When Hubby, Lacey and I went to America earlier this year I said to Hubby that we should soak it up because we’d probably never, ever find ourselves back in the States ever again. Well I take those words back now… because next month I’m going to be heading over to sunny San Diego {well, I hope it’s sunny because I certainly need to defrost from this chilly weather!}.
Lenovo recently launched a new campaign sharing how they allow inspired thinkers to ‘do’ {you can see a little more about it in the quirky minute-long video below}. I’d like to think of myself as an inspired thinker {well, I like to be inspired!} and am grateful that Lenovo are allowing me to ‘do’, do being head over to San Diego to the BlogHer conference alongside my lovely friend Sarah.
To be in the running to win this lovely laptop, simply answer this question in the comment section below: What do you do in your life? What inspires you?
The winner of this competition is Belinda. Thank you EVERYONE for your inspiring responses. I cried, smiled and laughed reading them. Thank you for opening up for hearts and sharing. x
{boring bits}
One entry per person only
Open to Australian residents only
Competition closes August 3rd 2011 at 11:59pm
P.S. In the interest of disclosing my relationship with Lenovo – they have kindly sponsored Sarah and I to attend BlogHer by covering our airfares, conference tickets and accommodation. Which I’m rather excited about, but also nervous about leaving my little family. Eek. I’m already fretting.
I'm so excited for you both – Blogher is definitely on my goals for next year!
I've always been inspired by photography and scrapbooking, trying to be creative in the way I capture the moment and trying to be creative in the way I keep the memory. As I have started to age I have recently been inspired to run. This is my 2011 fad, which I hope sticks around. I'm very inspired at the mo!
Blogs inspire me, especially yours (I emailed you to let you know that a few weeks ago) but If I'm having a bad day, its great to immerse myself in somebody's blog, I'm a full on blog stalker and not afraid to admit it 😉
I'm inspired by my children, but especially my son. He can't talk (or communicate in any way, really) but he finds the joy in each day and gives a huge grin as he does it. Sometimes I cry about his future and how insular he is, but knowing he gets up every morning and does the best he can and smiles through it all inspires me to do that as well. We don't know if he'll ever talk… but his smile and the light in his eyes says it all.
Light inspires me endlessly, it's why I became a photographer.
Congratulations chantelle that's brilliant news!!!
I am a full time stay at home mum 🙂
Beautiful photography always inspires me – to take better pictures of my children and to try and capture as much of their childhood as possible, for I fear one day my memories my fail me. I love reading mummy blogs that feature beautiful photography like Sheye Rosemeyer, Rachel Richter and Kelle Hampton 🙂 They inspire me.
xx
I'm inspired by my children to be a better person. I am also inspired by a friend of mine who I have met in the last few years. I am a pretty generous person but my friend is so giving to the community and spreads herself across so many organisations, she inspires me to give more of myself and try and be a better person.
i do what i do because i do love my family who make me love my life. i am inspired by my children, the world i am so lucky to live in and the lovely people i meet along the way. i love to bake, make, thrift and learn.
I have recently become a mum for the first time. I am doing all the “small stuff”. My “to do” list is no longer comprised of meetings, reports and goals but rather feeding times, cooking and washing. Writing up my “to do” list each day has never so nice and I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to experience such the wonder that is parenthood. (Notice cleaning is not on my to do list, some things never change!)
I am a Information Technology and English Teacher for my daily job. So watching and helping children succeed in their daily lives inspires me to do well at my job. As testing as teenagers are; I enjoy being around them – they keep me young. I love educating the next generation of adults to be better and succeed at life.
I also am a novice photographer; graphic designer and I make craft items and jewellery on the side.My blog is about weight loss and the things that inspire me along my journey to success.
I am currently undertaking a huge project of renovating my home with my partner – doing it ALL ourselves (aside from tiling and cabinetry). We have extended and gutted it, slowly it is becoming a home again. I am looking on blogs and in magazines for inspiration to decorate it. Beautiful things make me happy to do what I do daily.
SO exciting – congrats!
What an awesome opportunity, congratulations!
I am inspired by my family, to be the person they know I can be, and do the things they know I can do. As for what do I 'do' in my life, hopefully be myself, as a mother, wife and friend, using creativity as an outlet that makes me happy:)
Enjoy BlogHer, you will have a blast,
Kathy
In my life, I parent my two school age children and love them and their father. I keep our home. I sporadically work full time, and treasure the times when I don't. My inspiration comes from pretty things. I like functional pretties, and like my life to be nice.
Cake inspires me…so does a big bowl of pasta! 😛
Ooooh, well done well done!
What do I do? I work and I work hard. I work at home at both a paid job and, probably the hardest job of all, looking after my 4 children and a husband who doesn't know how to find a pair of socks.
It's my children who inspire me to be better and stronger than ever before. I'm the person they turn to for all their needs so I need to make sure I'm the best “me” I can be.
You are living the dream what a fantastic opportunity for you.
I manage an office so I like to organise and help and be the go to person. I'm inspired by travelling I love to see the world and meet and mingle with the people that live there.
My children are a constant source of inspiration in my daily life. At work I find that I am inspired by my patients, especially the older patients how have gone through massive surgeries and are relearning skills that most of us take for granted.
Congrats on the opportunity to go to BlogHer!
I'm a mommy to four beautiful kids…that's what i do! So obviously my kids inspire me!!
Chantelle that is such fab news!!!
I am inspired by opening up my laptop during the day when I get a chance and reading blogs. There are so many incredible people out there that love to share their journey, they have inspired me so much that I am about to start my own business.
My daughter Alexandra inspires me. As a single parent I work long hours 5 days a week. She inspires me to be the person I am today. She's the one who keeps me going when my health gets in the way. I am the person I am today because of that inspiration.
My lil boy Oscar inspires me everyday. He inspires me to be a better person, a nicer person and a more successful person. As long as I can wake up every morning and look at his little face, I will always be inspired!
Congrats on your upcoming trip to the US Chantelle, I find much enjoyment in reading your blog and look forward to hearing about your trip 🙂
Recording life, so my little ones can look back on it and remember all the little parts that made up their childhood.
