Kangaroo Spotting

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

PND, A Partner's Perspective

Sponsored by Bupa Australia.

My husband, Matthew is a problem solver. He is a project manager and is responsible for millions of dollars’ worth of contracts, hundreds of employees and working-around potentially expensive mistakes.

When Matt couldn’t fix my postnatal depression he felt helpless, not a familiar feeling for a bloke like him. Not only was I difficult to live with at the time but I was so absorbed in my own struggle that I was unable to see just how much my pain was tearing him up inside.

Women who experience postnatal depression (PND) need a lot of support, that’s a given. But I think we need to acknowledge what the partners go through as well. Dads and partners also live with the illness and can even experience PND themselves.

I spent most of my time and energy trying to look like a normal, joyful mother while out in public but when my husband walked through the door at night I had nothing left for him. I couldn’t even pretend. He always had me at my absolute worst.

I snapped easily, my mood swings were unpredictable, and usually because Matt was the person in my firing line he copped all of it. And the resentment- oh the resentment!

In the early days I was jealous of his hour commute and lunch breaks (when he actually had time to take them) because at least he got to be alone or speak to adults.

One morning as he was leaving for work, I was feeding our daughter while crying my eyes out. He offered to make me a cup of tea and even though I would have liked one, I said, “No! Just go ahead and leave, just leave us!”

What a horrible thing for him to hear as he was preparing for a stressful day of work. Even writing about that morning makes my eyes misty. The poor guy was simply trying to show me how much he cared.

Dads want to enjoy it too

I’m well aware of my privilege. I have a supportive husband with a great job, I live in a beautiful house and we are comfortable. That’s the thing about PND though, unfortunately, it does not discriminate.

Something I heard at a postnatal depression talk will stick with me forever because I felt like the woman was speaking about me.

“Sometimes the mums who appear to have it all together are the ones who are struggling the most.”

And though this is true, standing next to that mum is a partner who is also struggling.

We are a closer family thanks to The Parent & Baby Wellbeing Program

How can we better support partners of PND sufferers?

Labels: anxiety, Family, health, Identity, motherhood, parenting, Post Natal Depression, Pregnancy

Tuesday, February 9, 2016

Into the Carnival of 2016

So far this year has been like the house of mirrors. Big promises, unexpected turns and some ugly distortion.

I won't go into detail about it here but I've sent a very personal email to my subscribers. If you’re interested in receiving it please sign up here. I’m not sure what future ones will be like but let’s just see.

Thursday I’m going in for my long awaited hand surgery (35 years to be exact). Operation bump-be-gone. You may have read about it when I posted about it here last year. Surprisingly it’s been one of my most popular posts of 2015.

The only nerves I have about the whole thing are only in regard to how long my right hand will be out of commission. I mean, I’m right handed. And to keep sane I paint and write or at least exercise. I can’t imagine not doing any of those things. Well I can imagine it..and it's not pretty. I'm one of those people who spirals downward without stimulation.

If all goes well, I will only have a few days of downtime. In a way I'm actually looking forward to being forced to rest. I should probably enjoy it and stop whinging. Cross my heart (with my left hand) I'll do my best…Netflix queue- I’m coming for YOU (suggestions welcome).

Anyway- apologies in advance if I'm off the radar for a minute or two.

Labels: healing, health

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Stop Telling Me To Have Another Kid!

My daughter was only a few weeks old the first time someone casually asked me when I was going to have another baby. (???!!!) As the years roll on the question comes faster and more furiously.

Look, I get it, sometimes people are just making conversation however when they persist things can get awkward. I've gotten into near arguments with people trying to change my mind about having another one rightthisminute.

Luckily for me I should be physically able to bear a second baby but wouldn't I feel terrible if I couldn't? Why should I have to rehash that every time a well-meaning (opinionated) stranger asks about my family plans?

Here are the most common reasons people give for having two kids in a row (always from people with two or more kids in a row) and why I disagree. Feel free to use these arguments next time you get bombarded.

1. Age Gap

I’d like to have words with the so-called expert who decided there is an ideal age gap between siblings. My brother and I are four years apart and we survived just fine. In fact, I remember HELPING my Mom with him when he was a baby. Once I saved his life when the phone rang and he tumbled into my bath while our Mom went to answer it.

Truth be told, my bro and I weren’t besties growing up but I that had way more to do with personality differences. If we were one year, two years, or five years apart it would have been the same deal. Now I love that dude to pieces and I’m grateful for him. We even have matching tats because we rule.

I hope my daughter knows that sibling bond someday…just not today.

2. Get the hard years over with at once

Come on! Having two babies close in age means double the hard stuff. You can’t fool me.

Look, this comes down to personal preference. I like to space out life’s tough stuff (within my control) with some fluff in between. Some brave folks prefer to put heads down, kiss fun goodbye for a few years, then look up and see if they made it to the other side. May the force be with you.

