Interview with the Producer of KAZOOPS!

I've got something exciting happening today - a first for Teacher Types! I get to interview the producer of Kazoops, Patrick Egerton. You may have read my post yesterday, explaining the importance of imaginative play and how Kazoops encourages children to use their imaginations to make sense of their worlds (if you haven't read it here), so this is the perfect follow up. We get an insight into how the ideas for the show came about and a snapshot into how it's created. Patrick shares what it's like being a producer, and even some future plans for Kazoops.

Did you know that "Moops" was the original name of the show? But it was already taken, so they experimented with different made up words that could express fun, surprise and wonder! And that's how Kazoops started...

2

Teacher By Day {Melissa - Paper Halo}

Hi everyone!
Today's teacher by day is an Adelaidian like me and I'm so pleased to have her here on the blog to share a bit about her biz. Meet Melissa from Paper Halo. She knows all about weddings, parties and events and creates gorgeous invitations and stationery. 

13

Teacher By Day {Nappy Cakes by Erin}

It feels like the perfect time to sit down and post another instalment of the Teacher by Day interview series - a cozy winter afternoon at the end of a long week. Little Man is asleep and the heater is on! Today's Biz Mum Erin is a fellow member of the Mums With Hustle Biz Club and creates nappy cakes - perfect for baby showers! She isn't currently teaching, but plans to return later in the year. Erin also has a Facebook group dedicated to sharing and celebrating play ideas which I'm sure many of your will be interested in joining. 

Welcome Erin.

19

Teacher By Day {Jenny - Eckles Invites}

It's been a while since my last Teacher by Day interview so today I'm really pleased to introduce you to Jenny from Eckles Invites. Turns out her hubby is a teacher too (how great would that be to have 12 weeks off as a family each year??). They live in the most beautiful part of Australia and I am serious jealous of the year round stunning weather they get to enjoy. 

Read more about Jenny's #teacherlife and her stunning custom invitations and stationery she creates over at Eckles Invites...

2

Archie and The Bear {Book Review}

Book reviews are one of my favourite types of posts here at Teacher Types! Books are such an important part of childhood and if I can introduce you to a new book, or give you some activity ideas based on a brilliant book - well then I'm going to do just that.

You may remember Zanni Louise, author of Too Busy Sleeping (which I reviewed back in 2015 before Little Man's arrival and it's still a favourite in this house). I was so excited to hear that Zanni's new book Archie and the Bear was going on a blog tour and of course I put my hand up! Kindly gifted for the purpose of this review.

1

Teacher By Day {Kate}

Today I'm sharing another Teacher by Day interview. The fourth one so far! I'm just going to dive right in, because the first question is kind of like an intro in itself. Everyone, meet Kate from Happy Ella After + Name it Prints...

1. Kate I’ve followed you for so long now! Even since before you had Hudson I think. You were one of the first bloggers I reached out to via email to connect with. So tell us, how old are the kids now and what kinds of activities are they loving?

Oh Lauren thank you so much! The blogging community certainly are like a family. Many of whom I feel like I know, but have never met face to face (like you!). My Ella just turned 5 last weekend. Five years old! I can’t believe she has grown so much, and this blog – her name sake – is five years old too! Hudson is two and a half. They are such a joy and fill our lives with such happiness. My kids couldn’t be more different if I wanted to them to be. Ella is a quintessential girl who loves ballet, art and craft and anything pink. She is very creative and whilst quite shy at first, shows her true colours within minutes, dancing, twirling and singing as though she is on stage! Huddy is like a hurricane. He is the energiser bunny. He never, ever, ever stops. He loves construction, building things and smashing them down. Trains, trucks and tantrums! That said, we adore them to bits!

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Teacher by Day {Eliza}

I'm loving my Teacher by Day interview series - and today's teacher biz mum is Eliza from Healthy Active Mums. We connected in the Mums with Hustle Biz club and I just love what she's all about. Meet Eliza!

How long have you been teaching for? 

My first year of teaching was in 2011. I was really fortunate to gain a full time teaching role in PREP in Mackay-8 hours from home. I was then transferred west of Mackay to a very small town called Dysart a mining community. I spent the next two years teaching Prep and Year 4. Since 2014 I have been on Maternity Leave. I returned to work at the end of 2014 to continue teaching as a relief teacher. My degree is a Bachelor of Education Middle School-Majoring in lower primary. I am qualified to teach grades Prep-10.

2

Teacher by Day {Rin}

Hey everyone and happy Monday! I got such an awesome response from my first Teacher by Day interview (and because I have some really exciting interviewees coming up) - I've decided that I can't possibly wait a whole month before publishing my next one.

Today's beautiful lady is one of the most special souls you'll meet on Instagram. You probably already follow her, and you may not know that she's a teacher by day. I would love for you all to meet Rin from Papered Thoughts. She's the girl who paints rocks with motivational messages and is all about spreading kindness around the world. I was so excited that she agreed to be here today! I love what she's about - and her shop is only open for 2 more weeks before she goes back to full time work PLUS study. So if you want to get your hands on her rocks or any of her other products, now is the time!

1

Teacher By Day {Alyssa}

I'm really excited to be bringing a brand new interview series to Teacher Types this year! It's called Teacher by Day, and it's all about sharing the awesome work of teacher + biz mums. Teacher types who work in our schools, have a small biz on the side, plus make time for their family life as well. I want to know how they do it all. How do they manage their time? I want to share their businesses with you to help them increase their audience and brand awareness. I want to get to know them a little better, because internet friends are great friends to have in your corner!

