Bec & Mia
Listen closely. Can you hear it? It’s the sound of holidays fading off into the distance as we head into February and get serious about 2012. Now that kids are back at school and kindy, some of us are back at work and normal life has officially resumed, I have a few things to tell you.
Firstly, Mamamia is launching an ebook publishing division. Yes we are.
This is something we’ve been planning since last year and we’re finally ready to share.
We have several books already close to finished, a few more in the pipeline and a level of excitement that is somewhere around 11 on the dial.
Mamamia Publishing is going to be headed up by Rebecca Sparrow – who will shift from her role as deputy editor of Mamamia and become Managing Editor of MM Publishing. Oh, and she’s having a baby next week. Did I mention 2012 was going to be a big year?
That.
Why are we starting an ebook publishing arm of MM? Bec is the author of several best-selling books. I’ve written 3. We’re both passionate about writing and communicating but as authors – as consumers – we’re a bit disillusioned with the traditional publishing model.
We want to be able to reach a lot of people easily and directly. We want to be able to drill down deeper into some of the fantastic topics we discuss here on the site. And with an audience of 500,000 people (mostly women) every single month, Mamamia is in the perfect position to do that. Which is how the ebook publishing idea was born.
We’re finishing off our first two books which will be released in the next couple of months. We’ll be telling you much more as we get closer so stay tuned. Mamamia Publishing is not going to be just books by me and Bec. Some books will, others will be co-authored with other people and some Bec and I will just commission and edit. It’s already begun and we’re really excited.
Other news? I’ve decided that I don’t want to be a TV Host. Sky News were amazing to give me the opportunity to host a show last year. How lucky was that? A blank page, a genius exec producer in the form of Paul Zorzi and the freedom to do stories, interview people and cover issues I was passionate about. I learned more than I could have imagined and parts of it I really enjoyed.
But what I actually learned is that TV doesn’t feed me – not in the way writing does. I’m a writer. It’s what I love and what I want to do more of. TV is a demanding beast and it’s just not for me. Love doing my spots on Today Show – where I’m in and out in less than an hour. Not destined to be a host. So no more Mamamia on Sky News this year.
This year is about the site, my column and books.
Bring it.
Nicky, our writer, is back from maternity leave, working two days a week. We are stoked to have her back
If you wanted to catch some more pics from the Marriage Equality dinner, check out the Star Observer gallery.
How is your week going? What’s been going on?
PS: If you’re wondering what “OMM” means in the comments below, it’s short for “On My Mind”.
Comments
328 Comments so far
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Wham bam thank you ma’am! The holidays are over and we are all back to work. Including a bumper crop of excellent stories and news from mamamia.com.au! Thank you team for feeding my brain and knocking it back into gear. Best wishes to the lovely Bec Sparrow for your new baby. Looking forward to MM Publishing too.
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Here’s what been happening for me – and I don’t usually post on open posts, but here goes. My partner and I have been trying to get pregnant. This is my second honeymoon with all this – I have a beautiful almost 9 year-old daughter who I raised as a single mother, and my partner and I and her are all SO ready for a new member of the family, and it’s so exciting for me to be able to do this with support, when I am actually ready. It’s going to mean a lot to all of us in so many ways. We have tried now for a few months, and up until now we’d fallen pregnant – seen the double lines – twice out of three attempts. The first month was a chemical pregnancy (where despite the symptoms and a positive result, a heavy period soon followed) and last December, I had a miscarriage at about 8 weeks. It was awful, but we got through it together, and tried again a month later.
Yesterday I realised I was un-pregnant for the third time. Another positive result a few days ago, all the excitment of realising the miscarriage would be overshadowed by this great turn around in luck! And then suddenly, the symptoms reversed again, and a test hardly showed a second line, and my period came last night.
I know all the positives – I have a wonderful partner so ready to become a Dad (he’s already an amazing step-Dad to my daughter), I have a great job, I am healthy, I am still relatively young (33). But I am disappointed, I can’t help it. I am a little bit heartbroken. I am also acutely aware that some couples have a truly hard time of conceiving, but it doesn’t lesson the ups and downs of what we’re going through… It’s just – a real shit. I wish I could just progress a pregnancy!
That does feel a little bit better, just sharing.
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Sending positive vibes to you for future attempts
Take care!
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I’m so sorry for your loss Miss Kate Daily. Sounds like you really need to take a little bit of a break. It’s OK to fall apart you know. Plus you are blessed with a daughter and that is so precious. Don’t give up hope but also allow yourself time to grieve. Best wishes.
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Bec looks amazing and I can’t wait to see her baby next week!
Those purple shoes are fab but I think the impracticality may outweigh their beauty.
I’ve enjoyed reading this thread – everyone is so open and supportive!
Here’s what’s been happening for me.
Booked my trip to America – really proud to have saved for it.
I received a call from Layne Beachley telling me I’ve been successful in receiving a grant to kickstart my writing/speaking business in educating young people about facial differences! So exciting!
I’ve had a tough week though – my foot has been in incredible pain and I’ve had four days off work. The skin on the sole of my foot has split and I can’t walk on it properly. I’ll be ok though
Happy Thursday everyone. I hope you’re all doing ok xx
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A few news stories OMM:
1. Shuddering in fear at the thought of what Gina Rhinehart could do with her newly-bought Fairfax power…some very happy mining magnates and Liberal party members out there today, rubbing their hands in glee…
2. The outraged mother of the 12 year old girl who was recently strip searched (in a separate room, by a female officer, with her mother present). Now there is discussion to change the law so that minors can only be strip searched if there’s a court order. I totally understand that a strip search would be traumatic for a kid, but I worry that changing the law might cause dodgy parents (who already show disregard for their kids’ welfare by having drugs in the house) to use their kids to hide their stash…intersted to hear other peoples’ thoughts on this…
3. Hoooray for the payrise for community workers!
Well deserved
Oh yeah, and IVF is on my mind, but that’s nothing bloody new…
Feeling a lot more happy and positive these days, though, hopefully I can keep the momentum up
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The strip search story has been on my mind too, but for different reasons. I think at times we need to respect that the police didnt take the decision to do it lightly. They obviously had reason to believe that it was necessary.
