Mum Boss with @chasingthesummerfields

Today we are catching up with one of our insta-fave mothers of 5 (!!) Jas AKA @chasingthesummerfields, who we came to learn has a very special affiliation with Mother's Day and some great words of wisdom to share. Jas recently moved back to where she grew up, in the deep South of Western Australia, to raise her kids. We (along with a huge 172,000 others) love following her journey, her love of renovating, road tripping, home schooling her little ones and the general juggle of motherhood which she does oh so well. We hope you enjoy!

I stumbled into this online world craving connection as a new mother of two, and needing a creative outlet. I’ve always loved documenting my journey through motherhood and taking photos has been a hobby of mine ever since I was gifted my first camera as a teen, so marrying the two came so naturally to me. I set my account to public over six years ago now and in that time I have created a space to share small snippets of our lives with the most beautiful and supportive community. I’m incredibly fortunate to be doing what I love here and I’m excited to share more soon.

2. What’s one thing people might not know about you?

I became a mother on Mother’s Day. Just after midnight my waters broke and just after 3pm I birthed my eldest daughter on Mother’s Day eight years ago. I’ve always loved the poetry of that and it’s always made the day feel extra special for me.

3. We are all about encouraging women to take that first step and follow their dreams – do you have any tips you can give to all the mumma's out there?

Show up and make small, conscious decisions every day to continue walking towards your dreams. Be consistent and true to yourself, work hard to align your everyday to support your lifestyle around the dream you envision. If something is meant to be for you, it will all work out along the way just as it’s supposed to.

4. Let’s be real, do you ever experience “mum rage” and if so what’s your best tip for keeping your cool?

Everyone has a breaking point and every mum who has unmet needs has the potential to reach it, especially mothering in these modern times. Step back and honour your own feelings and what you need in that moment. Name your feelings, sit with them even when they are uncomfortable, dig deep to understand the root cause and become aware of your triggers. Take time to ground yourself (ideally in nature), stay hydrated and well nourished with nutrient rich foods, find your village and ask for help when you need it.

5. One piece of advice you wish you’d been given before you first became a mum?

I wish I’d been encouraged and empowered by those around me and by those who had walked this journey before me to trust my intuition, sync in with my baby and feel confident in making decisions that honoured us both no matter how ‘against the grain’ or alternative they may have seemed at the time.

6. What are your top 5 nappy bag/ mum bag essentials?

Nappies, wipes, baby carrier, swaddle, and my camera. But when I get the bag all to myself I keep it very simple with just my phone, wallet, lip balm, keep cup, and (again) my camera.

And because there’s always room for more in the HARRY AUSTIN Florence Tote with Baby Bag Converter... lots of snacks (which I keep in the Baby Bag Converter insulated pocket with velcro flap closure)!

Enjoy our 20% off Mums Favourites Sale on Now! Ends this Sunday 15 May 2022.