My first teacher by day biz mum is Alyssa, from Mae-Saye Designs.

Hey Alyssa...

8

The Liebster Award {but I'm changing it up a bit!}

It's been a while since my last Liebster Award (first one here and second one here) - so it was a lovely surprise when Amanda from Jelly Fish Sticks nominated me!!

The Liebster is just another way that bloggers can share the love (links = Google love) and introduce their readers to some new awesome blogs. Just like #followfriday on Instagram (which I also love and regularly participate in).

So here are my 10 random facts...

1. I am obsessed with Greys Anatomy - when I knew (spoiler alert) they were going to kill off Dr McDreamy I actually boy cot the show (temporarily) and still can't bring myself to watch his last episode...
2. I always have two coffees a day - the first a Nespresso at home, the second one when I'm out and about.
3. I started my blog on the 1st of Jan 2014 - and I still think it was the BEST DAY to launch a blog. I've never missed a month without a blog post - and this year has been my busiest yet.
4. I love being a teacher. And I love being a mum. I hope to continue being about to do both jobs to the best of my ability for years to come.
5. I have 'time-xiety' (a word my husband invented) meaning I get anxious about being late! Even to the point where my nightmares usually involve me being late to school/work.
6. I go to bed ridiculously early whenever I get the chance.
7. I have a secret (not so secret) crush on Jim from The Office and Ted from HIMYM.
8.  I'm a clumsy klutz. I regularly drop things and regularly trip over.
9.  I've been a bridesmaid 3 times and a flower girl twice.
10. I went on a Contiki tour to New Zealand during my single crazy days when I was 24 and had the time of my life! I even jumped out of a plane!

Yes that is me. No it is not a stock photo.

3

Montessori, Reggio, Waldorf? Let Us Explain...

In the field of Early Childhood Education, there are several different approaches to teaching young children and much research behind them. There is no right or wrong way to educate a child, it all comes down to personal beliefs and the needs of the child, much like everything else in the world of parenting. You've probably heard of the term Montessori (especially since Prince George attends a Montessori Nursery School) and Montessori centres are becoming more common. You may or may not be familiar with Reggio Emilia or Waldorf Education philosophies so I've called in three lovely ladies today to explain each to give you a bit more information and figure out if they would be a good fit for your family.

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Interview + Advice from a Speech Pathologist

Today's interview is a really special one! We are so lucky to have my friend Kate, a qualified Speech Pathologist here today to share her insights and advice for all parents concerned about their child's language development. It's a question and concern I see come up all the time "Why isn't my child talking yet?" & "What can I do?".

Welcome Kate! Thank you for giving up your time to answer our questions :)

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Could you start by introducing yourself, telling us about your qualifications and where you've worked?

I am a Senior Speech Pathologist currently working with Autism SA. I began my working life as a primary school teacher, later returning to university to gain qualifications to become a Speech Pathologist. After completing a Bachelor of Education (Junior Primary/Primary) at the University of South Australia I began teaching in country South Australia, and then returned to metropolitan Adelaide to continue teaching for a time. I then went on to complete a Master of Speech Pathology at Flinders University. I have since worked as a Speech Pathologist with Education Queensland in Brisbane, a multi-disciplinary private practice in Adelaide, and now with Autism SA. I am a Certified Practising Speech Pathologist (CPSP) and a member of Speech Pathology Australia (SPA). I am also an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnostician registered with Autism SA. I have experience working in early intervention, with school aged children and with adolescents, who have communication difficulties. I have a particular interest and passion for working with people living with ASD.

19

That time I Interviewed my Husband for my Blog

Today's our wedding anniversary. Here we are four years ago. Best. Day Ever.

I know a lot of people say that the day they had their children was their 'best day ever' but for me that included labour, a caesarean surgery and the start of a painful recovery. In terms of one whole day that ROCKED - it was my wedding day.

And this was my best moment of my Best. Day Ever.

Cue music "You've got the love" and check out the pure JOY in my expression. Told you it was the best day ever.

The other day I interviewed Miss M - so I thought I'd give my hubby James a go too!

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Now my readers knows what I do for a living - but tell everyone what do you do?
I'm an Electrician, Working for the Department of Transport.

Do you actually read my blog?
I keep an eye on it.

How did you come up with my blog name Teacher Types?
I was once warned by a wise man the perils of hooking up with one of those "teacher types" (but I didn't listen) and thought the name was a good fit.

What's it like being married to a teacher?
Everything is well organised - but when it doesn't go to plan I stay out the way.

What's your favourite characteristic of Miss M?
Her talking ability.

Favourite activity you two do together?
Red Chilli for lunch. Or Bunnings.

Favourite Adelaide restaurant?
Hard to pick a favourite - recently loved Jolleys Boathouse, Alphutte, and always love some Chinese on Gouger Street, a burger from Nordburger and last but not least lunch at Red Chilli Elizabeth.

Favourite holiday we've been on in our 8 years?
Maybe our Cruise or Hawaii - both were great.

What do you remember about our wedding day?
All of it I remember pretty well, but perhaps most notable was seeing Lauren nervous on her entry to the ceremony - not something I've seen ever before. - She looked very sweet.

This is the moment he's talking about

(James is the king of nicknames.) Share your nicknames for us.
Me - Sweets
Miss M - The Tronic
Little Man - Hans Milkman

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Thanks James. Love you and Happy Anniversary! xx

All images - credit Willow and French Photography.

