What a mother!

Kirsty and I, around 1980

My filthy little darlings

My mum, Susan, climbing in Nepal

It's that time of year... all the soft lens images of adoring, clean-faced children bringing Mum exactly what she wanted for Mother's Day...Hmmm.
I took my kids out for breakfast this morning, then to run a few errands. Mister Minit had my resoled shoes all ready, and chatted with a big smile on his face, and it was only when I felt something fall into my cleavage that I realised that somehow my pendant had been covered in mocha cheesecake and I was wearing it all down my front. Tres embarrassing.
As for my Mum, she has worn her share of cake, vegemite and texta. But she's a free spirit who wears it with a smile!
A real mum is crazy, imperfect and will totally wear those floral slippers/macaroni necklaces. A real mum thinks your artwork should hang in the Louvre. A real mum agrees you could win 'So You Think You Can Dance'. A real mum will eat those cupcakes, even if they are a little heavy on the salt.

All the awesome mothers out there, and mothers-to-be, keep it real!

Secret hideaways and a little bit of peace.

Treehouse in Kenya, Gypset Style

Dedon Nestrest hanging loungers

Sometimes, all I want is a quiet place to sit. Know what I mean?

When everything starts to feel a little hectic, I think it's important to acknowledge a basic need: peace.

I think peace is like chocolate. You only need a little bit, and it goes a long way. Just like a square of 85% cocoa Lindt! I love to nest in my bedroom, the calmest room of the house, with sunlight filtered through pale green curtains, a huge stack of mismatched cushions, a good book or fresh magazine and the latest crochet attempt. Add a little glass of red wine and it's heaven. But even if I don't have the time to luxuriate like Cleopatra, just five minutes in a quiet garden seems to help.

I think I'd be quite calm in a hanging lounger. What do you do when you need a little peace?