Have Fun!
Congratulations!! So well deserved!
I work. I study. I mum. I wife. I fill my days with my motherly and wifely duties as well as getting my head around studying.
What inspires me each day are the little things. It may be the way the sun shines through the window or a recipe I read. But usually it's my daughter. She inspires me to ve a better person, a better mother and to get creative. 🙂
Well scratch mine…I only just read that you had to be Australian!! Booooooooooooooooo!!!! Lol..still love reading your blog though!!!
In my life I “do” a lot of thinking about change, creativity and how I can turn my thoughts into actions. I am inspired by people, by blogs, by photography, real life experiences – but mostly I am inspired by my children. I want to show all three of them that life is all that you make it, and that their thinking could change the world.
You go girl! Lucky you. Enjoy it and try not to fret.
my mother inspires me with her cooking. She is the best 'cooker' in the world and would love to be just like her so my children can say I am the best cook in the world!
How exciting! Enjoy. In my little life I work with children with special needs. Sometimes, very special needs. It inspires me everyday when my own children are having a bad day, I stop and think. Wow, I have nothing on these children who I work with. I am inpired by these kids and thier families to be a better mother, friend and most of all just live everyday to the fullest. x
That's so awesome (the conference sponsorship!) (and the laptop!)
Inspiration is everywhere, I think. The details inspire me. x
Congratulations to you!
Apart from being a full time mummy, my passion is health and fitness. I love what I do when I am working out or running or menu planning. My inspiration comes from blogs, magazines and closer to home, my family <3
Yeah-har!
Im very soon to be a full time stay at home mum. Super excited about this!
I get inspiration from all sorts of things. Mostly the world around me. When I'm sitting in a coffee shop is probably one of my most favourite inspiring moments in life. Watching the world pass by.
I find kindness of strangers very inspiring.
Thanks for the opportunity to win a much needed laptop 🙂
I'm inspired by living life, getting out and about with my 2 babes and enjoying the small things life has to offer.
Thinking out side the box and surrounding myself with beautiful inspirational people.
Children inspire me. Their energy, their spirit, their zest for life. I create invitations and stationery because nothing gives me greater pleasure than to see a little cherubic face light up over something you've made especially for them.
Congrats on going Telle, hope you have an absolute ball!!!
That is so wonderful!! Congrats! And San Diego is sunny and hot! What do I do? I am an artist and I am a technology/application administrator. Yup, I have a double life, one that involves figuring out technical issues and being on the computer all day and the other is being immersed in painting all day. I love both lives and I love when they are combined 🙂 which happens quite often! I am inspired by other people and the notion of helping out other people. In my technology life, I do just that help people, and in my art life, I am inspired by people and the beautiful cultures that surround us.
Congrats again!
-Kim
whoooo have fun!!! what a fab opportunity 🙂
i do – me, wife, mum, design, create, heal, teach , learn, care, organise in my jobs as a mum, nurse, acupuncturist and owner of missy melly
life inspires me… the sun, the air, the smells, the laughter, the colours, my children ,my hubby, animals, beauty, emotions, culture, diversity, love and people
I have inspired myself over the last year, to take some time back for me… to get fit and take up running. To dream about running a half marathon and getting fit for my children. Through the journey I have rediscovered my passions and been brave enough to start my own photography business!
I sing in a church choir & I am inspired by God, through hymns…I am not a perfect person & singing helps me to calm down & remind myself of my blessings
I am inspired by inspirational people. People that go above and beyond to motivate and make others happy.
I am a stay at home Mum of two little rugrats, and they inspire me beyond words. Seeing their small faces light up each and every morning, and seeing them find joy in the simplest of things, they make my heart happy.
Have fun at BlogHer!
I'm inspired by my daughter. Cliche? yes, but she is intellectually disabled, and I need to be the best person I can to be there for her as she grows and tries to fit into society. My life is spend working with her to give her the best life possible, and looking after myself so that I can be there for her.
Congrats – that is awesome for you guys!
I am inspired by my kids as I watch them navigate school, growing and finding out the people they will be. At 39 I feel like I am doing that all over now myself as I have been at home with them for 8 years and am now venturing off to do new things. They always ask me “what are you going to be when you grow up?” and now I can answer ” I will have my own business”.
What inspires me is how my sister has stayed strong through a very traumatic 6 months. Her husband was brutally attacked in December and now has an acquired brain injury as a result. He has only just gone back to work, and they have been living off her income for the last 6 months as he is having visa issues and isn't eligible for any government benefits, despite the fact that he was attacked in our country by an Australian citizen. The fact that she has managed to take care of him when he first got out of hospital, work full time, make medical arrangements, manage their household, organise a solicitor and all the paperwork required for his visa case all by herself is amazing, especially given she lives in a different state away from family. Whenever I am having a bad day I think about how strong she's been and it puts a lot of things in perspective.
Aww congrats on being selected to have an all expenses paid trip- that is the chance of a lifetime xoxox
What I do in my life is I'm a pregnant mother and housewife and fulltime English Teacher 😀 I rarely put my feet up and certainly never ever sleep!
What inspires me the most are extraordinary Mummy bloggers just like you Chantelle! I have recently started up my own blog and I would love it one day if I was a member of this awesome club…
Thats my goal for now for a fulfilling life, as I can outline my wonderful life over these past 30 years. Great Teacher- check! Loving Wife-check! Selfless Mummy- check!
A sincere well done to you and I hope that blogging is everything you dreamed of, and that you go even further- I'll be watching from my desk and dreaming that one day I will follow in your footsteps.
Amanda from Amanda's Mummy Jeans
xoxoxo
That is SO COOL Chantelle! Well done to you. I find you AND Sarah very inspirational… I hope you have a wonderful time. I'm so impressed :o) xo
Wow, You lucky thing. Truly deserving 😀
I take photos day in day out. The world inspires me with the amazing things it throws at me and I point and shoot and make it last forever 😀
I'm green with envy that you get to go to Blogher!!! So jealous.