In my view, as long as police in their files can justify their reasoning for doing it, there should be no need for a court order. I highly doubt police routinely strip search 12 year olds, and im sure her age was considered, before they decided to go ahead with it. im also sure they had to know it was to be a headline not long afterwards.
At times like these, i think police need community support rather than outrage. Sure I wouldnt be happy if i was the mother of a 12 year old girl being strip searched, but i also wouldnt have let her live in a household which was storing/growing/selling illegal drugs.
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I got a Sony e-reader for Christmas and am only now getting around to downloading books. It is the faffiest bloody thing ever and is doing my head in. Has anyone got a Sony e-reader and can offer me soome hints and tips? Please and thank you!
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I am SO excited about the ebooks! my kindle is going to take a bit of a bashing when they’re all out.
Bec you look stunning. I am so excited for you
OMM – was at a friends place today and I had to laugh because the first three topics of conversation that popped up were tablecloths (she’s making some), what colour of browny/beige she should paint the bedroom wall and how good pilates is for your core….we are 19, and act like we are 45 and mothers of three hahaha!
I guess I’ve just been thinking about how nice it is to have friends that you know you’ll be friends with 30 years into the future.
friends rock
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This is the happiest I have been in a long while.
This week I started an amazing job at an amazing school – the other staff are the kindest, most supportive, funniest and most helpful group I have ever met. My programs are looking good, having had so much great team work and I am truly excited about teaching. The kids start tomorrow, and I feel so blessed to have found such an amazing place to spend my first year as a teacher.
My new house is all put together and it is looking lovely. My flatmate got the go-ahead to move in next week which will give me the money to start paying off some debts. I have the space and furniture to host my friends and family for dinner parties, one of which I have already had. I am going to make keeping up with people I love a true priority. My kitties are adjusting well to the move (about an hour away from our old house) and surprisingly I am not homesick. This is home now.
I have managed (so far) to make good lunches to bring to school, and know I can continue.
I’m not writing this to brag, it’s just for the first time I truly feel that I am in the right place at the right time and I’m not stressing about other people and their expectations. I know that I will give my best and that everyone around me will do the same.
Now to find a man… jokes, no rush.
I am so glad to have MM as a ‘safe place,’ a place that allows me to relax while making me think. Hugs to the MM staff and all the best with these exciting times in your lives – I can’t wait to see Bec’s baby!!
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Just watching the Project and they said that Kristen Bell was trending. I’m not on Twitter so Googled hoping nothing was the matter…Fast forward to all the re-directs to YouTube! My gosh, I never thought that a video could outdo Obama singing Al Green but I was wrong! I need Ventolin I’m laughing and crying so hard. Just gorgeous! Forget Veronica Mars and Heroes…It’s all about Ellen.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5jw3T3Jy70
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I cried tears of laughter watching that video yesterday bahahahahaha!
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OMM – was 6 weeks pregnant and began to spot on Sat night.
Kept calm and thought it would be ok after googling symptoms. Began bleeding seriously on Sun afternoon. Went to GP was told it should be ok. But was given an ultrasound referral for Monday Morning just in case. On Monday morning my first priority wasn’t my bleeding. Instead I got up at 6 to drive an hour to return the company car as a colleague needed it more than me and my own planned work trip would be rescheduled to accommodate it. Having returned the car my priority was then to sit at my desk for 2 hours bleeding and now cramping to finish some urgent work for my boss. Only after the car was returned and my deadline met did I then spend anothet hour on public transport heading out to the ultrasound place. I had drunk over a litre of water as instructed and almost collapsed on the floor in discomfort awaiting my turn to see the radiographer. The receptionists couldn’t find my name on their system. They kept taking other people ahead of me. I could see they were busy and gentley explained was incomfortable. They kept me waiting for another 5 mins. I began to cry as I was seconds away from peeing all over the floor. I would have left but I needed to know what was causing the bleeding. I had an invasive exam and was told I had miscarried. I got home and spent the next 5 hours on the phone and computer for work. I push myself harder than anyone I know. I’ve worked consistently since Monday in a role I love for a company I adore. I’ve only told my husband about the miscarriage. It seems my work consumes me (or I allow it to consume me.) I’m not a martyr and no one at work (nor my family or friends know.) This was my second failed pregnancy. I’m now that person whose been pregnant 3 times and has only one child. I count my blessings and am the most happy and content person I know – this is a set back and I don’t know if at 35 I’ll be lucky enough to carry a baby to term again. If I’m honest I think I’ll probably lose a baby a third time. I’m disappointed I didn’t get to lie in bed on Monday and Tuesday like my GP said. Instead I worked my butt off so I wouldn’t let anyone down or miss any deadlines for which I’m accountable – while bleeding my baby away in between. I’ve a senior role and my bosses and colleagues would have understood if I’d called in sick (as I would in reverse). I guess I’m just angry with myself and resent the unrelenting pressure and grind under which I put myself. Others around me don’t do it. Why do I? I mentor other women in my office and I would never request it of them.
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I’m so sorry. You need to look after yourself, your work will understand and it not tough luck, you are entitled to sick leave when you need it. You need some rest and TLC right now.