If it were me- I would never leave the house. The thought of loading baby/diaper-bag/stroller x 2 would be too draining (good thing I don't have twins or triplets!)

"I’ll take tantrums over breastfeeding, a single stroller over a double, grilled cheese sandwiches over veggie purees, potty-training over vomit, and babycinos over bottles. That’s just me. You won’t change my mind."

These days my two-year-old pals around with me like a little legend. She sits still long enough for a coffee date and I can bribe her with frozen yoghurt while I shop the Kmart home goods section. She even digs sitting in shopping carts while I do the dreaded grocery shopping. Oh and did I mention she’s been sleeping 12 hours a night since age 7 months? Yeah I’m bragging. You would too.

3. If you wait too long you won’t want to go back for another

Whats wrong with an only?

Maybe I just lost the desire to do it again. Are you concerned I’ll have regrets? That’s so thoughtful!

The prospect of ‘going back to the newborn days’ at any time sounds daunting (and terrifying) but if people tell you that they didn’t have another baby simply because they ‘waited to long’ I'd be suspicious. I know couples who have gone to the ends of the Earth to have a child. If someone REALLY and TRULY wanted another baby they would do it. Even if it meant their comfy routine would be punctuated with newborn demands.

4. The Mother’s Age

Your eggs are wilting!

Lot’s of Mothers are waiting until their 30’s to have babies because our Mamma’s taught us ‘career first!’ Admittedly there is a bit of biological pressure to crank the kids out close together in this case. I’ve read the stats and they are scary. Yes, our lifetime supply of eggs dwindle and chances of birth defects rise with each passing year.

No denying that it’s statistically it’s easier to get pregnant the younger you are and it’s undeniable you’ll have more energy the earlier you do (but maybe if you’re older you can afford more help).

So with this one I kind of see your point but to each their own (which is my point about this whole business really).

Just so you know- I’m willing to risk it. And I’m talking about waiting like ONE more year, not seven, so calm yourselves people (there…you’ve gotten it out of me, I’ve revealed my plan).

Defence rests.

What about the risk of Post Natal Depression (PND) a second time?

There is no denying that I had it tough emotionally after the birth of my daughter and it took me a long time to feel normal again.

I’d be lying if I said I’m not worried about battling with post natal depression again but it’s not the only reason I’m putting Rieniets 2.0 on hold.

Call me selfish but in many ways I feel that when my daughter was born so was I. When you only have a tiny fraction of time to yourself as a parent- you try your damnedest to make that time count (once you have the energy to do so).

All I wanted to do was set a good example for my baby girl and in doing so I’ve started following my dreams. I would like one more year to work on those things before I have to scale it all back (which I will happily do for my family). Someday I hope ‘both’ kids will thank me because they will have a contented and fulfilled Momma.

Besides, I’m just not that into two kids in diapers at the same time.

Labels: Family, health, Post Natal Depression, Pregnancy

Friday, October 2, 2015

Friday…Public Holiday Blues #mindbodyweek

I grew up in sports-obsessed Buffalo, New York so I understand what it’s like for a town to go into shut-down-mode for a football. Australia wins because today is a public holiday dedicated entirely to tomorrows Footy (Australian rules football) Grand Finale. #theirsuperbowl

Last night really felt like a Friday but you didn’t find me celebrating with Chardonnay in hand. Nope. I did my best to stick to my healthy guns. I did have a teeny-tiny slip up when I made some microwave nachos at 9:30PM. I was CRAVING salt and still hungry after dinner (Green curry over cauliflower rice) and I caved. Simple as that. A few tortilla chips with cheese- nuked, then topped with fresh tomato, avocado, homemade hummus and Greek Yoghurt (could be worse). They tasted amazing in case you’re wondering.

Then this morning I overslept for pump class. And it put me in an odd mood. I felt kind of emotional but for no apparent reason (surely it can’t be the nachos…can it?)

Lucky for me, my supportive husband suggested I head to the gym anyway. Everything in me resisted but I went. And it did make me feel slightly better. Sometimes I think it’s easier to stick to my goals when I’m in a routine. Geez I sound almost ungrateful for a long weekend- when that’s definitely not the case.

Could be homesickness creeping in- who knows? It’s one thing to have a reason to feel flat but to have no reason- that irritates me. I do feel pretty great physically after a week of working on my fitness. My fave Mommy-sweatpants are feeling loose around my middle (maybe they just need a wash) but I swear, the bloat I had been carrying around is gone.

One thing I recognized is that it’s so easy for me to ignore the small, unhealthy choices I make in a given day. A diet coke here, a few chocolates there, some salty chips….It really does add up. I’ve said it before- I’m not a diet person. I don’t believe in diets and I don’t think they work. However I do believe in making lifestyle changes. I just need to pay more attention to my undercover snacking.

The lesson I’m taking away from this week is this: Be conscientious of the little choices- they add up. And scheduling work outs with my gym buddy or with child care makes it more likely that I’ll show up. It’s not enough to rely on motivation alone sometimes.

