Enough about me. Tell me about you.

Being a blogger is SUPER weird. I say that to my girlfriend {also a blogger} all the time. We write about the mundane parts of our lives, and assume {hope} that it’s remotely interesting. How self-involved is that? Gah.

But it’s what people do now {and that sentence just made me sound like I’m 93} and it’s pretty normal. We all share snippets of ourselves online, whatever platform is your thing, and communicate that way.

I’ve been blogging for 6 and a half years now, and my favourite part is always {and always will be} the community. I’m hooked on connecting with people all over the world through the internet, whether it’s in words or photos or however we connect. I love it.

But right now, I’m saying ENOUGH. Enough about me. Enough stories about me. I want to know about you. I want to know what’s on your mind right now. Tell me about. Empty your brain in the comments below.

But before we move onto you, because I’m a blogger and it would be unnatural for me not to talk about me again for a moment, and pretty much because I want to make you feel comfortable about sharing, this is what’s on my mind.

IMG_1386 My mind is full at the moment, but the thing that’s at the very front is two things really. I’ve been breastfeeding Lulu for 16 months now, and I think I’m ready to have my body back. I think I want the wean. I don’t know how though. And then on the topic of my body, I think I’m ready to well and truly get over all this angst I’ve been carrying around for 3/4 of my life. I’m so ready. I worked on loving my self a bit, but I’m ready to dig in a little more. Heavy stuff, but that’s what is on this mind of mine.

 If you’ve never left a comment before, or you have left a gazillion comments. Come out of the wood-work, say hello again, tell me about yourself. It’s time!

 

 

Now over to you. What’s your name? Who are you? What’s on your mind?

274 thoughts on “Enough about me. Tell me about you.”

  1. My name is Alexis, I am not a blogger but I enjoy reading yours from Scotland… What is on my mind? well I two have been breastfeeding for 10 months, but my lil angel she wakes up mulitiple times through the night, I am exhausted, am I right did you do controlled crying? I read that if your baby is sick or teething you shouldn’t, my baby has been teething since she was 3 months, now has 6 teeth… Not sure when I will get a full night’s sleep, or get my body back, although I am tierd, she is worth it.

    • Hello Alexis. Nice to ‘meet’ you. I didn’t do controlled crying, but we separated the feeds, which is something I thought would be super heard but wasn’t. It just meant that I didn’t feed her through the night anymore, instead I gave her a dream feed at 11pm and settled her instead of feeding her back to sleep.

      She was about 9 months since we started that.

      I hope you get some good sleep soon. It really is the hardest thing to go through. xxx

      • Thanks Chantelle, maybe the fact I feed her pretty much every time she wakes is encouraging her to wake, vicious circle maybe. I might try your technique 🙂

        • Well, yes. That’s what I was doing with Lulu for 9 months before I got help, and did with Lacey until I stopped feeding.

          It changed a lot when I stopped and it wasn’t as hard as I thought. I just sat next to the cot and patted her back to sleep, and now she doesn’t need any patting. I’m here if you want to ask questions {although I’m no expert!}.

          I’m here to listen if you need. x

  2. My name is Lynette. I am a blogger, wife, sister, daughter, mother, grandmother and friend. My husband and I am in full time ministry to the poor, homeless and addicted in our home town of Port Elizabeth in South Africa. What is on my mind? I am currently consumed with finding ways to capture those moments and to really live life…not merely survive. Any ideas? LOL…sorry you asked!

    • Photo A Day makes me appreciate the small things, and live each day of my life. But also having loftier goals to strive for, and travel dreams. I hope that helps. 🙂

  3. I’m Leslie, i’m a new blogger and i’ve enjoyed follwing your blog and playing along with photo a day for a while now. I love it all! Today on my mind is my sweet son. It’s his first day back in school since Winter Break and i’m anxious to pick him up so I can hear all about his day.

  4. Kia Ora (from New Zealand), I’m Charlene – a mama, teacher, & new blogger and this is what’s on my mind…Next month I will be returning to the classroom ONE day a week, leaving my 10 month old son at home with a carer (he will be in home-based child care). Even just typing this I am getting anxious about it – I want to work – have ONE day where I can be an adult, wear nice clothes and even straighten my hair, earn a bit of pocket money – however all I think about is my son – watching him play, sleep, eat, & talk! I will miss him! I know it’s only for one day but my anxiety levels are high at the moment. Any advice would be gladly received! Thanks for letting me share!

    • Hello to you! I went through exactly the same thing when I put Lacey into care, and I got super anxious. But I wasn’t thinking about what it was offering her {I was only thinking about the things I was missing out on}. She got to socialise, she got to play games that we didn’t play at home, and she got a different level of attention and social skills that I wasn’t giving her at home. She blossomed in care, and I wish I’d known that when I put her in.

      And me, well I got to feel sane for those two days, and remember what it was like to eat my lunch without her bouncing around me. I got to breathe, go to the bathroom alone and get lots of work done.

      And it was nice to miss her. The walk from the front door of the childcare centre to the car is the hardest – sunglasses are VERY handy.

      Call after a couple of hours to see how he’s doing, but that’s more for you because generally they do super well. 🙂

      You’ll totally get through this and thrive.You will! xxx

      • Such good advice! And it’s all true. I leave mine for 2 five-hour days each week. I skip with joy leaving her at drop off and skip with joy right back in to get her at pick up, lol. It’s good for both of us, both the time apart and the picking up!

  5. Hi, I’m Monica from Texas. I have blogged in the past and let it fall to the wayside. I started a new one and am keeping up with my photo a day challenge. I tried once before but didn’t make it past the first two days. I am now up to day 6 and have even been posting them to my blog as well as Instragram. I have been married to my husband for almost 16 years and have two wonderful boys. Right now I can’t wait to get home and find out how their first day back at school after Christmas went.

  6. I’m Jemma and I’m moving from beach to bush. I’m going to a place where I know no one. I’ve never been. I’m going to be hours away from everyone I love. I’m super excited about this change but at the same time I’m terrified! Praying, manifesting and affirming all will be well.

  7. Hi, I’m Jo from Minnesota. Today our windchill is about 30 below so I am grateful that I work from home. I blog as more of a journal to myself (and for grandma) about my little family. I married in my late 30’s and have one child who is almost 5 (even if I wasn’t 38 when I had her I would likely be a one child momma). I loved nursing and decided that 2 years old would be my wean date, but she decided to stop on her own at around 18 months. I’ve participated in the photo a day off and on and it’s helped me look at the world in a new way. My ultimate goal is to focus more on photography.

    • Hello to you. I hope you get to explore photography a little more. I’d love if Lulu self-weans. I’d still be sad, but it’d be nice that it was her choice. 🙂

  8. Hi again! I’m Cat from California. I’m a Travel Photographer and blogger with the goal of sharing the world I find with others like me…those who are traveling on a shoestring but still want to enjoy themselves. I’m mom to 2 grown girls (with a little girl and a little boy respectively) and one teenage boy. Married for almost 30 years. Happily. FINALLY moving to the beach this summer. It’s been a ten year plan and it’s finally coming true…we hope. I live in Northern California but will be moving to the Central Coast…and, obviously, just can’t wait. I’m crafty and, until recently, we were running a party planning and custom cake business. Sort of like The Cake Boss or Ace of Cakes. You can find my blog at http://www.shutterbugtraveler.blogspot.com and on Instagram at shutterbugtraveler. As for weaning…one day at a time get her interested in other forms of drinking (sippy cup/straw). As she gets more busy in her life and gets her drink from other places it will get easier to wean off. She’ll still want to cuddle but she won’t need to nurse to get that still!

    • What a great story Cat, and how awesome that you’re making the move to the beach. I honestly wouldn’t live anywhere else.

      I am trying to get her interested in other sources, but she’s pretty obsessed. I think we’ll get there though, they always surprise somehow, don’t they?

    • I am thankful for your blog. I love the photo a day challenge it has helped me enjoy the world through other peoples eyes. What is on my mind is that my son who I successfully weaned 24 years ago (I remember calling him my permanent attachment) is travelling to your beautiful country from Canada with an amazing group of friends. I have learned so much about Australia through your eyes I feel such comfort about his travelling, the world seems just a little closer.

  9. Hi, Kristy from Oxley, Victoria. One concern on my mind at the moment, is how the increase in childcare fees is going to affect me this year. I was planning on doing a course in disability this year to combine with the children’s services course I completed last year, but need my 2 children in care 3 days a week, and I just don’t think I can afford to do it now. Another concern that is always at the back of my mind day and night, is my 4.5 yr olds speech delay. We have been seeing different services for 2.5 years now, and we still have as little information as when we started. No diagnosis, no additional information. I can see that his speech is getting better, but it is still not where is should be. We work so hard together to improve his speech and I know he gets frustrated a lot, and so do I. I just hope I am doing enough.

    • I read about the increase in childcare. It’s disappointing. 🙁 I hope you still get to follow your dream.

      Do you have a good GP that can help you pursue the assistance with speech delay? It’s frustrating when you don’t have a support system. 🙁

  10. My name is Nicole. My husband and I own a pizzeria in Indiana. On my mind today…if I knew 3.5 years ago that our lives wpuld never again be “normal” I never would have agreed to own a small business. We work 12-16 hours a day 360 days a year. We also have 3 boys, (14,12,4) that we hardly see and spend zero quality time with. I always thought my husband was a family first man but this place has made me see another side of him. I realize its our only income. But I also realize we are wore out, irritable and our relationship has suffered.

    Thanks for allowing me to post. I love your photo a day posts and your blog. My brain can hardly remind me to shower anymore let alone take a picture everyday!

    • Oh Nicole, this breaks my heart. Working for yourself is truly the hardest work you’ll ever do, and it’s so sad that this is happening. I have no answers, just a virtual hug and understanding. I wish it was easier.
      xxx

  11. Hi, I’m Alexandra from Portugal, and I read you since 2012. I love your challenge PHOTOaDAY, and it’s funny to know that we are people without boundaries, physical boundaries..

  12. Hi Lady! I’m Marney, I’m a blogger too (thanks to you). I’m so excited about this year as I have a lot planned, including a big move to the beach! Can’t wait for a sea change. I hear you on the breast feeding. I did it til V was 13 months, and I started to find it a chore. I felt all kinds of guilty weaning her, but it turned out to be a non-event! She was totally cool with it and If I remember correctly after a week or so she’d forgotten all about it! I suspect miss Luella will be the same so don’t feel bad! You’ve done amazingly well to get this far!

    • Hello lovely Marney! I can’t remember whether I know which beach you’re moving to. I need to know!

      And did you just stop cold turkey with V? Did she take a bottle or a dummy? I’d love to know any details if you’re up to sharing. x

  13. Hello! I’m Robyna from Brisbane. I have a baby boy (17 months) and a baby blog (4 months). I am also considering weaning but he will be my last and I think I am holding onto it. I also have a six year old and a husband who both don’t quite get the blogging obsession and this year I am thinking about how to balance it all out. So, I need to wean my boy from the breast and myself from the blog.

  14. Hi I’m Katrina, from the UK but now living in christchurch NZ (we moved here nearly 3 years ago)I’m packing up the house ready to do our 4th move in 3 years into another rental and im well and truly over it!!! I’m stuck between thinking I’m lucky that we have options and the perfect house to buy is just around the corner….compared to the many people still without answers post earthquake about their insurance or have lost their family homes or worst still family members or friends…..but then I also feel like damn you christchurch and your crazy post quake housing market that seems full of greed!!! (I don’t really mean it but I kind of do!!)
    So off we will all trot again onto a new house, I’m sure my 4 kids will become gypsy travellers as they get older….they will know no different 😉 so today I’m trying to rationalise my feelings and keep smiling for the kids and know deep down we did the right thing moving here….inside I’m thinking why are we here? Let’s go home…and after yesterday’s quake I need to stop thinking about the alpine fault line too….anyway enough naming I’m off to packing boxes xx

  15. I start a new job today after 10 years of nursing. I’m so nervous! And it’s going to be a scorcher! Wish me luck 🙂

  16. Hey Chantelle, thanks for the invitation to share 🙂 I’m a teacher enjoying my school holidays and time with my nearly 2 year old daughter, thinking a lot about the direction for my little blog which just turned one, and have enjoyed participating in photo a day this month. Love your work – you are an inspiration! Xx

  17. Hi my name is Mandi. I am currently on a train to work. I commute over 2 hours one way to get to my job in Melbourne. I love my job….hate the travel. I work in a bank but always wanted to be a photographer. Haha how different adult life makes you! I moved to Aus almost 5 years ago aftwr 3 months of marriage to my hubby (we are still married.) We met through friends online. He makes websites or at least used to and he built one for a friend of mine and she said you gotta hear this guy talk. I had never really heard many aussie accents and it wasnt live at firsr sight (thankyou skype) but a year aftee meetinf we were married and living all the way over here. I am from a small small town in North Carolina USA so it qas a big move. No one in my family lives here and I knew none of my in laws. Scary stuff! I love Melbourne thougg. It is veey multi cultural. And a beautiful city. I wish we actually lives there insteas of the small country (close minded in my opinion ) town my hubby grew up in. I have been followinf yoir blog for a few years and enjoy reading and enjoy photo a day. I love seeing all the creativity and I hope one day to be able to devote more time to mg pgotography.