2

An Interview with my three year old

Have you even written down a whole conversation with your child? If you're a quick typer, there'll be lots of errors as you go to try and keep up, but it's really quite hilarious! I tried it with Miss M this afternoon...we weren't doing much else! (her answers are in italics)

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M can I ask you some questions?
oooohhhh yes!

What's your favourite colour?
Purple

What's your favourite food?
Um I dont know. 
Have a think about it
Ravioli

What did we do today?
I don't know. Can you tell me?
*Rephrase the question* Where did we got today?
I don't know? Where? To the aquarium?
No it wasn't the aquarium.
I can't guess
It was called the Botanic Gardens.
I got confused.
And what did we do today?
We went to the Botanic Gardens.
What did we do else?
Um not much. We came home.
What did we do? What did I play? What did we play with when we got home?
I'm meant to be asking you the questions!!

What's your favourite TV show?
Ben and Holly and Peppa Pig

What's your favourite toy?
Lily and Teddy and play dough

Tell me about your brother?
I don't know what he does. Can you tell me?
Try to think of one thing you brother does.
Drinks mummy milk.

Tell me about Archer? *Our dog*
I don't know what he does.
He poos and wees and barks.
He he you're funny.
That's what he does.
"out the way" *she says to Archer*

Tell me about your dad?
I don't know what he does.
What's something daddy does with you?
Plays with me.

Tell me something mummy does with you.
Plays with me. 
What kind of things?
Plays with me. Mum plays with me.

Do you go to child care?
Yes. 
What do you do there?
I don't know. 
You're saying "I don't know" a lot.

Whats your favourite outfit?
Plain.

What's your favourite book?
I don't know.
Ah, Peter Rabbit.

Whats your favourite place to go to?
I don't know. Can you tell me?
*give examples - Play Cafe, Park, Playground, Shops
My park.

Anything else you'd like to say
*plays music on toy piano to the tune of the wheels on the bus.

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*Half an hour later
Mum I'm going to ask you some questions.
What did we do today?
We went to the Botanic Gardens.
*runs to me on the lap top
What are you going to ask me next?
*daddy interrupts wanting to discuss plans for the weekend. Doesn't realise I'm writing a blog post here.

Whats your favourite colour in the whole wide world?
Ah Green.

*daddy comes over - "I'll tell you something to ask her"
*whispers

Mum what kind of food did you eat... when you were a little girl?
Um, hot chips and plain pasta with cheese and cheese sandwiches.
Oh that might be yummy! What else?
Um, apples, bikkies
Oh. Bikkies that I don't like?
Um, I cant remember.

Dont you? I remember.
Do you?
Yes.
*goes off on a tangent trying to figure out a word she was trying to say... could have been thumb, a type of biscuit?!? Who knows!

Lets get back to the interview.
What else would you like to ask me?

What was your favourite colour when you was a little girl? Green or purple?
It was purple actually.
Oh hehe! And green? But you like green anyway.
You changed what you like.
That's true.

Any more questions?
Ah, what is your favourite clothes?
Favourite clothes?
Yes? Black?
Yes I like black, and jeans, and comfy pants.

We've got time for one more question.
What kind, what did you do when you were a baby?
I probably cried, and slept and drank milk and thats all.
*puts play dough on computer screen

Don't put play dough on the computer screen.

😂

Lauren & Miss M xox

18

Lovely Laurens {Mini Interviews}

Hi I'm Lauren! (In case you're new, or you've followed me for a while but never actually knew my name LOL). There are a few other Laurens in amongst our awesome community of Aussie Parenting Bloggers, and one day when I was pondering blog post ideas, I thought of chatting with a few of them to create a mini interview post. And so that's where we are today!

Firstly is Lauren - The Thud. 

I adore Lauren for many reasons... mostly her sense of humour when it comes to all things parenting! Her boy 'The Thud' is a little younger than Miss M, and her daughter 'Pop' is only 2 weeks older than my Little Man, so we shared many of the same feels and struggles in our 2nd pregnancies. Lauren has just started podcasting and she and Jodie are a bucket of fun to tune in to. Oh and not to mention she won the Kidspot Voice of 2015!! If you love a good laugh, you'll love her blog.

Can you share a favourite or popular post from your blog?

With a newborn baby, I’m back in sleep deprived hell so this post is my life right now - Ten Enemies of the Sleeping Baby

What activities does Thud enjoy at the moment?

Thud is two and a half so he enjoys doing anything he shouldn’t be doing. Climbing to precarious heights, finding and deploying dangerous objects, wielding permanent markers... he’s a risk taker. He’s especially fond of his bike right now. He taught himself to ride it. I’m slightly terrified about what the future holds for us. 

Funny parenting story?

My life is one long, funny parenting story. Or tragedy, I can’t tell.  Right now, if you could watch what happens when we try to leave the house, you’d be in stitches. It’s like a Benny Hill skit, involving chases, bodily fluids and serious injuries. Every time I think we are finally ready to get in the car, someone shits themselves or someone disappears or someone is suddenly nude or someone bursts into tears (usually me).  And that’s before we get to the car and have the long-running argument over who is going to drive. I swear one day I’m going to hand him the keys and tell him to keep it below 60.

Favourite quote?

