48/52

"A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2013."

Che: the biggest daydreamer I know. Here he is on the way to the school's Christmas concert (ISO 800, f1.6, 1/800th)

Poet: she has all-of-a-sudden embraced all things fairy and pretty. I'm kinda liking it (ISO 800, f1.6, 1/5000th)

Friends, after these portraits there's only four to go. Can you believe it?

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There was an abundance of inspiring portraits this week; testament to the way you have all developed an eye for seeing and capturing an emotive, beautiful image. I chose the following because, quite simply, they are joyous.

This image is rather unforgettable - that window, her face, little pink shoes! / Katie captured Sophie and Henry in natural, candid moments; these photos are imbued with a sense of nostalgia / one of my favourite portraits of the year - Elsa dancing in the kitchen / colour, light and bubbles; summer is just around the corner for Poppy and Tully / and little Owynn; snuggled under a handmade quilt, his little legs in supta buddha konasana (I mentioned this yoga asana here - it's a brilliant pose for rest). 

walking with poet

She's a walk three steps, take five back, kind of girl. A mountain of work is waiting at home and I have to constantly remind myself not to utter the words: "hurry up". 

I've started tying her hair in a messy bun and all of a sudden I see the girl and not the toddler. Almost two-and-a-half, she has fire in her belly and a big, generous heart. Her cuddles are tight and her kisses plentiful. And as for her chin mudra; she has obviously inherited the the yogi gene. 

Our seven minute walk took an hour today. 

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I hope your weekend is a good one. I'll be teaching and writing and (hopefully) taking a walk along the beach. See you on Sunday morning with 48/52 (we are so close to the end!).

worth the wait

family photos by alexandrena parker, tim coulson and tamara erbacher / the frames I had been searching for / hydrangeas from the neighbours' gardens

Earlier this year I had the priviledge of walking the streets of Surry Hills with renowned stylist Pia Jane Bijkerk. Along with Gaby, Luisa, Steph and Sophie, we wandered in and out of hidden boutiques and warm, bustling cafes; a gaggle of women chatting under umbrellas. It was grey and wet and reminiscent of a winter's day in Amsterdam; apt considering Pia had spent the past few years living there (on a houseboat!).

We talked about a lot of things that day - motherhood, creativity, photography, birth, food, collecting, curating - but there's one conversation that has stayed with me, one that I've mulled over and subsequently treasured. We discussed slow-consumerism at length, our desire to buy quality over quantity and really love what we bring into our homes. It is to: 

...consume and purchase with absolute mindfulness; 

never settling for something that will 'just do' but waiting, waiting, for the right one to come along...and knowing that it will...

It was an apt discussion, considering I'd already spent eighteen months searching for the perfect picture frames. Our collection of family photos was growing and I wanted to display them above our mantle...but as hard as I tried, I couldn't find anything that was quite right. I'd looked in op-shops, visited my local framers more than once and trawled online stores but alas, nothing. You see, I wanted frames that would be around for years; solid and well-made they needed to be both simple in design and aesthetically pleasing. I wanted a natural timber frame, an off-white matte and a back that was easily removable for when I felt the need to change the photos. 

A few months ago I was scrolling through instagram when I spied some beautiful frames in the background of a friend's photo. One message led to another and I finally discovered the frames online at Corban & Blair. They were exactly what I had envisioned and to make the deal even sweeter they're a carbon neutral product (the timber is sourced from renewable plantations in New Zealand). 

It's a nice feeling to wait for the ideal purchase and then admire it every day (especially when it holds precious family memories). And perhaps it feels so good because I have also experienced the opposite; buying things on a whim only to regret it later. 

on naming a baby

a sweet little tag that came with a recent scarf purchase

When teaching pregnant women it's expected that the topic of baby names will arise. Lucky for me it's one of my favourite topics! I'm always delighted when my students start the discussion and even more honoured when they ask my opinion.

During Antonia's photo shoot last week we chatted about their preferred names. Pregnant with a boy after two girls, they only had a few names on their list*. They agreed with most people - boys names are hard!

We took a week to name Che. When I was pregnant we had a name chosen (I won't divulge) and as soon as we looked at his face we knew; he really wasn't that name. And so we ummed and ahhed for a few days, trying out a few different options. "Che" had been floating around on our list since early in the pregnancy and six weeks before he was born I bought Daniel a book called Loving Che. We had talked about a wanting a name that meant growth and life but we ended up choosing Che because it means "friend" in Argentinian, it has a beautiful sound and because it was the name of the cat in my favourite film. But then, when Che was about 18months old, I was reading a book about South America and within its pages was the meaning of "Che" in the ancient Mayan language. "Che" means "tree". We had it right all along.

We pronounce Che with a hard ch. Most people presume it's pronounced shay so when he was younger I would always say: "It's Che like Cha," hence he got his nickname, Che Che. It's definitely stuck, so much so that he often introduces himself by saying: "Hi, my name is Che Che."