What do I do? Some days I simply could not answer this question. As a mum of 3 I have had to redefine my answer and depending on my day you might get a different response every time – school teacher, mother, wife…
I am inspired by lots of things, mainly my children. The simple things in life make their day and I think as adults we lose sight of the small things. Every morning I get a gentle reminder of what I need to focus on, and I find this inspiring.
In my life, I cuddle and Kiss and smile and laugh. I giggle and squish and fall in love with my boys over and over again. I study, I learn, i run and I love. I shop and hope and smile and fall. I sleep wrapped in dreams
Oh, well done, Chantelle! Have a fabulous time and enjoy every second of it. For us!
Hmm, I'm the mum of our 3 pixies under 6, a wife, a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a godmother, a friend, a lawyer, a Francophile, a Germanophile, a stationery lover, a logophile – I could go on! It's a long list.
My little family and husband provide me with endless inspiration. Not to mention Blogland and all my dear bloggy friends. I can't imagine life without you all! J x
Wow, that is fantastic, not to sound too wanky but some of you really successful bloggers inspire me, because I want to try and create a bit of a adult escapement and brain stimulation from being a successful blogger. My kids also inspire me by having a handmade business but I would love to enter into a rewarding online conversation with like-minded mums and seeing the success of you makes me think that my blog could maybe get me to where I want to go 🙂
I'm a mother to my two children and I work part time – but I work because I have to not, not for love. One day! Inpiration – magazines, blogs, friends and my family. Enjoy Blogher!
Thank you for this great question. I have thought hard on this question and I came to realise that watching other people inspires me on a daily basis . To watch the elderly and see their enthusiasm for life and how the smallest thing excites them inspires me. To watch teachers and how they possess the patience of a saint inspires me. People who give up their time to volunteer for charities here and all over the world inspire me. Inspiration is everywhere if you become more aware of your surroundings.
Take me with yoooooooou, please! I am so glad the Aussies will be represented by such a fine pair of bloggers.
Now for the comp entry… My family inspire me. The nut cases. I deal with a lot of people and they really are unique, caring, loving human beings.
What a wonderful opportunity you have thanks to Lenovo. Great work and great blogging is part of who you are. Sarah too has always been up there in my top bloggers list.
My husband inspires me.
Every day.
He is very chronically ill with Parkinsns Disease & more.
Yet he is self-less, caring and loving.
He is my hero.
Even though he cannot do anything anymore.
At 62. He is “spent” physically but he gives of himself to
Me endless emotional and loving support & encouragement.
He is a hero. Every day and in every way.
I am his full-time carer. Blogging is my social network.
Thank you for being part of that too, Chantelle!
What do I do? I do lots – just like lots of cool women out there in blogland.
What inspires me? Some days chocolate, but most days sunshine as its beams bounce down onto my little life in the burbs with my little scallywags and sidekick. Step outside, turn your face to the sun, drink it up, head up, chest out – now tackle the day.
I talk and befriend and challenge and motivate and write.
I'm inspired by my husband, a poignant quote, great people, quirky ideas, beautiful craft, anything red and aqua (together), my sons, the new day.
Yay for you. Have a wonderful time!
I am motivated by my two wonderful children. Through their motivation I go to work to train the teachers of the future. I tell them my standards may seem high, but they may teach my children in the future, and they deserve the very best. The effort the 'good' students then go to inspires me to further challenge.
Oh goodie. My laptop died last week and I've had two arguments with hubby about the cost of replacing it (he has the luxury of a work-supplied machine and an IT dept to fix it if it goes belly-up!).
I knit. I work. I care. I heal. I chat. I love. I cuddle. I walk. I cook. I clean. I do a lot of things and try not to let any of them define me.
My mother inspires me. She is the most amazing woman I know. She raised us, worked her entire life, has loved and supported us the whole way, gained weight and lost it (several times), always finds the time for a chat, and has survived two different cancers.
I'm a Mumma & a Make-Up Artist:) And I am inspired by life! My son inspires me to be a better mumma, friend, family member, wife, me! So he has a wonderful role model:) Being a Make up artist is by far the Most rewarding career I have had! To be able to watch the womens confidence soar, the way they cary themselves rise & to see a look of love & appreciation for themselves slowly develop as they watch their transformation inspires me beyond words!
I am a infectious disease scientist (among other things such as a Mum!) and what inspires me is those little moments when you really make a difference – a difference to someone's treatments so that they have a better chance of living, a difference to family members of someone very sick by keeping them safe with the right vaccination and a dfference to the field in general. Its exciting, its demanding and its so frustrating but it inspires me every day to be better and more knowledgeable!
i am inspired by my children to show them that their dreams can come true and by peolple in general all people the kind and not so kind the intelligent and the ignorant i love the saying “be the change you want to see in the world” so when i come across those not so fabulous people im inspired by this and do or say something to give them something to take away and think about so maybe they are inspired to be better in their own life im no saint or super good by any means but everyone can change something about themselves for the better.
I'm a sole parent and a blogger and a thinker. So every day life inspires me. Every little thing that happens gives me inspiration to think, to consider, to notice, to see how things fit together. And to write.
Congratulations on such a fantastic deal with Lenovo and kudos to them for supporting women bloggers. Have a lot of fun!
What a wonderful opportunity for you!
I'm a workplace relations advisor.
It is nice to get home and switch off and focus on something else. I'm inspired by my Mum. She is a very giving person that sacrifices her own wants for the needs of others. She is a fabulous cook and I am forever scouring the internet searching for new recipes to cook.
Cooking is my outlet. I love it.
Well done! How exciting for you. I'm sure you'll have an absolute ball!
I'm inspired by so many things, I really wouldn't know where to start. If I had to pick one, I'd probably say magazines for the images, the design/layout and the words. (I may well have chosen this because I've had my head in a mag all day!). 🙂
Of course I am firstly inspired by my family in sooo many ways.
My Dad inspires me as he cares for my mum day in day out and never complains or even thinks about putting her into care.
My sons inspire me to step outside the square and find fun and laughter in the simplest things.
More recently I have become inspired with by own opportunities as I stumbled into the world of social media. I now feel the need to find who *I* am and reach for things I never dreamed I would ever achieve.
