Life is a busy mix of nappies, household duties, business, and family right now, and I wouldn’t change a thing!

I’m Carolina, originally from Colombia, I’ve built a wonderful life here with my husband, who hails from England and has a rich mix of Filipino and Cypriot heritage. Together, we’re raising two amazing children who keep us on our toes but also fill our lives with laughter and joy.

When I’m not juggling the demands of family life, I’m immersed in my passion for flowers @bycocoon. I ran a floral business for several years, but in recent times, I’ve been lucky enough to press pause and focus on raising our family. That said, I’m excited to be working on a new venture that will bring a fresh chapter to my career and creative pursuits. Juggling motherhood, business, and everything in between keeps me busy, but it’s the life I’ve been gifted, and I’m truly grateful for every moment of it!

Where and how long have you lived in Sydney’s east?

I’ve been calling Sydney home for the past 12 years, with the last 9 of those spent in the vibrant Eastern Suburbs.

Three words that describe what it’s like to live in the eastern suburbs?

Easygoing, scenic and secure.

How many children?

I have two kids, aged 4 and 1, who fill my life with joy and the unexpected every day. There’s never a dull moment.

Favourite Park?

Waverley Park Playground, Ian Potter Park, and the two other playgrounds in Centennial park. EQ also has a fantastic playground with plenty other things to enjoy.

Favourite Beach?

We love going to the beach so we try and visit as many as we can every summer. Some of the local ones we often go to include Coogee, Clovelly and Little bay.

Nielsen park which has recently reopened, will be another go to spot and can’t wait to spend some quality time there this summer.

Favourite kids friendly cafe?

Queens Park Kitchen and the Greenhouse at Centennial Park.

Favourite Coffee Spot?

Locale Bronte after the daycare drop off, Tuga Pastries and Bake Bar on Frenchman’s rd.

Favourite date night place?

It has been a while since we had one of those, we used to go on dates often but I would say Totti’s, Carbon Mexican in Bondi, and for a drink Charlie Parker’s.

Where in the east have you yet to explore and would like to go?

All the small shopping precincts and restaurants along Clovelly Road and the Mahon Rockpool in Maroubra that I don’t know why we haven’t been there yet.

What would you like to see improve in the eastern suburbs?

When the kids fall asleep in the car, I always think about finding a drive-thru where I can grab a coffee or something to eat that isn’t from one of the usual fast food chains. 

Favourite Local Shop?

Berkelouw and Ariel bookshop in Paddington. They both capture that wonderful sense of fulfilment you get from spending time in a bookshop—browsing shelves, discovering books that spark your interest. Every visit feels like a gentle reminder that there’s always something new to explore, a lesson to be learned, or a story just waiting to be discovered. I absolutely love it.

Favourite wet weather location?

Coogee Pavilion

Vitaland Alexandria

Supacenta 

These are all spots that provide food, coffee, and entertainment for the kids, it’s a win all around!

Favourite Local family Weekend Activity? 

Morning at the beach/park, baking at home and a family yoga session with home made pop corn followed by a kids movie.

Work or SAHM?

Since becoming a mum, I’ve been cherishing the time spent with my kids and rediscovering the world through their eyes. Right now, I’m juggling household responsibilities, working on a new business venture, and doing some freelancing. It’s challenging, but I’m doing my best to stay creatively inspired and excited for the upcoming launch of my business. 

Motherly advice?

The days may feel long, but the years fly by. Embrace the chaos, the messy house, and the mountains of laundry, because one day, it’ll all be gone. We’re all in this motherhood journey together! Be kind to yourself, make the most of each day, and be grateful for the day that just happened. Teach your kids the lessons you wish you had learned at their age.

Monday’s Local Mum, Liliana Rubiano