As for "Poet", well, we just always loved the sound of it and the fact that it was a 'word' name. We expected much more criticism than we've ever received; most people adore it! We call her Poe for short and Poet Winter (she was born on the full moon in mid-winter) when she's in trouble. And since she's arrived, I've met or come across both boys and girls named Poe, Poet and Poetry.

I think the more children you have the harder the name game becomes. You kind of have to match the name to the baby's siblings and that can get tricky. Tell me, do you love talking about names? What are your children's names and why did you choose them? Do you have a secret list tucked away in case another baby comes along?

*little Archer (beautiful, strong name) arrived late last night. Photos to come!

a "thank you" giveaway

giveaway design by Em of the daily smudge and em & jon design

As we journey towards Christmas we embrace the season of gratitude. And so it's with the upmost thanks that I announce this giveaway; a collection of beautiful gifts for two of my readers. I really appreciate the time you take to visit me here; I've come to love the sense of community, the connection and the conversation. I admire the way you share your thoughts in your comments; always honest, never nasty. And for that I am incredibly grateful. 

The first collection of goodies, valued at $640, includes:

1. A6 fez journal set by Corban & Blair. The exquisite debossed cover featured patterns reminiscent of hand-carved wooden screens found in Turkey and Morocco. Plain pages make this the ideal book for note taking or travel documentation. Valued at $31

2. "Flip" the penguin is part of the Udder collection; made from 100% handprinted and hand-dyed cotton. Valued at $65.

3. A simple take on the classic time-teller, this gorgeous watch from The Horse features a walnut band and rose gold coated stainless steel case. Leave your phone at home and wear a watch instead! Valued at $129.

4. The newest addition to the Boxy range, "King Tide" is classic and beautiful; neutral tones with a hint of sea blue and silver. Valued at $35.

5. A gift that grows! This four pack of Billy Buttons from Sow 'n Sow is the perfect little gift to send in the mail. Each pack features a festive illustration and comes with a recycled envelope. All you need is a stamp. Valued at $29.95.

6. A beautiful soft-textured embroidered dress from Read + Bell; featuring white on white embroidery on cotton it's the ideal everyday summer dress. Valued at $85.

7. A Lilya tassel scarf that will accompany you through the seasons; bright and cheerful with the sweetest details. Valued at $99.

8. Woolpets kits from Dragonfly Toys are the perfect opportunity to learn needle felting and create a sweet little gnome for play or display. Valued at $25.50

9. Floral top and bloomer set from Bondi-based Printebebe; wear together or separately, a perfect addition to a little girl's wardrobe. Valued at $66.

10. A Christmas cherrywood stationery pack from Doodlebug; featuring simple, beautiful designs on wood sources from renewable forests and plantations. Valued at $25.

11. The Esther Dress in melon from Fabrik - the perfect Christmas Day dress featuring pintuck yoke and filly sleeves. Valued at $49.95.

....and the second collection, valued at $790, includes :

1.  A5 fez journal set from Corban & Blair. The exquisite debossed cover featured patterns reminiscent of hand-carved wooden screens found in Turkey and Morocco. Plain pages make this the ideal book for note taking or travel documentation. Valued at $47.

2. Cute as can be Billy Bear cushion cover by Hello Milky. Handprinted on 100% linen, it's the perfect addition to a child's bedroom. Valued at $36.

3. Leather Tuberose Tote bag from Lilya featuring contrast cream blanket stitch and a removable wallet. Valued at $249. 

4. A Christmas cherrywood stationery pack from Doodlebug; featuring simple, beautiful designs on wood sources from renewable forests and plantations. Valued at $25.

5. Automoblox s9 police cruiser from Lucas Loves Cars; includes a removable roof and little people who sit inside. Valued at $55.

6. The Kantor Top in tangerine from Lilya. I adore this top; floaty, classic cut, stylish. Valued at $149.

7. The Crafty Bundle is a genius idea and this collection impresses. A box of beautiful, handmade pieces by three Melbourne designers. Valued at $89.

8. Kid Nature Poplin Sunhat by Nature Baby. Lightweight with a full brim it's the ideal summer accessory. Valued at $29.95.

9. Made from the softest of soft bamboo, this pink pinny from Doodlebug is the sweetest little dress, featuring a bird print and wooden buttons. Valued at $54.95

10. The Greater Good is a brand new online store that stocks a collection of contemporary homewares. I adore these Jall & Tofta hooks - perfect for the hallway or children's room. Valued at $39.95

11. Lhami is a local company that makes beautiful organic beauty products. This lemon myrtle hand and body lotion is light and nourishing and smells divine (and very natural!). Valued at $19.95.

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Entry to this giveaway involves creativity in the form of haiku - a Japanese style of poetry that celebrates nature and the seasons. There are up to 17 syllables in a three line haiku poem; 5 on the first line, 7 on the second and 5 on the third (or 5, 3, 5). A beautiful example:

"So many breezes
wander through my summer room:
but never enough."