I am inspired daily by my work mates and other social media moguls. I can only hope to one day be as successful and creative in what I do as they are.
Well, this post has certainly inspired me! I love hearing about the fabulous opportunities that blogging brings people. Congratulations and I hope you have a wonderful time!
Best wishes,
Natasha.
Reading other blogs inspires me and helps me find direction with my own blog. I love reading mummy blogs and beauty blogs, and draw much inspiration from the types of posts, layout, photos and everything. I love my blogging hobby!
Have a great trip 🙂
My kid's inspire me, I bring them up on a shoe string budget but they want for nothing. I think they believe we are well off but I'm just very good at scoring bargains and budgeting.
I am inspired to be the best version of me that I can be for my husband, my kids and for me. I am inspired by my son who has albinism and autism to be a better parent, advocate for his special needs and maximize his chances of having a full life. I am inspired to write and blog about this journey – it is only early days for me but I am loving every part of it so far!
Congrats!! You gonna love it it's such a beautiful city and Yes it will be warm at that time of the yr :). What inspires me the most in my life is my mum .she had rather hard life and many obstacles but she never complains just keeps going and going 🙂 she's such an amazing woman:) Acorrding to some I ” dont work” but my job is the most awarding job in the whole world ok least paid tho lol I'm a stay at home mum and wife – homemaker 🙂
How exciting for your Chantelle! What a fab conference to be heading to! I am inspired by all the other mums out there who just get in and give something a go and see where it takes them – I jumped in recently and decided to give it a go and now have an online store and business that I never even dreamed I would have at this time last year! Leanne x Hope it is sunny and warm for you.
My friends – old & new. To see real people do amazing things everyday makes me want to get up off my butt & do something too! Who needs an inspiration board when you can just look around at the ones you love?
PS great giveaway & enjoy the trip!!
Oh big congrats, such amazing news for you.
I just do, somedays I do lots, photograph, play dress ups, cook, walk, laugh and then some days I do little washing, mopping and cleaning.
Through it all I'm inspired by life, being happy and healthy and thankful to be able to DO most things with ease.
Being able bodied and living in a place where we have freedom of choice is inspiring
What do I do? I teach! Who inspires me? The 30 kids I see everyday… They inspire me to do my job well. And sometimes, just sometimes, i'm inspired by school holidays… Bliss!!!! 🙂
I am an assistant in nursing in Aged Care. My patients inspire me because they have wisdom, courage and they make me understand that no matter what we do, how much we have, where we have been – at the end of our days, the most important thing is the people you have around you, the family and the friends you have made. They inspire me to build great friendships and cherish my family.
like most mums im inspired by my 2 little ones. my little guy is non-verbal & is starting school nxt yr.he has tackled preschool with real spirit & gusto. he surprises us no end every day.
I work with the elderly & they give me the inspiration & courage to be a good mum…..nxt time you get the chance, start a conversation with someone over 75….ask them about their favourite childhood memory….i promise u will get a kick out of it.
Ally
This is so exciting Chantelle! I am so excited for you and Sarah. What a wonderful adventure for you both. Talk about double inspiration! (Not to mention two trips to the US. Me, jealous much?
NEVER!
Oh, and what I do? I'm a resource developer. Making, designing, doing.
Love it!
xx
I am firstly a care partner for my adult son with a disability, the road this has taken has made me stronger.
For fun I love entering competitions, win heaps of prizes and this brings joy into my life as I can share the love. It has also developed my word skills and general knowledge.
My passion is my little shih tzus who I love dearly and I am at present dogsitting plus one makes three so the more the merrier I say.
I'm a studying, working, home loving mumma.
I'm inspired by learning – it's why I have decided to make a career change. I love teaching!
Wow…Great Prize..
Mother Nature in all its beauty inspires me….nature itself, the blessing and wonder a new life fourishing deep inside my tummy and the vast blue skies……Life itself!
megan.gray@det.nsw.edu.au
My life is dedicated to exploring this awesome world of ours…how it is exists and how it affects life on Earth. I am inspired by scientists who were considered controversial hundreds of years ago, but are now looked back upon as revolutionary. This is what inspires humans, children, all living things to live, love and learn.
At the moment im a SAHM to my gorgeous 3 yo son. Next year i hope to study Social Work, its something ive always wanted to do.
Positive happy people inspire me 🙂
oops my email is shelley69@hotmail.com
Thankyou for the opportunity to win the awesome prize!
Congratulations Chantelle, I can't wait to read about your trip!!! I don't know much about the city, except that it has a zoo!!
In my life – I am the CEO. The COO. The financial controller. The decision maker. The cook. The washer. The cleaner. The cuddler. The chauffer. The bike-pusher (for the little one). The pram pusher. I'm a stay at home mummy!
There is a particular group of people that inspire me daily. You read about their special stories daily, often beating the odds, sometimes not, but in common they have a “never say never” mantra. When they fall down – they get back up and have another go. Over and over. Relentlessly. You ask “why?” They say “WHY NOT”. Be them rich, or poor. But they are still generous of heart, and always have a smile on their face. They inspire me to be better and to try do the same, and be a better person for it.
Great Chantelle, can't wait to read your reports from Blogher. Love the Lenovo ad, you can say so much in a minute and a minute's just about the right time for busy mums even ones who are being lazy as I am today.
I don't really know what I do, but I seem to do a lot of it. It involves four boisterous bairns, a high maintainence husband, three books, one blog and a real effort at self care and good mental health.
What inspires me? Other mums, other people, always.
Squuuuueell virtual high five!!
That's so exciting Telle. What a dream come true for you.
What inspires me in life is my husband, through all his been through he still comes out on top.
WhTbinspires me right now is the Australian blog community. I feel the love. I really do.
I've been reading your blog for a while now Chantelle and think its so exciting you get the chance to go to the conference.
I am a Visual Arts teacher in a high school and needless to say I am inspired on a daily basis by the creativity of my students. Yes, they can be mental at times- but their ability to come up with ideas, artworks and designs that I would have never of thought of constantly amazes and inspires me. I hope my students can continue to be innovative and creative for the rest of their lives.