    • Hello you! What a cool love story. I hope Australia is treating you well. Is there any chance you’ll make the move closer to the City? It sounds like it would be ideal. 🙂

  18. Hi chantelle,
    My name is charlotte, I am a 28 year old mum of 3. I have been blogging for just over a year and I am loving it.
    I write about anything thats on my mind.
    I would love any feed back you could offer me to move it forward
    X

  19. Hi I’m moving house in a month. Hubby left to go back to work on Sunday (for a month) and I am starting to feel panicky as everything is left up to me. Open houses. Keeping all tidy. Mowing lawns. Paperwork. Packing. And kids are on holidays. I know I can do it as he has worked FIFO for the whole time I’ve known him and I’m very independent but the panic is creeping in. I’m trying to picture myself in new house all relaxed and calm with a glass of wine on the new verandah. Calm thoughts. Calm thoughts. Rant over. Xxx

    • Calm thoughts. Calm thoughts. I’d be writing a list and cracking through it. You can get someone to mow the lawns for about $50 usually. Maybe see if you can outsource for some of the things? All the best. xx

  20. Holy typos!! How embarrassing. I am still getting used to my new phone haha
    I wasn’t even finished typing! I hope you work out a solution that works for you and bubs. I have no children of my own and rhe women of my family have struggled to breast feed beyond a couple months old. You’ll know when you’re both ready as you know her and you best! I wish I could have children as it’s all I have ever wanted but infertility is a b**** and adoption is hard here and that is a big reason why we want to move back to the US.

    • Oh thanks for persisting with the comment.

      Adoption is super hard here, but I think the laws are changing. Anyways, you’ll know more than me… but I just hope that you have that dream come true.

    • LooKs like my comments didn’t load properly ☺️ so I’ll try again
      I turned 46 at the end of last year – since then I’ve bern thinking about ageing and can’t believe I will be 50 in less than 4 years

  21. Hi chantelle! My name is saraid, I’m from wollongong and have been following your blog for about 5 years now – wow that seems a long time! I’ve been doing photo a day since it started, I don’t think I’ve missed a single one 🙂 so thank you for bringing that bit of joy into my life. Since starting I have bought myself a DSLR as well as a film camera and quite enjoy photography as a hobby.
    Whats on my mind? Work – I’m a designers assistant for a clothing label, which isn’t as glamorous as it sounds, but I love it! We have a photoshoot this month and there’s still lots to get done in preparation.
    After reading your blog for so long it’s been nice to have the opportunity to say hello 🙂 good luck with weaning your precious little one

    • Hello! Fellow South-Coaster {I grew up in Nowra}.

      It’s so nice to hear from you. Your life sound exciting, and I love that you haven’t missed a day of photo-taking… sadly I have! You’re doing better than me.

      I hope you’re loving the weekly change. It’s been received quite well, but some people have been upset.

      I hope the photoshoot goes well. 🙂

  22. Hi Chantelle! I’m Karen – partner, mum, friend, daughter, sister, social worker, shoe lover and constant planner. I started reading your blog when I had my little girl 2 and a half years ago. I was searching for real voices to support and inform me as I undertook the often rocky road that was/is motherhood! On my mind at the moment are so many things! Mostly how to keep squashing the constant mother guilt that threatens to consume me and still keep pursuing things that sustain me such as my work and blogging…

  23. Hi there Chantelle!
    My name is Ashley. I’m from Los Angeles, California & I’ve been participating in your photo a day challenges on Instagram since May of 2012. Can I just say sooooo much fun! 🙂
    What’s on my mind? Plenty!
    For starters I still can’t believe I’m a mom to an (almost) 8 month old boy! Currently sleeping in my arms & melting my heart. You can find me under the user name “dominic_jaxons_mommy” if you want to see pictures of him! I only wish I could’ve breastfed him for 16 months! That’s amazing! We were only able to do 3 months before he actually weaned himself! So I have absolutely no advice on weaning, sorry.
    I’m working on loving myself more too. For me that means adopting a healthier lifestyle, getting my body back in shape and being more active! Not just for myself but for my son too.
    I just now realized I NEED to take down my sad looking Christmas tree today before all the needles fall off! It lasted over a month so I guess it had a good run! Haha!
    I also need to find something “Round” to take a photo of today!!!!
    Lastly, thank you for encouraging my love of photography! I simply adore seeing life through others eyes and being inspired to stop and smell the roses if only for a few minutes a day!
    -Ashley

    • Hello mama! Nice to meet you. Yes, I’m glad I got this far. Breastfeeding is a super struggle for me in the beginning, so I’m so proud of how far I’ve come. I really am.

      I want to wish you well in your healthier lifestyle. I’m right there alongside you, wearing joggers. x

  24. Hi-ho! I’m Lyn. Deets are — 27 next month (eek, childish adult over here), music teacher, live in the western suburbs of Melbourne. No bubs for me, or a hubby fellow. I’m in two bridal parties (including my twin brother’s) this year though so that’s exciting.

    Currently on my mind; enjoying holidays but dreading getting back into routine, wishing my hair would grow faster (had it cut last June for a funky change and miss the length it was), hoping I can improve my own blog and find a way to earn a wee supplemental avenue of cashola online, looking forward to planning a trip to the States with my gal pal for 2016, a new Star Wars movie this year (woo!) and hoping I can make 2015 fab-o for me and my loved ones.

    Thanks for being interested (and interesting yourself!) xx

    • 2015 sounds great so far! And lotsa weddings. My brother is getting married this year as well. Very exciting.

      Enjoy dreaming and planning for your US trip. I love that dreaming and researching. x

  25. Hi I’m Lilybett and I’m a blogger. I’m in a weird transitional phase at the moment – shifting careers, returning to study, toilet-training my now three year old who is so not interested, dealing with his developing stubborn streak, my only close-by family moving away, etc.

    On my mind at the moment is what we’ll get up to this year admidst all this change. I blogged last year about intentional play – I put together 12 themes and it became so much easier to connect with my boy. This year, I’m thinking, is our year of adventures – big and small: exploring parks nearby and in new towns, bushwalking, camping, long boat rides, road trips, seeing the desert, etc.

    Thanks for being a constant in my life 🙂

    • Thanks for being such a committed reader! I love seeing your name pop up.

      It sounds like you’ve got a lot on your plate, but the changes sound good. Except the toilet training. That one will hopefully be over quick! xxx

  26. Hi, my name is Jamie! I’ve been blogging for about four years since I was sixteen years old and I love it! I’ve participated in your photo a day challenge on and off the past year since I got Instagram, too!

    What’s on my mind at the moment? I’m an odd mixture of worry and excitement because in a couple days I’ll be dyeing my hair blue…myself…for the first time. I worried about messing up but I’m excited to change my hair–it’s a dirty blonde color and naturally curly. I’m hoping to do a good job! 🙂 Thanks for letting me talk. <3

    ~Jamie

    • Oh blue hair, I don’t care! I mean what can go wrong, go blue! It’s fun.

      I would like to go a shade of lilac but I’m not brave enough. Can you throw some hair courage my way?

  27. Hi, I’m Laney, another new blogger. I am also breast-feeding, though I have twin babies, so I have two to wean in the next month or so. I also have a 3 and 5 year old, so these babies will likely be my last and I think i’ll be really sad when I finish feeding! My biggest concern at the moment is how to get the babies to sleep in the same room as we have had to separate them to work on their sleep issues. Now they sleep really well but hubby and I are still camping in the lounge room as all the bedrooms are now used by the kids! So I am sleeping on the couch. But I am SLEEPING. It has been a really rough past year for sleep deprivation!

    • Oh Laney! That’s a big deal. Lulu is most likely our last baby too, so I know that emotional attachment to the feeding.

      Could each baby share a room with the older kids?

      I was just at my little sister’s house this morning helping with her baby, and we were trying to figure out how she could get sleep too with her two kids – because she has an 18month old and a newborn and they wake each other.

      It’s SO HARD.

      I take my hat off to you.

      I hope you figure it out soon and get to sleep in a bed, with a mattress. You won’t know yourself!

  28. It feels a little like blog readers anonymous….Hi I’m….
    So here is me, I’m Haley, Quality Coordinator in Aged Care, Love my job, married three months ago, really love my husband and married life. Decision has been made that this year we’d like to start a family…..and build a family home, in no particular order. Building the house, no worries, we’ve built before. But I’m going to admit, having a human being inside me, scares the absolute living crap out of me….. being a mother, no worries, I can grasp that concept and look forward to it. But being pregnant – that is the stuff of aliens. Are you sure a baby can’t be delivered by stalk?

    • Hello Haley. Had to laugh at your bloggers anon comment. 😛

      I’ve birthed two children, and when I’m not carrying them inside them I’ve always thought being pregnant is the most surreal thing EVER. Like last November I felt my nephew kick me from the outside and I freaked out, because a baby inside a body?!? Craziest thing ever!

      But when you’re pregnant yourself, it’s just plain beautiful. All the way. How exciting for you!

  29. Hi I’m Belinda – mum, wife, crafter, most unorganised person ever and 5 day a week office worker from West Vic. Whats on my mind? Everything, it never stops. My little dude starts mainstream school this year after 3 years at autistic school, very exciting but scary too. Finding a school was so stressful that it affected my everyday as I became obsessed.
    Right now I’m listening to him start to get very anxious that his playstation is at grandmas but we are at home.
    I would love to blog but think that other than the highs and lows of Autism and ADHD what would I blog about.

    • Hey Belinda

      He will be just fine. Trust me. Teachers / teachers aides these days in mainstream have had experience in working with students with autism and adhd.

      Bec

      • He has done a few days of transition and he loves the school and his aid is amazing- just hoping the enthusiasm continues when he works out that there is a lot more work and a lot less ipad

  30. I love the connection, and right now I need it more than ever xx
    My year has not started the way I had hoped, I am digging deep into my own resilience and optimism and when I saw this post Chantelle it felt like the perfect, safe place to simply say that I am struggling at the moment.
    Thank you for always being so kind and so real xx

  31. Yo! I’ve been reading your blog for a number of years now, and it remains one of my few faves! I’m Josephine. I’m a wife, mother of two boys (4.5 and 2) and work part-time as a book designer in Sydney. I keep dropping by here because I feel you are a wonderful story-teller, whether you’re talking about you, your kids, a recipe, photography or trickier things. Whatever you have to say, you say it well. You’re friendly, relatable, accessible. The sort of person who I would choose as a real life buddy!

    On my mind at the moment – with the start of the new year I’ve been looking at how I can make small changes to be more proactive in life and more grateful. Last year just felt so blah I desperately want this year to sing clearer. I’m keeping a little diary (the Frankie one you recommended) for the first time in forever to keep track of what I’m grateful for on any particular day. I also thought it would be a good way to record how the boys will grow and change. I want to give space for my hobbies this year, too. I love making my own clothes, and want to improve my dress-making and pattern-making skills.

    May the force be with you and your family this year! Thanks for creating this lovely little corner of the internet, Chantelle!

    • Josephine! What a super dooper, HUGE compliment you just dropped there. THANK YOU. My head and heart are swelling. Thank you.

      I wanted to wish you well on being more grateful. It’s something I’m working on this year too, because negativity is creeping in more than I’d like it too.

      Just remember fluidity, if a week goes by that you forget… just start back up again. Thanks for stopping by and leaving such lovely words. x

  32. Hi Chantelle

    My name is Bec. I am a teacher aide from logan, qld and love photography . Photo a day is the best concept ever. So is the invention of cameras in phones and tablets.

    Whats on my mind ? A heap of things this January morning.

    I am trying to make a huge decision to stay where I am or move back to my home of The southern gold coast qld. You know and I know how wonderful the area is Chantelle.

    Another thing on my mind is my trip to Sydney in 2 weeks, and hopefully more travel in 2015 and next year. I want to see more of Australia.

    Also , a possibility of going to uni to obtain my Bachelor of Education. It will be a huge slog.. but why not ?