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So sorry for your loss IJ. Please allow yourself some time to begin the healing process without anger at yourself. Be kind to yourself.
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Take time out and let yourself heal. I am so sorry for your loss I can not imagine how hard and deverstating that would be. Use the support of the people around you. they may not understand but they love and care about you.
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Please please please don’t think for a second that you have done anything wrong. I laid flat on my back for three days at doctors orders and I still lost my baby. A lovely nurse who took care of me said “you wouldn’t have chosen for this to happen so you can’t blame yourself that it did happen”. I am very sorry and I send you much love and strength xx
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I used to be a workaholic but thankfully after a forced break where I took a year off I realised that work is not everything. Your work manner is seriously affecting your health and your personal life. It’s not worth it.
Do you use work to avoid your personal life? Many women do. Whatever the reason you need to stop now!!! In ten, fifteen years you will look back and wonder what you were thinking.
Your situation is very serious, no job or career is worth this. I did. You need to take an extended break six months or more to evaluate what is really important in your life. I am certain that you will come out with a much healthier perspective. Wishing you the best xxx
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Bec you look SO gorgeous! Wishing u all the best, can’t wait to hear your news! xxx
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I concur, pregnant bec is absolutely gorgeous
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Love that lippy Mia is wearing in photo with pregnant Bec. It matches your necklace so well. So bright and summery. Shame the weather is so…
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Rebecca Sparrow, you are a hot mamma!
All the best for the coming days and weeks and look forward to hearing the news.
New baby and new publishing arm…you sure like to keep busy!
Be good and take care of that special family of yours.
oxox
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Bec, you look gorgeous, glowing and radiant. Wishing you all the best for welcoming your new baby in the very near future.
OMM – some really devastating news for a close family member this week. Cancer is so very unfair and terrifying and there seems to be nothing I can do or say to help. Can’t behind to imagine how frightening it must be to hear those words.
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Love Lana’s dress – where can I get one?
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Firstly, sending lots of love, light, strength and positive vibes to Bec and family, as you await your beautiful new addition! Can’t wait for the news next week!
Secondly, am so excited for the announcement of MM Publishing, can’t wait for the e-books!! Awesome choice on Bec as Managing Editor of MM Publishing, congrats on the new role, Bec
Just out of curiosity, has the new deputy editor been appointed or will that announcement be coming up in the next wee while?
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Also, lastly welcome back Nicky!!! Wishing you the best and sending you positive vibes as you start the journey of being a working mum.
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Thanks Chelsjo, the team have made it an amazingly easy transition for me.
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Well, the Mamamia team just keeps the great ideas coming, don’t you? Love the sound of things to come, looking forward to it… but I must admit, I will miss Sam De Brito’s frequent inappropriate and often surprisingly insightful commentary on Mamamia TV. Gotta love him
On a side note I am loving the beautiful colourful clothes on you girls, Mia where did you get your bright bird pants? They are DIVINE.
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Maz
Mia’s divine pants are from Sass & Bide : )
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Bec, you look positively radiant and gorgeous in that photo. The very best of luck for the safe arrival of your baby. Thank you so much for your generosity in sharing your journey so far. Sending you lots of positive vibes for early next week. Can’t wait to hear the wonderful news.xxx rp
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OMM: The biggest is that tomorrow I am officiating at my FIL’s funeral. My 5yo is really struggling with understanding what is going on – he’s been sick for a long time but I think that just made it normal in her head. Obvioulsy, my husband is just gutted.
BUT, my beautiful girl, when asked what she was spendin her birthday money on, said she wanted to buy something for her little brother. After some negotiation (he really doesn’t need anything!) she has decided she will buy some books and toys for the babies in hospital. God bless that child!
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Good luck for tomorrow, I’m sorry for your family’s loss.
What a generous and special girl you have – though I suspect it’s a lot of ‘indirect’ teaching and a fantastic example from mum that made her that way!
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The shoes look great = worth it!
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So post-massive breakup, I’ve decided to look after myself more (need something to fill the gap with!) and finally bought Amazing Face. Does anyone have recs for online cheapish makeup suppliers?? Strawberrynet don’t have most of what I’m looking for. Ta muchly!
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Oh this is totally my domain!
try http://www.beautybay.com for a LOT of good brands (Stila, Urban Decay, Mario Badescu) its in the UK but they currently have free international shipping and they are so much cheaper than everyone else.
i also use:
http://www.adorebeauty.com.au
http://www.skincarestore.com.au
if you are feeling super patient and adventurous, you can get a US postal address (i use hopshopgo which is free to join and is run by paypal) and shop on sephora.com
enjoy
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The today show has totally stolen the set of and style sunrise!!!
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I’m going to miss MM on Sky, it had become a little bit of a sneaky habit (I’d watch in on my iPad while I waited to pick the children up from school).
Very excited to hear about the book publishing! Really looking forward to hearing more about it.
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So do you have a new deputy editor?
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OMM – How living overseas can affect the way you approach things…let me explain, this weekend husband and I had a HUGE fight, the kind of fight were you just don’t want to be in the same place as the other person but it’s a bit hard to walk away when you’re living in a different country! We have had these fights before – and when they happened back in Australia I would get in my car and drive away either to a friend’s house or to my parents or just go for a walk to breathe and think things through, but I have no one here except for him. I couldn’t even pick up the phone to call anyone back home because of time differences and things…. but in a way I realised that it was good, yes we didn’t talk for almost 2 days, and it’s bloody hard to be living in an apartment with not much space and having to move around each other without speaking! But eventually we both calmed down because I think we both realised that we ARE here alone, and that things like this will happen but we need to figure it out and move on. It probably also didn’t help that I’m PMSing! ahhh but I digress… living overseas alone for 9 months now has allowed us to become closer and deal with issues in a different way, and has helped us to see how important the other is to us. It’s not so easy to say ok I’m going to stay at a friend’s house or my parent’s house until you calm down when you’re in a place alone.