Wow, lucky you!
By day I am a statistical analyst, and by night, an artist (yes, unusual combo I know) and a wee bit of a blogger now, too.
I am inspired by everything around me, from patterns in leaves, changing colours in the sky, and the beautiful sea. I'm also inspired by amazing people who live their lives doing what they love. That is who I want to be.
I'm the very boring payroll lady who sits in an office alone all day and doesnt talk to anyone.
I have two days left of this boring job and am moving on for my sanity.
What inspires me to make a change is my son .. I want to show him that you can be anything you want to be in your life … and you shouldn't settle. I figure I cant just tell him that, I need to lead by example.
Wish me luck on my new adventures!
I am a mother and design Jewellery. My jewellery label is called Alushia-Sanchia.
I am inspired by my amazing and talented friends. I feel blessed to be inspired by the different paths and journeys they have all taken.
The love we share and how proud each of us are for each other is imense and to be treasured forever.
Thank you xx Alushia
The voluntary work I do inspires me. Being able to give something back and to help someone out just because I can makes me feel worthwhile.
I teach six year olds and they inspire me each and every day.
I am first and foremost a mum… my children's resilience and determination inspire me… I want to be more 'child like' in aspects of my life.
What do I do….I spend an inordinate amount of time & money driving my daughter to & from dance classes & eisteddfods & sewing her costumes so I can be inspired by my little girl who overcame immense odds to hang in there & get to 34 weeks of pregnancy before she was born (she tried 22 weeks originally). Then overcame a diagnosis of cerebral palsy when she was 4 months(she doesn't have it!) & I was told she would never walk, talk or see & become the most amazing dancer!!!
I love reading your blog, it's great to read someone who is actually in Australia!!!
Helen
I am a stay at home mum and also run a online business (www.careersavvy.com.au).
I am inspired by beautiful photos, I love how they capture a moment in time that could otherwise be missed, and are a great reminder to me to see the beauty in each moment and each day.
In my life? I have a bloody good time.
What inspires me? Music, sunshine and photos of candy.
I am a corporate worker inspired by gorgeous interior design and styling, so much so that I am in the process of making it my career!!
i'm a midwife and mumma. i'm passionate about women and birth. and as such i'm always inspired by love in all its forms, the miracle of new life and the power and strength of a woman in labour. oh… and that magic moment when a mother meets her baby for the first time. truly precious.
happy holidays x
Hi Chantelle
Long time reader, first time commenter. Congrats on the sponsorship, it's been so great seeing you and your blog achieve amazing things…
I find that there is so much pressure to do do do, so I am trying my best just to be. To be in every moment, to be there for my husband and daughter, just to be. I am inspired by nature, and all it's wonders, which are all very good at just being!
I am a new stay at home mummy and my beautiful daughter inspires me.
She inspires me to be the best person I can for her so that she will have a strong female role model to look up to and to hopefully one day inspire her. I try my best every day – some days are better than others – but I am always trying.
I inspire me not because im anything out of the ordinary but because im the only one who can live my life,so live my life i am and love, laugh and do as often as i can it also helps if your alittle bit kooky too <3
xo.lindabennett.ox@hotmail.com
What a wonderful opportunity for you!
I'm inspired by my mother who (with Dad)did such a wonderful job of raising all three of us. She did so much for us, and still does – she's my rock, and I hope to be even half as good a mum as her one day soon!
Congrats on attending BlogHer in the States next month. I know it's scary to leave your family, but I'm sure you will love some time away focussing on yourself, and your family will appreciate you all the more in your absence.
I guess just getting up every morning inspires me. I feel like it's a clean slate, a clean piece of paper or canvas that allows you to create something new, fresh and beautiful each day.
Different things inspire me at different times and in different ways. It can be something I read, someone I meet, something I see, or an experience I have. I think it's wonderful that we all find inspiration in different ways, and that inspiration sends us in different directions and on our own unique journeys. The best feeling of all though, is being told that you have inspired someone else!
I'm a mumma to two adorable and ridiculously active little munchkins and run kasiabear designs, my little creative outlet. I design and print kids tshirts with all those designs I can never find and float around in my head.
My kids inspire me to follow my dream and show them that dreams become reality if you work hard at it. They do inspire certain designs too..
Everyday I do lots…first off I'm mum to 4 and wife to 1, I'm a sister and a friend, a mining professional and a creative type. Colour and laughter inspire me. They are two things that make me happiest and when I'm happy I'm inspired. Can't wait to hear about your experiences at BlogHer and thankyou for introducting me to Sarah!
Tatum xx
Like many who have commented I am a Mum, so I do the Mum thing, and I am inspired by the blogs of other Mums who talk about the everyday trials of being a Mum. They inspire me to do better! I am a midwife as well and I am extremely inspired by other midwives who can pick up their lives and go to 3rd world countries and help other women in terrible circumstances become mothers and perhaps give them and their babies a slightly higher chance of survival.
In my day to day life I count beans. What inspires me? All these people I now consider friends who are authors. Because I am in awe and one day, I'd like that to be me.
Thanks Chantelle xx
I am a mum and my boys are the light of my life. Everything I do is for them.
Wow, an opportunity of a lifetime awaits you! Congratulations!
I'm inspired by a “mummy warrior” I saw on Oprah many years ago, who lost all her limbs to a bacterial infection days after she gave birth two her second child. She never felt sorry for herself, and said something that has stayed with me, three years on from watching that show (the first time!) “what good are you as a mum if you are miserable?”. Enough said…
I read everything I can, I find inspiration in the funniest of places :o)
xc
Yay for blogher! So cool!
Me? I am just me… the best me I can be. I am inspired by people I see and know who are living and loving their own life to the max.
I am inspired by people and how innovative, thoughtful, encouraging and amazing they can be. We hear so many stories about the negative aspects of human nature, but there are so many positive stories as well.
It is inspiring to know that one small action can make a huge difference in the life of someone else – a simple word of kindness or encouragement, a moment of humour, introducing a new idea or concept to someone. I love that people have unlimited potential to make a positive difference.