    Thanks for letting me share.

    Bec

    • Hello Bec! Lots of big questions and potential changes for you this year. I love South GC, and think you couldn’t go wrong with moving south.

      I hope you make some great changes and decisions this year. xx

  33. Hi Chantelle!

    My name is Debbie and I live in the beautiful Blue Mountains in NSW. My children are 19 and 17 and I am suffering from empty nest syndrome. Big time. My thoughts are about how to move ahead in this new phase of our lives.

    I love your blog and try to keep up with a photo a day.

    Deb x

    • Oh gosh Debbie. My heart just jumped into my throat. I already dread those days. I need to think of plans so I don’t cry every day.

      Ohhhh, I’ve probably made you feel worse. I’m sorry. I sympathise with you. Maybe plan some getaways. x

  34. Hi Chantelle,

    I am not a blogger although I would love to be.
    I am addicted to the FMSPHOTOADAY. – Thank you btw!
    I am a mother of two teenage boys and a step-mum to four children all in their teens as of this year! Help! I feel like the years are running away from us and the time with have with them. I am not looking forward to empty nesters.

    What is on my mind is.. I am thinking of starting an on-line business after years of encouragement from my family and friends, I am scared as hell but I am willing to give it all I’ve got. It is all new to me so I have been reading and researching my butt off… well I wish it was taking more of my butt to be off! 🙂

    I am a creative person and I love working with my hands.

    And lastly I am a huge believer in Karma.. and I try to put as much good out there as I can.. with help of Scatter Love project this has helped me send a little love all over the world.

    Hope you and yours have a lovely and successful 2015.
    <3 Bex. xx

    • It scares me how much the time is running away from us with our kids. I really want to stop time.

      Your online business sounds awesome. All the best with it. I hope it’s really satisfying. x

  35. Well, hi there. My blog’s a random meander around a range of subjects and I’ve posted fewer and fewer items over recent years.

    2011: 137 posts.
    2012: 96 posts.
    2013: 50 posts.
    2014: 22 posts.

    As often at this time of year, I’m wishing I did it more.

    But what’s really on my mind right now is that fact I have a dissertation to submit on Friday. I should get on with it really.

  36. I should probably add that at the same time as completing my degree I’m also trying to get a business off the ground, and constantly wondering how to be a better husband and father to those I love.

    • Your plate is super full Trevor. My goal this year is to really throw myself back into blogging and find my passion in it a bit more. I think my blog post number was decreasing too.

      I hope your new business does well. You are very clever!

  37. Hi Chantelle, my name is Simone and I have been blogging for nearly a year now. My hubby and I have will have been married for 18 years in February. We have five children and our home is never quiet. I normally blog about food and what I bake but this year I would like to write about how my life is as a mum and what things we do as a family, include more homely stuff. Do you have any suggestions on how I could introduce this on my blog? Or do I just let it out and spill it! I can sure say that at times it is hard being a mum but I love it and wouldn’t have it any other way.

    • Just start writing about it, I say. And make sure there’s something in it for your readers. So just ask yourself: Is it interesting, or useful, or relatable?

      All the best with it all. Sounds great!

  38. Hi Chantelle,

    I’m Josie, 24 from Birmingham, England. I read your blog all the time but haven’t commented since you did this last year. Last time I told you about how I was a bridesmaid the same day as you were for your sister and that there were 8 of us – 4 in green and 4 in purple! (I have just posted a photo on instagram pheenie_172). I am mainly found drinking tea and am currently at university completing my second degree in Occupational Therapy (my first was in Geography, totally related NOT but I loved it). I am terrible at keeping up with photoaday but keep trying!

    See you,
    Josie 🙂

    • Hello Josie! I remember. I’ll check out your photo. I hope you had fun.

      I hope you have a great year, and I’ll look forward to an update when I do this again next year. 🙂

  39. Hi Chantelle,
    I’m Wendy, a mummy to a beautiful little 3year old boy, I’m a blogging stay at home mum.
    Currently on my mind is a debate as to how much I put my son on my blog (as in pictures & stories). My husband works in IT security and is always in the back of my head talking about all the security issues with sharing photos and personal info.
    I’d love to know what your opinion is and what others think about this. Might help me stop thinking about it

    • It’s a tough one Wendy, and you can only do what you’re comfortable with. I shared a lot when Lacey was little, because no one was really reading my blog. But now she’s older, and is very recognisable {it’s the hair!} so I’ve pulled back a lot. I’m sure people think I don’t care about her because I write rarely about her and share very little photos.

      I love my girls SO much and I would love to share them more, but I pull back a lot. I do what I feel comfortable with for my family. At this stage it’s too late to use fake names, but I don’t think that’s necessary… but that’s where I stand. It’s kinda blurry, hey?

  40. Hi, I’m Leanne.

    What’s on my mind? Basically, who am I and what do I want to do? I need a new hobby for 2015. I’ve just sold by baby (no wait, not a human one – read on, read on!!).

    I started an e business when I became a mum in 2005 as I found I needed something more in my life that was not mummy/baby based. Just before xmas my business grew up and I outgrew it so I sold it (kind of exciting!).

    It’s been an incredible journey as it grew, became profitable, supported my stay at home status by providing extra funds to our one income family. But it was time as my last child is entering school this year.

    But Secretly, it kind of defined me and was my personal success (whoa, just got deep and surprised myself) beyond my three beautiful children and wonderful husband.

    But now I’m a bit lost and wandering the dark woods looking for a light of inspiration.

    I’m not a writer but love to put my thoughts out there (know for being mostly inappropriate/sarcastic and beyond super truthful about REAL life – aka, most think it and I say it and take masks off!!) so I may start a personal diary/blog about my random thoughts, life etc as an outlet!

    What a ramble – off now to vacuum, fold, wash and make a peanut butter sandwich with no crusts and cut in squares for my fav. 5 year old boy child.

    Hugs and thanks for the outlet!

    Leanne

    • I think that’s super exciting that you’ve got a blank canvas now, and you can do what you like with it.

      Pick up a paintbrush and start. Anything is possible! x

  41. Hi Chantelle,

    I’m Ruthie, from Perth, WA. I’m new to blogging, so not yet confident enough to call myself a blogger. I was made redundant in August from a job I hated. So while I’m keeping one eye open for a new job, I have been focusing on discovering the real me. 2015 will be the year, my year to discover, create and explore. I hope to find a passion I can turn into a business. I hope to start a family and I hope to grow readership of my blog so that i can build a community of friends. I love reading your blog and following on instagram. Thank you BTW for introducing me to Matt Crump’s #candyminimal I’m totally addicted and have been listing local landmarks that i have to visit to photograph!! Thanks for the chat and keep doing what you are doing.

    Cheers,

    Ruthie 🙂

    • Hello Ruthie! How amazing is candy minimal and Matt? I’m OBSESSED!

      I’m sorry to hear about the job {or glad, because how nice to not have to go somewhere you hate each day!}. All the best with finding a job. I love the way you write, so I imagine your blog is lots of good stuff. x

  42. I love my kids more than life itself. I am thankful for both of them. But at times with their respective special needs there are days when it can be very overwhelming. I don’t want you to continue reading this if you think in anyway that I am posting this looking for sympathy or pity. I am writing this in response to the multitude of PMs I got asking me ‘what’s wrong, are you OK?’.
    Today, I haven’t been OK. That’s not easy for me to admit that especially publicly. Usually the only person I ever tell that to is my mother. I vent my frustrations and she just listens. I don’t expect her to fix my problems. I don’t need her to fix things, because she can’t. All I need is a good listening ear to hear me out, get it off my chest and then I can pull myself together again. My mother is my endless source of strength.
    Today, my son smashed the TV that my mother-in-law received from my brother-in-law for Christmas. Cracked the screen and damaged the aerial socket in the back rendering the TV completely useless, except as a possible ornament. The TV was six days old. No, it can’t be covered on insurance due to the fact the excess is more than the TV is worth. and No, it definitely can’t be replaced under warranty.
    As most of you know, Rohan is a Special Needs kid. And for the most part, he is a pleasure to have around and I love his company.
    Today was a day that Trevor and I were supposed to have to ourselves. We get very few of these days, and the days we do get, we treasure, as it’s a time where we can focus on us as a couple. We started today out walking and exercising. We had planned to go to Wet N Wild and go on all the scary adventurous rides that we never go because they are more than our kids would tolerate from a safety point of view.
    We managed our walk, got home with the intended plans of heading off to Wet N Wild when the phone call came: Rohan has smashed the TV.
    The next few hours were spent purchasing a new TV for my MIL. While we did this, and were heartbroken that our son could do this to someone else’s property, Rohan, completely oblivious to the damage he had caused, just giggled and played on as though nothing had happened.
    That’s part of the frustration. You can’t yell or get cranky at him, as it does no good. He doesn’t understand it. You can’t ration or reason with him, because he doesn’t get that either.
    I pride myself on my sense of humour. Sometimes its the only thing that sees me through these times. But today I couldn’t even locate my sense of humour. It had vanished. All I felt was just this overwhelming amount of despair with the realisation that this is always how it will be. This can’t be fixed. Today was a day when I just couldn’t seem to find the light at the end of the tunnel. Ive read that quote before: “If you can’t see light at the end of the tunnel, flick the dam switch on yourself!”. Today I didn’t want to flick the switch. Im scared of what the future holds. Im scared of more broken TV’s in the future. Im scared his aggression and frustration will just escalate and I still won’t have any answers on how to help him or fix this. I don’t mind if Rohan breaks my things. He’s my son. I can always replace my things eventually. But when it’s someone else’s belongings, its different. Other people aren’t quite as tolerant as what a mother is. Today was just another reminder that Rohan is different. Most of the time I embrace his differences. It’s what makes him unique. But at times his differences can really be challenging. There are times when I am reminded of who Rohan isn’t. Christmas…we still purchase him toys with the age bracket of 3-4 years old. Rohan will be 11. W don’t take Rohan to sporting activities like most parents do with their kids at the weekend. And sometimes this is hurtful. I guess that’s kind of hard to explain or expect you to understand.
    Im sure it will have come as a shock people that I even posted anything negative on my FB page. I can’t say I blame you. I can’t remember the last time I did, if ever. Im generally not a negative person. But today was just more than I could cop.
    I guess I am sharing this with you all because its important to admit that sometimes everything isn’t OK. Sometimes things aren’t worth finding the humour in, and even if they were, sometimes it seems impossible to find the humour, and even if you locate your humour, its hard to find the desire to laugh.
    Im mentally exhausted today. Im sorry for not responding to some of your PMs. To be honest, right now I just can’t be bothered responding. Im grateful for them and for your kindness and concern though. Im off to bed, thinking about Anne Shirley’s favourite saying:
    “Tomorrow is always fresh with no mistakes in it.”
    Im hoping for a day like that tomorrow.

    • Oh Deborah. I feel for you. I do. My heart feels heavy for you. I don’t have any words that will fix anything, but I just wanted to say I read your words, I felt your pain and I hope that today feels more hopeful. xxx

  43. Hi Chantelle, greetings from Bondi Beach.

    On my mind today (first day back with clients) is the urge to reach more people in need of support (my business: http://www.yourdirection.com.au offer counselling, career coaching and outplacement services). I have just started my blog so that part is all new for me – exciting and challenging :o)

    I am very passionate about braking down the stigma around mental health as well as provide a caring and honest space and truly connect with people that are looking for support. The last couple of days I have seen several over-promising adds for happiness quick fixes. One add in particular indicated that you can get rid of anxiety and depression forever by attending a 2 day workshop. I find that kind of claim very unethical and am on a mission to educate people about the reality of mental health, and professionals about the dangers indicating that problems of such a nature can be ‘easily fixed’ in a couple of days. There is a risk of leaving people feeling like a failure when they come down from the ‘high’ from workshops like that. Let’s get real about it! Anxiety and depression takes time to address and support needs to be ethical and professional. (if anyone reading this is looking for support, check that your practitioner is a trained professional and part of a recognised association. That is a good starting point).
    Ok, rant over.

    I love your blogging, even as a ‘not yet mother’. Your creativity and honest sharing is inspiring. I am an artist as well (mainly big abstract paintings), and do enjoy taking photos. Thanks for being an inspiration, in so many ways.

    Love,
    Gitte

    • Hey Gitte. How is my beautiful Bondi? I miss it!

      It’s scary the promises being offered, particularly at this time of year. They’re very loaded, and people need to be accountable.

