When we imagine honeymoons, we picture the cliché: two newlyweds who barely leave their hotel room except to hydrate or pick up food.
It's all romance, matching lingerie, soft lighting and the kind of enthusiasm that makes you want to roll over and pounce on your new spouse.
But modern marriages are different. Many of us tie the knot already knee-deep in real life, kids, laundry, living together, careers, bedtime routines, and the glamorous accessory of constantly being covered in toddler snacks. So, while the whole Mr & Mrs thing is exciting, when you're already well established as a couple, a honeymoon can sometimes feel like… the same daily routine, but with better views.
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My husband and I — God, I love saying my husband — took our 18-month-old on our honeymoon. And let's be honest: toddlers have a unique talent for being adorable, lovable, well, let's just say it — cockblocks!
Yes, we adore our child. Yes, having him with us was beautiful. But also… I wanted to create honeymoon memories that weren't just nap schedules, snack negotiations and changing nappies. I wanted romance, after all, you only live it once. I wanted Sensuality. A moment to remember I have a body that isn't solely responsible for wiping yoghurt off, breastfeeding or toddler cuddles (which I do love the cuddles).
As a mum, my days usually involve being sticky, exhausted, and rocking a messy bun that's less "I woke up like this" and more "I survived." When I finally get a moment away from my toddler, I'm working, cleaning, trying to exercise the mama pooch away (it refuses to go — it's basically my second child). Intimacy can easily slide into the "I'll try again when I'm less tired" pile… which is code for: not happening tonight.























