Member Spotlight

When you're not being called 'Mum', what name/nickname do you prefer to be called?

Nothing too exciting most people just call me Jo.

What is the best thing about being a mum?

You know that feeling you get when your child is just giving it their all at life and you are just about bursting your so proud of them, and your cheeks ache from that stupid smile you get while watching them learn a new skill? For example my 4year old swam independently between platforms in his swimming lesson the other day and looked up at me with the biggest grin and a double thumbs up, my heart nearly burst in that moment... it's that feeling, I can't get enough of.

What is the most challenging thing about being a mum?

I hate seeing my kids upset, but harder than them being upset is knowing you could make them happy however you also know in that moment you have to take a stand. Like when they don't look after a toy and it gets ruined and you know you could make their world right again by simply buying them a new one but you also don't want self entitled little... people running around so you have to stand firm and let them learn their life lessons... yeah that part sucks!

What are you passionate about?

Having struggled with my own mental health, PND after each child and most recently PTSD, my personal mental health is something I'm super protective of and currently passionate about putting everything into my education to be able to help other people (but most importantly other Mums) get their flow back when life gets in the way.

What is something that you have done that you are proud of?

Well managing not to kill all my house plants feels like a pretty monumental achievement! But probably enrolling in uni while still being an active member of the family and Mum to 2 boys and a baby daughter would be one of my top 5 proudest moments to date... the house plants being #1 of course! 😆😆

What is your favourite thing to do or places to go to unwind?

Read a book, go camping, hiking, exploring, hangout with our horses, hide in a cupboard while secretly eating chocolate my partner and kids don't know about... 🤫

Places to unwind?

Honestly just being outside on an adventure with the family is my sweet spot. Camping, rock climbing, caving or simply trying to find faries in the reserve at the end of the street is where I'm happiest.

Joanne Marie