Sorry Oprah

o-OPRAH-facebook

I’m so sorry Oprah, but I think we’re breaking up.

I want to give you the quick back story on this. I love Oprah, have always loved Oprah. It all started when I was younger and mum would watch her during lunchtime. I was mesmerised by her. I have her books, her DVD collection, and I subscribe to her magazine. I love her.

So as soon as tickets came on sale, I was there, feverishly refreshing the page to buy the tickets. I got them. Two of them.

Then I got an offer for a trip that I knew the girls would love, AT THE SAME TIME AS THE OPRAH CONCERT. I asked on Facebook what I should I do? The responses were mostly awesome. It was great to see so many people saying that I should be selfish and do it for me. And it was sad to hear a few say that I should hand in my parenting card if I picked Oprah.

I deliberated over what to do for a while, and while it would have been awesome to say that I put myself first, I didn’t. I weighed it all up, and talked to my family, and decided that I wanted to take the girls on this trip {I know they’ve already been on some amazing trips} plus I’ll be taking my mum overseas for her first trip ever. I don’t know if I’ll have regrets, who knows. It’s a risk I’m willing to take.

But here’s the thing; I thought I could send one of you guys, and then you could tell me ALL THE THINGS she says. And if she gives you a car, we can share it {I joke, you can keep it}.

So is there someone who wants to go, and take a friend, to see Oprah on me? I have two tickets for you and a friend. All you have to do is report back on the night {maybe just tell me 10 things you loved hearing Oprah say?}, nothing major!

An Evening with Oprah: Saturday December 12th at 8pm in Sydney. I’ve got two tickets, for you and a friend to enjoy a little Oprah, and get all inspired!

If you want to go, just leave a comment below telling me why you love Oprah and why you want to go, and who you’d take with you.

I’ll pick a person, and transfer the tickets to them on the 1st of December at noon. Thanks to everyone who entered. The winner is JoJo.

112 thoughts on “Sorry Oprah”

  1. Oh FMS, what a prize. I’d text you snippets, while listening like a whippet.
    Oh yes it’s true, Oprah would be a dream come true. She’s come from the bottom to the very top. She remains honest & true. So what’s a girl to do? Take my mum of course, she first introduced me to Harpo, it’d nice to return the favour.

  2. Great decision! It’s a tough job but someone’s got to do it….I’d be more than happy to take a few little notes for you. I’d definitely take my Mum…its a Mum/Daughter kind of thing and given you are taking your Mum on her first trip, it only seems right I take my Mum. We both love Oprah and couldn’t think of a better way to dive into 2016 than with a big spiritual boost from Oprah.

  3. Oh. Em. Gee. I wish I didn’t live in the UK!! Grrr! Oprah and Brene Brown are two serious ladies I would love to hear in person!

  4. Dear Oprah

    Sorry to hear that Chantelle broke up with you.

    Just a quick note to let you know I’m totes down with being your rebound chick.

    I’m fun, I make flirty eyes, I’ll laugh at your jokes. I’m a sympathy crier and will ride the emotional journey with you… Every step of the way. While I will never be Chantelle, I promise to try and make you forget the fact that she’s not there to share in your night… Together we can heal the breakup pain. And we are totally on the same page – it’s a rebound thing right? I’m super non-clingy, totes down for a one-night-only deal.

    Breakups are hard O, but spend your evening with me 😉

    Oh and my super hot best friend can come too. She’s down for whatever, if you know what I mean…

    Jo

  5. I would love this. I used to live to watch Oprah with my mum on those rare days we were home at lunch time together too. And when working from home I totally just “fluked” a lunch break at exactly that time EVERY DAY. I would totally take my mum with me. Thanks for an amazing giveaway chance, and I hope you have a fantastic trip away.

  6. I would love to not only see Oprah speak, as I admire her personal drive, resilience and compassion, but to be in such a positive space – can you imagine the love and good vibes that will be flowing in all directions around that arena?! It would keep you floating high well into 2016. I would bring a friend who needs some extra good energy at this time and who would help me collect the top ten wisdoms of Oprah for you!

  7. Wow, what a prize! I’ve loved Oprah since forever. I love her drive, her determination, her strength and I love her love. I’d take my mum, she’s my best friend always has been, always will be.

  9. I’m with Kirralee, it must be something totes awesome to pass on your night with Madame O herself. This way you get to make memories with the fam and you’ll still get to find out everything Oprah said and did! You know what you said about saying no, well, it’s not so much that is it, but it’s about saying a big, fat YES to doing things that make you happy! You’re already great at that! I know you can’t wait to hear about Oprah but I can’t wait to hear about your trip! How exciting!

  10. I shouldn’t go to Oprah either, I have my work Christmas party on BUT my sister-in-law would love to go! She would tape Oprah every day and watch her when she got home. She’s had a tough few months. My brother, her husband, is currently OS with the Air Force fighting ISIS and doesn’t return until the end of December. In September and then October she lost her Dad and Mum. One was sick but her mum died unexpectedly. She is lonely and anxious. I would love to surprise her with tickets to Oprah. It would lift her!

  12. Well going to Oprah would be sweet!! I have ♡ed her since i first seen her on the tv. I would be happy as a peach to tell you ten or more things she says and if she gives me a car i would totally take you on a road trip 😉 i would love to take my sister from another mother. We wanted to go when Oprah was here last time but we missed out. Hope you have a wonderful trip !!!