      You’re a very good egg Gitte. What a difference you’ll make. x

      • Thank you Chantelle. Bondi – well, today it’s very windy and raining, so not the prettiest day of them all :o), but I don’t mind a change. Otherwise, Bondi is lovely as usual, a few sharks here and there and lots of people this time a year. Now, back to work… lucky I love it! :o).

        Gitte

  44. Hi, I’m Sonia. What’s on my mind right now? Where this year will take me. I can’t help but feel big change is on the horizon – which I’m totally cool with and ready for – but I’m not sure what to do right now. Wait it out? Start making plans? Making my own changes? I think ultimately I’ve just got to trust the universe. I’ve bought my ticket and taken my seat. I’ve now just got to wait for the ride to start. And just like that, you’ve helped me answer my own question. Thank you! x

  45. My Aunt went through what you are experiencing with my cousin. At the age of 33, when he passed away, he still behaved like a 3 year old. Unfortunately he was the size of a man. It was very hard for my Aunt to cope. She “babyproofed” all she could, installing gates around things she thought he could break and/or hurt himself on and, basically, was with him nearly every moment of the day. We worried about her constantly because he was the size of a grown man and when he’d get angry he’d lash out at her. She did have nurses come in to help her but that was only a momentary break. Usually my uncle would come home and she would go out shopping or take some time for herself but it wasn’t until my other cousins were old enough to care for him as adults that the two of them got any time alone. It’s a simply exhausting life. Many told my Aunt to have him “hospitalized” but she could never do it. This was her son. She loved him. She couldn’t imagine him in one of those places. Please don’t feel guilty for the negative thoughts. Your life IS hard. The only thing you can do is to see if there are resources to help you cope with it and do the best you can. As for his daily care with others. It’s probably best for anyone to come to your house rather than to take him to their home. That way if anything is broken then it is your stuff and not theirs. One less layer of guilt for you. (((HUGS)))

    • Thanks for sharing this Cat. I’m not sure if Deborah can read it, because it wasn’t left as a comment on her post. Not sure if you want to copy and paste it. xx

  46. Hi Chantelle,

    This is my first time commenting, so I’m feeling very brave right now. My name is Sam and I have two children. On my mind currently is that my eldest, who is four and a half, will be starting kinder in a few weeks. I’m so nervous! I’m also trying to find a way to work from home so our family can have a better quality of life. I always wanted to be a stay at home mum and I don’t regret the decision but I do feel guilty that once bills are paid and the family is fed there’s not much left over. Unfounately my career choices in the past have meant that trying to arrange work from home is quite challenging but I am determined to succeed somehow. Thank you for allowing us to share in your life and spreading the joy you do.

    Much love 🙂

    • You are brave Sam. It’s a big deal.

      How exciting that your 4yo is about to embark on such a big adventure. A whole new world of learning and friendships is ahead. I love that.

      I hope finances get easier soon. I wish money grew on trees. xx

  47. My heart is currently breaking for an online friend in the US. She recently lost her adorable 3 year old daughter Ashley (a.k.a. Doozie). I feel so helpless being so far away, but have let her know that she & her lovely family are in my thoughts & prayers at the moment. They are holding a “Celebration of Life” on Friday (US time) & have requested people to wear bright colours – especially purple – Doozie’s favourite colour. As a way of remembering such a sweet little girl, I will be donning purple myself ~ on Saturday here {which will be Friday there}.
    In happier news, also on my mind is an impending photoshoot that me & my boyfriend of 3 years {at the end of the month} are having tomorrow, as part of me winning a FB competition! We love the beach, so we requested it be done on our favourite beach here in Tassie! 🙂 So excited!

    • Oh that is so sad. I can’t even comprehend it. Sending love to Doozie’s mama. What a heartbreaking time.

      Have fun with your shoot. I know you’ve got a lot on your mind, but try and embrace the moment. x

  48. Hi Chantelle, I’m Jo. I’ve followed your blog for ages and admire your clever brain and the way you connect with others on your blog. Mine’s a work in progress 🙂 I’m at the other end of the spectrum from you – on my mind is my now 18yr old (my third and last) who has just finished year 12 and is waiting for uni offers. What the future holds for her and our plans too now she’s on her way – selling our big house, moving to the beach, possibly new job, more us time. Exciting! Good luck with the weaning, it will happen and you’ll both be okay 🙂

    • You’re so right. We’ll definitely be OK.

      I hope your 18yo gets a great Uni offer. And moving to the beach? That’s seven shades of awesome. Life is going to be GOOOOD! x

  49. I’m Dawn and I live in Florida. I’m 38, got married in September 2012, and currently fighting with being simultaneously afraid of having a baby and (given my age) NOT having a baby. Someone should warn us that being an adult is not as much fun as we think it’s going to be when we’re kids, trying to grow up too fast.

    • Being an adult is STRESSFUL.

      Have the baby. You’ll never regret the babies you have, only the ones you don’t.

      I just made that up, but maybe it’s true. x

    • I married when I was 37 and had a baby when I was 38. At times I was set on never having a kid, but in the end I’m glad I did it. It was the hardest adjustment to my life (especially since she had colic), but I am so grateful to have her (she’s totally awesome now). Having said that I am stopping at one kid. That’s good for me! Do what feels best for you.

  50. Hi Chantelle, hi readers,
    I’m Annette and the things on my mind are varied –

    we’ll start with why do the ladies give themselves so much crap and trouble? Why does an apology and I suck come so quickly to minds and lips and keyboards? How and WHY do we all seem to learn that stuff? How do we UNLEARN it?! How do I build up those who struggle? Can’t they see their GLORIOUS worth and beauty?? I want to be an encourager more than anything!

    What’s the deal with it being so difficult to find work? It’s almost a year, but really, it is nearly two since I’ve had a job I loved going to and was great at. That’s too long!

    How can I live with less stuff? I’m working on that right now – check out #hoistthehangers on Instagram.

    Should I write about living on Newstart? I think it might shock people. It’s so hard.

    And most of all, I think about how much I love my life, even with these momentary hardships. I love the person I see in the mirror – she’s strong and fragile, she’s smart and determined, she’s weak and gifted, creative and sometimes uninspired. She’s ME and I have nothing to apologise for – I am worthy of being here, being heard, making my stand, writing my blog, of each breath.

    Learn to LOVE YOURSELF and your LIFE, this is it, right now!!

    Annette

    • I think write about whatever is on your mind, because if it’s interesting or relevant to you, someone else is sure to connect to it too.

      And thank you for the empowering pep talk. I’m working on it. x

  51. Hi there! On my mind- hmm. Getting organized and clearing out clutter, the chaos in the house is making me nuts. School started back today but I still have a toddler at home to contend with so its hard to get things done. I feel like I never stop picking up mess and never sit all day long, but that nothing ever gets done either. So why do my feet hurt so bad??

    Also on my mind, finding my place in this place I call home. Finding my tribe, my village, my peeps, girlfriends, whatever you want to call them. I had some. Then I didn’t. I need some new ones but I don’t know where to find them. I don’t have anyone I click with or that I feel like they would “get” me, or any time to even try. I feel like I should go trolling for mommies at the supermarket, but part of the problem is I’m too distracted/frazzled/cranky/rushed to even notice any other people no matter where I go.

    • And that all sounded very sad and down, which isn’t really how I feel. Or at least not most of the time, lol. I do most always feel frazzled, and the house feels chaotic, but it’s a happy chaos and we are a mostly happy bunch. I just need some girlfriends to go have a margarita with!

      • I get with the things. I am always doing SOMETHING, but it never feels like I get to finish ANYTHING. Is that mum/mom life?

        You need to treat yourself to a delicious pedicure.

        What about the parents at school? Are they potential friends? I just jumped right in and started chatting last year and made some beautiful friends. I hope there’s potential there for you too. xxx

  52. Hello, Chantelle! My name is Jae, and I hail from Manila, Philippines. I blog over at SCATTERBRAIN. I’ve been a reader of your blog since April 2012. In fact, I joined your Photo-A-Day on Instagram, but stopped doing so when I realized that my posts are irrelevant (when using the hashtag) because my profile is set to private.

    Anyway, on my mind right now are thoughts about the future. I’m moving to California to be with my husband (hopefully within the first quarter of 2015), and that’s been in my head a lot lately. We’re newlyweds, and we’ll be living together for the first time once I get there. It’s also going to be the first time I’m going to be away from my family to live somewhere else. I’m both hopeful and fearful of the unknown.

    Thank you for the opportunity to introduce myself to you. 🙂

    • Oh, and by the way, I fully support you on your goal to let go of all the angst you’ve been carrying for 3/4 of your life. I wish you all the happiness this life may bring, Chantelle!

      • Hello Jae. What a big year you have ahead. Super big. I hope that the big move, living with your husband, is all that you could dream it to be. Just take baby steps.

        And if you want to play Photo A Day you can always create a separate, public profile. xx

        • Thank you for your kind words, Chantelle! I appreciate them. Wishing you and your family the best of health this year and the next!

  53. Hi I’m Jean and I’m a Mom of 6 not all birthed by me but love them all the same. I started blogging a few years ago as an outlet during a divorce and then I let it fall off and have been pretty inconsistent. I recently remarried went from single mom of one to married with children lots of them lol. So I felt a spark after my most recent baby was born to revamp my blog and begin again and I was excited for a few days maybe a week. Spent several hours each day making some changes and then poof… my energy went and I began to question myself all over again. Like you said blogging can feel weird and I wonder if I’m ridiculous for wanting to do it. So, stuck, here I am… that’s what’s on my mind. Thanks for letting me rant. I love your photo a day challenges all I have yet to complete one… I’ve come close but at the end give up… Do you or have you ever questioned yourself? Not sure if I have commitment issues or if I’m just afraid of failing and disappointing myself. Ok ok I’m done thanks again love your blog…

    • Oh gosh, I ALWAYS question myself, and it’s amplified when it comes to blogging.

      But I blog best when I put all that stuff to the side and jump right in. I think overthinking things is a killer in blogging. It’s always been my best advice for beginners, that they should just jump in and freaking do it.

      This year I’m taking my own advice. I’m going to stop worrying and just start doing. I hope you can too. x

      • Thanks so much for the response and encouragement. I am. I have decided to just do it and let be what it’d going to be. Thanks again!

  54. Hello, this is Gauree from India. This is the first time ever I am writing to you but do follow your blog since more than two years now. One of my younger sister introduced me to your Instagram account while I was on my maternity break and I am thankful to her for that. I am a working mother and have recently started a blog. My baby is 19 months now and we also have started to give a try for weaning (that’s my New year’s resolution). I work as an architect in a firm and my baby manages without me for 8-10 hours daily. Your blog has helped me in looking at my current life in more positive manner. I try to make most of the time I get to spend with my baby and document it through the blog.
    Thanks.

    • Hey Gauree. Our babies are similar in age. I’m loving this age, are you? Although it comes with it’s challenges, it’s rewarding too.

      I hope weaning goes well for you. I am hopeful I’ll find the right way for us, in time! xx

      • Hi Chantelle, yes you are total correct about the age at which our babies are right now, I find this phase most entertaining and enriching amongst all as they are most expressive with their newly found verbal abilities. I am keeping my fingers crossed for weaning, let me know if you have any tips regarding the same..
        Thanks

  55. Hi Chantelle,

    I am Sanjeet from India. I came across your beautiful blog through the #fmsPhotoADay at Instagram. I am a working woman in Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India. Though I am neither married nor a mother, I am totally in love with your blog. I am quite new to the blogging scene, I enjoy writing but haven’t been able to put much at the merciless WWW for more than one reason. Your blog is the reason how I discovered some other awesome bloggers. I like all your posts, especially your letters to Lacey and Luella, who are the most adorable daughters one can have!

    On my mind right now is the new year and the exciting possibilities this year is going to bring! There is so much I want to do-blogging, dancing, reading, coding, working out, some DIY and more! But I just never have enough time! It’s like 24 hours are just not enough!

  56. I’m Vanessa. I’m a blogger who wants to escape the 9-5 but needs life to not be insane so she can actually get work done on the escape…2015 will be quiet, right?! 🙂

  57. Hey, I’m Kez – another self-involved blogger 😉
    I’m realising how ready both my 3 year old and I am for him to start a day care kindy one day a week this year. I can’t wait to reclaim my time and not feel guilty because the place he’s going is so lovely. He’s an only child at this point and I feel like I’m not enough (you know besides his extended family and his little friends from mothers group and all the other people in his life – my SAHM’s guilt knows no bounds).
    I am blown away by how he’s changed since his 3rd birthday in November. Already he’s become less unintelligible 2 year old toddler and more of a BOY.
    I really do want another baby but I don’t want the pressure I’d put on myself. I struggle with that.
    I’m excited to go camping with my family next month. I am glad it’s a new year (even though last year was the first good one since 2010).
    Oh and I’m scared of spiders. Don’t ask.

