; I find myself embracing new experiences, whether it’s trying out a new hobby or even just engaging in conversations with strangers. Each small step has built my confidence, allowing me to face larger hurdles with an open heart and an adventurous spirit. It’s fascinating to realise how much growth can occur when you push your boundaries, and I look forward to exploring what else lies ahead on this journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

Celebrating Nellie’s first Christmas

Celebrating Nellie’s first Christmas has been such a milestone. It really went by in the blink of an eye, with each moment feeling both fleeting and precious. I tried to spread out doing things throughout the month, and I definitely think I succeeded in that.

Whilst Nellie is clearly too young to understand much about Christmas, it has given me the starting base to think about the kind of Christmas magic I want to create for her in the years to come. Each ornament that we hung on the tree carried a story, and although Nellie won’t remember this year, I cherish the simple moments we shared as a family.

One thing I have learnt, though, is that those “perfect” Christmas photos you see online really aren’t reality. At least, not in our home, where chaos often reigns. By the end of Christmas, Nellie was very overwhelmed and tired, her little eyes drooping as the excitement of the day took its toll, and we as parents were left counting down the minutes until bedtime, longing for a quiet moment ourselves. But it was all worth it in the end, as the laughter and joy we experienced will be cherished memories we can share with her as she grows older.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve got to the end of this post then you definitely need a medal because it has been a long one. But I’m sure you will agree, 2024 has definitely been my biggest year yet, filled with challenges and triumphs that have shaped my journey in ways I never anticipated.

Whilst some changes I have welcomed with open arms, celebrating the opportunities they presented, others I’ve been forced to embrace through unexpected circumstances that tested my resilience. Life has thrown a mix of hurdles my way, yet each obstacle has taught me valuable lessons and provided moments of growth.

Ultimately, I know that by embracing those changes, I’ve grown as a person and definitely as a mum, becoming more patient, understanding, and loving towards both myself and my family, recognising that each day presents a new opportunity for growth and connection.

What moments in 2024 have shaped your life?