  14. Gosh Chantelle!! I can’t even imagine having to make this decision. I’m 100% confident you’ll have NO REGRETS after putting this holiday with your girls and Mumsie before a night with Oprah.
    Forget the giveaways and hysteria (I’m not much of a screamer!!), I love Oprah because she reminds us of the wonderful and inspirational side to humanity. She stirs up hope and positivity, basically the opposite to what the news & media would have us believe.
    I would love to go as your proxy and take my wingman, Deánne (aka Wingy), along for an injection of hope and inspiration. We’re both in our early 40’s and have individually weathered our most challenging year so far. I was diagnosed with cancer in January and a couple of months later Wingy’s 13yr battle with Crohns resulted in her losing a significant portion of her bowel.
    We’ve emerged at the other end of this year still hopeful and positive but with some new scars – physically, emotionally and mentally. I’m grateful she’s my Bestie.

  15. I was actually wondering about this the other day and wondering how you came to a decision. Go on your holiday, no regrets. Miss O would agree. In the meantime I’ll gran my mum and go to sydney for you and scream in delight, cry in awe, snap some selfies and try to catch an up close view of the queen herself. Oprah is such an inspiration to us all and I’d love to hear her words of wisdom in person.

  17. I desperately wanted to shout myself a ticket to Oprah as my birthday is on the 12 th December. I love Oprah so much and used to watch her religiously at lunchtimes. I looked at the tickets and decided as a widowed mother of three I couldn’t justify the expense of a ticket where I wouldn’t even see her gorgeous face except on a screen so after much tooing and froing I decided not to purchase one. But I would still love to go ! Whoops thought the tickets were for the Brisbane one. I wouldn’t be able to get to Sydney, but I hope someone has a fabulous time !

  20. Firstly, you made the right decision. I too had to make this decision. Oprah is in Melbourne on my 40th birthday, at first I thought it was destiny that I would see out my hardest 10 years hearing her amazing, inspiring words. Though this would mean not spending it with my awesome husband who has been my constant support. The decision was a no brainer! Husband all the way!
    I like you have loved Oprah my whole life, and bought her book What I know for sure all because of this quote on the back cover. “I know for sure: Your journey begins with a choice to get up, step out, and live fully.” Yep! resonated completely and was what I needed to read that very day.
    I would take my friend Leeann who again love Oprah like I do and has been the best friend I could have needed this past 10 years.
    To however you choose, I hope they enjoy every moment of it, and can’t wait to hear what they report back.
    Enjoy your trip Chantelle X

  21. What an amazing offer.

    My mum and I used to gush over Oprah’s amazing generosity and personality. I’d spend sick days watching Oprah with my mumma bear.

    Mum and I haven’t had much chance to do many things like this together. I live in Sydney and she lives in Dorrigo on the Mid North Coast. I’m 23 and I see her probably once a year and it breaks my heart. I miss her so much.
    It would mean the world if I could have an opportunity to take her to something like this and spend some time together.

  22. Yes, Yes, Yes! I would love to go to Oprah live. Most of my life lessons have been learned (or cemented) during an episode of Oprah. I clearly remember watching many years ago when a little boy was giving his Mum bone marrow. He said “Lots of people wouldn’t want to donate bone marrow because of the pain. I know it will hurt, but what’s a little bit of pain compared to a life time of hurting if I lost my Mum”. Oprah cried, then I cried & I thought how the meaning of life was wrapped up in that little boy’s sentiment: Love, give & be kind. Oprah gets it.I’d take my Mum along, she’s my Oprah viewing buddy from way back!

  23. Tough choice! I think you made the right one 🙂 and I’m not just saying that because I’d love to take the Oprah tickets off your hands

  24. I would love to see Oprah! Her energy, her generosity, her accent, her hair, her bestie Gail, her drive and her never-give-up attitude! What’s not to love?!? And how fantastic would it be to experience all that in real life?!?!?!? It would be an unforgettable night and I would share it with my Mum! and you of course you too Chantelle! I’m already in Sydney and it is 4 days after my birthday – so perfect! 😉 Thanks for the opportunity and have a great holiday 🙂

  25. I have always looked up to her she’s a girl that with a hard life, she succeeded to great hights but never forgot her root and has always been so kind and giving back.

  26. I would love to go and randomly I’m in sydney on the 12th (meant to be!!). I’d love to share the other ticket with one of your other lovely followers and meet an amazing person and we would become friends bonding over Oprah and FMS!

  27. Omg!!! This is such a lovely thing to do. I know your family especially your mum will love it and be so thankful for the choice you made 🙂

    I love Oprah because she is real, she has an amazing spirit that is infectious and she worked dam hard to get to wear she is. I generally think she is a wonderful human and we can all learn a lot from her, which is the main reason I would like to go, to learn.

    As for who I would take that would have to be my wonderful mum who adores Oprah. We missed out on tickets and I know surprise tickets would make her day (probably her year)

  28. I need something clever and witty
    So must come up with a ditty
    For there are two special tickets available you see.

    To see someone I’ve loved and admired
    Long after I thought my chance had expired
    For it was just too many dollars to spend just on me.

    I wanted to spend the money on this one night
    And see this amazing woman of delight
    But that’s selfish I said, you’ve got rocks in your head
    Use that money on something for your family.

    So I put that thought to bed
    And chose my family instead.
    I’ve booked a camping holiday by the sea.

    So there’s no Oprah for me
    But that’s fine you see
    For there might just be another way!

    I’m typing away with such glee
    Fat mum slim has a thing
    And has to give her two tickets away.

    Oh please pick me
    Just my sister and me
    We’d love to see what awesome ‘O’ has to say.
    Just one more thing, did I mention this thing?
    I think the show is actually on my birthday!

  29. Oprah is crazy inspirational and I would also take my mum who is a fan, a bit like your mum it would be her first trip outside of Queensland! (Almost Brisbane if you discount her been born 60 years ago in Nambour and the odd trip to Caloundra!)
    PS I totally called it that this is what you’d do!