    • Hello Kez! I love seeing your pic pop up! How nice that you’re going to put your little man into care, and that you’ve found the perfect place. It’s such a nice feeling to find the best place for your little person. I still miss the one Lacey went to as a kid.

      This year is going to be great. Hopefully it can even outdo your 2014! Imagine that!

  58. Hi Chantelle,

    My name is Jen and I live in Lovely North Devon in England. I started following your blog a few days ago and joined in your photo a day challenge on the 1st as well. I found it from a fellow instagrammer. It’s great and so is your app, thank you.
    I have written a blog for about 4 years, although it tailed off at the end of last year due to work commitments. I really miss it though, it is one of my favourite ‘me’ things to do. I have my team in a better place at work (they were all new) and I can feel myself stepping back from it a little. So I am hoping for more me time.
    That is on my mind, I have so many things I want to do with that precious time, prep healthy meals to take care, go to the pool, scrapbook, sew, crochet…

    I hope you have a lovely year, I will enjoy reading your blog. x

    • I’m finding the lack of time overwhelming too, often. It’s hard to do all that I want and get good sleep. I’m not sure what to do about that! Let me know if you find answers.

      I hope you get the time to put more into your blog though. It sounds like a bit of a passion. xx

  59. Hi Chantelle! My name is Emily and last year I quit my job to live my dream of travelling. It was probably one of the scariest decisions I have ever made, whether to stay in security and a guarantee of regular pay checks or leave everything and everyone I know behind and start a new life living out of a suitcase and see the world. I chose the latter.
    I set up my blog (shameless plug time) The Reluctant Wanderlust as a way for friends and family to read what I have been doing but now, in 2015, I would love to expand it so that I can inspire others whether it be to go on short vacations or extended travel.
    So currently on my mind, and notebook where my brain is actually stored, are a million lists of possible post idea, ways to be more present on social media, ways to make it easy to follow my posts, inspiration, motivation, positivity and picture editorials.

    It is the first blog I have created that I am truly inspired to work on and my hope is that I can turn it into something spectacular this year. I am also hoping to collaborate with others this year so if you, any of your readers would like to participate in this I would LOVE to hear from them.

    Adore our blog as always, happy 2015
    Emily x

    Blog: http://www.thereluctantanderlust.blogspot.co.uk
    Twitter: @ReluctantWlust
    Instagram: @Japanesecherry

  60. Hello! My name is Lindsay and I live on Oahu, Hawaii. My husband recently returned from a deployment (hooray!) just in time to welcome our first child into the world. Baby Evelyn is due well…any day now really. I can’t wait to meet her. I’ve written a blog sharing our personal travels and stories, our way to reach out to family and friends wherever we are for the past 5 years. On my mind~ trying not to analyze every new sensation in my body and think its labor, enjoying the sunshine and cooler mornings this time of year brings, and enjoying the last of the “just us two” time;)

    • Oh my goodness, I’m all green with envy here. Oahu! A new baby! Your life is about to be beautiful. That moment when you meet your baby, and you see your husband change in front of you … it’s just magic. I hope the birth is a beautiful experience and your sweet baby Evelyn is in your arms soon. x

  61. My name is Mrs Woog and I work with an awesome, generous, hilarious blogger called Chantelle. I also think I have moved to the beach and I haven’t realised it yet xx

  62. Oh Lordy! Where to begin?! I’m a blogger, mom to 2 and step mom to 3 (yes that’s 5 in total from 23 months to 18 years!). I just got a marketing job at a small firm based on my business blog too 😀 exciting and terrifying.

    At the moment my mind is full of preteen daughter issues, money budgeting, meal planning on said budget and what to do with the gazillion cotton fat quarters I managed to acumulate last year.

    Also my Mom’s travelling back from Canada tomorrow, which happens to be the one year anniversary of my Dad passing. That I’m trying to keep out of my mind!

    That’s it really lol!

    • Sending you lots of love on your dad’s anniversary. That can’t be easy.

      I’m not looking forward to those preteen years. It’s hard enough now, I can’t imagine throwing in hormones and more emotions and more attitude. I hope she takes it easy on you.

      Congrats on the new gig too! x

      • Aw thanks. I’m hoping to be too busy to dwell too long on it to be honest. Just looking forward to getting Mom home safely.

        Girls are so much harder than boys! The three eldest boys are 15-18 so we are the other side with them. It also helps in just stepmom too haha! Yes the attitude is harder to cope with than the hormonies but slowly getting there lol 😉

        That reminds me, must apologise to my own Mom for being such a vile cow bag when I was a preteen too lol x

  63. Hello! I’m Erin. I’m a blogger/teacher. And a lot of other things. As for what’s on my mind- my Dad’s 60th Birthday next week. It’s something I never thought we would celebrate after his terminal cancer diagnosis a year and a bit ago. So, I am so bloody grateful it’s here and he’s here. But I guess I am equally grateful and fearful. Which can sometimes be like a nightmare. Trying to accept and be positive but I am having a rough day today, so thanks for asking. Hope you get some clarity re breastfeeding soon xxx

    • Oh Erin, I guess you feel like you’re on borrowed time with your papa. I can imagine the mixed emotions. I think it calls for a cake made with love, ready for celebration.

      Big hugs to you. xx

  64. Wow! How do you have time to reply to all of these?!
    Sorry, hi I’m Kristy from Melbourne. I’m a mumma of two bubbas and work part time running the local pool, which at 37 degrees was not much chop today (bless Mother Nature and her thunder storm this Arvo)
    Thank you for the scatter love cards. I love them x

    • Hello you! I just made the time! I went to bed late last night and am typing like a mad woman as Lulu sleeps! Ha. So nice to meet you and so glad you loved the Scatter Love cards. I love them too. x

  65. My name is Janine. I am a mummy blogger. I have been blogging since 2010 but took a break then. In July last year I took the big step and moved to the self hosted WordPress. Best thing I ever done.
    FatMumSlim inspired me and that’s how I started the blogging again really. Since July I have found a lot of other mummy bloggers in the UK and Ireland and I can share my stories with them.
    I am working full time and I am due my second baby the beginning of February. So exiting Times ahead. 🙂

    • Hello! Isn’t WordPress the best? I’m so glad I did that move too. And a new baby? I am so excited for you, and I love that you’re present and know it’s exciting. That’s a beautiful thing. xx

  66. Hi 🙂 My name is Liliane and I’m from Brazil but live in London. I have a blog, londrescomfilhos.blogspot.com, that is written in portuguese. Now i’m thinking about my second child and how to help my older one to deal with all these news at the same time that he is changing school.
    XX

    • Hello! I had Lulu and then Lacey started school not long after. It was a lot over a small period of time. But I think she coped well, she acts out occasionally for attention {which is normal}.

      One nice thing we did was have a gift ready when the baby was born, that the baby could give to my older daughter. We also let Lacey meet Lulu before anyone else go to, so she wasn’t bombarded with adults and people going crazy over the baby and feeling left out.

      All the best. xx

  67. Hey lv! I’m Vanessa, I’ve made comments before but I don’t know that you would remember me. I live in country WA and am a stay at home mum with 21 m/old and a 4.5 y/o and a FIFO hubby. I’ve been following you for a few years now (gee that sounded stalkerish!) It’s going to sound strange but I think of, and when speaking of you, refer to you as my friend (again with the stalkerish) as I liken you to myself so much. My 4 y/o was a baaaaad sleeper I sought treatment everywhere until finally going to Ngala’s sleep school. I wasn’t very good at it because like you I don’t like to leave my littlens to cry. She got better or I just accepted it…I can’t really remember I just did what I had to do. She was weaned from breastfeeding at 22mths by necessity rather than choice as I had to have a major op and was on morphine for 4 weeks..well anyway when she was about 3 I moved her into her big girl room with her own big girl bed in preparation for the baby I was carrying. We designed and decorated her room together it is a beautiful peaceful space and she loves it and wouldn’t you know she started going to bed every night at 7 and wouldn’t emerge till 7:30 the next morning. My baby arrived and I was able to breastfeed her and she slept and she was just a dream. I broke all the rules, I breastfed her to sleep and I cuddled as much as I wanted as I could just plop her back into the cot and she’d be fine when she woke during the night I’d just bring her into bed and breastfeed her back to sleep. She was about 15 mths when she stopped her sleeping so well. I Get stick about co sleeping, extended breastfeeding, breastfeeding during the night, bad sleep habits….. And on and on it goes. I’ve tried to make her less dependent on the breast but she won’t go to sleep without it sometimes not even with it…she is an extremely strong willed child and will do her absolute block until I give in and give it to her. I can’t just dump her in her cot and let her cry. I just can’t. Hubby is no support and gets cranky if I let her cry and tells me to give her boob and shut her up but then tells me to get her off the boob cause she spends all night in our bed using me as a dummy. Yes, I am the dummy. I am a dummy. I’m tired. Do I need to wean her to make her sleep. Should I just hang in there and hope she starts sleeping at 3. What the heck should I do? I have no idea what I’m doing? How do I deny my baby the one thing she really wants? Hahaha anyway…. That’s what’s on mine well one of them anyway hahahah aren’t you sorry you asked????

    • I am a dummy too! Well in the day she likes to use me as a dummy, and if I sit down at any point she’s climbing over me for a feed. It’s upsetting for us.

      I learned when I had the sleep expert in to separate the feeds at night, but at that age she wouldn’t need feeds so you just have to help her self-settle.

      I guess you just need Hubby on the same page as you, because it’s s hard to do alone. It’s hard enough worrying about the baby, let alone worrying about Hubby too!

      I hope you can get it all sorted. I’d definitely suggest consulting with a sleep expert {I used Lullababy SOS if you want to Google her} for advice. I’m going to see a lactation consultant about weaning, to see if I can maybe just do a before bed feed or if I need to stop altogether {and how to do it!}.

      Anyways, not sorry I asked. Loved that you shared. Thank you. x

  68. I literally just found your blog today (thanks to The Nectar Collective!) so this seems like a nice time to introduce myself, I suppose 🙂 I blog over at erikagibson.com, about art, design, food, home + garden, diy, small business, and whatever else floats my boat at that particular time. Just got married this past summer, no kids yet (or anytime soon!). Looking into doing Photo A Day, because that just sounds fun 🙂

  69. Sometimes I worry that I’m too comfortable sharing stuff about myself on the Internet, because in real life, that is totally not the case! Maybe blogging is my way of saying everything I wanted to say earlier–a chance to set aside some time, sit down, and write about everything I didn’t get the chance to form a complete thought about initially. I wonder if my personality shines more via the Internet or if it’s just plain different from my “normal” personality… -Audrey | Brunch at Audrey’s

    • I think a lot of bloggers are introverts who want to be able to share a little more of themselves in a way that they feel comfortable. Maybe that’s it?

  70. Hi Chantelle, my name is Maria. I’ve commented her once and exchanged emails with you twice. You and your blog have been a regular part of my life for over two years. I got a smart phone 10 months ago and am now addicted to Instagram. I’m a huge fan of your photo-a-day prompts, I rarely miss a day. Thanks for asking readers what’s on their mind. Today my thoughts are consumed with my youngest daughter, N. She’s 23 and will be leaving tomorrow to work as a volunteer student nurse in Nicaragua. She will be accompanied by with six other nursing students from her University and they will be in Nicaragua for 9 days. I’m both nervous and excited for them.Chantelle, thanks for sharing your heart with us in blogworld. I have learned many great photo and blog tips from you. Keep shining your wonderful light in the world! 🙂

    • Hello Maria! So nice to hear from you again. I’m so glad you love photo a day and never miss a day. That’s awesome. I’m aiming to be as good this year.

      I hope everything goes well with wishing your daughter well, and saying goodbye. I imagine you’ll be sad but proud at the same time. Big hugs mama. x

  71. Hi Chantelle, I’m Sharon, I love how the bloggers network from Hair Romance, Styling You, Style & Shenanigans, Edenland and Fatmumslim reassure us with tips on life and travel. I love sharing pics on instagram. I was once told that there is no better place in the world than NSW for it’s beaches. Your share of find your fun months ago, Gives me hope that everything on my 1st overseas trip is going to be alright. “40 is for Fun”. May you keep inspiring us to step out of our square and sending you good vibes for 2015.

    • Oh thanks Sharon. All those bloggers you’ve mentioned are awesome. I have met them all and can assure you of that.

      Have fun on your first trip o/s. Where are you headed?