- Issa

This giveaway ends on Tuesday 3rd December at 8pm. I'll announce the winner in the days following. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask them in the comments section - I'll respond there as soon as I can. 

This giveaway is open to readers across the globe. I can't wait to read about balmy Christmas' on the beach and snuggly celebrations by the fire!

Best of luck! And thanks again.

Comments closed!!!!!!! Winners will be announced in the next few days x

Gifts will be sent direct to the winners from the brands involved. I will contact the winners in regards to sizes, colour preferences and address details. 

nineteen | practicing simplicity

hydrangeas in abundance in my neighbours' gardens 

Living a less-distracted life : admit that you're tired and reclaim rest.

I know, I know; motherhood and rest rarely go together. We are a weary bunch, aren't we, running to and fro and round in circles. Despite our exhaustion we just keep going because we have to. 

Perhaps it's more pronounced at this time of year as we take a sharp inhalation and deal with the plethora of to-dos that accompany the festive season. My diary is quickly filling up with deadlines, the end of school term is fast approaching and I am completely disorganised in regards to Christmas. Yes, it's overwhelming and if I'm honest, there's just no time for early nights and afternoon kips right now. 

Che is tired, too. I kept him home from school on Friday for a rest day and he lulled about reading books, watching a movie and building lego. There was a part of me that wished I could do the same thing; ignore all the necessary chores and emails and just lie in bed; rejuvenating and being kind. I know I need it but I can't see it happening anytime soon. And so I started thinking about quick rests; little things I can do that will restore and revive. I mention them in my yoga classes all the time and yet applying them to my every day takes a little more discipline. But you know what, they work, and sometimes they're more beneficial that a deep day sleep (I usually wake up groggy and cranky and that is never good!). 

Next time you're feeling weary, try one of the following:

• drink water. It's usually at around 4:30 that I experience a slump and unfortunately it coincides with dinner prep. So every evening I stand at the kitchen window and drink a big glass of water. Within ten minutes I have the energy to get through the dinner, bath, bed routine.
• get outside. I've taken to lying on the trampoline and purposefully taking a few deep, nourishing breaths. I then let out loud sighs (much to the family's delight). Fresh air - always good.
• lie on your bed with your feet together and your knees out wide. This position is called supta budda konasana or reclining butterfly pose. If you feel that it stretches your groin too much just place a pillow or rolled blanket under your upper thighs. In this position become aware of your breath and focus on your exhalation for a few moments - you'll notice you start to grow heavy and soft and relaxed. Then, count your breath backwards from 27. "I am breathing in 27, I am breathing out 27, I am breathing in 26..." When you get to 0 start to awaken your body by wriggling your fingers and toes. Get up slowly and carry on with your day. This is also a great practice to do with older children. First, choose an item to place on the belly - a feather, a small teddy, a paper boat - and then encourage them to watch and feel the feather/teddy/boat rise and fall with the rhythm of the breath. 
• close your eyes whilst breastfeeding. I understand this isn't always possible if you've got more than one child but when breastfeeding my two I made a point of lying down to feed at least once a day. I'd put my phone away, get really comfortable and close my eyes. Sometimes I would sleep, sometimes five minutes of shut-eye was enough.

So: recognise your exhaustion and take five minutes rest. Consider it self-care. 

photography | antonia + family

I teach a pre-natal yoga class every Wednesday night and last week Antonia came along. It was the eve of her due date and as she flowed from one asana to the next I watched as her cheeks flushed pink and her exhales became gentle sighs. Braxton hicks or early labour - we weren't sure. After class we walked into the carpark and I mentioned that I had a new camera. If she was still pregnant the next day, perhaps I could take photos of her belly. 

This shoot was last minute and exactly what I wanted for my first family photography session. I didn't want to think (or stress) about it too much. I let the little blue-eyed girls lead the way as they ran up the beach and into the rock pools; giggling and squealing and splashing. When the air got cold and goosebumps appeared we knew it was time to go home.

Antonia, Glenn and the girls are still waiting for baby. 

47/52

"A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2013."

Che: first out the door and off to a local film festival (ISO 3200, f2.5, 1/250th)

Poet: reaching, reaching (ISO 100, f2.2, 1/320th)

Perhaps it was fate but only days after I wrote this post Daniel and I found an almost-new Canon 5D mkiii online for a good price. We ummed and ahhed and finally took the leap. The gf1 will still be the camera I carry around each day but the canon...well, it's time to start taking photos on a professional level; for pregnant women, families and businesses. 

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Oh Audrey, you have the sweetest face and bed hair / little Penny on the train; pretty as can be / quite serious but always gorgeous, Maile / portraits by Jane Mabel always impress / and Grace and Tom - oh my, Ali is one talented photographer. 

due date

Yesterday was Antonia's due date with her third baby. She has been coming to my pre-natal yoga classes since she was 15weeks pregnant with her first child (now 5!). We met at our local beach in the early evening and I took photos while she walked on the sand; her hips swinging with the weight of her baby. So close, so close.

I'll share more photos from this shoot next week.