Self help books-Love those little suckers. Especially Randy Pausch.
Eiffel Tower paraphenalia-If it's got Paris written on it, I'll buy it. Paris, please? You can't get more inspirational than that!
Homemade pork and chive dumplings. When I perfected those intricate little pleats I was happy. When I figured out the correct dipping sauce I was downright inspired. A lot of good can come from a full belly.
Cuban Ballet-Wow! Talented and toned!Note to self; treadmills are not soley used to hang clothes from.
Writing-I've just started to write again. It's so much fun, I wonder why I ever stopped?
Books-Please don't go out of fashion. I'll plant more trees. I promise.
Twins-3 year old boys. Sheesh. You'd think I wouldn't need a treadmill. Damn pork dumplings 🙂
I'm a mum. My babies inspire me to better myself, if only to be a better wife and mother.
How exciting!
I do crafts…. it makes me super happy. I get to integrate my crafts with my design skills (which makes me even happier).
Thanks for the chance to win! Have a safe trip!
my friends and family inspire me more then anything else. they always reach for their goals and dont let challenges get them down. I am very lucky to have so many inspiring people in my life.
I'm a mum and wife. I am inspired by my desire to make the lives of those i love better and happier.
Hi Chantelle. People inspire me. Their quirkiness, their faults, their love, and the way human beings reach out to each other….endless inspiration. And if i need a little beauty in my day, then nature takes care of my heart and soul, every time. It's an awesome world!
Enjoy every moment of your trip, while away. Have a wonderful time 🙂
What do I do in life? I battle everyday, To be the best mother I can be, to be the best partner I can be, the best at all that I do- then I sit back and realise I AM doing the best that I CAN do- And I'm ok with that 🙂
What inspires me? Amazing photos, Fantastic Food, other Mothers who make you realise it is possible to hold your head up high even when times are tough.
I am inspired by my little boys and my big kids, my partner and my friends. Photos and nature, yarn and animals.
Living my life the best way I can every day and finding joy and happiness in moments both big and small.
Congratulations on your trip. Enjoy!
what do I do…I do too much worrying, and not enough breathing. I do too much cleaning and not enough enjoying the mess. I do too much looking at photos and not enough spending time in the frame. But i am inspired by my kids, by that magic moment of joy in learning something new or seeing something for the first time that children have. thanks for a great contest, good luck at blogher!
I write! I taught myself to read and write when I was four. I have been writing every day since, which is why I keep a blog.
I am inspired by life – more particularly by people. The internet allows me to observe a wide range of people interacting with one another and that is marvellous for my writing!
I am inspired by my children and their questions and amazing imaginations! They have the makings of wonderful storytellers within them already!
I am inspired by education and am a life long student, having already completed three degrees and planning on starting a PhD very soon!
I am inspired by language and the power of words to effect change in the world – both negative and positive change. I hope to effect positive change in the world through my words, in some small way.
I am inspired by my little ones, who I adore spending each day with. Not only do I love watching them grow and develop, but they have inspired me in so many ways from thoughts about the life we live to creative outlets like photography and writing. I'm very fortunate to be able to be inspired every single day by those dearest to me.
I'm inspired by all the wonderful, ridiculously talented women out there in the blogging/online arena who are making a real go of things and using their space on the world wide web to make a difference. Sharing information and knowledge is the most powerful gift and blogs offer the perfect platform to give give give! I'm truly inspired by all the women out their generating content day in day out to keep us all up to date on so many different issues, projects and activities – it's awe-inspiring to say the least!!
Keep up the brilliant work – bloggers of the world!!
I am constantly amazed and inspired by the incredible
people i surround myself with, in particular my sister. My family has a history of mental illness, including depression and anxiety. We have had some tough times because of this and it would be so easy for all of us to collapse in a heap and simply decide that life was unfair. My sister however has recently decided to try and put a positive spin on our family's circumstances and wants to raise awareness and reduce stigma attached to mental illness by raising $1000 for the Black Dog Institute. To do this she is going to complete her first ever half marathon and then if all goes well she will also run a full marathon. She has already raised $300 this week and is so passionate and enthusiastic about her cause. Her determentation reminds me to give things a go, even if the task looks hard. She is fundraising at this page: http://www.everydayhero.com.au/allyssa__beasley
If you could let people know I would really appreciate it Chantelle.
🙂
xx
I am inspired by people who make a living from their writing. I would love to be the same, I have so many ideas and stories tying to get out! I am a Mum with my own business selling insurance. I love what I do but would love the time to write more!
Great give-away, enjoy your trip!
My lifelong passion is Food especially cakes. Researching, designing, baking and eating is my life and job and boy I love how every day is cakeday.
My inspiration is flowers. The process the Universe goes about daily to bake/grow flowers is simply stunning. And just happens without too much thought.
I try to apply the Universal theme to baking. Let creativity flow, baking grow and the end product be beautiful just like flowers.
My 6 week old daughter Asher has inspired me to write again. I've spent a lot of her little life setting up a blog and am writing posts about learning to live my life alongside her. One day I might make it public, but for now it is for my memories, and one day I'm sure I'll show my inspiration the work that she inspired 🙂
Firstly, I am completely jealous!!! oh yes it will be amazing!! I am inspired by my kids, they inspire me to be happy, to be a good, no great Mummy, they inspire me to write, they inspire me to blog, they have inspired my new journey in life and find another passion in life that I really love, they fill my heart till it feels like it is going to burst.
Wow – what an experience!
In real life , I do something not very exciting…but it's that same real life that inspires me to write, blog, draw, paint.
There's beauty even in the mundane things and I love having an outlet to collect my thoughts and put it one place 🙂
I am inspired by women that follow there dreams no matter what gets in there way, a true inspiraion!
thanks for the fab giveaway and good luck everyone 🙂
I am a loving husband, and father of 3 “young adult” kids.
In my life I try to take something out of each and every day, that will make me a better husband, father and person.
I am inspired to achieve this goal by my 18 year old daughter, who is gay, and has spent her teenage years battling with homophobic attitudes from other kids and adults that should know better.