      • Love reading the vast subjects that are explored on all the blogs. (Surely there’s a better name for such pages?) Thankyou : Kaui, Maui, Oahu & The Big Island will sure fill up 3 weeks before back to the routine schedule we live by.

  72. Wow good job on replying to so many comments on here, took me forever to scroll to the bottom to leave a comment but I wanted to say I am cheer leading you to loving yourself more. I’ve dedicated 2015 to delving deeper into myself too which I wrote about on my blog. I’m starting off by using the workbooks I linked in my last post. It’s so empowering to find yourself, love yourself and nourish yourself. And boy do I hear you about weaning. I know every baby is different but I found that pushing feed times back more and more each day helped weed them out one by one. Keeping her distracted was key. You’ve done so well to feed this long *high five* xx

  73. Hi my name is Maram im a mommy of 2 lovely kids .. I’m a Kuwaiti ( from Kuwait) but born in Springfield I was raised my whole life in Kuwait .. Got married and left my country to find a future for my husband and kids .. As a Kuwaiti woman I am not permitted to grant my kids citizenship according to the Kuwaiti laws so I had to immigrate to the U.S. to gain identity.. It’s been 6 years now I haven’t seen my family and friends .. It gets too lonely sometimes I feel like giving up .. But I see my kids are brought up in a country that consider them part of it .. Something my home country lacks. I followed u for sometime and your posts ease my tough days ..

    Regards

    • Oh Maram, it’s when I read words like yours that I realise how easy we have it here. I am so proud of you for seeking something better for yourself and your family, and I can only imagine how hard it must be for you. I’m glad I can be some sort of help on those tough days. I hope you see your loved ones soon. xx

  74. HI Chantelle, Lianne from wollongong, Im 52 overweight but healthy. I have a blog but would like to learn more on what to do with them, side buttons and all that. I love the photo a day but I usully get lost mid month when I can’t think of what to take a pic of. Working full time close to home i don’t get out and about much, I am hoping the weekly prompts will keep me on

    • Is this Lianne who I sent a gift to last year for the exchange?

      I hope you’re well. If we run a Clever Cookie course this year, it will probably help with all that stuff. Otherwise Google is your friend. I learnt everything that way. 🙂

  75. Hi gorgeous, you know who I am but for those who don’t I’m Jenni and I’m a blogger too. Lotsa people think opening up my life is a bit weird I think it’s sanity saving and a whole lotta fun! I wish you lived closer we could natter forever about body image and self esteem. I was low in the ranks in both areas before I got diagnosed but these days I’m all good, I’m not ruled by looks etc (hilarious that I’m a stylist) it’s all about how people ‘feel’. I’ve had a life that we could make a drama about but I’ve also had a life filled with wonderful people, lessons and growth. We are not the sum of our past, we can be whoever we want to be. We can lift ourselves and move forward. Xx

    • I find you so inspiring, and am so glad I ‘met’ you. I’d love to have you nearby so you could whip my self-esteem into shape. I know you’d be awesome. xx

  76. Hello
    Mummy of 2- almost 4 Yr old girl and my baby boy turns 1 next week! Just went back to work after maternity leave which us horrid but only 2 days a weeks which is bearable! Still breastfeeding which I love! Fed my girl for 29 weeks but thinking my boy will wean himself before that- he’s too busy! Love the Idea of a 3rd child but it all seems too hard and expensive too! Trying to decide if we just focus on our 2 beautiful precious gorgeous kiddies! Also would love to change jobs and do something I love but don’t know what or how!!!!!!! Anyway that’s it for now xx

      • No bloody idea, that’s the problem!!!! And we need the money right now so I kinda have to do my better paying job! Unfortunately money rules a lot of decisions!!! But my kiddies rule everything, I love them to pieces and they make everything worthwhile I suppose! Though I did just take time out to try my first ever xtendbarre class tonight- first form if exercise in 4 years, Aah gonna feel it tomorrow – didn’t help that my teething 1 yr old has only just drifted off to sleep…….

  77. Hiya I’m Laura and I live in the north-east of England.
    Currently on my mind – my brother moved to Sydney in August last year and I miss him lots 🙁 just had a bit of a cry about it although he’s probably having a brilliant time!
    I’m rubbish at photo a day but enjoy reading your blog 🙂

    • Hey Laura. Argh, I just want to reach out and give you a hug. I bet your brother loves living in Sydney. I always say that if I died today, I’d regret not spending more time with my brother. I want him to move closer to me. I’m working on it.

      You should move to Sydney, I think. 😛

      • Thanks for replying 🙂 I gladly accept virtual hugs!
        I think he’s enjoying himself, but struggling with the heat at the moment!
        I’m going to be visiting him in April/May for 3 weeks with my mum and dad which I’m very excited about, but it means I have to leave my husband (and guinea pigs) for almost a month to do so!
        Not sure my mum would appreciate me moving to Sydney!

  78. Hi 🙂 My name is Sue & I’m writing from Wakefield, Massachusetts (just north of Boston) in the United States. I’m a single mom, a teacher, and I have just started your photo a day challenge w the new year. What’s on my mind? Well, worrying about my kids (both my own & my students), NOT loving this cold winter weather at all!!, so sad about all the tragedies in the world – seems like so many lately 🙁 Since I’m alone in my adult life, loneliness is an issue – but the awesome community on your pages is helping. The photos are amazing, the kindness of others is inspiring & I’m just really glad I found this whole world 🙂

    • The photo a day community is amazing, isn’t it? I love them. Best community on the internet!

      It’s super upsetting, all the things that are happening in the world. I have to try not to think about it. xx

  79. Hello, my name is Beck and I blog (well I try) over at craftypjmum. I’m married to my high school sweetheart and we have 4 sons.
    I love reading and taking an overload of photographs. I love playing along with photo a day.
    On my mind right now….I’m sick of myself, I need to get back my health and fitness for myself. And stop putting myself last.

  80. Hi Chantelle,

    Love your blog and your enthusiasm to always see the bright side of life!

    I blog at http://www.littlebitofthyme.com I love my garden, cooking, sewing and my family, so that’s what o blog about!

    Four months ago I had a little boy Jacob, nine years after my youngest was born. After my dad died of cancer earlier last year he is such a blessing.

    All the best for 2015

    Tash xx

  81. Hey fatmumslim!
    I’m Sameen, a university student, I study in Pakistan and spend my breaks in Abu Dhabi with my parents. I am also a wannabee writer but cannot in the life of me find the discipline to develop my writing skills. So at the moment what’s on my mind is that this right here is so cool and I love these opportunities this virtual world provides but the amount of time I can spend on here is crazy! So I’m thinking I really need to get off the Internet and get things done so I can make something worthwile of my life!

    • Ha ha ha, get off the internet? NEVER. I highly recommend starting a personal journal and just writing each night. It might seem silly, but soon you’ll find your voice. x

  82. Wow…what an amazing bunch of people!

    Thanks for your little spot of sunshine on here Chantelle. I am Shelley, mum of two, blogger, maths tutor and jewellery maker from Melbourne. On my mind today is the juggle. Trying to keep all of those balls in the air while caring for a very high needs child. I love her to bits but a well timed vomit/need to be changed/tube feed etc can certainly throw my day into chaos.

    I find this time of year hard. It’s great to have the kids at home but with all carers on holidays since before Christmas the work is constant and my poor poppet has had many a TV marathon while, it seems, everyone else is away and having fun. I would like 2015 to be a year of more writing. My blog has slipped since we moved a couple of months ago so I aim to find the time and head space to bring it back…I miss it.

    Good luck with the weaning…my son seemed to do it himself so I have no words of wisdom!

    • Hello Shelley. Nice to meet you. I’m sure your little people are loving the TV marathon. We’ve had a bit of rain so that’s happened here too, and playdough {playdough is a saviour}.

      I hope you get a break though. It sounds exchausting, I know I am and I don’t have special needs to consider.

      Big hugs mama. xxx

  83. Hi Chantelle, my name is Helen and I’m from Gladstone, Queensland. I’m a 40 year old happily married mother of 4 beautiful (though I’m biased) children. 3 boys (13, 11, 10yrs) and a girl (6). A friend introduced me to you through your PhotoADay challenge a few years ago “Helen, you should do this, you’ll love it!” I did love it. Unfortunately I can’t find enough time to do many months but I’m excited about this year’s Weekly format, hopefully I’ll be able to participate more. I’m not a blogger and I don’t follow many others but I love your warm, friendly posts and read them often. I’ve never commented on here before, I guess that makes me a lurker! lol Not sure why I decided to today, maybe it’s because I loved the manner in which you asked to get to know a few of us, so personable. I am very grateful for the simple, busy but blessed life we lead. My husband and I work hard to guide our children into adulthood as happy, productive members of this beautiful world, who will hopefully be able to see/find the extraordinary in the ordinary. After 9 years as a stay-at-home Mum, I re-entered the workforce last year, working with children with additional needs at the Kindergarten all our four children attended. I can’t begin to explain how much I enjoyed this work and how rewarding it was. As a result I have jumped at the opportunity to become a permanent member of our wonderful Kindergarten’s staff and will begin studying my Diploma in Early Childhood and Care in a couple of weeks time – in effect I’m beginning an “Adult Apprenticeship”. I enter 2015 more energised and excited than I have been in a long time, although also very scared about how on earth I’m going to manage working 5 days and studying for the first time since I left school! I’m determined and focused though and my family are very supportive. Wow, I ended up telling you lots didn’t I? I guess I just wanted to say “hi” and maybe let other people out there know it’s never too late to completely change careers and you never know what’s around the corner. Oh, I’m going to mention that as I type this I’m sitting by the pool at Kingfisher Resort on Fraser Island having an annual night away with my amazing husband. Bliss! I really believe couple time is a must when you’re raising kids. If not a night away, even just a coupe of hours together here and there. Thanks for your wonderful blog Chantelle, I will continue to find time to keep reading this year xo H

    • Oh I love your advice. We try and have date nights and will have nights away too when Lulu is older.

      I think you’ll thrive with studying at this age, because I think we now know what we want when we weren’t so sure before?

      I hope you love it, and have a great year. xxx

      P.S. Thanks for commenting for the first time. I super appreciate it.

  84. Hi my name is Peta I live in Darwin I’m an executive in a government agency, married with an 8 year old. I love photo a day as it keeps my creative side working. I’m thinking about personal wellness and growth and how to make time for what is important to me. I love your page xxx

    • Hello you! I bet it’s hot up there at the moment. I struggle to find that me-time too, so I thought I’d share one little tip that my business coach gave me. She said to bookend my days with me-time. So get up 15 minutes earlier and meditate {the head space app is brilliant}, and then 15 minutes before bed fill out a journal {I use the sentence a day by Kikki.K}. It’s small, but that’s enough to kick it off properly.

      I don’t do it perfectly but I’ll get there. x

  85. My name is Emily and i am from Traralgon in Victoria, Australia
    I am a mum of 2 handsome men Noah 2 and Owen 16 weeks 🙂
    I love love love your blogs but never reply but since you wanna know whats on my mind (and perhaps its because i am so excited about it) i will let you in…
    About 2 years ago i lost my license due to medical reasons and have been fighting with Vicroads and the Medical Board to get it back as i am physically fit to drive but as of about an hour ago my neurologist just signed the paperwork i need to send off to them to be approved and i should get my license back within about 2 weeks!! To say im excited is an absolute understatement!!
    I am also a little excited to be weaning my bubs neither of us are really enjoying it and despite my best efforts at producing he just isnt getting much from me anymore and im looking forward to becoming a healthier fitter mummy for my boys!!

      • Haha oh i am so excited i feel like i do christmas morning lol!!
        Fingers crossed it gets processed and approved in time for my family holiday to loch sport in a few weeks!! A few days at the beach is just what this mummy needs 🙂
        P.s good luck with your weaning too and congratulations on getting to 16 months xo

  86. Hi Chantelle ,my name is Thandi or @snaphappymama101 on instagram. and i just thought I’d leave a short message too . We too are an autism family like the woman with the heartwrenching post above and i just wanted to let her know that she is not alone and there are so many of us who understand her fears and daily trials and hopefully that brings a bit of brightness to her day. I’ve been playing your photoaday on and off privately for myself since 2012 and joined instagram in aug 2014 on a sleepless night to play interactively with others. It seems like such a small thing but it has been extremely cathartic especially on draining days to have this little part of my day that’s just about me and a photo prompt and flexing those creative muscles. So thanks for the sunshine you’re bringing

  87. Hey Chantelle, I’m Vicki….long time daily reader of Fat Mum Slim and blogger also. Little tip on the whole breast feeding weaning thing, I breast fed my daughter for 2 years, pretty much because I didn’t know how to wean, one day a friend told me to put lemon on my nipples, worked like a charm! She did not like the weird new taste, so every time I wanted her to have a bottle, I would do that and she would just take the bottle. Took exactly a week.