  30. You’re so kind. Oprah would be proud. I bet your mum has the best time ever and amazing memories will be made and it will totes be worth breaking up with ‘O’ xx

  31. You totally made the right choice! And how lovely that you are giving away the tix. Oprah was a huge part of my life when I became a mum tuning into her show everyday whilst on mat leave so I feel like we’re bffs from way back.
    I’d take my mum who could use a bit of Oprah inspo having just gone through a nasty divorce settlement. Xx

  32. Oh what a difficult decision that would have been for you. I, like you, grew up watching Oprah over lunch with my mum. This then co tinted to watching it while I was breastfeeding three babies. I remember laughing, crying, being shocked and just feeling the love of Oprah.
    I would love the chance to see Oprah live and would take my bestie ( of 30 years and fellow FMS lover…..we used to message each other often ‘are you watching oprah?’). We both turn 40 next year, what an amazing way this would be to share this together.
    Enjoy your amazing family adventure, can’t wait to read all about it.

  33. I am with you Chantelle! I would always choose a holiday with my kids, but us mums need to look after ourselves too.
    After reading some of the responses to this, I would just like to say that there are too many other worthy ladies out there who deserve this time with Oprah. I believe she is such an inspiration and I have used many of her philosophies to get through some tough times and even just learning to be grateful for what I have, and I live by the saying that Oprah used all the time “when you know better, you do better”….a quote that Maya Angelou said on many of Oprahs shows.
    Good luck with choosing someone to go, you are a very generous and giving lady!

  34. Chantelle, big big big decision to make! HIGE! A choice between a night with an amazing woman who is proof that belief and determination WILL give you what your heart desires ( if you listen closely to what that is) or time away with your delightful family. Both options are amazing! Am 100% sure that you will have the most fabulous time with your loving family, ( you listened to what your heart needed & this was it) and I am 100% sure that the lucky woman you choose will have her life changed how amazing is that, that you could help make it happen?

    This prize would be amazing for me, right now this minute I am going through a phase of making changes that make my stomach turn, my anxiety levels are high in trying to keep in the track to success. a night with Oprah, would help remind me that I have all the tools within myself to make magic happen, I do know it’s true, but it’s been a long few years and a reminder that I have true self belief would be priceless.
    The decision on the night with Oprah is in your hands, whomever you choose I am sure will be forever changed and forever grateful, good luck xxx

  36. Omg! What an amazing opportunity! You’re just going to hand over your dream to someone else, that is AMAZING!!! I’d love to be your stand in, and I think I’d take my mum along for the ride!

  37. I wondered what decision you would make. Your family memories will be totally worth it. And what an amazing opportunity you are passing on. I’d love to see Oprah. I find her so inspiring. From the life she experienced as a child, to where she is now…totally amazing! I’d take my BFF. She has a family member who is experiencing deep depression and suicidal thoughts. She could totally use the night out, and hearing Oprah speak I;m sure would be very uplifting for her. x

  38. Oprah has a really really really tough up bringing and so did I. I think that’s why I’ve always been so mesmerised by her ability to rise up, to preserve and to make the very best out of a bad situation. She’s always been a role model that I could look upto when it came to making tough decisions ir feeling like I was in the pits of hell on earth. I’ve not long met my father for the first time. So getting to know my family has been this crazy ass roller coaster but right now that roller coaster is aiming towards those firey pits and fast! I’d love to get my flame for fighting re-ignited by our girl Oprah. She’s such an inspiration.
    And P.S- babe, you won’t regret that trip!! I’ve never been on an overseas trip or any trip for that matter with family and if I could have just one wish for my lie it would be to go on just one, special trip, overseas or domestic with my family. New and old. You won’t regret it babe. These are the things that memories are made of xxx

  41. I’d love to go! I’ve followed her forever!! I’d take my sister who’s the same as me -in total awe of the woman!
    I love that she made herself from a background of less, but a heart and spirit of more. I teach so many children like that! I think I could bring something home to inspire my students and community. Xx
    Ps- choosing time and experiences with your family IS putting yourself first!

  42. Wow Chantelle – you are one fabulous lady! I can imagine it would have been a tough choice, but I am sure a trip away with the family would be awesome and so memorable for you all! I really miss Oprah on tv, I too would watch it with Mum (and loved it!). I just want to see her big hair in real life, it so captivates me! I would take my Mum along for old times sake and I feel I would get my screaming fan girl on and just be a mess jumping up and down being crazy like everyone in the crowd. What fun!!!!

  44. I Loooooove Oprah!! She shows that if you have a dream and work hard, you can achieve it!!! I’d love to take my friend who has just finished her treatment for Breast Cancer as a special treat!!!