Tomorrow I’ll round everything out with a Skype session with my homeopath. Talking to her is always therapeutic and hopefully after she prescribes me a remedy I’ll feel brand new.

I have to be honest when I say that I’m really looking forward to some Chardonnay tomorrow- sports are a great excuse for some day drinks. Happy Grand Finale everyone!

Labels: #mindbodyweek, Fitness, health

Thursday, October 1, 2015

Thursday…Outside, In #mindbodyweek

This morning I hosted Mums Group so you could say I exercised my social muscles (tee hee).

When the girls were here I almost successfully avoided all naughty treats except for two tiny little oat ball cookie thingies which were mildly healthy as far as cookies go. After they left I was craving diet coke in a big way but drank a glass of water instead #healthy choices.

I felt a little blah when I woke up today which is definitely better than the monster headache I had last night. I think it was a combo of sore muscles and detoxing.

I still couldn’t decide what I wanted to do for my exercise- I needed to try and work something in around Vin’s nap and my bang trim in the afternoon.

Welp, what I decided to do was make myself feel better from the outside. This week has been busy so I felt gross and in need of some maintenance. I took a bubble bath, shaved, plucked, removed old, chipped nail-polish and painted my nails. Then I got my bangs cut and basically felt like a fresher version of myself.

When Lavinia took her nap I did a meditation in the sun which made me feel more relaxed.

Sometimes a little pampering can be incredibly beneficial to our health because it’s practicing self-care. We need to show ourselves a little love- often! Some things (like showering) as Moms know tend to get neglected in the hustle and bustle. Don’t forget to make time for the small things. Or if you do- do them all at once like I did.

Happy Thursday everyone!

Labels: #mindbodyweek, Fitness, healing, health

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Wednesday, Hump-day Happiness #mindbodyweek

Represent'n Buffalo- peace!

Doing a post per day makes these challenges busier for me, but also allows me to actively concentrate and analyze what I’m trying to achieve and how I'm feeling about it.

As a result I would recommend that if you take-on this challenge definitely keep a diary. Try not to feel self-conscious about it- only you have to read it. Throw it away afterward if you want to, just write things down. Putting your ideas, goals, and emotions down in black and white will not only allow you to see your progress it also gives you accountability- even if it's only to yourself (and who is more important really?)

Yesterday afternoon was a struggle. I felt really hungry before dinner and I wanted to grab the easiest thing- leftover candy from a kiddie party. I only crave crap like that when I cut down on sugar (want whatcha can't have much?) I had a dip in energy but after my lovely healthy dinner I felt better! Usually in the evenings I retreat into a mute blob on the couch but I found myself doing a few extra chores and getting ready for the next day. I even felt like having a conversation with my husband! Lucky him!

Check out the yummy baked fish parcel I made!

Today I had a dental appointment and somehow tricked myself into going to the gym beforehand (that accountability thing) by telling myself I could use the steam room afterward. No time for steam but I now have an impressive three day in a row gym streak.

And another interesting thing happened. Since I had my daughter my periods have been far apart- like 30-31 days when I’m typically a 28-day-girl. I got my period today- right on time. Coincidence? I think not. It’s amazing what regular exercise and eating healthy can do for your body in just a FEW DAYS. My sinuses even feel better.

Make the decision to try this now. If I can do it with zero prep work and leaving my schedule the same you can too! All I have done is add a daily work out, clean eating (no processed foods), and writing about it to each day. It’s a little more time consuming but I actually have the energy to cope with it. And I’m in a better mood!

Happy Wednesday- we over the hump! x

Labels: #mindbodyweek, Fitness, health

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Tuesday: Om..Ouch #mindbodyweek

No pain, no gain

Confession: Last night I ate some dark chocolate chips and I will be using these to appease my hormones for the rest of the week…in moderation of course.

Last night I went to bed early and slept late- by the graciousness of my little daughter who slept till 9:00AM today. #highfive Sleep is essential for healing and health so we were off to a good start.

Oh hai again gym!

Went to the gym and took a ripping yoga class with a fantastic substitute instructor. He gave us all little head massages and placed scented bean bags on our eyes during final meditation. My legs were desperate for the stretching after yesterday’s pump class and it helped clear my head too.

When I walked into child-care to grab Lavinia she was learning to Salsa with the lovely Latin woman who runs it. She got her cute little exercise in for the day too. Rad.

We got home and had a healthy lunch (well, one of us did, Vin is on day two of a cereal-only diet). I went with a recipe given to me by a friend who works from home as a hairdresser. She eats super clean and usually has to squeeze in a quick, decent lunch between clients. I used to scarf this one down all the time during the newborn era.