My most frequently repeated quote is “this too will pass” – said as I hide in the pantry and eat biscuits. 
But my favourite quote is “You wouldn’t worry about what others think of you if only you realised how seldom they do” – Eleanor Roosevelt. A great reminder to stop obsessing about yourself and just get on with shit.

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Lauren - Canberra Mummy. 

I first came across Lauren when she put the call out for bloggers to review her ebook OMG I'm Pregnant! (Click here to read mine). She's also a mother of two and writes with honesty and positivity about parenting.

Funny parenting moment?

(Since becoming a mother of two) these occur regularly when my baby daughter laughs at everything her older brother does. It is amazing to watch the two interact at such young ages, and the joy they bring to each other's lives.

What do you love about Canberra?

Canberra is awesome because it is one of the most family friendly places in Australia.  There are beautiful parks and lakes to walk around, lots of free family events held most weekends, and there is a real sisterhood of parenting that you can only find in smaller communities such as Canberra.

A popular post?

My most popular article I wrote at 5am in the morning after doing a night feed for my eldest. He was only a newborn at the time. So many of my friends warned me of the night time feeds, but you know what, I loved them. They were very special and private moments between bub and me. - Why I'm happy my baby doesn't sleep through the night.

Favourite quote?

My favourite quote is by Toni Morrison, "“If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it.”
I took this quote literally and it is the reason why I created my blog. I wanted to write about parenting and share my wisdom with other mums. I also wanted to reframe negative view of parenting into positive ones, hence my article about enjoying night time feeds.

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Lauren - Life at number Five

Lauren is a stylish blogger, wife and mum who's always sharing her 'everyday style' over on Instagram. I followed her before she had her daughter Grace, and it's been lovely to see her grow over the past few months!

Tell us about your little Grace...

Oh, where to start! I think I could talk about her for hours, but I’ll try to restrain myself! Grace is just the most beautiful, happy, chilled out little baby. It’s such a joy to be her mum. She has crazy amounts of beautiful blonde hair, the most squishable marshmallow thighs and she is obsessed with sticking her tongue out! I’m very lucky that she’s a great little sleeper at night, we’re still working on her day sleeps though! She just makes life so enjoyable and makes me laugh every day.

Funny parenting moment?

There are so many! Grace is a seriously hilarious baby. One of the most recent ones was at mothers group when we had someone come talk to us about sleep and settling. Grace literally sat on the floor staring at the woman talking about sleep like the most attentive little student, it was super adorable. The best part was that when we came home from mothers group she had a 2.5 hour nap, which is super unusual for her, so clearly she was paying attention! 

A favourite/popular blog post?

My most popular post on the blog is '21 awesome uses for the Raskog cart from Ikea’ – people just love it! My personal favourite post would probably be Grace’s birth story [part 1 and part 2] for sentimental reasons. It’s nice to have a record of what happened, especially as my memories of the details are already fading a bit!

Favourite quote?

I’m so bad at picking favourites! I change my mind a lot about what my favourite quote is, but at the moment it’s a quote from Roald Dahl – "If you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.” I just think it’s such a good reminder that your thoughts and your outlook can have such a big impact. Especially important as a mum!! 

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Finally, Lauren - Create Bake Make

Cooking is not something I'm good at - that's why mums like me need awesome foodie bloggers to follow! Enter Lauren from Create Bake Make! Not only does she share great recipes, but the highs and sometimes heartbreaking lows about motherhood, babies and kids.

You have so many delicious recipes on your blog! Would you mind sharing one savoury and one sweet?

It's so hard to just choose two!  My Cheese and Bacon Cobb Loaf is one of my favourites and very popular, and it's easy to see why!  When it comes to sweet treats, my 4 Ingredient Maltesers and Mars Bar Fudge is another favourite too, it's pretty rich but soooo good!

How old are your boys and what activities do they love?

Our boys are 4 and almost 3 with baby number #3 due in July.  They really are stereotypical boys and love all things trucks, cars, trains and construction but also enjoy 'helping' me in the kitchen and having fun 'making' with paints, crayons and ALWAYS glitter!

How many coffees a day and how do you take it?

While I'm pregnant I stick to one decaf coffee a day but usually I'm a two - three a day girl.  I like to keep it simple, flat whites all the way except when it's hot I indulge in an iced latte - yum!

Favourite quote?

'Cake is the answer no matter the question'

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Thank you lovely Laurens!
Hope my readers have found a few new great blogs to follow...

xox

3

{Interview} Say Hello to Jo!

Jo has the most colourful, beautiful and inspiration Instagram feed and I absolutely adore her photographs. I don’t know how she does it! I first came across her via Fat Mum Slim as she makes a frequent appearance as one of the ‘fab 4’ in the photo a day challenge. And it was back in November of 2014 when she really caught my eye with her #handywallcandy theme for the entire month! (See what I mean here)

She cleverly built up her Instagram tribe (an amazing almost 16k followers!) before starting her blog Say Hello Jo. She’s worked with some fantastic brands (including Finlee and Me like me!) – with her Alphablock Book promotion.

Welcome Jo!

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1. Hello Jo! (how appropriate to start our chat LOL)… Would you mind sharing some of your favourite Instagram pics?

Of course!  It was hard to choose just four but so fun looking back to choose!