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I remember having one of those fights with my husband in London. I walked out and was walking the streets crying and feeling so sorry for myself because I just had nowhere at all to go. I ended up sitting in the pub next door to our house until closing time nursing one glass of wine then went home to my husband who was beside himself as to where I’d been until so late. I think it does make you closer when you only have each other.
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Unfortunately no pubs around us lol
But yes I agree it does make you closer.
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Cinnamon, I hope everything is going OK for you now!
Yes, I think at first not having the space (and when we first got here, the freedom to drive away – we had no car!) was a little hard, but I think that it has made us closer as well. I think in the long run, we will be better off for it. We both figure that if we can make it in a foreign country together, we can weather almost anything!
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Hey Rach,
Yep things are fine now…it seems even the length of our fights have reduced since moving here. I think it’s just hard to be fighting with someone who you are constantly around and is the only one really there for you. I think both of us realise this so if we do have arguments here or there we resolve things quickly.
My husband and I are very similar in our personalities (both a bit stubborn) but I feel like I’m usually the one working around him and how he is, but I don’t resent it, I’d rather let things be then go on and on. I agree if we make it here we can make it anywhere.
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Back to the shoes again….when you try these incredibly high heels in a shoe store, and you’re lurching around in them trying to retain your balance, at what point do you decide ‘They great, I’ll take them !” ?
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That made me laugh! It’s also a question that I think about when I see women struggling in their heels. I can count on one hand how many times I’ve worn my two pairs of high heels and slightly raised heels in the last three years.
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OMM: devode that a month after placing an order for maternity gea from an Aussie online business, it has not arrived, and they are not answering emails? Worried they have gone out of business. Now they have my cash and I have v tight clothes! No physical address or phone number to chase. V frustrating.
Have lodged a complaint with ACCC but what else can you do? I notice they are heavily mentioned in Cosmo Pregnancy. I’d love to ask the mag to stop promoting them!
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its not a lingerie website is it? I had some friend s who had huge problems with a webiste selling maternity underwear. No stock as advertised, no communication etc. Friend ended up going thorugh bank as had paid on credit card and they were able to reverse transaction. good luck!
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If you don’t get anywhere talking to your bank, it might be worthwhile talking to your state’s Office of Fair Trading – they sometimes deal with some of the smaller (that is, not widespread) issues that arise that the ACCC doesn’t fo after. If you still have no joy, you could go to the small claims tribunal.
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Thanks for the responses everyone. After contacting the web designers and the web developers in desperation yesterday (just to check it wasn’t a website problem) they responded to me to say they were also having trouble getting in touch with the business and feared it had gone bust.
Today, the website is down.
I guess all I can do now is get in line with the other creditors? There is no physical address for the store.
The business is Cedar Leaf by the way – seemed like a reasonable sized business and had been around for years. Don’t suppose there are any other customers in the same boat?
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If you don’t get anywhere talking to your bank, it might be worthwhile talking to your state’s Office of Fair Trading – they sometimes deal with some of the smaller (that is, not widespread) issues that arise that the ACCC doesn’t go after. If you still have no joy, you could go to the small claims tribunal.
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It might be worthwhile talking to your state’s Office of Fair Trading – they sometimes deal with the smaller (not widespread) issues that arise that the ACCC doesn’t go after. If you still have no joy, you could go to the small claims tribunal (which isn’t as hard as it sounds).
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It might be worthwhile talking to your state’s Office of Fair Trading – they sometimes deal with the smaller (not widespread) issues that arise that the ACCC doesn’t go after. If you still have no joy, you could go to the small claims tribunal.
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I only deal with online purchases if they offer paypal. I bought something last year through a website, that turns out, the business was no longer running but the site was still up and running and taking orders. Luckily I paid through paypal so I could go through them and launched a complaint to get my money back. I did get an apology and a refund from the woman who said she wasnt aware her website was still active! Sure….
You should contact Cosmo and let them know, they may be able to help?
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OMM – My Hubby and I have made the decision to put down our beloved dog Sam. He is not doing very well and is slipping fast and I don’t want my friend to be in pain.
The thing is how do I explain to my 3 year old where Sammy is ? She is crazy about him. I am not going to let her be there when we bury him. But should I explain before so she can say goodbye or just tell her after ?
I was going to say something along the lines of
“Sammy is not very well and is very very tired. Mummy spoke to the doggie doctor who said that Sammy can go to a special place to live where they will look after him. Mummy, Daddy and you will be very sad and miss Sammy very much”
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What you want to say starts out well and ends well, but I don’t agree with ‘special place to live where they will look after him’. It might sound brutal, but you will have to tell her that Sammy will die/has died. They’re the hardest words to say, and she will have lots of questions, but they’re important. Emphasise that he was very old and sick, and that you will all miss him and be sad, but I feel the truth would be better.
It’s a horrible decision to have to make, and I wish you all strength and love. xoxo
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Hi Jacs,
We too have just faced this awful time in pet ownership, and we have a 5 year old daughter. In addition, I lost my first husband during the first trimester of my pregnancy, and so the topic of death, heaven, dying etc is on regular rotation in our home…. cheery aren’t we !!!!
I have read to my daughter a book called ” Beginnings and endings with lifetimes in between ” Essentially it discusses that everything i.e., insects, trees, butterflies, pets and people have a beginning and end and a lifetime. Essentially the duration of the lifetime is proportionate to the size of the living thing. But sometime things become sick or injured that they are too ill to continue to live, then it’s their ending……
Now, it doesn’t really go into what happens next, but it does give a small chill some tangible facts to work with about the reality of death.