Lunchtime Protein-Packed Veg Bowl

Steamed Veggies
Homemade Hummus
Tuna
Feta
Sriracha, optional (still working on those pesky sinuses)

This afternoon I felt a little dip in energy- maybe it’s just my body adjusting (in addition to those pesky hormones). I’m still trying to think of a menu for the rest of the week but I’m really struggling (over-thinking much?) I may just grab some meat, fish and veggies and just wing it, after all this is supposed to be about real food and simplicity. I’ll let you know how it goes.

Holy crap my muscles are sore!

Tip: I’m making a conscious effort to keep a full water bottle near me at all times.

Labels: #mindbodyweek, Eat, Fitness, health

Monday, September 28, 2015

Monday: Improve Food Game #mindbodyweek

Monday- the first day of my week long challenge to pep-up my health. Have I set myself up for a successful week by taking it easy over the weekend? Of course not. There were birthday parties, drinks, lots of food and zero exercise.

The result- I felt fatigued, dry and squishy first thing. The upside is that I will have a stark contrast against how I felt today and how I hope to feel by the end of the week.

Even if my body was struggling, my head was in a positive space. I’m looking forward to tackling the goals set for myself.

Today I hit the gym with a friend from my Mums group. She recently joined and I can tell you, there is nothing like a gym buddy to help with motivation- or lack of cancellation! We took a weights class and I felt better for it. I'm planning on at least two other gym days this week to keep up the momentum.

The other big thing I wanted to take on today is a meal plan. I aim make healthy, whole, clean foods this week. My aim is to stay away from things in packages- even making my own condiments, dressings and sauces. It will be a challenge and I’ll spend a lot of time in the kitchen but I’m sure it will make a difference to my digestive system. So far today I'm not even close to achieving this. I ate decently and managed to avoid the leftover sweets from Lavinia’s birthday party but haven't had a chance to plan or shop. It’s late now so I’ll have to hit the supermarket tomorrow with a list. #foodgameweak

The other thing I’m struggling with today is congestion. It’s been lingering off and on for months which very unusual for me. Today it’s taken on an epic plug- it almost feels like I’m suffocating and I’ve tried everything I can think of without resorting to taking meds or nasal spray. It’s frustrating and I'm over it.

Wins:

Went to the gym and booked in for two other days this week.

Achieved a guest post deadline

Avoided sugar and junk (except for the little raw sugar in my coffee)

Work on:

Meal plan for the rest of the week

Get this congestion to clear up

Today didn’t go perfectly but I want to see how a challenge like #mindbodyweek can fit into real-life. No preparation involved, just one week, one health-related goal per day day and the accountability of a blog to stick to it (blog not required).

It's just the beginning.

Labels: #mindbodyweek, Fitness, health

Friday, September 25, 2015

Just Stay Happy…Damn It!

After my last therapy session I decided to take a break because I didn't feel like I getting much out of it anymore.

I felt like my therapist was basically trying to convince me: 'it's not that bad,' and to focus on the positive- which is fair enough. I do have a pretty amazing life yet sometimes the negativity takes over. Do I feel like I have first world problems- yes I do, which totally sucks.

But comparing myself to those who are worse-off only makes me feel guilty. When depression sneaks up it does not mean gratitude goes out the window, it just means I need to have a little pity party for one. Even if every single one of my wildest dreams comes true, even if I have one eye over my shoulder constantly-once in a while the gloom will catch up. That's just how depression rolls. #annoying

Sometimes it's easier than others to deal with the rough patches. Like this week- I felt really shitty on Monday and Tuesday but today, Friday, my spirits are back up.

I’m starting to (finally) accept that my system is more sensitive than I would like it to be. I’m missing a thyroid- oh yeah that. It was removed when I was a teenager so sometimes I forget I'm not like everyone else. What does this mean for me? I need way more sleep than the average person, booze is not my friend and I need to maintain a stable blood sugar level. These things are difficult enough to maintain when you have a kid let alone if you have 'the wanderlust.' Let me explain.

There is this part of me that is never satisfied- I have an unhealthy addiction to life. I need things to be so fun/ incredible/ memorable/ emotional!!!! All the time. I don't like to sit still unless I am relaxing within the specific parameters which allow me to completely relax (dishes need to be done for one). I'm high maintenance when it comes to fun.

I drank lots of wine last Saturday night with my husband. We were having a date night in (I can't just have a Saturday night feel like every other night). And I paid for it. For days.

I know hangovers get worse as you get older but this was different. I knew it was affecting my mood negatively. The timing sucked because Tuesday was Lavinia’s second birthday. It also happened to be one of those days where nothing went to plan so by the time she went to bed I was crabby, exhausted and felt like I ruined her day.

Looking for any excuse for my feelings other than self-inflicted neglect, I checked my period diary app. When in doubt, blame hormones. Nope- still one week away from the red light. Then I remembered the last few months, the same thing happened. Exactly seven days out from Aunt Flo I had a serious dip in my mood and energy.