Grid created by @sayhellojo and used with permission

2. How exciting that you recently worked with Target!! Tell me did they approach you or did you approach them?? (asking for a friend – by ‘friend’ I mean myself)

So exciting huh!  They approached me just before Christmas last year asking if I wanted to work with them on an influencer campaign.  I love their stuff so naturally said yes.  I’ll be working with them every month showing how to get some cool colour pops into your home for next to nothing.  It combines three of my biggest loves:  colour, shopping and bargains!  It’s been a really great collaboration and I can’t wait to share what’s happening next.

3. So Mr O your darling boy starts kindy this year? How are you both feeling about this change?

Oh my goodness.  Let’s just say only one of us was ready {and it WASN’T me!}.  I took the day off work because I knew they’d be tears and I was right {again, ME guilty as charged}.  He’s been there a month and is just loving it.  I’ve got used to it too and love seeing the change in his confidence and his love of learning.  I’m hoping to start volunteering at the school soon, and am looking forward to that.

4. What kind of activities does Mr O enjoy? (Apart from wall rocking!)

He is the best model and loves exploring with me.  These days he is so fast I have to be quick to whip my phone out to get a pic before he skedaddles!

He is obsessed with fire engines, police cars and ambulances and wants to be a fireman when he grows up.  I think we have something like 20 fire engine related toys, books, dress up costumes and props floating around the house.  We always look for them on the road and the plus side is that I know where all the extinguishers and hydrants are at our local haunts.  “Look mum!” he will often say, pointing in the direction of his latest find, normally as I push the trolley around the supermarket!

5. So you’re from Perth? We are considering a family holiday over there sometime this year… Can you give me any tips of where to take the kidlets? (Miss will be 3 by then and Mr will probably 9 months?)

Perth is very family friendly and awesome for kids.  If you want to find colour for any wall rocking, I’ve shared my faves here:

In terms of areas, Fremantle, Leederville, 140 Perth and the Perth Cultural Centre are my faves; not just for photo opps but there are so many options and areas to explore plus fantastic cafes nearby, and most often, playgrounds too.   If it’s your first time here then you must visit Kings Park – it’s a massive, elevated park right on the city’s doorstep and has sweeping views across the river and to the hills.  Families are often here picnic-ing and there’s heaps of playground options to choose from too, if you don’t want to wander through the natural gardens.

The Perth Zoo is really good and for just $5 you can feed the giraffes behind the scenes from the main public areas {Have you ever been eye to eye with a giraffe}.  The kids need to be at least 4 so this is just one for Mum and Dads but the whole area is great for little ones and it has a massive playground inside.

6. How do you take your coffee?

REGULARY!   Ha!  I have a flat white {no sugar} everyday and always order it in a takeaway cup even if I’m dining in.  It’s my little quirk, I think it just tastes better like that, plus I like to collect cool cups… see…

Grid created by @sayhellojo and used with permission

7. Highlight of 2015?

Oh gosh!  Launching the blog was fun, holidaying with the fam to the Gold Coast was awesome {we particularly loved our trip to Dreamworld} , finding time to focus on me again after coming out of the “mum” phase has also been pretty good.

8. Where to next for Say Hello Jo?

I hope 2016 will be the time when I get to focus on the blog a little more.  I have so many ideas – time is just my issue, like everyone else I guess – but I want to make that a priority this year.

We also want to holiday somewhere so would love some inspo from your readers!

Until then, the reality is that my next stop will be kindy drop off or, if you’re reading this on a Saturday, think of me saying hello to the morning vortex!

9. Favourite quote?

When nothing goes right, go left!

10. Social media links ☺

Blog
Instagram
Facebook

Thanks so much for your time Jo! So pleased to have you on the blog…
I always get a takeaway cup too - so much easier when you have kids!

Thank YOU for having me!  So glad to have connected with you here!

☺

0

My {Second} Interview Catch Up Post

Bloggers are a lovely breed...and I'm now into my third year of blogging. Last year I've had the pleasure of interviewing 12 wonderful bloggers - and back in July I did a follow up of my first 6. You can read it here - along with links to the original interviews.

For the most recent 6 interviews I kept it local and interviewed fellow RADeladian bloggers. Here's a recap of what Kylie, Liv, Sarah, Nichole and Beth have been up to.

July - Kylie from Octavia and Vicky

Thank you to Lauren for inviting me back for an update. Pebble is now a BIG Year 1 student (second year of school) and Rocky is turning three in just over a month. THREE!? Where did THAT time go? 

Since my first interview I've had some pretty big changes in family and work. For a number of complicated work reasons I increased my work time from three days a week to four days a week. I have thrived on the work, I just love teaching and sinking my teeth into an extra day has been fabulous! At the same time we decided to move Pebble to my school, instead of her local school (they are only seven minutes drive apart!). It's kind of a long and complicated story... involving me teaching Pebble for the last term of her first year of school. Yep, I taught my own child! That was a bumpy road at first but in the end it was a real blessing and a very special time that I'll never forget. I'll go on to work four days again this year, teaching Reception, lucky me (yes, I really mean that!).
Pebble is READING and writing and doing gymnastics and swimming. She is still an awesome bundle of creative ideas, and loves to do things her own way. She's our rules girl, she loves routine and boundaries, but she also loves looking at things differently and plays and creates in her own individual way. 

Rocky has changed child care centres this year, from one that we very much adored to one that is more local, and also wonderful. We're so lucky to have awesome choice in our area. Being closer to home will make his transition to school a little smoother, when the time comes (we hope!). Rocky has really grown up to be boisterous, energetic and a little comedian. He loves to make us laugh. He's also throwing some ripper tantrums these days... but that's another story. At the end of the day he is super cuddly and loving and has big love for his family.