  45. I’d love to go, just to say I’d been, but I’ll leave the tickets to someone who’ll do you a decent report 😛

  46. Awwww thats so kind of you. I can’t BELIEVE some said you were a bad parent if you went to Oprah and not on a trip. Like what the fuck people? Seriously? So Im entering this because I would love my Mum to win. She works harder than anyone, and still works to help me and my business and my kids too. I have shingles at the minute and the dr said it is from being stressed, and its been a bit of a hard year, but also an awesome year, but my Mum is doing things for me super sly and quickly sorts things out or tries to defuse things so I don’t have to think about them and worry about them because my health has obviously taken a hit from all the ‘stuff’. She sneakily put money in my account and paid my bills and it took her more than a year to save that money. My computer broke and my insurance decided it wouldn’t cover it and my job is all on my computer and because of a few lame ass things this year I didn’t have the money for a new one, and she rocked up with a new computer and saved my sanity even though she herself doesn’t have the money. She takes my kids for a play any spare minute, she works from 6am-11pm she doesn’t ever stop. Even when she has my kids she works around them or will stay up later to finish her orders so she can take my kids to the park, and she works for me, and I wouldn’t survive if she didn’t help me. Our family has had a series of hard things happen this year alone, and she still laughs and smiles every day and doesn’t complain and right now while I have been dealing with some not great things, she just does absolutely anything to make it easier without asking. She just doesn’t stop. I would love to say thank you to her and be able to give this to her. Her business creating cookies and cakes is getting popular, but she can’t work anymore hours in the day, so I would love her to hear Oprah talk and get any tips on life. She copped the short straw in life with many many things. It started when she was two and her little body was badly burnt. She is the happiest most fun human on earth and I would love you to choose her. She is 59 and won’t ever be able to retire and works more than people half her age to survive. Thank you for doing this Chantelle, its so thoughtful. And I am pretty sure you won’t regret having this holiday. Some of my best and most cherish memories are trips with my family. You will have the BEST time ever xx

  47. I would love to see Oprah- I can’t even begin to fathom the amazing energy and excitement that the room would be filled with- which is why I want to go and experience it.
    I would take my sister Carly, she lives in Sydney and her and her family have been posted to Darwin. They move at the end of this year so it would be our ‘last hoorah’. And what an awesome ‘last hoorah’ it would be!

  48. Seriously, your heart is huge lady. What a gorgeous gesture, and you’re going to make some people super happy. All the while being happy with your girls and your Mama- winning on all fronts! Totes not throwing my hat in the ring, just wanted to put that out there. x

  49. I love Oprah because she is inspirational and does so much good in the world. Id love to go because Dec 12th is my birthday and Id take my husband 🙂 ps i hope you have an amazing trip with your family.

  50. Oh wow. The hardest part of entering this is deciding who I’d take. But I’ve nutted it out and decided I’d take my sister – because I know we’d have so much fun together, and she could get some Christmas shopping done while here for the weekend!

  51. Oh Chantelle this made me sit up a little bit straighter! A girlfriend suggested we go to this but I couldn’t afford it at the time – I’d just moved back in with my mum and was tossing up whether my chosen occupation was the one for me. I would love to see if Oprah could serve as inspiration – to see her in the flesh and to hear her take on the world and witness her positivity might enable me to act on some of the big decisions in my own life. I’d take my best pal, Taylor who has had her own tough year trying for her first bubba. We are both funny and can string a few words together so I’m sure we could report back as Oprah Angels after the show. Hoping to hear from you x

  52. Your such a awesome person all round and what a tough decision. Thank you for the opportunity for whoever you choose. What a hard choice.
    I thought I could beg to be picked or I could give you a lengthy story explaining why I’m the best person but I’m not doing either of those. I’m not a blogger so I wouldn’t report in via blog I’m just plain Ol Me. I’m Julz who loves to have a play on Instagram and my FB page is for catching up with friends and family. Why do I love Oprah?? She’s that one person who is a inspiration to so many people you know the everyday person like you and me. She just knows just what we want to hear and see and catch sour attention as she does it. Oh and who doesn’t love a Oprah gift-a-thon! Lol
    I’d take my mum. We live 5 hours apart and a awesome catch up opportunity there. Enjoy your time away with your family!

  53. Wow, how generous of you. I would love to go. My hardest decision would be who to take. Option one, a best friend from years ago, who was my one and only bridesmaid at my wedding. We used to watch Oprah together all the time and if we couldn’t be together we would watch whilst talking on the phone. This would be the perfect reunion after drifting apart years ago. Option two, an awesome friend I see everyday. She helps me through the daily struggles of parenting and is always there whenever I need it. It’s a tough choice but I’m confident the right optio would come to me if I happened to win.

  54. I really wanted to go with my mum but sadly we were unable to secure tickets. It would be an awesome opportunity to see Oprah, I think that despite having loads of money she really does battle the same issues as regular women around the world. Weight, self esteem, relationships…she is one amazing lady !

  56. This is amazing! I could cry! How generous of you!
    I was bullied through school, and my beautiful mum would pick me up at lunch time, drive me home and we would watch Oprah together to empower ourselves. She would then drop me back to school and on the drive we would reflect on the lesson from each show.
    Oprah empowered my mum enough to listen to her children and to encourage them to shine. Instead of giving me advice on how to handle the bullying, she would sit with me and empower me the same way she empowered herself.
    Since then I have lost 20kgs, healed my acne and try to pay things forward and bring a little light into people’s lives the same way Oprah does in mine.
    I listen to What I Know For Sure when I’m driving to keep me empowered and my friends all know that if they have a problem, I will give them an Oprah quote.
    Mum wanted to surprise me with tickets but she couldn’t afford them, so to surprise my mum as a way of saying thank you to the years she empowered me, I think all I would do is cry.
    You are doing a wonderful thing and I’m sure whoever you pick will be incredibly deserving xo ?

  57. Oh My Chantelle, what a decision to make! Although I probably would have made the same decision in the end! I would be honoured to go in your stead and would actually win them more for my sister, Tara than for me. As much as I ADORE Oprah, my sister, for as long as I can remember, has been an Oprah devotee. I desperately wanted to get her tickets but after a long period of unemployment it just isn’t possible with my budget right now unfortunately. Plus we lost our Mum to cancer earlier this year and are both struggling, and I just know this would be something I could do for my sister that would mean the world to her and help make her year a little better. This will be such a tough decision but if you choose me I promise to report back with all the Oprah glory, but to also thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to do something that is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for my beautiful younger sister. Much love x

  58. Wow, what an opportunity! And I know exactly why you have to give this up…. My girls are my everything and I would give it up for the sake of any special moment with my babes. I make these sacrifices out of love, because sacrifice is exactly what my Mum did all of our life as children, (and continues to now!). As a matter of fact I would take my Mum…. Why? Because Oprah is renowned for providing and installing hope into the individuals she speaks to! My Mum was in a toxic relationship, she had a child with Spina bifida (plus 3 more kids)…. She had no money, often worked up to 5 jobs, and I love her more every day for everything she did. Unfortunately it was all at the expense of her health and emotional stability. She is now working so hard to make a new life for herself (because that is the only person she has ever relied on) and this opportunity could be a ‘game changer’ for someone that needs to hear that there is still so much good in the world. Please choose me so I can give her an experience she will never EVER forget.