Funnily enough I could her my therapist saying to me, “Now what can you do to prevent this from happening again?” And I started work-shopping what I could do to take better care of my health around that time each month.

Hmmmm. Maybe I was projecting my frustration onto my therapist when I felt like she wasn’t giving me enough sympathy. Maybe it’s not sympathy I need but strategy. Dang it! The expert wins again!

I think it’s about time to dedicate another week to my mental and physical health like I did five months ago: Here's a recap. Back then I promised myself I would take one week each season (or quarter) and do one thing each day to improve my general health and wellbeing. Join me!! Just use the hashtag #mindbodyweek and let’s get our shit together- together!

Last time I started on Monday and by Saturday I was up early, brimming with energy and feeling well. I want to capture that feeling again.

Monday morning- I'm hitting the gym and I might just make a therapy appointment. Wish me luck.

Labels: #mindbodyweek, Fitness, healing, health, Post Natal Depression

Friday, August 28, 2015

I'm Breaking Up With My Bump

I'll never be a hand model and I'm okay with that.

If you know me IRL you may have noticed this blue, lumpy thing on my right hand. It looks like I've been in a smackdown- and as tough as that makes me look, I'm a lover not a fighter.

Operation Hemangioma Removaloma

I've had this hemangioma (basically a cluster of blood vessels) since birth and it never really bothered me. When I was about ten years old we looked into getting it removed but they told us there was a risk of nerve damage and to a right-handed little girl just starting art lessons, that was too scary.

The blue bulge has inspired many conversations over the years that look exactly like this:

"What happened to your hand?"
"Nothing it's a birthmark."
"But it looks like a bruise"
"I know."
"Are you sure that wasn't there before? I've never noticed it"
"Yup it's always been there."
"But has it always been swollen like that?"
"I can show you baby photos, it looks exactly the same."
"But it's blue, with a red mark..."
"Yes."
"Does it hurt?"
"No."
"Can I touch it?"
"Sure."

Sometimes it takes even longer to convince the person that I'm REALLY sure I have had this exact birthmark. Since birth.

I went through a phase when I would playfully tell people I got into a fight but I got bored of that line.

It's always interesting to me to see if and when it gets noticed. Friends I've had for years will try and convince me that this must be new because they never noticed it before and sometimes strangers will pick it up immediately...I guess we all observe things differently.

For the last few years, the growth has started to hurt occasionally- when someone shakes my hand in just the wrong position or when I clumsily smack it against the kitchen bench.

Now that I'm an Australian resident with great health coverage I decided to see a hand specialist. She seemed really positive about the ease removal and expected it to come out without much risk. I had an ultrasound done so we could see how deep it went because that could affect the length of time needed in the operating room.

I felt excited about finally parting ways with the imperfection on my hand. I would be a liar if I said it never made me feel self conscious. I mean, who wants to walk around with a big bruise-y looking thingy on their dominant hand and have the same boring conversation about it over and over again? Superficial annoyances aside- this morning I whacked it against a corner and was reminded of the real reason I want it gone- pain.

When I got the results back from the ultrasound unfortunately they were worst case scenario- inconclusive. It appears that the cluster does seem to go down into some muscle tissue which means a longer surgery and a more difficult recovery.

I'll have to get an MRI so we can see exactly what we're dealing with. I had a feeling it would not be as simple as it initially sounded but I'm still hopeful.

Oddly I'm a little nostalgic about separating from my mini mountain. It's been with me always- My Mom used to tell me that it made my hand special, and I believed her.

When the hand surgeon warned me that I might have a little 'S' shaped scar I was like "awesome, any scar will be a huge improvement on bluey (I can't believe I never nicknamed it before now)."

I'm actually super excited at the thought of being able to see my knuckles. I just hope we are able get to that point someday soon. Special fingers crossed.

It actually kind of hurt to do this. Outta my way lumpy!

Labels: health

Sunday, June 21, 2015

Be Sweet To Your Feet: Scholl's Product Review

{My mates at Scholl's Australia sent me some products to review- opinions are my own}

My best friend made up the game ‘whose feet hurt the most?’ when we were sitting curbside at the Melbourne Cup Carnival. From our vantage point all we could see were girls hobbling and tottering around on heels, stilettos and all kinds of uncomfortable footwear.

We laughed and laughed while we sipped champagne and called out; “Hers do! No definitely hers! No way- her feet hurt the most!"

We weren’t making fun of their outfits or criticizing their body shapes but it did have a tinge of wrongness attached to it. It felt as if like we were witnessing everything that is wrong with equality. There were no men limping around in their shoes.

And look, I get it. It’s expensive to dress for the races from head to toe and something’s gotta give, we can’t all afford Jimmy Choos. But what if there was an inexpensive measure you could take to ease the pain and prevent blisters at the same time?

I’m not speaking for the girls who walk around and look like they are going to break an ankle (that's a lifestyle choice) but for those of us who try and look fashionable and sensible but still have to bear breaking-in our pumps (and may have to deal with icky cracked heels, and dry skin on feet.)