I really wish you well on the next phase and hope your child copes. I think it’s important for children to see us cry when we are upset, I think it teaches them a lot about us and about their own emotion, so don’t be too hard on yourselves. XX
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Sorry to read about your hard decision. I have always read that you should never talk about death to kids usuing te term “sleep”. Trickey, i know, but you dont want them thinking it is non permenant like sleep, or that sleeping can lead to death…
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OMM: Does anyone have any tips to stop biting nails?? I am determined to stop this year but I can’t seem to do it. No matter how hard I try.
Any tips would be awesome!
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Yup, get the bitter tasting nailpolish (a special one to stop you biting them). The biggest thing is that you don’t notice you are doing it. The taste of the nail polish makes you realise what you are doing so you can consciously stop. Also try to work out when you do it and in those times find something else to do with your hands.
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I was a shocking nail biter for ages. I could not actually remember ever having fingernails when I decided to break the habit….I haven’t bitten my nails in about three years now
I was not a fan of the bitter stuff… I found making a point of putting on a nice nail polish (i went with a really pale colour so as not to draw attention to how bad they were at first!), buffing and looking after my nails each day a big help. I splurged on nice nail polish and a care kit, made a point of spending time each day on caring for my nails.
I had a goal date and then I went and got manicure time! Felt so good to be able to do that!!
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Hypnotherapy worked for my friend’s daughter. They were really sceptical at first but gave it a go as they were desperate – she has not bitten them since!
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Get hypnotised! I had bitten my nails from the age of three until I was 26 when I finally went and got hypnotised. Two sessions and about $400 later and I have NEVER bitten my nails since. The best money I have ever spent and I wish I had done it years ago. The only downside is I have nails that look a little funny from years of biting them (the white bit starts a long way down the nail) but it gives me an excuse to paint them pretty colours, something I have missed out on all my life.
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Wonder if hypnotism would work for a chocolate addiction?????
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OMM : I decided to euthanase my beautiful 17 year cat on Australia Day…… I was / am devastated, although I know it was the kindest last gift I could give to her.
She has been through everything with me, buying houses, my wedding, relocating to Broome and back, 2 miscarriages, my husbands sudden death whilst I was pregnant with our daughter, the first 5 years of my daughters life and up to now…..marrying a second beautiful man…… she has been my one constant….and I miss her terribly.
Also OMM : My daughter starts Pre-Pmy tomorrow……and whilst my husband, the only father she has know will be there for her, I am again reminded of a milestone that her Dad would have so wanted to be part of.
Throughout all of the last 6 years, I know, with absolute certainty, that I am so very very lucky to have a healthy child, and to have known two great loves, and to have been loved deeply.
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what a remarkable few years you have had! and what a beauiful conclusion to have arrived at. – may this be the start of a wonderful year for you.
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Thank you so much…….. I really hope your year is super too XXX
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Hey Kerriann, I lost my beautiful little soul mate, Lucy Bear a West HIghland White Terrier, nearly three years ago and I am still grieving. When you are that close to them and they leave you the pain is incredible. As heart broken as I was I decided to not fall apart as she would have hated that. Of course I cried, boy did I cry, still do. But you do keep going. I adopted a little rescue not long after mainly because my other dog, her sister, was so devastated. It was the right thing to do. Harriet was in a terrible state when she arrived poor little thing. Now she’s wonderful. She has brought us so much happiness and giving her a good home where she is dearly loved makes me feel better. I wasn’t really ready but I was scared I was going to lose her sister from grief. YOu’ve been through so much and she was with you thru it all. Just like mine. Maybe adopt a little rescue? You obviously have a lot of love to give. xxx
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Hi Louise…Thanks for your kind words. I have been all over the rescue pet sites….. kind of therapy and torture at the same time….all those faces that could give someone so much love.
I’m not in a great hurry to get another cat at this point as I also have a geriatric Boxer, I’m the queen of senior citizen pets !!!! Also, My husband and I have just began plans to renovate and extend our home, and so when the dust has settled, literally, I shall be onto it !!
I hope you and Harriet have a wonderful lifetime together
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Thank you Kerriann, the three of us Leisel, Hariet & I are happy together. Leisel who is 14 now loves her little sister which is so wonderful as it was very tough on her losing her big sister. People probably think I’m insane speaking about them like this. But psychologists etc now equate losing a loved pet as difficult as losing a child. They are your child and you spend 10, 13, 17 years loving them.
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Ohh! Your post almost made me cry! I am terrified of losing my Husband, also my cat who is almost 10.
I feel for you, but I so appreciate how you can view yourself as lucky. You are lucky. How amazing your life has been, reminds all of us to pay attention to how lucky we are.
I’m going to put down the computer right now and hug my husband & I’ve just whistled for the cat.
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mwah ! XX
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Hugs to you – losing a pet is always devastating. Try and remember the wonderful life she has, and when it’s time maybe think of offering a home and some love to a rescue animal.
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Gorgeous photo of Mia and Bec. Beautiful. Very excited about Mamamia publishing and can’t wait to hear more about the books soon. But especially excited about meeting Bec’s new baby next week and then my new niece or nephew soon after!!!! Bring on the new baby cuddles.
xxxx
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Mia, has someone asked where your STUNNING necklace is from?
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sass n bide.. surprised you don’t know! she has worn it 34598 times before!
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I’m starting work today! I had a huge wardrobe crisis but think I’m ok now. I haven’t seen a post from you Whippersnapper- wondering how’re you doing? If it’s too raw to say anything, that’s fine. Just know my thoughts are with you. And with you too Bec! Am sooo excited for you and your family.
