Hello! I’m Priscillia, originally from France. I grew up in a small village near Lyon, where sometimes school was cancelled because there was too much snow! It didn’t happen often, but it did happen.
You know how in Australia we have ice cream trucks driving around and stopping to sell ice creams? Well, where I grew up, ice cream trucks weren’t a thing – we had a cheese truck that came around our town and parked right in front of our house. We’d all go out to buy fresh cheese, cream, and butter.
That probably tells you how small and different my upbringing was compared to life in Sydney! I initially came to Australia for one year – to travel, learn English, and experience something new. Well, it’s been 12 years now, and I’m still here. I fell in love with Australia’s landscapes, lifestyle, and people, and I feel very lucky to call it home.
Where and how long have you lived in Sydney’s east?
I live in Alexandria and have been in this area for about 10 years now. It really feels like home, close to everything, with a lovely community vibe.
Three words that describe what it’s like to live in the eastern suburbs?
Relaxed, lively, community oriented
How many children?
I have one beautiful little boy who’s 4 years old. Our family also includes a very bossy cat and a sweet, gentle dog.
Favourite Park?
I would say Sydney Park. We love looking for the ducks, eels, and turtles in the pond. We also enjoy the skatepark, especially the section for younger kids where they can practise riding their scooters and bikes. Plus, there’s a coffee shop in the park, which is a big bonus when we run out of snacks!
Favourite Beach?
Palm Beach is my favourite, even though it’s a bit of a drive. I remember going there on my second day in Australia and being absolutely astonished by the view from the top of the hill next to the lighthouse.
Favourite kids friendly cafe?
Bitton in Alexandria, because it has a backyard with space for kids to play.
Favourite Coffee Spot?
Umm… instant coffee at home? Haha! I wish I had time to go out for coffee, but I usually don’t. If I have to pick one, I’d say Ellen in Alexandria. The staff is really friendly, the babycino comes with a cute animal-shaped marshmallow, the pastries are fresh and delicious, and it’s a dog-friendly café.
Favourite date night place?
Pistou in Newtown. Nothing beats a cheese and charcuterie platter with a glass of Champagne! Oh, and they also have oysters.
Where in the east have you yet to explore and would like to go?
I have to admit, I don’t think I’ve ever been to any ocean pools, definitely something I need to fix.
What would you like to see improve in the eastern suburbs?
Umm… more parking and better public transport!
Favourite Local Shop?
The Deli in Erskineville. They have fresh bread, croissants, pain au chocolat and cheese. I don’t need anything else.
Favourite wet weather location?
Miniversal in Marrickville.
Favourite Local family Weekend Activity?
When we’re not attending birthday parties, juggling activities, recovering from viruses, or preparing for the week ahead, we love going to see animals. Featherdale and Golden Ridge Animal Farm are our favourites.
Work or SAHM?
I work for myself and launched French for Littles at the beginning of last year. We teach French to babies and toddlers (and their parents), running classes in community centres and early learning centres. You can check out our classes at frenchforlittles.com.au or follow us on IG https://www.instagram.com/french.for.littles/ where we publish weekly shorts videos to help you learn French.
Motherly advice?
Connect with your child. I had to remind myself of this just a few days ago. It’s so easy to get caught up in “trying to get things done” – as soon as I pick up my son from daycare, the evening routine rush begins: bath, dinner, play, supporting emotional storms, books, brushing teeth, bedtime… and more.
Sometimes, I need to remind myself that it’s okay if everything doesn’t go as planned. What’s more important is to stop, breathe, and really connect with my child. It could be playing a silly game, dancing to our favourite playlist, or simply being there to listen. And it’s okay if we occasionally skip a bath or the dishes don’t get done until the next day. Taking the time to connect with your child matters far more than having a perfectly clean house.