Scholls

Australia

have a few products that can ease our suffering because it’s not as if we are about to toss away our investments in uncomfortable footwear.

They have a line of products appropriately called ‘Party Feet.’ My feet don’t party often these days now that I have a daughter but when I do- I want to be as comfortable as possible. Maybe that sounds old and cranky but it’s better than walking around like Frankenstein. Hashtag- old enough to know better!

Here are a few they sent me to test out:

Gel Inserts- I asked for these specifically. I’m an active person (most of the time) and when I’m out, I am the opposite of a wall flower. I can’t wait to try these bad boys out because they look and feel like velvet on the top side (so would be lovely to wear with or without tights) and have sturdy gel goodness on the bottom- extra cushioning on the pads of the feet and heels where fellow champagne-infused dancers need it.

Heel Shields- I’m hoping these heel shields will allow me to wear shoes that rub me the wrong way (tee hee I love puns.) These are going to be a staple in my purse because you never know when you might need them- blisters be gone!

Fresh Step- I’m assuming you can spray this deodorizer/ sanitizer in your party shoes before you go out but I have a feeling this product will be the perfect thing to spray into my UGG’s which I will don immediately upon returning home from any event. I already tried this product out on my furry little buddies and though it smells a bit like a lemony cleaning product (What can you expect? It’s for sweaty feet) it got the job done.

I can’t wait to get invited to something fancy again so I can rock out with comfy tootsies. Babysitting anyone? Anyone?

Labels: Family, health, Product Love

Thursday, April 23, 2015

16 Inexpensive Ways for Mums to Relax: Product Review

{Airwick Australia offered to send me some candles in exchange for a post and I gladly accepted because I looooove candles. All opinions are honest, and my own.}

I’ve been thinking about this list for a while now. It’s easy for anyone with unlimited funds to unwind during child-free time; massages and pedicures and shopping oh my! Money is easy to spend when your time is free.

But for those of us on a fixed income (and a big home renovation looming) I thought it would be helpful to come up with a list of things that are inexpensive or free, that you can easily do at home, during nap-time or after bed-time to chill the funk out.

Over the last few days I’ve realized just how precious nap-time is to me. It’s when I do my writing and creating. But for some reason Lavinia is going through this phase (gawd I hope it’s a phase) where she plays around in her cot for an hour without sleeping a wink. I really miss those two-and-a-half hours I used to have in the afternoons.

Anything I do in my golden, spare moments feels more indulgent with scented candles or scented oils burning in the background (aromatherapy is free!) Almost everything on this list can be complimented by a romantic flame. Obvs not the napping one (#7) but you knew that. So go ahead, treat your nostrils and light something!

And can I just say, that I was shocked at the price of scented candles when I moved to Australia? There were no nice-smelling cheapies, not even at the supermarket. I used to make my Mom send over candles in the post because I missed them so much (told ya, I love candles.) I’m so pleased that Airwick Australia has actually made an affordable candle that smells awesome. No, they don’t look high-end like those candles you buy just to display (you know the ones you don’t light so they don’t go to waste.)

Candles like these ‘Good to Be Home’ ones are meant to be enjoyed: Buy em,’ burn em,’ and enjoy em’ because you can replace em.’ These Lemonade Stand candles smell more like lemon pie than lemonade. Yumm-o.

Give yourself an at home spa pedicure.
Try Guided Meditation- if you’re a beginner use an app or YouTube.
Sit in the sun and read a magazine.
Make a cup of tea.
Take a bubble bath.
Read a book- books on an e-reader are far less expensive than paperback books- bonus: you don’t have to leave the house to purchase new ones!
Take a power Nap- sometimes it’s just nice to sleep.
Write in a journal- unclutter that mind! Penzu post is a free, private, online journaling website that I use.
Make something crafty, take a look at Pinterest if you need inspiration.
Do something you've been putting off, even if it’s a chore, it will feel good to cross something off the list.
Stretch or do some yoga- there are plenty of yoga classes on YouTube!
Sit outside in the sun with a magazine.
Bake something healthy.
Frame some photos.
Talk to a friend on the phone- Points if you don't send a preemptive text.
Have a cup of tea and listen to some relaxing music.

Which ones will you try first?

Labels: Family, health, Product Love

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Take Charge of Your Health: Recap #mindbodyweek

Un-freakin believeable. I woke up this morning before my husband (the chipper morning person) and even before my daughter.

I thought my body was tricking me, that I would need to head back to bed exhausted after a couple hours. But let me tell you, we are well into our Saturday morning and I feel rested...and good!

Saturday mornings I usually sleep in. Normally I drag myself out of bed because I hear Lavinia giggling and I want to be part of the family. Sometimes I’m crabby and it takes me forever to fully wake up. I think Matt and Vin would rather I still be in bed.