  59. Chantelle, Chantelle, making the choice like you have done choosing your family over Oprah would be like watching two halves of yourself fighting it out in the ring. Ultimately no competition as a mother, we almost always put our family first. But now for you to offer a chance for a little Ol’ single working mother like me, who is struggling financially and what little money I do have goes to my daughters needs before mine, to potentially win these two tickets to see Oprah…wow, I can’t thank you enough. Oprah has always been such an inspirational strong woman who has shown every woman out there that no matter how dark the night, how deep the hole you may find yourself in YOU CAN and YOU WILL always find the strength inside you to make your way out; that no matter how long it takes you must keep fighting for what you believe in, for you and your family and trust in you, and you will make it. You can find YOUR happy place, and not someone else’s idea of what your happy place should be. I don’t know you but I know you Chantelle. You in a way are lighting the dark for the followers of your stories, just like Oprah. You may not think you are anything compared to her, but see that is the thing; we, as women, as mothers are always comparing our level of success, our happy place to other women, other mothers yet we all, in our own way however big or small, however public or private can find our happy place and inspire those around us. My mother is one of those inspirational women in my life and I’d love to take her with me to sit with Oprah given the chance. I’d like to become one of those women who inspire my daughter, she is only 2.5yr old, but everyday I’ll fight for her and hopefully give and teach her the tools that will help her become a strong and inspirational woman too. Thank you Chantelle for this chance and I hope I’m the lucky one!!

  60. What an amazing opportunity! Thank you!
    Oprah – I’ve loved her since my teen years. She was the one who introduced me to Maya Angelou and her poetry. I ended up doing my year 12 English thesis on ‘phenomenal woman’ because I became so enamoured. As the years went on, I related to her body issues & body love. I have fond memories of breastfeeding my children while watching her show. I love her ‘live your best life’ mantra.
    If I won, I’d take one of my besties, Jess. She’s a woman who has overcome many things in life and I’m in awe of her strength – even when she’s not. I think we’d both greatly benefit from a night with Oprah! Also I’d like to mention that I’d rock that ‘a night with Oprah’ reporting job ?

  61. You are a beautiful Mum and the years to come, your girls will thank you.
    I know, because I would love to take MY Mum to thank HER for all the sacrfices she made to give us a childhood to remember. My Mum is now in a wheelchair and despite multiple disabilities has been rejected for a pension three times. She is raising my 11 year old Sister on $500 a fortnight, with a mortgage and never gets to do anything for her. Unfortunately, my husband has struggled to get work and we have 4 kids and a mortgage on my youth worker income, so our belt is tight too. It would absolutely make Christmas to spoil my mum with this night out.
    What we love about Oprah is her authenticity, she has faced so many stigmas but has always had courage in her conviction. She has given so much back to the world, her charity work is immense and her passion is inspirational.

  62. Chantelle! This is so nice of you to do. And I can’t wait to hear what you get up to with your family. So excited for your girls and your mum from your decision. I’ve just done a stint as a rapporteur (you’ll even get a written report of everything that goes down – it will just be like you’re there)! Seriously though, normally I would take my mum. She was due to retire at the end of the year, but after at least 5 visits back to the dr over months, she finally sought a second opinion and found out she has stage 3c ovarian cancer. She’s had major abdominal surgery and is half way through chemo – all in a matter of just over 2 months. So while she can’t come, I would take my sister who has been living with her and caring for her. And hope that for my mum who has rarely had a sick day (before now) to support 4 girls on her own, that I might be able to bring something back for her to cheer her up! This would be a much needed pep for all of us to get through the next stages. But I know whoever you pick will be so worthy, so thank you for the oportunity!

  63. I think you had a really hard decision to make! Am glad you got there in the end and I bet you’ll have no regrets at all. I love Oprah because I think she is able to speak about the real issues without fear of judgement. I just think seeing her would be an amazing experience. Plus a road trip to Sydney with my bestie? Sounds like heaven to me!

  64. Have a blast with your family. You only get this time with them once. Its aways difficult when there is something else you also want to do, and I think if you made the decision to see Oprah you would have loved that too, but at the end of the day its just one day. A trip will bring a lot of memories for your whole family. Who knows you may even get to meet Oprah at another time in your life. xo

  65. #firstworldproblems haha but I honestly would be kerfuffled about this! I would take my fiance. I love Oprah for her bravery. That woman has been through a lot and has consistently kept her integrity persistently. Who wouldn’t want to see Oprah? That’s like saying you have the chance to dine with the queen! *drops the microphone* End scene.

  66. I would have done the same as you honey. I am a proud mama of four awesome babes. After 16 yrs of marriage I left, taking my four babies with me. On this special day, White Ribbon day, I am grateful and confident I made the right decision. Oprah has been part of my journey. She is one of many sources of inspiration for me. If chosen I would take my best mate and sister. She has never left my side and is now going through her own challenges. This experience would be such an incredible highlight for both of us and to experience it as sisters…wow! I’m in love with words so would write up a storm about our experience. Thanks for the opportunity. x

  67. Why do I love Oprah? Because she is an awesome human being. And more people should model themselves on her. She’s open to discussing her REAL life – not a fake one.