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I’m ok! Thank you
I have gone back home and we are trying to work on things and put more effort into our relationship.
I had a huge realisation after speaking with friends and family that I need to be more social, as since my bestie left to move overseas in Feb last year, I have been really anti social and it has affected everything! Going to make more of an effort with friends and doing things on my own.
We’re also getting a cleaner which I think will save lots of petty household squabbling which leads to resentment! Which, surprisingly, Mr W (who is very tight with money) said that I could give him a figure as to what I can afford to contribute towards that and he will pay the rest rather than asking for 50/50. One of his resolutions is to not be so mean with money and pay more attention to me when I walk in the door instead of watching the NBA games on his computer every night!
Hopefully a little bit of effort will help us move onwards and upwards. THANKS SO MUCH to you and everyone on MM. I wish we were all friends in real life xx
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If I could “like” your post more than once then I would. I read what you initially wrote and all of the heartfelt and genuine responses and thought it best not to say anymore but not today…Couldn’t resist! Sending so many good vibes your way and you both seem to have the old ‘give and take’ dance sorted plus a bit of self awareness and that’s half the battle right? Thinking of you and wishing BOTH of you the very best!
Lovena
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So pleased to hear that Whippersnapper!
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I am so exciting we are going to Asia NEXT MONTH – I can say that now! Can’t wait to be travelling in style all over inc HK Disney and cruising with our 2 kids. It’s going to be a blast.
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That is a lovely photo of you two Bec & Mia. Can’t wait to hear the baby news next week
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Thank you! You guys will be amongst the first to hear the news and see a pic. xxx
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All the best with the rest of your pregnancy Bec, looking forward to hearing the news and seeing a pic
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On My Mind: President Obama singing the first line of Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together”. Youtube it. Oh my! I want more! He’s so damn COOL!
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OMM – pregnancy test tomorrow. Trying for number two, second IVF attempt!!!
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Good luck!
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Good luck! I’m gearing up for my first try next month. Fingers crossed it’s the last try for both of us!
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Me too! good luck y’all!
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as “they” say – sending you baby dust.
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What format will the ebooks be? ie what devices will they be available for? Kindle?
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I would just like to thank Mia for replying back to me on Twitter the few times i have written to her, made me feel very special
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Can we have a Paula Joye pic please?
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go to lifestyled there’s a billion!
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Well if I had my own website, I’d have “a million” photos of myself up too…..
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I just thought I would share something that might be of interest to all the mamas and papas of teenage girls out there. It’s an online mag/site called http://rookiemag.com/ and was created by 15 year-old blogger Tavi Gevinson. It’s got articles on drugs, sex, love, school, bullying, fashion and everything in between all aimed at teenage girls without any crap or pink frilling.
Even as a 22 year old I find the writing incredibly honest, relevant and witty and I really hope it is still around when I have teenage girls of my own.
Have any of you seen/read it? What did you think?
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I’d heard of it but didn’t really know what it was. But thank you so much!
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I’m 29 and I follow rookie as well; Tavi is so great.
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Yesterday was a big day for me.
Had a wisdom tooth removed at 8 am yesterday morning. The dentist I go to plays a movie while they work on your teeth. I was watching Mr Bean. Do you know how hard it is to scream in pain and laugh at the same time?
And the bestest thing, my airfare and accomodation for Florida was paid yesterday. This trip is really happening!
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Wow that’s a great idea! Except how can you see the movie when the dentist’s head is blocking the way? :S
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The screens are positioned so you can see even while the dentist is is working.
Evilcupcake – I hope you weren’t screaming! It shouldn’t be painful!
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It was the needle that was painful . . . Bloody needles
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Oh my god.
That happened to me. 10 yrs ago.
Was getting 4 teeth yanked out and they had a tv in the ceiling… playing none other than mr bean¡¡¡
I couldnt stop laughing. Between mr bean putting a chicken on his head, and heavy metal in my mouth it was one anxious day.
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They were playing Mr Beans Holiday, the movie. I’m in the chair watching Mr Bean dancing to Shaggy “Mr Lover Lover”. So so funny.
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I love this post each week!
Can I ask for some advice on new books to read? I’m going away tomorrow and need to stock up the kindle, I read a lot so need at least 10-20 books to keep me going for the month I’ll be away.
In the last couple of weeks I’ve read:
Red Tent , How to be a woman, I came to say goodbye and Jasper Jones. Absolutely loved them all, especially Red Tent and I came to say goodbye.
Currently I’m reading Matilda is missing and The Help.
So far I’ve got The Slap, One Day, Sister and Ghost Child to take away with me…any more suggestions??
Shantaram is one of my all time favourite books, now closely followed by Red Tent, can anyone recommend some favourites that are kind of similar?
All the very best Bec, you’ll be in my thoughts!
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Maybe you should consult the global network of dreams?
http://www.gnod.net/
It’s designed to suggest books/music/movies/and err.. people (not sure how that bit works).. based on the tastes of people who like similar things to you. Pretty sure there’s some apps that also do this, and have been recommended here before too, but I can’t remember what they are.
My recommendation would be “What I Loved” by Siri Hustvedt. Couldn’t put it down.
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How It Feels by Brendan Cowell is magic.
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Yep -loved How it Feels by Brendan Cowell – couldn’t put it down!
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“Me before you” – Jojo Moyes – I literally could not put it down. Beautiful, sad, funny.
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Thanks isla11.
Here are some reading recommendations for you:
Swallow The Air by Tara June Winch
Monica Bloom by Nick Earls
Any of Kylie Ladd’s books
Brother of the More Famous Jack by Barbara Trapido
The Lime Bar by Matt Condon
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak (a personal favourite of mine)
Hope that helps!
xxxx
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I will second the vote for The Book Thief, fantastic book.