I’m amazed that in one week, I was able to bring myself from flat and lethargic to rested and energized. It wasn’t easy but I’ll tell you exactly how I did it. You can do it too- and you should!

It’s all about what you think you need as an individual. I usually eat well so for me, I had to focus on exercise and clearing my mind.

I made two lists. One list of general things I wanted to incorporate into every day. I did pretty well with these but I think next time I might write them out and stick them someplace where I can see them as reminders (forgot the vitamins a few times.)

Recap: I will do these things:

Exercise

Healthy, homemade meals

Homeopathy (an appointment I rescheduled due to over-sleeping)

Meditation

Vitamins

Therapy

Mindfullness

Reduced Social Media Time

Then I chose one major thing to do each day of the week, balancing out both mental and physical exercises.

Recap: Main Goal for Each Day:

Monday- Gym

Tuesday- Therapy

Wednesday- Bikram Yoga

Thursday- Homeopathy appointment (& gym)

Friday- Long Walk with Lavinia

What I Would Add Next Time:

I did this anyway by default but I would add get outside at least once a day, if the weather is crappy- go somewhere indoors for a change of scene. This can really help re-set, even when you might not realize you need re-setting.

I would also plan my meals a little differently. Everything I ate was homemade (except for the dark chocolate I had for dessert at night) which is a good thing. I decided to do this challenge spontaneously- after I had already done the meal planning and shopping for the week- don’t get me wrong I ate healthy but I could have taken it one step further and jammed in all the superfoods I could think of.

Also next time, I think I’ll keep the TV off at night. That way I can have more conversations and quiet time with the hubs. The relationship is an important thing to work on too!

Tips:

I would definitely recommend having some healthy, high protein snacks that you can grab and go (my quiche was great for this) because I found myself much hungrier than usual with all the activity.

Make yourself a playlist of songs that you can’t help but dance to- even if there are only a few. And listen to music one notch above your mood all week.

Schedule in some rest time. Your body is going to be working hard, and healing so be sure to take some time to chill out, read or just have a quiet cup of tea.

If you want to read in depth about what I did each day here are the links to my daily posts:

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

So for an idea that came to me while exercising Monday morning, I think this little experiment went really well! Next time I’ll try and rope more of you on board to do it with me (kind of hard when I don’t give you any notice right?) And you can always give it a go on your own. Please share with me if you do! I would love to hear about it.

Go on! Do something healthy for yourself.

Love,

Dawn

Labels: #mindbodyweek, Family, Fitness, health

Friday, April 17, 2015

Take Charge of Your Health: Friday #mindbodyweek

TGI to the F!

I made it through my week-long challenge. And not only did I make it, I actually accomplished every single goal I set for myself which honestly took me by surprise.

This morning I had every intention of driving to Mums group instead of walking (I knew you guys would understand if I bailed) but you know what- I walked! Thirty minutes, both ways, and massively uphill on the way home. I thought it would be the perfect blow-out for my aching legs (from squats) but I may have made the situation worse- in a good way of course.

Usually when I’m out walking, I have a thousand thoughts running through my head. Today I did not pick up my phone once to jot down notes, add to my to-do list or put things in my calendar. I just walked (and snapped a few pics.) If I had to guess why, I think it's because I have given myself a variety of outlets over the week: exercise, counseling, talking to friends and even meditating.

It's so completely unusual to be walking around feeling sane, and centered. Wow. I dig it.

Upon getting home, I sat down to write my final post, planning to give myself a nice pat on the back when I realized I had one more thing to do. Meditation. Rachael Able recommended this free guided meditation series on youtube and I promised her (and myself) that I would check it out.

The first video I watched was “Who are the Honest Guys?” (video) and I must admit that when I heard the first words, “You are amazing, you are unique and you matter,” I was like oh bring on the cheeeeese but then the sentence finished, “- we’re here to help you see that.” Right-o. Maybe I rolled my eyes at the first few words because I don’t necessarily see how my amazing, uniqueness actually matters to anyone but my family- and that’s mainly because I keep them fed.

There are a lot of videos in this series, all free, some are like 8 hours long so you can play them while you work, study or even sleep. That’s pretty cool I guess.

I scanned for a short one because I really wanted to do the meditation and finish up my post before Lavinia woke up from her nap (great mindset to start a meditation right? Ha.)

I stumbled upon Mindfulness, a guided 10 minute meditation. Sounded good to me. I pressed play and watched the beautiful images of water and clouds drift before me. I wasn’t sure if I was supposed to close my eyes or watch the video, so I closed my eyes. And meditated.

Yup, I drank the kool-aid and even watched another video about improving self-image and self esteem. The videos themselves can seem slightly OTT but if you concentrate on message and keep an open mind it can be really helpful and relaxing.

I didn’t like these meditations as much as I liked the Headspace App (but only the first ten of those are free) This Honest Guys channel is a decent library to fall back on. That’s my first impression anyway, admittedly I’m just curious enough to try some more.