While Paul has gone back to work the three of us have been enjoying school holidays together, with only one more week left to soak up. We have spent LOTS of time with our huge family and awesome friends. As always we made a trip to the city, this time for a ride on the Popeye and a visit to the South Australian Museum. The Museum has changed quite a lot since I last went, or perhaps I just had more time to look around this time, now the kids are a bit older. The kids especially love all the drawers to pull open and examine specimens of one kind or another. One last thing we'll be squeezing in before the end of next week is a trip to the Adelaide Zoo. Always a winner!

With all this going on I'm afraid that blogging on Octavia and Vicky has really taken a back seat. I have been so reluctant to formally call an end to my blogging days in that space, but it has fizzled out to almost nothing now. It remains a wonderful part of my life that I feel so lucky to have enjoyed. Perhaps I will come back to it with fresh eyes, it may include more teaching posts than parenting posts. Or perhaps I'll never write again. I really should stop sitting on the fence and decide! For now I have this beautiful family and awesome job to keep me going. 

Thanks again, Lauren, I wish you all the very best on your blogging ventures!

August - Liv from Eenie Meenie Miney Mum

Liv recently wrote a fantastic insight into life with twins. A great read...

You've probably seen her memes popping up all over social media because they're so awesome. Here's four of her most popular...

And here's what Liv has to say...

Considering 2015 was the year eeniemeeniemineymum.com was born, it was a pretty big year! So many instances of nearly accidentally killing my children and/or publicly humiliating myself to share, so little time. No really, so. little. time. And so. many. instances. 

Although I have to say, as the festive season (along with every family birthday in basically my entire family because we all apparently only procreate in one single month of the year) drew nearer, and I discovered that I have an uncanny knack of making plans and then not wanting to actually do them when the time comes... my momentum stalled a bit. The faster my littlest baby learned to crawl (or, as is now the case, walk), the less able I was to smash out a blog because she was, you know, smashing all our stuff. Destroying the twins duplo masterpieces. Systematically pulling every book we own off their shelves. Etc etc. 

That said.. There is a shining beacon looming down upon us. My twins turned four at the very end of 2015. And you know what that means. 

KINDY. 

Two and a half beautiful days a week in which someone else is instructing the direction of their little minds and suggesting they not use their vegemite sandwich to wipe up the water they just spilled all over the bench top. 

Oh, kindy. How I plan to love thee with all the fervour of my highly caffeinated heart. Oh kindy, how I plan to wistfully smile at just the mere thought of you as I while away my hours sitting watching my single non-kindy age child in the playground, or eating double coated tim tams without having to hide in the cupboard to do so. 

So watch this space! 2016 could just be the best year for eenie meenie miney mum yet. Or maybe not. In any case, I'm planning on buying a Dyson stick vac. And if that's not exciting enough news, I don't know what is.

September - Sarah from Working Mums Collective

Well 2015 certainly flew by. It feels like only a few weeks ago that we were getting ready for our little man to start school and now he is getting excited about being in year 1 this year.

Last year was a big adjustment for us getting into the routine of all the school activities. Thanks to a facebook group started by one of the parents in the class we got through and were kept up to date with all the activities, excursions and other important school dates.

It was an bigger adjustment for me to get into the routine of working three days and being home two. After working full time for so long, it was hard to get into that routine.

This year will be another adjustment period for us as I will return to work full time and my husband will be doing more flexible work and will be responsible for the school drop offs and looking after our daughter a couple of days a week. From a work point of view I am looking forward to being back five days a week as I struggled to adjust to only being there three days and was doing a lot of work at home. But I will miss being there for two of the drop offs and pick-ups and will miss my time with Ashlee but it will be good for them to have more time with Dad. 

Who knows what the routine will be like the year after… only time will tell.

Things were a bit quieter with working mums collective this year but I have blog plans for 2016. In January I will launch the working mums collective magazine. This gives me an opportunity to combine my passion for design with my passion for supporting working mums and have some great contributors and articles to share for the launch issue. This will then be a quarterly online magazine for working mums. (Get your copy here!)

It was a busy year for me with design; marketing and social media clients and I have love connecting and supporting women in business to elevate their businesses to the next level. Many of who have achieved amazing things this year and it has been a pleasure to play some part in it. I will continue to do some graphic design work for bloggers and women in business in the evenings as I love being creative and bringing their dreams and visions to life.

October - Nichole from You Clever Monkey

Big news for Nichole over at You Clever Monkey is that she now has an online store where you can purchase her printables - such as visual timetable, desk mats, 2D shape challenge cards and much more. She also compiled a list of her top 10 posts from 2015 - here. There's some great stuff! And I always see You Clever Monkey pop up on Facebook sharing fantastic teaching resources (teacher friends you should definitely follow her). She was busy redecorated her children's bedrooms these school holidays and they look beautiful. Even the story books are arranged in rainbow order! I love it! Like all other Aussie teacher's, Nichole is busy preparing for the start of a new school year.

November - Beth from Almost Posh

We really enjoyed Christmas this year, as it was the first time Miss L had any kind of concept of what was going on (and the Father Christmas carrot was dangled a LOT for best behaviour during the lead-up! We kept gifts to a small handful but she certainly didn’t go without and has enjoyed playing with / using everything she received, including bathers and beach towels. Father Christmas also took her bottles away to give to the babies who don’t have any and now she’s got a non-spill cup of water to take to bed (which I’m super happy about). Our pre-childcare routine has improved out of sight lately; I think letting her choose her own outfit has been a big part of it. Next step: toilet training! Wish me luck!