    Meanwhile in my own brain….I’m moving from blogger to wordpress at the moment and my brain is so overloaded it’s all I can think/stress about!

    • Lemon! I might try that if I can’t work out a plan. I’ll feel bad though, but it sounds like it might work. Ha. 🙂

      You’ll WordPress once you’re there. Are you doing it yourself?

  88. Hi, I’m Eileen. I’m a mum of 3, grandma to 2 adorable boys, and a blogger. You can catch me at Thesearegrandmasthoughts.wordpress.com if you fancied popping over. Took early retirement from my post in NHS, and have been working harder ever since! But love the flexibility I now have . Started using Instagram when I was introduced to the daily photo challenge! Really enjoy doing it. At the moment my mind is full of a promise I made to myself to blog at least once a week … And wondering why I did!!!

  89. HI Chantelle. Happy New Year. I’m Vicki, mother of 2 girls, wife and a newbie blogger (6 months old). I’ve so enjoyed your photo a day it’s really made me stop and take a moment which is one of the things I’m trying to do more of. Also on my mind is having to say good bye today to my sister and 2 nieces (one being only 16 weeks) who were visiting for the last month, not sure when we’ll see them in person again so a bit of sadness there. On the positive side I’m really excited about 2015 and putting into practice all the amazing things you taught us on the CC course and building confidence to put a bit more of the personal into the blog as well as all the food!

  90. Hi Chantelle, I am Teresa. From Iowa. US. I have two college aged kids and a great hubby. Plus one dog and four cats. Three of the cats are outside. Anyway, what’s on my mind? We are sitting in the airport in Orlando Florida waiting to head back home. The weather here has been heavenly. At home yesterday, the high was a neg 5*F. Too cold, burr! It will be a shock.
    Also, I feel this is the year to get my life back, mainly, my body. Eat healthier for all of us, move more, declutter…

  91. Well, hi! I’m Naomi, and I blog over at cremelifestyle.com. It’s been two years since I moved from Sydney to Los Angeles with my husband, where I’m a freelance writer (mostly for women’s magazines). What’s on my mind? WHAT ISN’T?! I feel like I have a hundred tabs open in my head at any one time. But mostly, it’s about next chapters… getting healthy (wow, do I hear you about being done with the angst), deciding when to move back to Australia, where and when to have babies… blah! Anyway, I’m super inspired by your blog, so thank you.

    • I read your blog last night {date night! When Hubby went to the bathroom}. It’s beautiful, and you write so well {well obviously, you’re a writer!} but in such a clever way. Just so cool.

      I think you should move back to Australia immediately, if not sooner. And babies, maybe in a hospital. Just a thought? 😛 x

      • Aw, thank you! That means so much coming from you. It’s only a baby blog, but I love it. It’s just so nice to write for myself – free from word counts and deadlines and house styles.

        Haha, I like the advice! Baby steps, right? x

  92. Hi Chantelle. My name is Felicity and I am a partner, mother to two miniature dachshunds, small business owner and blogger. Earlier this week I relocated to Townsville from the GC with my partner and although the move went smoothly, the town is absolutely beautiful, and I love our new house – I still feel a sense of loss/emptiness or something along those lines. I am hoping this feeling will pass soon enough. I am also looking for a new part time job as my small blog design business doesn’t make enough to pay the bills each week. I am currently feeling “the fear” and it is very depressing. x

    • Oh Felicity. I think that’s pretty natural to feel that way when you’ve made such a big move, I hope you’re gentle with yourself as you ease into the changes. I felt the same way when I moved North. I had a big cry on the first day, thinking I’d made the wrong decision… then I just got excited about discovering new things and exploring our new home.

      I hope you find your feet soon. xxx

  93. My mind is all about the busy atm, trying to finally get my craft business launched and every time I think I’m just about there, something else comes up that needs to be sorted (like re-taking the product photos yet again or sorting new insurance as what I have doesn’t seem quite right) and then the ongoing costs and how I’m going to market it and do all the other things to make it a success while working full time, parenting and baking another baby. Then of course there is the baby an all the hopes/fears and planning that go with that. Busy times but happy times 🙂

    • Just remember nothing will ever be perfect, but done is better than perfect. 🙂 People won’t notice the small things that you do, so just do it. 🙂

      Cos I’m the same, and I then people, don’t notice anyway. All the best with your business! x

  94. Hello lovely;

    I love when you do these. You always have done this blogging thing so well.

    I think I started blogging not long after you. I was back in April 2008 if memory serves correct. But that original blog is long gone. I now have my new blog, where I write about all things about my new life. I loved detailing my pregnancy there + hope that I will continue to blog there as Scarlett grows.

    It feels weird to say that I am a mumma now. I wrote a post (a few years ago now) about why I wanted to be a mumma. I never thought that it would happen so soon. I am beyond in love with her. I honestly at times wonder what I used to spend all that time doing before!

    I don’t really have anything on my mind; except that I need to declutter + list the items I want to get rid of so that this house can become clutter free!

    I hope you enjoyed your cuddles yesterday!

    xx

  95. Hi, Chantelle, I’m Leida (pronounced Lee-EYE-duh), and I’m a fledgling blogger in the US. I started blogging 2 years ago as a single mama of one son, to try to wrap my head around the life I was trying to make for us both. I have since reconciled with my son’s father and we’re happily expecting our 2nd child (a girl!) this summer. On my mind currently is the new adventure of parenting a girl, the unending nightmare that is potty training a 3 yr old male, how to maintain a healthy work-life balance, how to soothe my incredibly itchy preggers belly, how to get my readers to comment on my blog posts instead of on Facebook, and how on earth we’re going to afford childcare for two children in 6 months. Nothing big. 😉

    Love your blog. It’s a fun read and I look forward to your updates in my reader. Thanks so much for letting us in on your life!

    • Oh, lots on your plate.

      Curious minds wants to know… how much is childcare for you guys per day? Ours is around $90-$100 per day per child. What’s it for you?

  96. Hello ! I’m Fred, from France. I’m a photo-holic and craft girl, which drives me to scrapbooking for some years now. It became my main “professional” activity and I contribute to a french magazine & website : Entre Artistes. I am a pretty poor blogger, not very constant, but I try to improve myself at it 😉 … I follow Photo-a-day, more or less regularly, for about 2 years and I love it ! I can not thanks you enough for challenging me this way ! It pushes me to look for new photo ideas, look at things differently and get out of my routine 😀 … What a scrapbooker needs most is … photos 😉

  97. My name is Savannah, I live in the US in Oregon. I’ve got a blog of my own, and I’ve been blogging for a little less than a year. I love drawing, sketching, painting, etc. You have inspired me so much for so long and have made an impact on my life of blogging. (Also, I’m younger than you’d think) I’ve got 2 dogs, 3 cats and a bunch of cows. Basically, I’ve been writing since a very young age and decided that blogging would be the one thing that could connect me with the rest of those writers out there. I love DIYs, and nothing inspires me more than a good journal. Thanks for reading Chantelle, you have no idea how much you’ve inspired me.

    xoxo, Savannah

  98. My name is Sophie and I’m a blogger as well, and have been for nearly a year now. I generally blog about anything that interests me (which makes things slightly all over the board), but I can’t see why I shouldn’t when everyone has interests in different things. I’m also a nanny by day and studying my Bachelor of Early Childhood Education in my off hours. I’m currently living on the Northern Beaches of Sydney but I’m originally from a farm a good 6.5 hours away (7 if you include time to stop during the drive). I’ve been reading and following your blog for a while, but I don’t get to comment as often as I would like to unfortunately 🙁

    Sophie xxx

    • Oh gosh, we have similar lives. I was a nanny and a blogger, but I didn’t study. Perhaps I should have.

      I hope everything goes well. I really miss nannying. It was great to get to be part of people’s families. x

  99. Hi Chantelle,
    I’ve been umming and aaahing for days on whether to drop by and say ‘wassup’ and finally I’ve decided to jump in and do it! So this is me saying hi and letting you know what’s going on for me…
    My name is Lydia. I live in the UK. I have a degree in Fashion and Textiles design but I don’t ‘use’ it day to day. I’m married and I have one daughter who is nearly 6 and a half.
    I love your blog (and photo a day), and that’s not me being a suck up, I genuinely love your chatty style and the things you post about. I’d dearly love to visit Australia one day. (We nearly got that opportunity last year but that’s a story for another day!) I’ve been told lately that I really ought to start a blog myself, and I’m giving it some serious consideration. (I’m one of those annoying indecisive types who tends to overthink things and drive people crazy!) My daughter is performing arts obsessed. I thought it was a phase…that was 3 years ago! My weeks are a mass of lessons, rehearsals, auditions and taxiing her here, there and everywhere. It had been suggested that I ought to blog about my experiences of this but I have no idea where to start! Any tips?
    So the next two weeks are going to be crazy. Usual manic routine (which includes school) plus Panto performances and filming (yes filming) and this kid isn’t going to have a ‘day off’ until the 25th. She’ll be fine, I’ll be a wreck!
    Right, that’s enough waffling on from me,
    Keep doing what you’re doing because I think you rock!
    Lydia x

    • I think you should blog. Heck I think everyone should blog. Just set a goal to blog every other day for 3 months and see if you like it.

      Thanks for your kind words and popping by to say WASSUP! xxx

  100. I just want to say I LOVE the new weekly photo a day list! It makes it so much easier to get it done. I like seeing 1 week at a time and save a copy on my phone so I will remember to do it. I used to lose track of the whole month list and therefor not finish it. Hope you keep it this way! Thanks for doing this!

  101. Hi Chantelle
    My name is Gail from the lovely Gold Coast. What do you think of this wonderful rain?
    What is on my mind? New beginnings are what is on my mind. After a year of sorting out health issues (I have had chronic fatigue for so long now and they finally diagnosed sleep apnoea) I am finally feeling fit enough to go back to the work I love. I have been accepted for two casual jobs, one at an outside school hours care and one at a respite service for people with disabilities. Both have so much potential and I am so excited, filling in paperwork and organising uniforms. 2015 is going to be a fabulous year.
    P.S I still love photo-a-day and the new weekly list is a fabulous idea. I can not believe that people are calling you names for changing something that is your to change. One thing I have learnt is you can not please everyone and that is not your role in life. You have to learn to please yourself so you can grow into the person you are proud of.

    • Hello Gail! I like the rain, but the humidity can bugger right off. My hair doesn’t know whether it’s coming or going. Crazy!

      Thanks for the advice on pleasing myself. That’s so true. Growing into someone I’m proud of is such a good direction to head. Thank you.

      Congrats on the job front. 2015 is going to be a good year! x

  102. Hi!

    I LOVE THE CHANGE!!!! I love the weekly lists. Thank you. I cannot believe how cruel people have been to you. This is a fun photo game. It’s not a mortgage bill or car price negotiation. This is supposed to be a little bit of fun for the day!! I am so sorry for the way people have treated you. It’s kind of ridiculous. I wish they could be more mature. Keep going and take care!!!

    • Oh thank you. I don’t really get it either, but I guess it’s nice that Photo A Day means so much to them, but sad that it’s upsetting them so much.

      Thanks for your kind words. x

  103. Hi Chantelle,
    I’m Antoinette from the Netherlands, longtime lurker, occasionally left a comment 🙂 I want to say I am a Blogger, but the truth is, I have a Blog which I abandon all too often. But that’s okay, I blog for myself, when I feel like it, no pressure. Pressure is the issue, I always feel I HAVE to do this or I HAVE to do that, slowly I’m learning it’s okay to do nothing at all and ENJOY that time. Life is too short and we shouldn’t run through the day, but slow down, pause and give attention to details. For the last five months we’ve had the opportunity to say goodbye to my father. We talked like we never talked before, no subject was left out, big things and tiny details, we laughed and cried, our time was valuable because we knew we didn’t have much left. He died just before Christmas and we miss him terribly. But I know he’s watching over me and my kids, all I have to do is find a way to enjoy life without him and his guidance. Sorry to be a downer, but this is on my mind.
    I started Photo A Day several times, but never managed to keep it up all month. I think I can manage a week, I should, shouldn’t I?
    From someone who hates change with a vengeance: thanks for the chance to step out of my comfort zone. I’ve never left a comment this personal on a Blog. It feels good. Good luck with the digging, the more you love yourself, the more you can love others. It seems to me you’re already very good at it. xx

    • Oh Antoinette, your comment made me so emotional. I could actually visualise you chatting with your father and soaking up that limited time he had left. It’s just beautiful.