She taught me that sometimes, when society treats you like an outcast, you need to hold your head high, and accept yourself for who you are.
Last year she inspired my wife and I to go to “Pride March” with her in Melbourne, march with her and show the world that we love and support her completely.
Remember that as our children grow, we must grow with them, or risk being left behind.
While thinking what to write it occurred to me that you can't look for inspiration, it must be unexpected, a light bulb moment.
Our love for family, a random thought, an old man smiling and calling us beautiful can all be inspirational to varying degrees.
So, to answer the question, “What inspires me”, I honestly have to say … anything.
Uncertainty is what creates inspiration for me, the unknown, the unexpected …. the inspirational.
Like you, I enjoy writing. I often get inspiration from everyday things, and try to turn them into interesting stories.
Im a photographer, and what inspires me is music, light and colour. When listening to music, I often conjure up imagery in my head for photo sessions.
Im primarily a childrens photographer, and I find that children are in their element while in nature, so my shoots are always outdoors amongst nature, and I find I get the most natural shots this way. So in this sense im inspired by the world around me.
I love baking.
I'm inspired by blogs. They're always interesting and 'real'
How amazing that they're sponsoring you both! Well done.
I'm going to answer this honestly. It can't look like a 'pity' entry, as I imagine this is randomly drawn.
I'm desperately trying to hang on to what i 'do'. I write. I read. I blog. Those are the things that inspire me.
I recently, due to illness, lost a large percentage of my useful vision. I have gone from better than 20/20 vision, to literally one number above legally blind. Overnight.
I'm trying to hang on to the copywriting/socialmedia job I was given just 2 days before it happened. I'm try to research and do this job and make money from writing, which has been my lifelong dream (even if it's just copywriting, it's doing what I love).
I'm finding it difficult. I cannot read normal print. I cannot read my computer normally. Text size has to be increased to 200% which means scrolling 2-3 times across to get to each side of the page. A widescreen would help with that problem!
Either way, I'm doing my best. I've lost my independance (my license) and so much. I am determined not to lose my ability to be a writer.
A housewife
who is inspired by nature and the outdoors
I run Handmade Kids (www.handmadekids.com.au) so I am continually inspired everyday by all the wonderful talented WAHM's out there trying to make a difference for their family.
Have fun at the conference.
Wishing you well on your amazing trip:)
My beautiful Mum still inspires me even though she lost a 15 year battle with cancer in December 2009.Some things are small in the scheme of things like inspiring me to keep cute memories by putting vegemtite finger prints of our childrens fingers in cards when they were babies like she did when my sister and I were tiny babies….. to much bigger things like fighting with everything you have to stay alive.
I'm a teacher in a disadvantaged school and I'm inspired by the dedication and compassion of my fellow staff members and their ability to see the very best in each and every child. I'm also inspired by our kids who try so very hard and are so resilient in the face of some pretty tough personal circumstances.
The love from my family my husband and my kids the way the said me i love you the smiles that bring me and all the things they impulse me to do they are all my inspiration and my life and more being overseas without any other relative they are my all….
Ohhh WOW – what inspires me? I have 4 young girls to keep me on my toes – and I want to pass on my experiences with them as much as possible. I love the web – especially YouTube and have taught myself so many wonderful things – that my girls can use, make and create as well. Life is a journey of never-ending knowledge…. so make the most of it and learn something new everyday!!! With a Lenovo – that would be heaven! 🙂
What inspires me… My students, and absolutely my son – for much the same reasons. My colleagues are always telling me how much I inspire my students, but they have no idea how much I get back from the students themselves. Where do I start?
Because they (mostly) take my guidance – and use it to improve themselves.
Because they constantly show me what humans are capable of when they are encouraged to try – and how much positive impact I have in the lives of these young people.
Because they have the innate ability to absorb my own love of learning – and make it their own.
Particularly my son. He is the most amazing little man I have ever encountered. Watching all these young people grow, and seeing how obviously infectious my own enthusiasm is, continually inspires me to be a better teacher, a better mum, and a better human.
What I do in my life:
– dishes
– long hugs
– give my love freely
– my hair (piled into a knot)
– laundry
– take an interest in others
– take photos for a living
What inspires me:
– generosity
– the fighting human spirit in others
– the love of my husband & children
– the beauty I see in the world around me
And your words Chantelle. Thanks for sharing a little bit of you with us on a regular basis.
Gabbie x
I'm a full-time mum and wannabe blogger. When I'm writing, I feel at home, so I guess that makes me a writer!
I'm inspired by… everything! By the world around me, by my little family (husband and daughter), and by other people (often complete strangers).
It's easy to be inspired by positive things, but I've recently learned how to be inspired
by “hard stuff”, which has been a real lesson on how to live.
As a mother my children inspire me,
Their innocence and esprit,
The way they make me forget sadness,
And build on my happiness,
They bring comfort and a zest for life,
My family makes me a great mother, daughter and wife.
Making people happy is what I try to do every day! My inspiration is the joy that lights up their faces. In my life I work at a job that I hate; but I always keep smiling! Then I come home every night and try to update my blog to share some more love around! Thanks for the giveaway lovely lady and good luck to all! xx 🙂
Back to America again!! Awesome you 🙂 What inspires me. Many things but today my fellow bloggers. What a fabulous bunch of totally awesome people. Met loads of them over the weekend and was blown away by how inspiration and down to earth they are. Cazxx
At the moment in my life I'm playing the role of a single Mummy of 3 little girls while husband is away serving our country with the ADF… between school runs, nappies and everything in between… I'm doing a little work from home to earn a few extra dollars to pay the mortgage…
Who inspires me….
An inspirational woman and her kids who do amazing things for those that are less fortunate… I am inspired by Cate Bolt.
I am a Psychologist, and a Mum (to a funny, lively, truly inspiring 4 year old girl) and I find people inspiring: their resilience, their tenacity, their humour, their passion for life, their children, their family, and their hope!