    My friend best friend Kim moved away 2 years ago. She’s never met my kids and I have never met her son. I’ll say our husbands don’t see eye to eye. We both need a break. A weekend away. And how better to do it than in a weekend of inspiration with Oprah?

  68. I too loved watching Oprah in the early years, and thought wouldn’t it be great to be in the audience (especially when she had her favourite things on). I’d take my Mum as I think she would love it as much as I would. Thanks for the opportunity and yes, family first, no regrets! ~ Mariane xxx

  69. This is yet another moment where I’m kicking myself for not moving to Australia when I had the chance. I hope whoever wins shares their experience in a post so I can live vicariously through them!

  70. I love Oprah – I love her for the countless amazing things that she has done for humanity. For being a voice for so many disadvantaged groups and for putting so many social causes on the public agenda. However, but I have a bone to pick with her. I think she missed the memo on the importance of vaccination, and she gave Jenny McCarthy air in such a prominent way. So I’d like to see Oprah so I might be able to share something with her – and talk about the utter importance of childhood vaccination. To clear up some of the misunderstanding.

    Who would I take? One of my amazing mum friends – who is as passionate about vaccination as I am! And how also deserves a girls only getaway!!

    Btw – do you feel a bit like Oprah with this giveaway????

  71. I Love Oprah, I know she will be heartbroken you broke up with her. But I am sure its just a break (dont be like Ross off friends and go cheat now) and you will get back together soon. In the meantime I am happy to console her. What I know for sure is she will inspire me to live my best life.

  72. Omg that is so generous of you, you absolutely rock ? i love Oprah because not only does she have a generous heart like you, she has also worked her butt off to be where she is & has done it all from dirt poor, she empowers girls & woman & simply asks you to be your best self no guilt no shame juat be your best version of yourself you can be AWESOME i have afew friends who would love to tag along but i think i would take my co worker who like me has a special needs son & still remains positive everyday i am blessed to call her my friend, we have shared many smiles,laughs & tears, have a great holiday ☺☺☺☺

  73. OMG! I love Oprah for so many reasons but most of all for her desire to bring BOOKS back to the public. Her book club inspired readers who were non-readers, inspired conversations and even exposed a fraud. As a book worm I was thrilled to see my joy come to others through pages ?

  74. Family first! Too blooming right! Tough call though! Ok I’ll stop with the exclamation marks now! (I lied)
    Spending time with an amazing role model like Oprah would be a once in a lifetime opportunity and a darn great hug to you for giving us this opportunity!
    She has shown me that life is truly about the choices I make. Everyone has a story to tell and that interests me immensely, I laugh, I cry ( a wee bit too much ) I’m grateful, oh the list is endless of what Oprah does for me. If I can make even one person feel good about themselves then I will know that the ‘Oprah effect’ has worked!
    There are so many deserving people out there, Good Luck everyone :o)

    • oooops! I was trying to get dinner ready before school pick up and I was face timing some of my children while I was writing to you that I forgot to say that I’d bring my hubby with me, married for over 21 years and still doesn’t mind my tears, tantrums and my lack of abilities in the kitchen!

  75. Wow! What a really generous thing to do! I would love to enter my beautiful cousin Beck. She lives in Sydney and she deserves a treat after what she has been through! At the age of 34 my cousin had married her sweetheart and was pregnant with her first child. Pregnancy brings on a myriad of changes to the body and the shaking she began to experience in her fingers and hand was put down to the baby leaning on a nerve.

    As time went on the shaking and tremor in her fingers and hand didn’t seem to subside and she expressed her concerns to her obstetrician. She was sent to a neurologist who said not to worry and he would do more tests following the pregnancy. He knew exactly what the symptoms meant, but wanted her to enjoy the only pregnancy she would have.

    Joshua was born in February 2009, and the following days were a series of neurological tests, which confirmed Parkinson’s Disease at the age of 34. The average age for Parkinson’s is 65 and more common in males, so how on earth could she have this disease?

    Seven years on she is experiencing many of the typical Parkinson’s symptom’s; uncontrollable shaking and tremor, slowed movement, difficulty with fine motor movement and dyskinesia (uncontrolled movement) dominate her daily life. Unfortunately, her medication has become ineffective in controlling her symptoms and her life is dominated by uncontrolled movement. The simple acts of falling asleep, doing up buttons on a shirt, putting on make up, exercise have become extremely difficult to do.

    She has now decided with the support of her Dr’s and family to pursue an operation called Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). DBS is a neurosurgical procedure involving the implantation of a medical device called a brain pacemaker, which sends electrical impulses, through implanted electrodes, to specific parts of the brain for the treatment of movement disorders. The treatment is very costly but with support from a fundraising project (https://www.gofundme.com/d43h6mm8) she was helped a little bit and had the surgery just over 6 weeks ago. She is feeling amazing – she has a shaved head but thats nothing compared to her new physical mobility. She is such a beauty but more than that she is an absolute classic of a girl and a beautiful human being. I would just love to see her and a person of her choice get to see Oprah because I imagine it would be inspiring and life changing.

    There is nothing in it for me – I am from Tweed Heads but have lived in Bris Vegas ever since university days…..Although mum still lives in Bilambil Heights, we still have lots of family and friends in Sydney to accompany my brave and courageous cousin to see Oprah! Most of us will never have to have our head shaved and cut open! I love her so much and hope I can help her win this awesome treat!

