For more than a decade, my life revolved around the school run. With 13 children, mornings were a whirlwind of packed lunches, missing shoes, and last-minute homework checks. It felt like a daily marathon—one that started at dawn and didn’t let up until every child was dropped off at their respective schools. But now, after years of juggling school schedules and endless commutes, life is finally changing, and I’m beginning to see how much easier things can be.
When my oldest child first started school, I never imagined how long I’d be on this journey. One child turned into two, then three, and before I knew it, I had a full house and a timetable that would make a CEO’s schedule look relaxed. The logistics were mind-boggling. Coordinating drop-offs and pick-ups across different schools, ensuring everyone had what they needed for the day, and managing the inevitable meltdowns were all part of my daily routine.
There were days when I felt like I lived in my car. The school run wasn’t just about driving; it was about being the glue that held everything together. I’d use those car rides to connect with my kids, asking about their day ahead or chatting about their interests. But the constant hustle left little time for myself.
Now, though, things are shifting. My older children are growing up, and some have graduated and moved on to college or work. The school run, once a monumental task, is becoming more manageable with fewer little ones to ferry around. It’s bittersweet, of course. I’ve spent years with my life revolving around my children’s needs, and while I’m relieved to see some of the chaos dissipate, it’s hard not to feel a pang of nostalgia.
The change means more than just fewer hours in the car. It means I can reclaim parts of my day that were once lost to endless to-do lists and driving back and forth. I’ve started using this newfound time to focus on myself—something that felt impossible when my days were packed to the brim. Whether it’s reading a book, catching up on a favorite TV show, or even just enjoying a cup of coffee without interruption, these small moments feel like luxuries.
It’s also given me space to think about what’s next. For years, my identity was tied to being “mum.” While I’ll always cherish that role, I’m beginning to explore other aspects of who I am. I’ve started taking online courses and considering new hobbies I might like to pursue.
Of course, life with a big family will always come with its share of chaos. But knowing that the most intense years of school runs are behind me feels like a milestone worth celebrating. My journey as a mum of 13 has been extraordinary—filled with challenges, laughter, and lessons learned. And while I’ll always look back on those hectic years with fondness, I’m ready to embrace the next chapter, one where life is just a little bit easier.