So that was my week. It took a lot of time and effort but the return was more than worth it. I've uncrowded my mind, boosted my metabolism and best of all I don't have to drag myself out of bed or feel that horrible 3:00PM crash.

The thing which amazes me most is each day this week I woke up before Lavinia. Did I mention I'm not a morning person? I can never wake up without an alarm (that I set early specifically so I can snooze it several times) or screaming toddler. I would almost go out on a limb and say I woke up feeling refreshed. It's been a long, long time since I felt that way.

I really hope to keep this up. Each change of season (quarter) I plan on doing a #mindbodyweek although I accomplished a lot with this first one, there is still room for improvement (ie: less iPhone and TV at night.)

Don't take my word for it, try it for yourself, you deserve the effort. One week. One thing every day for your health. You'll feel like a new person by Friday for reals!

Here's a little playlist I made called Motivation: It's short but full of a few of my current favorite tracks guaranteed to make you move your booty. Maybe it will inspire some ideas for your own #mindbodyweek best wishes!

What did you do for your health today?

Labels: #mindbodyweek, Family, Fitness, health

Thursday, April 16, 2015

Take Charge of Your Health: Thursday #mindbodyweek

I'm tired, but not in that 'my eye-lids feel like sandpaper' way, more in that 'I've done a day of manual work' kind of way.

Today I woke at 6:15AM so I could Skype with my Buffalo-based homeopath (there is a 14 hour time difference.) Me waking in the 6’s voluntarily is unheard of as I am the very definition of “Not a Morning Person.”

Sally Williams has been treating me on and off for the last 18 years, since I was a teenager with Graves Disease. I swear by her and by homeopathy and I only have a vague understanding of how it all works. If you can bare it, I will try to explain in my own words:

Basically homeopathy is vibrational medicine, just like acupuncture is, but instead of relying on our own body it uses vibrations found in naturally occurring elements. It works under the premise “like cures like,” which means that if those substances were given in higher doses, they would actually cause the ailment they are meant to be curing. It treats each patient as unique individual and addresses not the symptoms but rather the cause of those symptoms (I recommend doing some reading, very fascinating.)

All these years later and I’m still using homeopathy to help with anxiety, depression, muscle, skin and digestive and sleep issues.

The timing of the appointment was perfect for this week and our sesh went really well. My new remedy is in the mail, I cannot wait for it to arrive so I can get a good night's sleep.

The only disadvantage to using homeopathy is that sometimes coffee can antidote a remedy (not caffeine, just coffee) so I have to steer clear of one of my all-time favorite beverages.

Nothing compares to coffee. It’s like a warm hug and simultaneous kick in the ass. When I’m struggling for energy, coffee is such an easy solution. Never fear, I have found a substitute. A poor cousin though it may be, at least it takes away my morning coffee jones.

Coffee Substitute

Ingredients

1 bag Roast Dandelion Tea
1 bag Black Tea

Cooking Directions

Steep both tea bags in boiling water until nice and dark. Then add milk and sweetener. It is not coffee, but at least your eyes will be fooled! Enjoy.

Believe it or not, after such an early start I had enough energy to hit the gym at 9:30 for a class. Lavinia is currently fighting her nap while I write but for once I don't feel like taking a nap of my own.

Maybe this week, as busy as it is, might just be enough to jolt myself right out of that slump and back into a healthy routine. One more day, stay tuned!

Have you done something healthy today? I'd love to hear about it.

Labels: #mindbodyweek, Fitness, health

Kangaroo Spotting

Kangaroo Spotting

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

PND, A Partner's Perspective

Tuesday, February 9, 2016

Into the Carnival of 2016

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Stop Telling Me To Have Another Kid!

"I’ll take tantrums over breastfeeding, a single stroller over a double, grilled cheese sandwiches over veggie purees, potty-training over vomit, and babycinos over bottles. That’s just me. You won’t change my mind."

Friday, October 2, 2015

Friday…Public Holiday Blues #mindbodyweek

Thursday, October 1, 2015

Thursday…Outside, In #mindbodyweek

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Wednesday, Hump-day Happiness #mindbodyweek

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Tuesday: Om..Ouch #mindbodyweek

Lunchtime Protein-Packed Veg Bowl

Monday, September 28, 2015

Monday: Improve Food Game #mindbodyweek

Friday, September 25, 2015

Just Stay Happy…Damn It!

Friday, August 28, 2015

I'm Breaking Up With My Bump

Sunday, June 21, 2015

Be Sweet To Your Feet: Scholl's Product Review

Thursday, April 23, 2015

16 Inexpensive Ways for Mums to Relax: Product Review

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Take Charge of Your Health: Recap #mindbodyweek

Friday, April 17, 2015

Take Charge of Your Health: Friday #mindbodyweek

Thursday, April 16, 2015

Take Charge of Your Health: Thursday #mindbodyweek

Coffee Substitute

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