Beth recently wrote about our fun RADelaide bloggers meet up here.

In December I interviewed Hayley from Adelady!

If you missed it you can read it here.
You can also catch up on what Hayley's been up to in her recent feature in Working Mums Collective magazine.

And I only just recently interviewed Angela from Finlee and Me.

Check it out here :)

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I'm looking for some feedback now - if you're a regular reader of Teacher Types, have you enjoyed reading these interviews? Have you found a great new blogger to follow because of one of my interviews? Is it something I should continue this year? Or maybe keep the general idea but with a different approach? Bloggers from elsewhere in the world? Bloggers from other genres with a specific focus eg healthy family recipes, maternal well being, fitness, fashion? OK too many questions - but would love to know your thoughts.

Lauren xx

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The Blogger Behind Finlee and Me {Welcome Angela}

I'm proud to be a brand rep for a fantastic Australian online kids/baby product store Finlee and Me. I genuinely believe that the products on offer are unique, high quality, educational, encourage imaginative play, and above all, aren't available in regular shops. If you follow me on Instagram, you'll see that I regularly share some of the products we were lucky enough to be gifted, and we even do the occasional giveaway!

Welcome Angela – and thanks so much for helping me out with an interview post while I’m busy settling into life with my 2 little cherubs!

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1. So I know you are from Canada, but when did you come to Australia?

I came to Australia in 1997 for my high school graduation trip; was only a short trip. Then I came back in 2002-2003 where I completed my Masters of Social Work. Then married my husband who is Austrlian in 2005 and we moved back in 2006 and have been here since.

2. What’s a highlight of living in Brisbane? Best kid friendly outing recommendation?

We love the community vibe in Brisbane. There are always a variety of kids activities from connecting with nature, going to a museum, having a picnic in the park; we’re truly blessed. In addition, we’re only an hour north or south from some of the finest beaches in Australia.

3. Tell us about Finlee and Chloe. What activities/toys are they loving at the moment?

Finlee and Chloe are currently in love with Bobo our Elf in the Shelf. Bobo has been with us now for the 3rd year running. He arrives on or around December 1st and the kids love him. They ask for him through out the year, tell me all the time how they miss him; he truly is part of our family. Finlee and Chloe are also into arts and crafts. From drawing, to painting to collecting leaves in the backyard to get creative.

4. How did you find Finlee’s first year of school?

Finlee had a great year. Everything is captured in a recent blog post here.

5. What can parents shopping online expect to find at Finlee and Me?

Our focus as Finlee and Me is simple… to create childhood memories through play. We source quality products from around the world that encourage children of all ages to play, connect with nature, nurture their imagination and through play create childhood memories.

6. Best selling product?

Magnatiles are such a fantastic education product - ideal for home or school. Beautiful colours, easy to use, these tiles connect along the edges and can be used to create fun 2D and 3D shapes.

Shop here!

7. What does a typical ‘day in the life of Angela, Finlee & Chloe’ look like?

A lot of people don’t know that I also work full time for the government in mental health. So Finlee is in school Monday-Friday, Chloe is in daycare Monday-Wednesday and then Dale is with Chloe on Thursday and I’m with her on Friday. I believe that quality time is more important then qanitity of time. Therefore, when we get the kids afterschool/daycare we try to ensure we’re off our phones and computers and focus on them. During the weekends, sometimes we’ll stay home and just be a family and regroup, while other times we’re off to birthday parties or different family activities.

8. What does 2016 have in store for Finlee and Me? Any big plans?

We have so many exciting plans for 2016!! We’ll be focusing on collaborating with some wonderful Australian, child-friendly/child focused businesses to bring our fans/followers/readers some exciting opportunities. In addition, we’ll be focusing on increasing our blog so that parents have a wonderful place to turn to when they need support, need a laugh or want to know they’re not alone. We’ll also be looking at sourcing some new product lines that will go great with our creating childhood memories through play.

9. Favourite quote to finish?

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You can find Finlee and Me here on social media

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Pinterest

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My Turn to be Interviewed!

Last year I attended an awesome Adelaide Instagrammers meet up and met the gorgeous and inspirational life coach Sarah Jensen (here's her website). We hit it off and later in the year she asked me some interview questions for her Heart + Hustle series. 

Here we are at the insta-meet up.

I regularly interview other bloggers, so I thought it would be nice to share my answers to Sarah's questions - I always like getting to know the bloggers I follow :)

So read on if you'd like to get to know me better!

What nourishes you?

When I stop and think about answering this question lots of things come to mind. My family. My career. Good food. A good cup of coffee. Doing 'body balance' at the gym (well I used to and hope to again). Sunshine on a 25 degree day. Shopping. My blog. Rest.

What’s top of your bucket list?

I really look forward to a time when we can travel again when our children are older. There is so much of Australia and the rest of the world I have't seen. I can't wait to make memories as a family and have some wonderful holidays together. Hubby has always wanted to go to New Zealand, but I've already been. And I've never been to Europe but he has. So there'll be some compromises over the years I'm sure.

What song do you sing at the top of your lungs every time you hear it?