I’ve just read the Hunger Games trilogy, perfect engrossing holiday reading. I reviewed it on my blog http:blithemoments.blogspot.com
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Thanks so much for suggestions everyone!
I LOVE The Book Thief, it’s one of my favourite books.
My to read list is looking much better now, and I’ve been a good amazon customer today *sigh* it’s so easy to spend when you don’t have to physically make a payment.
I have tried to read Campaign Ruby twice now without luck, I just can’t get into it.
Yay, so happy to have some new books to read that have come recommended!
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It’s funny, I read the book thief as part of my book club last month…and I was one of the few people who found it difficult to read. I think it’s because there were many sad aspects to that book and I needed some cheering up. I enjoyed reading it, but I found it hard to pick up and read, if you know what I mean..
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Another thought… Campaign Ruby & Ruby Blues by Jessica Rudd. Great holiday reading
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God yes! Totally forgot Jess Rudd!!!
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The happiest refugee, Ahn Do – loved it!
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We just did this book for book club – everyone enjoyed it
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I followed a lot of your interview via this web site and I thought you were great as a TV interviewer. I loved the topics and the people you interviewed.
However, I do understand why you get more out of writing. Interviews have time and topic restraints.
I look forward to the E books.
Best of luck with it.
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For my open post I would like to tell you all a little story.
When my brother was in high school there was a guy in his class (let’s call him Bob) who was a little bit unusual and people didn’t talk to him much.
After school, I was told that Bob was now Jane (also a fake name). I didn’t think much more about it until I was watching a program on the Hungry Beast about intersexed people and my brother informs me that Bob/Jane is intersexed (and gay, so a bit of a double whammy). So I sent Jane a message on facebook and friend requested her.
Fast forward a few years of us being in regular contact and she’s paid $200 to come to Sydney just to visit me! She said she appreciates all the support I’ve given her and really wants to see me.
I’m so touched! I had to share that. It’s blown my mind.
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MissT, you seem very kind, so this is no surprise. Truth be told, I’d like to be friends with you, too. Have fun with Jane! xx
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MissT, that’s a beautiful story. What was such a little thing to you – a message and a friend request – has obviously had a huge impact on Jane.
Lovely. Let us know how the visit goes!
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That’s awesome! And you are a lovely lady in person and all
x
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Gosh I like you. What a good egg you are. xxx
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I love this story … you just made my day Miss T, again
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Great story – I saw the bit about your friend visiting you twitter. Good to see the backstory here (damn those 140 characters!)
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You’re so lovely! I’m glad to call you an Internet friend
you touch more people’s lives than you could possibly know!
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Kindness is the most underrated quality. Good on you Miss T.
Let us know how it goes! xx
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Wow that is so nice of you, I’m sure at a time when Jane felt like she neede someone you were there for her, you are a true friend
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Confused! So does Jane like boys or girls?
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Why does that matter?
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Because she is intersex & gay & I would like to know if that means that she likes girls! And before she was a he & liked girls, so was not gay then? I’m confused & just out of curiousity I was wondering! That’s why it matters!
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Is that a nice way to reply when someone asks a question so they can learn about things… by answering “Why does that matter?”
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She didn’t mean any harm by asking that. let’s all be kind to each other.
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OK, nobody be rude! No, it doesn’t matter but Jane wouldn’t be offended about being asked and neither am I.
Jane likes girls. I don’t know if Jane always liked girls, I think it’s been a really long journey for Jane to decide these things.
She identifies as female now, and that’s why she calls herself gay.
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Thanks for replying! I have read the book “Middlesex” & find this topic quite fascinating!
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OMM: I just told HR at my work that I won’t be returning from maternity leave. The lady was so judgemental and I know it shouldn’t but it hurt my feelings. She asked my why I wanted to be a SAHM – as in why would I want to do that. I know I’m sensitive but seriously what’s so bad about leaving paid work to stay at home with my baby all day?
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From the HR standpoint, she’s probably annoyed at having to recruit/hire/train someone when she wasn’t expecting to have to.
From a SAHM standpoint, “what’s so bad about leaving paid work to stay at home with my baby all day?” absolutely nothing! If it’s working for you and your family, good luck, have fun and I hope you enjoy it very much.
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Some HR people have no idea. I am a HR person and I would see colleagues complain all the time …. probably because they had to do some work.
Enjoy your baby – it is wonderful and good on you for making a choice for you.
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I was thinking the same thing. Some HR people are just in the wrong job. Enjoy your baby. Work will always be there, even if it’s in a different way than before.
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Agree with DP that the HR person was probably just annoyed that they have to recruit someone (although surely they could just keep the person who’s been filling in?).
I’m not a SAHM but I want to be one! Don’t understand people being judgmental about it. I like to answer “A mum!” whenever I’m questioned about what I want to be in life, or what career I want.
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That’s how I fill out my forms. Occupation: Mum.
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Too bad there isn’t more space, or you could add:
Conflict Resolution Manager,
Human Resources,
Training Specialist,
Independence Developer,
Justice of the Peace,
Counselor,
Nutrition Expert,
Chef….
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I feel like I am judged by so many co-workers and superiors (this job, my last job) when they ask why I’m out the door at knock-off time like I have somewhere to be.
I don’t have kids, but I do have a husband, a house and a life, and I like having a job that finishes at 4pm. If I could have a job that paid as well with fewer hours I’d take it!
Seriously, if anyone has any suggestions…
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The HR lady at my former workplace appreciated it when I told her I wouldn’t be back – most people use up all the leave and give you minimum notice.
