Hello exhausted mammas! My name is Jessica I’m a mum of two which is still hard to believe sometimes –I’m not sure where the time went? I moved to Sydney from Adelaide many years ago as a young doctor. I remember being amazed at how lonely I could feel in a city with so many people. Now I am never alone – you know what I mean, in the best possible way. I cherish being a mother and appreciate now how raising good men is the greatest and most important gift I can give to the world – more than what I do at work. I think women are incredible, matrescence (look it up) is underappreciated and the role of motherhood is undervalued – but aren’t we lucky to know how good it is to be a mum?
Where and how long have you lived in Sydney’s east?
We are lucky enough to live in Double Bay and have done so now for eight years minus a brief stint in Alice Springs. I am originally from Adelaide.
Three words that describe what it’s like to live in the eastern suburbs?
Beautiful, privileged, connected
How many children?
I have a two little truck train digger loving boys; 2.5 years and ten months old. I know all the characters in paw patrol and I am ashamed to say I think my ten month old probably does as well!
Favourite Park?
Double Bay park – the pirate ship is a little dated but the surrounds are just so beautiful – you can fly a kite and run in Steyne park or hop to the beach and dig sand plus there is a nice little coffee shop at the end of the jetty – it can be magical down there.
Favourite Beach?
We discovered Gibsons beach last summer and cherished it. It is great for kids, there is a grass area, a beach shower (always a hit) and one day an ice cream boat even came by! It is those summer evenings at the beach that make living in an apartment worthwhile.
Favourite kids friendly cafe?
Oh I wish there were more but in Double Bay we like Piccolina (no high chairs though) cause toddlers can run a little bit under the InterContinental Hotel, and also White Rabbit because they always have high chairs, great table service (important when you are on your own with a baby!) and the kids scrambled eggs on toast for 12 dollars feeds me and the baby. Navy Bear at Rushcutters is nice too.
Favourite Coffee Spot?
As above unless I’m kid free then probably Indigo because the coffee and breakfast is fantastic
Favourite date night place?
What is a date night?
Where in the east have you yet to explore and would like to go?
We should venture more it is funny how we get stuck in our little corner of the world, but more time at Coogee would be nice if we can get a park.
What would you like to see improve in the eastern suburbs?
I would like more of a focus from council and businesses on families and children. For example, I would love one of the pubs near us to be more family friendly, perhaps even with an indoor playground.
Favourite Local Shop?
Ahh Woolworths is where I spend most of my time! Haha otherwise probably one of the consignment shops in Double Bay – they are always fun to peruse.
Favourite wet weather location?
Double Bay library, the playroom in the state library, and the museum are our rainy saviours.
Favourite Local family Weekend Activity?
Going to the playground at Parsley Bay and then a little bush walk before a picnic (watch out for bindies!) or walking over to see the goldfish at Arthur Reserve in Potts Point (via a coffee).
Work or SAHM?
I work four days a week and I am a mum all days a week.
Motherly advice?
There are way worse mums than you!