    Thanks so much for the opportunity Chantelle! xx

  76. Hi Chantelle
    I wasn’t going to enter – there are so many deserving ladies who have entered. And I never enter competitions (this is my first one) but actually I would love this. My uni days were a really unhappy time and one of the only happy memories I have is Oprah’s Book Club. I read every book she recommended during that time and I’m now so grateful for those books because honestly they seemed like the only thing to look forward to and that I could cope with at the time. I’d love the chance to be in the audience and thank her in person (even if she doesn’t hear me!).
    Thanks for this opportunity Chantelle x

  77. I can’t make it to Sydney, so not entering … but just wanted to say – you are Amazing, giving your tix away! <3
    And to the haters who told you to hand your parenting card back = go lurk elsewhere! 🙁

  78. WOW!!!
    I think I may have handed in my parenting card – luckily I don’t have one, so I am safe.

    OPRAH OPRAH OPRAH!
    Love is an understatement.
    I used to dream of school holidays to watch, in years 11 and 12 I drove 10mins home from school at lunch time to watch for 30min, in Uni I selected lectures and tutorial just to make sure I didn’t miss episodes, DVDs and books. It is a true LOVE!
    I used her passion for education in my year 12 major work. I am a teacher – I have visited Africa, I am going back I will one day have my own school too.
    I believe in light bulb moment!
    I have held her hand I was lucky enough to take my Nan to the Sydney OPRAH House to see her daytime show when she was here. (I cried in my classroom when I saw the text message to say I have tickets)
    She held my hand, smiled and made eye contact with me as she entered the show. I CRIED (only for like 15mins)
    I have an Oprah pearl that I am too scared to wear and Oprah water I am yet to open.

    I need her inspiration again.
    I am a teacher – light bulb moments are minimal. I am not sure if I love this career anymore. I need her passion and love to remind me that I am doing an amazing job.
    I need to see her smile.
    I need to learn 10things from her (that I promise to share with you) that could (let’s be honest – WILL) change my life.
    I am willing to help you out.
    I can take one for the team (so long as you share all about this amazing trip)
    xx Courtney

  80. I love Oprah. No doubt about it. People who don’t must have something wrong with them…right? As a sole parent it’s something I would never spoil myself with. So a night in Sydney, with Oprah and my best friend is something that I would not only love but be genuinely thankful for. Some good fortune wouldn’t go astray either…2015 has been tough on me and my kiddies. X

  82. Wow what gift to give someone!!! That’s so generous… I love Oprah and have been a avid fan for a very long time … I would take my beautiful friend who only 3 weeks ago had a double lung transplant she too loves Oprah… I would give you review you would be proud of…Thank you for the opportunity and your consideration xx

  83. Did you make the right choice? Yes, family always comes first. Will you have regrets? Absolutely! It’s Oprah!!!! Of course you’ll have regrets. You’re only human.

    And that’s why I LOVE Oprah. Because irrespective of all the success she is just like the rest of us. She’s human. She’s from humble beginnings, she is completely vulnerable and truly inspirational.

    Going to see her would be an absolute dream come true. I honestly feel your pain on this one. I’m a mum of two myself (with a third on the way). I have a pretty ordinary story and to be fair I’m feeling overwhelming grateful for everything and everyone I have given the recent world events. This would just be the icing on the cake.

    It goes without saying that I’d take my mum. Mainly because I wouldn’t have a say… And I wouldn’t mind one bit.

  84. What a very generous person you are Chantelle, I would like to see Oprah, l admit I am not a big follower but what I have seen from her is inspirational, especially when all the negative media tries to bring her down and she keepsnon going. Honestly the woman must be super human. I would take a great friend who I met through instagram

  85. Because it’s almost Xmas and….. OPRAH’S FAVOURITE THINGS!!!!!! ?
    I’m handing in my parenting card because I would love to be there if she says YOU GET ONE YOU GET ONE and YOU GET ONE ??????

  86. Chantelle, I don’t think there is ever a decision to be made when it comes to time with family. Thanks for giving us the chance to go & soak up the wisdom of Oprah in your place though! I’d love to take my buddy Coral.
    We are art sistas & have been on a creative journey together these past few years, we started as total strangers but have developed a strong connection as we learn to draw & create art together. Neither of us could afford Oprah tickets – art classes came first as they fed our greater dream of being artists.
    But Oprah feeds our soul in a different way – she guides with wisdom & courage & it would be a life changing chance to see her.

  87. Wholly moley! What a decision, but family first, and because I’m nice I take one for the team and head to Oprah just for you! Hehehe.. Don’t stress il be sure to keep to you updated all the way! Oprah rocks, she was a staple in my childhood- like food/water really! She was the highlight of school holidays/sick days from school and I often taped (yep taped!) her shows on VHS to watch after school. Oprah taught me life lessons, she made me who I am today! 🙂 I’d love to see her to be enlightened and motivated by her- I know she can and will do it! I’d love the take my husband and make it a weekend away from life/work/kids!!