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Did you ask her why she wants to stay in work as a HR person?! Know which one I’d much rather be doing!!! Enjoy your days with you baby, a wonderful choice.
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I still remember the phone call I made 12 years ago to say I wasnt returning to work after 12 months maternity leave. I made an appointment to go in and officially resign and my immediate manager was so annoyed I wasnt coming back he made sure he wasnt there when I arrived. Dont know why because I had trained my replacement before I went on leave, she wanted to stay in my role as she had moved up into it from another area within the business and was popular with our staff so retraining/recruitment costs werent a problem. Looking back now he had a massive ego and it was probably no more than he took it personally. So I had to meet with the MD, who was absolutely lovely. He was embarressed by the other guys behaviour and then told me his own wife had done exactly the same thing about 15 years before and that I wouldnt regret my decision. And I havent. Good luck
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I’m also a sensitive SAHM but try not to let it get to me…… I worked hard to make the decision to stay home with my kids, this is the best option for me and my family. Enjoy your time with your baby, they grow so fast! I started working (casual of course) when I was 16 and all being well will probably be working well into my 60′s, a few years at home caring for the most important people in my life is really just a drop in the ocean in terms of work and career but oh so valuable and completely irreplacable for me and my family. Be proud of yourself!
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This week I made some decisions about things I’m saying NO to and things I’m saying YES to. I’ve dropped a couple of committees/commitments and I’ve embraced one or two more which (I hope) will feed my soul a bit more. I’ve also made myself a commitment to concentrate more on Uni this year. The whole family + full time work + part time study is a killer, but will be worth it in the end.
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You wrote my post for me Odette
Good luck with everything this year and, I fully agree, it’s a bit of slog but so bloody worth it! My get-me-through strategy is a monthly visit to the beauty therapist for massage and facial … she has the hands of an angel and she doesn’t charge the earth either.
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My week is going crappily. I’m supposed to be working now but I can’t concentrate. I gave up wheat about 10 days ago and physically I feel much better already but mentally I am a mess. I feel incredibly angry,enraged. It starts the minute I wake up in the morning and stops me from sleeping at night. I feel absolutely furious about everything. It has just occurred to me this morning that it is probably related to giving up wheat. I thought I was going crazy, I had no idea changing my diet could have that kind of effect. I’m hoping it wears off soon. I gave up smoking late last year and it was way easier than this. Can’t concentrate on anything, it’s just ridiculous. And I’ve been snapping at my husband and poor kids all the time. And pretty much every other person I’ve come into contact with. Anyway I’m off to channel all this rage into cleaning the bathroom.
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Scary to think how much your diet can affect you. I empathise with my own smoking-rage, but can’t say I’ve tried the wheat thing. Yikes!
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Hey Anon, maybe it would be worthwhile monitoring your feelings and trying to find out where they come from. Are you feeling deprived? Did you particularly love wheat products? If so, perhaps you could find yourself some great substitutes (like rice pasta) and also remind yourself why you are doing this, and the benefits of doing it. Also, do something nice for yourself to help you calm down or release the rage – whatever might work. A boxing class, or yoga, or a massage… be nice to yourself, you are doing something difficult.
Hope it gets better. xx
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dear anon, sign up for Bikram yoga – it will change your life. as well as being an amazing physical workout, it also stabilises your metabolism, hormones, appetite etc. I guarantee it will get rid of wheat rage pronto!
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Had to go to the dentist this morning… thinking I was going in for a filling.. and came out without a wisdom tooth that I didn’t think was a problem! Bloody dentists
(sorry to any dentists out there). Pity he didn’t actually address the original problem!
Bec.. Good luck!
Mia…I am sooo excited to hear about MM Publishing! What an amazing opportunity! I would like to ask.. hopefully without being too forward … Would there be any opportunities for some work experience within MM Publishing. Even just a chance to be a quiet shadow, watching and learning how the process works??
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Sorry to hear about to wisdom tooth – il probably have to do the same soon, but its because i had a 5th wisdom tooth. Not even kidding. I had all 4 out when i was 17 (have the indentations and the xrays to prove it), but last year I got a routine xray done, which shows I have another one.
I now have to wait until it gets near the surface before I can get it pulled out
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Wow! That’s not fair! He suggested I may need my bottom ones out but that requires surgery and there is no way I am going there unless I abso-lutely have too! At least I have no potential for problems before my trip! And the only other perk I could come up with is that I got to eat ice cream guilt free for lunch…
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Thanks Bookkat! Once MMP is up and running — we’ll let you all know if there are any opportunities to observe. RIght now you’d be observing me read emails and edit chapters at 3am! Not very exciting!
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Quite honestly Bec that would be fantastic! Even at 3am in the morning, any experience is worth something!
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Ah that sucks. Good luck! My partner has two top wisdom teeth he needs surgically removed as they are pushing the teeth next to the front ones forward. Poor bugger. I don’t have any luckily, so I feel for wisdom teeth people.
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Ahh Girly, I feel your boyfriends pain…that is what ALL of my wisdom teeth are doing. I’m booked in for surgery on March 30 and out they come.
Not looking forward to it. Anaesthetic gives me a terrible time when I wake up
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Bec, you are just gorgeous. Wishing you much, much joy in the coming weeks. Can’t wait to hear the news!
Welcome back Nicky – will be great to read your words again!
Am loving Mamamia Publishing – all the best for the new venture x
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btw, I got a Kindle for Christmas and am loving myself sick! Have spent far too much money on amazon, but just love the whole e-book thing! I wasn’t sure I would as I have been an avid paperback reader my whole life, but this is da bomb! Can’t wait for mamamia e-books!
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Thanks Molly M xxxx