I work for the blood service – and the donors inspire me. In this day and age where people are so busy with so little personal time, a core group of people religiously come fortnightly to donate plasma and others come 12 weekly to donate whole blood. Not enough Australians do it and these non remunerated volunteers hold the life of patients in their veins. The normal man/woman in the street does not understand how much we rely on them. But I do and am thankful to them.
Wowee! What an amazing opportunity and experience. Congrats on the sponsorship.
Inspired by humanity and geniune kindness in people. We are surrounded by it…somedays you just have to look a little harder than others.
Happy Travels Chantelle…x
Normally I am a stay at home mum, but for the last month, and for the rest of the year I am doing Reserve time in the Navy.
There are so many things and people that inspire me. My son is on the Autism spectrum, though is quite high functioning. I am inspired by parents who children have ASD that have higher needs than my son, and their ability to advocate for their children, to give their children every possible chance they can, to become the best they can be.
I am inspired by my closest friends, and their unwavering support in good times and bad, and their willingness to do ANYTHING to help a friend in needs, without the expectation of the favour being returned.
I am inspired by my fellow Australian Defence Force sailors, soldiers and airmen and airwomen, and their willingness to put their life on the line to protect our freedom.
I am inspired by gorgeous photos, scrumptious food, artwork, music, pretty clothes.
I am inspired by blogs (including this one), people's ability to write and share the personal stories, and their ability to overcome adversity, and see the good in life, when everything is going wrong.
Most of all I am inspired by family. Having them in my life makes me want to be a better wife and mother, sister and daughter.
Oh wow Telle thats soooo EXCITING!!! I thought one awesome trip to the States was amazing but to go back again! Woweee! That is beyond AMAZING and in the same year!! You are one lucky girl!! Have an absolute ball!!
First and foremost I am a Mummy to my two girls. I never knew that being a Mummy was going to be this wonderful and I have double the fun and love!
I have to return to fulltime work in October { 🙁 } but I am so thankful that I have had this time with my girls. It has been such an amazing ride!
My girls inspire me to be a better Mummy {cliche I know! but its true} I like most Mums have days where I feel like I didn't give my all. But I always try harder the next day to be the Mum I want to be and the Mum that my girls deserve! My one promise I have is to always make sure that when my girls walk into a room, or I see them first thing in the morning that my eyes light up when I see them! I want my girls to feel special and that they are loved so VERY much!
I am inspired by all those who have gone before.
The mothers who gave birth and said,
“You can do it too.”
The people who took risks and said,
“It's not as bad as you think it will be.”
The people who went without so many things in time of struggle and said,
“There are some things that are important in life and they cost nothing.”
And most importantly the God who came to earth and said,
“You will be free indeed.”
I am a mother, I work from home, I try to clean, am not perfect, but I try my best.
I am inspired by my sister – a single Mum with a 10 year old son with special needs, studying to be a teacher and working. I don't know how she does it, she is amazing.
The thought of ever returning to study or the workforce scares the life out of me!
Well done lil Sis x
I'm a graphic designer.
I'm inspired by other people, their attitude of handling the challenges in their life. No matter they failed or succeeded, they will learn something from those challenges, and that really inspired and encouraged me when I dealt my own challenges/ problems.
Everyone has different problems in the life, but it is really good to see someone try their best to overcome the barriers. We all know having positive attitude to face the problem is the first key of solution, but sometimes we just need someone or something out there to remind us.
In my life, I get to read the hard work of others (usually novels), and help to take them from far-fetched publishing dreams to fully-fledged well-known novelists…My favourite part is giving the feedback that I *love* their work and know just the publisher who would be a great fit for their “baby”. 😉
I am a mom of three, a wedding & event planner and all in all a happy soul. My kids inspire me. Everything they do down to the smiles, cries, laughs and more makes me push myself everyday harder and harder. I see their faces and want to be the best i can be and teach them to do the same. Life is a gift and they are my gift within my life. My kids inspire me to strive to live like a royal family.
I am inspired everyday by my children because they are developing into Kind hearted, Polite and caring individuals.
I am a Stay at Home Mum, You all know what that entails, LOL.. A million roles, rolled into one, for the biggest reward of all.. A big grime covered cuddle!'
People who have 'really made it' inspire me.. Whether it's a amputee who wins a medal, or a single mum who manages to get 4 kids off to school, dressed and happy, they are successful and I love that!
I work as a doula and i am inspired by mothers bringing babies into this world easily and strongly and by love laughter sunshine and those happy moments in life where everything is perfect
I enjoy music creation on uke or keys, reading a book, cooking up comfort food. Inspired by my beautiful wife and crazy-but-fun active toddler.
I tell stories. Not in the fibbing sense… 😉 I write stories. I share them with the world, and I create worlds for the people in my head to live in. Ok. Now I sound nuts. :/
What do I do in my life ?
I laugh often, I cry sometimes, I try my hardest every day to enjoy the small moments, as they slip past too quickly. I also work from home and am mum to the two most gorgeous girls.
What inspires me ?
My littlest girl. She has a chronic illness and is in hospital for treatment once a month and sometimes in for longer. She has the amazing ability to smile when everything around her is awful. She always finds something good to celebrate. She reminds me there is always sunshine even when you can see clouds.
I cook & bake. It's not my day job, but it is what I love. I'm inspired by all kinds of websites, but especially bloggers! Food bloggers, personal bloggers, Mummy bloggers. They all inspire me, whether it be their recipes or their honesty. They remind me that life is good, and to get out and live it more!
I was going to say my kids, but in a way, that's not true. They motivate me for sure, but hopefully I'm the one inspiring them. Instead, I'm inspired by real people who do amazing things. My friend who is fighting cancer for the third time, and bringing up her two sons on her own. The little girl at school who has juvenile arthritis and lives with awful pain. The people who survived the Queensland floods and still went on to help others. People who rescue animals or speak out for victims of violence, especially child abuse and domestic violence. Police, ambulance officers, SES workers. Anyone who has experienced terrible loss or sickness or depression, but gets up every morning regardless.
They are just a few of the people who inspire me every single day.
And I am so grateful that they exist.
Elizabeth Saxe Coburg-Gotha is an evil woman, why do we slave away at work our whole lives for money with her face on