Ok all time favourite - "Summer Rain". This song takes me back to my early twenties when I'd stay out late with my girlfriends and dance until my feet hurt! The song I'm loving at the moment is "Shut Up and Dance" - I bought a new car recently and had this song cranking while I drove it home from the car yard!

What’s your top tip for superhero self-confidence?

This is a tricky question... I certainly wasn't a confident person in high school, but found my way during my years of University when I was studying Early Childhood Education, and again when I got my first teaching job (at the school were I still work today). I think it's important to remember that not everyone will like you - and it's impossible to keep everyone happy all the time (I'm a compulsive people pleaser and don't like to rock the boat so this was a hard one for me to realise).

I'm not one for lots of make up, hair extensions, fake eye lashes and fake tans... but I do enjoy the simple pleasures of a pedicure, massage, a new outfit, and nice earrings to feel good about myself.

How do you pull yourself out of your head and into your heart?

Another tricky one Sarah! I tend to be a bit of a worrier and get a bit anxious when things don't go right. I'm always trying to keep other's happy. I guess this is when I'm "in my head". I wrestle with decisions when it comes to what's best for my daughter and our family and worry about things that are way off in the future.
I know that I need to sometimes think of myself and remember that putting yourself first is not selfish - but sometimes necessary. I think it's also important to be present in the moment and appreciate the here and now, instead of worrying those distant future big decisions.

If you could pick one random act of kindness to pay forward and start a global movement, what would it be?

Cooking a meal for someone (in particular a mother with a new bub). I cannot tell you how much this helped when I had my daughter two years ago - it was better than any material gift. In those early weeks you are barely hanging on, but it's so important to eat nourishing food (especially if breastfeeding - the hunger is overwhelming) but it's difficult to cook for yourself. I made an effort to do this for other friends when they had their babies once I experienced how helpful it was. Soup, pasta, muffins, risotto are great options or meals that freeze and reheat well are a good way to go. And if your cooking a batch of soup yourself - it's easy to put some aside. So next time a friend of yours has a new bub - why not bring them a meal made with love instead of (or as well as) a baby gift?

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Later this month I'm so excited to start Sarah's 'Rock Your Goals' online course. What a way to start my year of blogging and get a good plan together. Read more about the course here. 

Thanks for interviewing me Sarah. Can't wait to rock my goals with your support and inspiration! xx

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My Most Exciting Interview Yet | Hayley Pearson from ADELADY

Ok I'm just a tad excited...as my regular readers will know every month I interview a fabulous blogger, lately keeping it local and chatting with fellow Adeladians. Today I'm welcoming Hayley Pearson - Radio host, TV presenter and co-owner of Adelady. I remember her from her breakfast radio days on SAFM, and often see her cheerful face on the 'metro whip around' on The Project on Friday nights. I've had the privilege of writing for Adelady recently (here, here and here with another in the works) - I started following when it was just a colourful insta-feed and have seen it turn into a very successful website. 

Screen shot of Adelady's insta feed - go follow them now!!

Welcome Hayley!

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Tell us Hayley, you've achieved so much in your career - TV, Radio, and now your Adelady website is your newest adventure! What's been the highlight of your career so far? 

Before this year I would have said the time that Nova (the radio station) flew me to LA to interview one of my fave bands - The Foo Fighters! That was the absolute highlight! I was even flipping out at the fact that I got to sit on Dave Grohl's toilet. Okay, I'm a little crazy!  But after Adelady was born, this year is the highlight of my career. Starting something with one of my closest friends and building it up to be everything we wanted it to be is just so satisfying! It's exciting!

Who's the most famous person you've met? (or who were you the most excited to meet?)

Probably the most famous would be Will Smith, Ashton Kutcher, Mark Wahlberg, Channing Tatum, Angela Lansbury, Katy Perry, Lady Gag Ga... but I was most excited about interviewing John Snow from Game of Thrones!

Wow - just wow!

Can you share a favourite post from Adelady?

My most favourite ones are ones from the heart, the ones that make us smile and laugh and think "omg I do that too". Our most popular one was picked up by News.com and that was 40 Signs You Know You're From Adelaide.

I'd love to know what play activities your two boys are loving at the moment?

We park hop. We are trying to test out every park in SA! With a 4 year old and one year old, it's all about tiring them out so they sleeeeep! (Read Hayley's Top 11 Parks post here)

Any tips for a mum about to go from one child to two? (By 'a mum' I mean ME!)

It was easy. Nothing is new. You are prepared for vomit covered t-shirts, middle of the night feeds, and baby poo explosions. I've enjoyed having two bubs SO much! Also one of the most special moments for me was introducing Austin (our 3 year old) to Alfie for the first time. Make sure it's super special and they get to meet the newbie before any other family members (other than yourself and your partner of course). (I love this article Hayley wrote recently - Baby 1 vs Baby 2)

You were in the Credit Union Christmas Pageant recently? What was it like?

So much fun and so tiring at the same time. You are performing non-stop the whole way! But seeing the smiles on kid's faces is so cool - especially when you spot your own children.

How can awesome Adelaide businesses get in touch with you to be featured on Adelady?

Email us or call us!  We are all about collaborating with like-minded South Aussies. We promote businesses that suit our brand! Our filters are Adelaide/female related and fun!

A quote to finish?

Source unknown - made with wordswag app.

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Thank you so much Hayley! What a pleasure to have you here today. Looking forward to collaborating in 2016! Keep up the great work xx

Get social with Adelady here...

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email: hayleyandlauren@adelady.com.au

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