      I am so sorry for your loss, but so happy that you had that quality time together. I’m sure he’s watching over you.

      I think trying one week is a great way to dip your toes into the photo challenge. One week is manageable. Maybe next week will be the week?

  104. Hello Chantelle,
    I would like to start off by saying I LOVE that you’ve shaken up photo a day and given it a bit of a change (I like change) :). I’ve read through comments under both first and second weeks prompts and I would have to admit I don’t know how you do it reading the ‘not so nice ones’. so my bit of positivity to you is focus on the people who are positive and support you and don’t let the negative Nancy’s bring you down. 🙂
    My name is Tammy, I live on the gold coast, I’m an only child, a mother to a beautiful girl and wife to a wonderful husband and I have two fur babies…. I’ve been told that I’m a crazy cat lady which I’m ok with.
    I’ve been doing photo a day for a few years now on and off and I’m determined to make this year the first year that I complete it from start to finish. I’m a new blogger so this year I’m hoping to find my mojo, go over my notes from clever cookie and post more.
    Tammy x

    • Hello Tammy, and neighbour {almost!}. I hope you that jump in feet first into blogging this year. I think you should share some crazy cat lady stories! Ha.

      Looking forward to reading your blog. x

  105. Hi Chantelle,
    I’m Leisa. Mum from Melbourne. I found your blog a long time ago and felt like I related to you, loved than an Aussie mum was writing on topics that interested in me, most of the blogs I read are from the US so I like your style. What’s on my mind? well this year I’m determined to work on bettering myself, physically (cause having a 4 year old is hardly still baby weight), spiritually and mentally. I love the feeling a new year brings out in me, ready to take on the world! so, here’s to 2015 and all that it brings x

  106. Hello from Seattle in Washington state. Long time photo a day person. I will just say I don’t like the weekly prompt change. What I should say is I like them fine but wish that in addition there was an option for the whole month calendar add. Just because Not everyone likes it does not make them negative and a bad person. It would be a dull world if we all only liked the same things!! I just like to look ahead and plan a little more. Sometimes I forget until that night that have to quickly find something to fit the prompt! I don’t want to be painted as a “hater” I will make do until I forget to look for the new weeks ones. It is one more thing to remember in my frail brain! 🙂

    • Thanks Sheryl. I think it’s perfectly OK to not like all the same things. I think people just need to choose their words carefully, and give weekly a chance {hopefully} before completely dissing it. Thanks for making do. 🙂

  107. Hi Chantelle, I’m Anne and I live in rural WA. I just wanted to say I’m sorry you’ve been treated badly by the naysayers. I thought name-calling stopped in high school. I was happy with the monthly challenge and I’m also happy with the weekly challenge. I’m just glad you do PAD however it is presented! I love that PAD has me looking through my photographer’s eyes again and that it doesn’t need to be perfect, just a little something for my creativity each day. The community here (the majority) is supportive and friendly and I love that too. Thank you!

    • Hey Anne. Yes the majority are AMAZING and beyond anything I could wish for in an online community. My heart swells with how amazing they are. I’m forgetting the negative nancies. I’ve tried. I have.

      Thanks for being a little bit of sunshine today. xx

  108. I’m Jeanette, I’m not a blogger or a photographer, just a mum (I am so much more than that but it fits for now). I started doing pad as I wanted to learn and be creative and enjoy life instead of letting it pass by.
    What am I thinking? Not much. lol. I am like you in that I don’t like it when things get boring but I am not a good one for change. Am loving the weekly challenge. It is making me focus on now and not getting too bogged into the future. I am also thinking that I should feed my kids as they are getting restless.

    • Hello! I hope you fed the kids, because mine go crazy when they get hungry {not fun}.

      Are you a Gemini by chance? Wondering if that’s a trait – the hate change/get bored easy thing?

  109. Hello Chantelle. I love the PAD group, and have been with it for a couple of years now. I feel that I’ve grown as a photographer and as a person. Anyway, I think change is okay, as long as it’s not just for the sake of making a change. As you pointed out, the change that you made wasn’t that big…and what is the big deal? We are all just out to have fun in the group…and the people I’ve met are just amazing! I’m ashamed that some people acted so immaturely about it…and called you names…really? Being part of the group has spurred me on to begin planning a trip to Australia for next year…with a good friend. Not sure I would have done it before I joined PAD…but there is at least one dear lady I’d like to meet when we go…and maybe more by the time we get ready to go 🙂 Thank you so much for starting this group. I think I’m a better person for having been a part of it. Bless you…and don’t pay attention to those negative folks…they aren’t worth your time! Leslie from Kansas

  110. Hi Chantelle! I just wanted to pop over and say that I am loving the weekly fmspad lists! For me it makes it feel a little less daunting and ‘doable’, if you know what I mean. And if I miss a day it doesn’t feel like I can’t catch it up easily, whereas sometimes having a big list made it feel a little overwhelming if I missed a day when I’d made a goal for myself to do every day in a month.

    Don’t listen to the haters, they are sad people. Seriously, if getting worked up over having a monthly or weekly list is the most important thing for them to worry about then they are very lucky people! And also a little petty! Like they say, you can’t please all of the people all of the time!

    I appreciate the time and effort you put in to PAD and your blog. I don’t comment very often (I swear if I commented on every blog post I read from every blogger that is all I would do with my day, lol!) but I just wanted to say that from when I first started reading your blog way back in 2009 I have loved it and I think you’re pretty ace!

  111. I can’t (I can) believe people get so nasty about things that change. I will admit when you said you were posting the Photo A Day weekly that it didn’t allow me enough time to plan for it, but then as I’d never taken part in the challenge before, it made no difference, I just made assumptions and I suppose people get cross with themselves for their assumptions being wrong.
    I’m currently relocating from South Africa to Dubai so major changes occurring in my life right now, not just moving home, or moving overseas, those things I’ve done plenty of. By the time we finally get into our new home here (waiting for visas and our 5th week in a hotel) this will have been my 15th move in 43 years.
    I could say I don’t cope with change, but I obviously do otherwise I wouldn’t be living the life I lead, I suppose it’s more about control than change for me. As it’s a company move I have to deal via my husband with HR who contracted out to a relocation company who then employed an agent, making just a simple question and answer in regards to our lives out of my control.
    Change is good, but as soon as we settle we’ll be waiting for the call again that says ‘are you ready, you’re off to…..’

    • Oh gosh, I can only imagine how stressful things are for you right now. Dubai is beautiful, you’re so lucky to be calling that home {albeit temporarily}. x

  112. Hi Chantelle!

    What’s on my mind is the beautiful community you have here. Such beautiful connections you have made all around the world. I bet that feels like such a privilege to be such a special part of all your readers days. And you reply to them all.

    You are one special lady I think. 🙂 Xx

  113. Hello sunshine!

    How are you? Sorry about the photo-a-day change haters. Some people just don’t do change. I say embrace it.

    Can I just remind you how brilliant, creative, clever, generous, witty, inspiring + kind you are. I tell anyone who will listen that I have had the pleasure of meeting you + you are an absolutely delightful treasure miss Chantelle. I also tell them to buy LittleMoments app – they won’t be disappointed! 😉

    Your holidays in Hawaii + Dubai looked super special. I hope you had a lovely time with your fam. And your new nephew, Maverick – on the same cute scale as your Lulu.

    I am really excited about 2015. My last year of uni – I’ll be a registered Nurse by the end of the year, my little brother is getting married (to a Chantelle!) and I hope to maybe squeeze in some travel.

    I hope your dreams + wishes for your 2015 come true. Here’s to fluidity! xx

    p.s good luck with weaning Lulu. I’m not a mama so don’t have any tips for you except do what works for YOU!
    p.p.s mum + dad have bought a unit in kirra – I secretly hope to run into you on the beach sometime soon!

  114. Hey Chantelle, I feel like you probably already know me, I seem to be one of those friends that hangs around, always there in the background, sometimes I pop in and add my opinion sometimes not! Not sure if that is a good or bad thing… Any hoo, what is on my mind at the moment is my youngest is starting Kindy this year, yay, but that means that I am only 12 moths away from having to go back to work, this is weighing very heavily on my mind, I honestly do not know how working parents do it, and it scares me! I guess we will just have to deal with it when the time comes, meanwhile I would like to do a bit more for me this year, with all this spare time I will have, again I am a bit worried that I will squander the time away, I’m not really the most organised person and am very good at wasting time! I am thinking about doing some extra curricular studies to boost my chances of getting a job next year too, there are so many choices out there, what to do??
    Well there you have it, you asked so I answered, I love PAD and I love your blog, I’m really looking forward to what 2015 brings for the both of us!
    Thank you and take care xxx

    • I don’t know how parents do it either. Like I actually do not know – when kids are sick, or when you’ve had no sleep. I just take my hat off to them. Amazing!

      I hope you find the perfect role for you next year, and suggest that you should enjoy this year and not waste it away with worry. Soak it up! x

  115. Hi Chantelle,
    I love your work! I am a new regular follower of your gorgeous blog! I live in Pottsville, Northern NSW and I have a FIFO hubby and two smallish kiddies. I still remember weaning my kiddies, well they both weaned from me – both at 10 months old. I was so Sappy (sad-happy) the second time round as I am stopping at 2 kiddies. I am so happy to be in a new year! Many great things to come! I run a new-slowly growing FIFO Northern Rivers Group and I am finishing my Post-Grad in Counselling end of this year! I work in the disability field for a boss who always teaches (us) her staff to not be afraid to challenge others in their thinking! Your change in your Photo a day may have attracted awful reactions, but know that you are actually challenging those people out of their comfort zone and helping them to grow! Have a fabulous year and hope the negativity washes over you quickly! Oh and on my mind is… Establishing my ‘energy list’ – my go to list of re-energising balancing things for me when I am feeling overwhelmed with the busy-ness of life. Happy New Year!

    • Rachel! You sound like my kinda person! Proactive and just plain awesome. I am going to borrow your idea for the re-energise list. Mine is usually walking near the beach, but I’d like to add more {and hopefully none that involve cake!}. x

  116. Hi! My name is Lori. I’m from Eureka, Montana. I’m a teacher. Some things that I LOVE to do when I can is reading and kayaking. I’m trying to find a love for running at the moment but it’s a love/hate relationship right now. I love your blog and the photo of the day challenge. BTW change is GOOD. I really enjoy getting the weekly challenge. What is on my mind at the moment is how my weight consumes me. I am obsessed. I think about it day and night. I am trying to lose, which this time is working. I want to finally be in a place where I don’t have my weight on my mind SO much. Another thing that is on my mind is balance. I am trying really hard to have a good balance in my life between work, family, and taking care of myself. So far this year….day 12…..I’ve accomplished this. I hope you have a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

    • Hey Lori. I know what you mean about it consuming you, it does with me too. And I just came to the point last week where I was done. I’m not going to live another 35 years obsessing anymore. And I need to be a better role model for my kids. I’m done.

      Let’s do this Lori! x

  117. Hey gorgeous! So I’ve been a bit absent recently, although in saying that despite the fact I subscribe to you I haven’t been getting emails when you post, or your newsletter. So I’m about to go through a few posts of yours I’ve missed. Right now I’m concentrating on eating almonds and not boxes of chocolates for afternoon tea! I also have Kat popping over to drop off some school uniforms from the twins so I’m about to take my Xmas tree, I can’t be too unorganised! What else, my son starts school this year so worried a bit as he’s UBER shy. But I’m sure having a big sissy there will help. Love you long time Chantelle! Oh and I’m also STOKED the rain appears to have disappeared for awhile! x

  118. Hi Chantelle I am new to photography, I am enjoying every day looking for my photoaday, I find it stimulating and challenging whilst bringing out my creative side too. (Didn’t think I had one).
    As for change, it is so good, leaving your comfort zone and exploring new ideas and challenges.
    Carolyn

  119. Hi Chantelle, Becci here. I’m a blogger too (though I’ve lost my mojo lately). I think we’ve even met at conference or something but I could be wrong – my memory is not the best. I’m sure if we did you were lovely as you are reflected in your blog. Have intermitently participated in Photo a Day and though not a photographer (in fact I’ve killed any camera I’ve ever owned), its helped me think more creatively. And the conversion to a weekly one is much more manageable.
    So much going through my head at the moment, newish job, starting to finally write my mother’s story and at the ripe old age of almost 49, still trying to work out what I should be doing with my life (beside the job, husband, kids etc!). Love that you’re on a similar journey (ick, hate that word!), life’s too short to waste just ‘being’. x

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