  88. Hi Chantelle,
    I think your trip will be amazing!!
    I would absolutely love to go and take my beautiful Mum. She has turned 60 this year and is an absolutely selfless and beautiful lady (much like yourself) and I know she would be beside herself if I could surprise her with these. She is an absolute battler, and I won’t go into too many personal details but she can’t afford to do anything nice for herself and I would love to win these for her and take her for a bit of a girl’s night in the city. Since I have had my two little boys I don’t get to do that very often.
    Going to Oprah is something I would never be able to afford myself, and I would be honoured to be able to go and report in your place. Being the teacher that I am, I have decided to leave this lovely acrostic poem here for you (my students will love me for this!):
    Outrageously generous
    Perfectly kind
    Ridiculously radical
    Amazingly in Australia
    Honestly special
    Please, please pick me. You won’t be disappointed and I promise my Mum deserves it 🙂
    – Rachel

  90. I would love to go and see Oprah!!! I have found that through the challenges I have faced throughout my life I have turned to Oprah to help provide me with the inspiration and positive spirit which I needed. Hearing Oprah would be a dream come true, and I know I would get a lot out of it to be be able to share it with others and spread the gift of optimism and inspiration. Please Chantelle pick me, pick me!!! (…though I have read the other comments, there are many other deserving people who also deserve to go – Good Luck in choosing one!) x

  91. Wow not an easy decision but one I would probably have made myself too. I’m sure your girls will love whatever you have planned! I would love to see Oprah and considered buying tickets but it really wasn’t an option because we just had all the expense of moving eek! I would love to go and take my gorgeous partner who works long crazy hours and picks up extra shifts without hesitation! I would love to do something as rewarding as seeing Oprah, I really think it would be lifechanging. I’m sure whoever gets to go will have a blast 🙂 xxx

  92. Do you remember when Oprah came out the Opera house last time? When there was no option to purchase tickets? You had to go into a ballot to win tickets and hope for the best.

    The day came for me to register and I did so with such gusto and enthusiasm that
    when it got to the pointy end and everyone was bragging about how they got tickets, I realised that I had entered the WRONG EMAIL ADDRESS!!!!

    NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    My whole chance blown by an oversight of epic proportions! I was Devo!

    I had all but erased it from my memory and then BOOM! here’s your blog post reminding me once again about how I didn’t get tickets to see Oprah.

    Do I want to go? DO I EVER!!
    Do I think I’ll get picked? Not in a million years. But you know, you’ve got to be in it to win it and all that. But if I were lucky enough to win, I’d definitely take my mum with me – to serve as a nice distraction to her from the harsh reality of life as we know it at the moment with my dad being terminally ill.

  93. Oprah is the person who’s always there for you and always says just the right thing. Oprahs words of wisdom have seen me through many a tough time – that’s why I’d take my good friend, Pip, along with me, she too has seen me through many a tough time and I her.

  94. I would love to go and see Oprah! And I’d take my mum with me. I think you made the right decision, but I thinks it’s sensational you are gifting your tickets to 2 other lucky people.

  95. What a fabulous mumma you are! I’m going to see her in Brisbane and can not wait! Have a fabulous day today, it looks like you’re having a great adventure in the skies. I just got back from 5 days in Bali with just my hubby, so I’ve been AWOL, back now xx

  96. OH man where do I begin. What’s not to love about Oprah. I think mostly she’s just so inspiring and encourages people that they can do better and to just give it a go. I want to go because well who doesn’t. But seriously I feel like I’m at a crossroad in my life at the moment so going would give me some answers as to what I should do! Lastly, I would take my sister without doubt because she is just the BEST and I couldn’t imagine life without her.

  97. Wow!! I applaud you doing the mum thing, sometimes its a hard choice between doing something for yourself and doing the family thing. Enjoy your time with your girls x
    As for Oprah, I would love to go, I find her to be so inspirational, kind hearted and has a big heart. I have been listening to her 21 day meditation programs that she does with Deepak Chopra and has changed the way I think and feel about life. Loved watching her on t.v and miss her show.
    I would take my mum with me and share some special time with her xx

  98. Oh my dear LORD. I would absolutely love to go!!! I used to watch Oprah growing up too but mostly I adored watching Oprah reruns when I was on maternity leave after my eldest suffering pretty horrid pnd. I always looked forward to my Oprah fix every day! Thankfully those times passed but I so miss Oprah!!! I would take my mum as she adores Oprah too!

  99. I love Oprah’s inspirational spirit. I started watching her when I was nannying in the US in the early nineties. Since then she’s helped me through stuff. I don’t have a whole lot of friends. It’s just the way I am. This year though, I’ve made a great friend. She’s weird like me. She swears, laughs, drinks and is generous with her ear, her time, her skills and I love her! The only thing she doesn’t do is cry, but that’s okay because I’m the sook. And guess what I just found out that Oprah is her most favourite person I the world. So I would take Sher with me and it would be awesome to the 10th power!

  100. I’ve always wanted to see Oprah but alas we are cursed so I didn’t bother getting tickets! When I finished school I went to the US, got tickets to her show and got a bug hours before I was to go, then she was in Hawaii when I was getting married and hubby said I could choose him or Oprah… Then I was lucky enough to get tickets in 2010 when she came but went into (false) labour and noone would let me go even though I thought it was a one way ticket to meeting her!! I’m best sticking to watching her on tv 😉

  101. I read her memoir a couple of years ago and find her absolutely fascinating! I’d love to be part of the phenomenon and more than happy to share the car ;-p as well as write a guest post for you! My guest would be the friend who lent me the memoir to begin with – and she happens to live in Sydney too, handy!

  102. Dear Chantelle, what a decision you have and how generous you are! I’d LOVE to see Oprah because I missed being one of the lucky people to get tickets to her show when she came to Sydney. I would love to see her more than anything. I’m a busy mum of two boys under the age of two (my youngest is 13 weeks old). I’ve watched Oprah on tv since I was about 13, for about 20 odd years and was sad to see the Oprah show come to and end. I am constantly inspired by her and joke that I live by ‘the gospel according to Oprah’. I love that she LOVES teachers, I am a primary school teacher and I know how inspired she was by her Grade 4 teacher, Mrs Duncan I think her name was? Chantelle, I have Oprah’s DVD collection, read her magazine and am a huge fan! I’d love to go to her show in Sydney!
    Melanie 🙂

  103. How exciting and good for you on your decision – no right choice there really! I’m in London but would LOVE to put my country NSW sister Catherine forward?

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