The First Word (2024)

05/02/2024

{New beginnings …} Such love for this post and caption. One day, let’s hope this becomes the global trend 💪🏽

07/01/2024

{The little things} … using scent to find pathways that lead to untroubled spaces. & are two Australian brands giving all homes and bodies a way to breathe deeply 🌞 couldn’t recommend more highly …

28/12/2023

{Mum style, mum truths} This is a piece (linked in bio) to love by , published by ; a platform by .r.fox

Philly, a dedicated mother to a busy little boy has a true understanding of what makes her feel confident, inspired and energized; and she ensures this love is engrained into her every day. A keen interest in fashion & style allows Philly to balance motherhood with something that is personal to her … while of course facilitating the inevitable baby cino explosive episodes. No outfit can escape these.

Philly is a talented art director and graphic designer Article linked in bio.

17/12/2023

A powerful article published by , written by on her divorce. Molly Rosen bravely speaks to a divide she felt was both a facade and a personal undoing, but one she over came. The article is a very personal piece, covering the phases of separation and the raw emotions that coincided with the process. Two conscientious parents, one fundamental misalignment … but also one very strong woman. Link in BIO.

13/12/2023

{Summer Reading} If you’re looking for inspiration for your summer reads, SJP and Zando Projects have created a new imprint … a must follow if you’re looking for newness, reviews and variety. Sarah Jessica’s first book recommendation, A Quitters Paradise by has already landed on some pretty phenomenal nightstands … flick left.

07/12/2023

EPISODE 13 {NOW LIVE} !!! Link to watch MULTIPLES in bio! Again, sending such a warm thank you to and .triplet.mum for sharing their incredible experiences with twins & triplets!

06/12/2023

{Oooft} This article has ruffled feathers. While Virginia Tapscott is a brilliant mother and a celebrated writer, it seems this particular piece for the .australian has caused an unprecedented strike of guilt, judgement & shame for many mothers who have children attending Daycare.

Writer wrote a follow up article for (also spoken about on with and ) that challenged Virginia’s conclusions and reminded people that women with children don’t always get the luxury of choice when it comes to the marriage of their career & their children.

And if choice is made available to women with children, we have to defend our decisions. And if we defend our decisions in a way that doesn’t suit the ears they fall upon, we drown in guilt. And if we get annoyed by the guilt because it conincides with hormones & the exhaustion we endure daily, we’re Pyschos.

Tori here, the producer of TFW. I’m not shy to admit that it currently costs my family of 4 for me to work as I earn less than we pay for chidcare. I work PT for a separate company & on my own production co. In order to do this, my children attend daycare 2 days pw. Sometimes they cry when their dad (my husband) drops them off but this is not a demonstration of them suffering the consequence of me having a career; this is a demonstration of a child being a child. They are emotional beings.

So. Why work over staying home FT to avoid added financial pressure?

- I love to work. It’s a huge part of who I am and life in general.
- I thrive when dedicated to professional projects
- I want to retain a career so that when the kids are at school, I’m familiar with current technologies and processes
- I was raised by working mother, it feels natural
- Maternal instinct does not point to professional fatigue

Mothers are still women (humans) & women are capable and multidimensional people with a right to immerse themselves in many aspects of life including the economy, if they wish.

Daycare should not align with the cost of luxury items in the CPI basket of goods & services.

Daycare, even though I pay (a lot), I owe you one.

06/12/2023

{One for the blokes} 98% of our followers are women however this post is for women to pass on, share or just to be aware of should they need a way to support the males in their lives - partners, friends, family, colleagues.

Below is a list of stats that is wild to read & bloody upsetting to contemplate. Just like women need to gather and unravel in safe company during tough moments, men do too.

, while Melbourne based, is an inclusive community and a resource in reach to everyone both near & far.

Click & read the bio to learn more about this phenomenal platform launched by (father of four).

Sending love to everyone. Mental health can cause us to wobble. To stop someone from falling, the absolute goal. Regardless of gender x

🌜 Su***de is the leading cause of death for men aged between 15 and 44 years old.
🌛 1 out of every 5 Australian men will experience anxiety at any given time.
🌜Over 80% of violent crimes are committed by men.
🌛The su***de rate for males aged between 15 and 24 years has tripled in the past three decades.
🌜9 out of 10 people in prison are men. Men of all ages are more likely to smoke, drink alcohol at excessive levels, be overweight and have a poor diet compared to women.
🌛1 in 3 men have no social connections. Men are 3 times more likely than women to take their own lives.
🌜1 out of every 8 Australian men will experience depression at any given time. 1 in 3men aged 30-65 are not satisfied with the quality of their relationships.
🌛72% of men say they’re there for their mates - 48% of men feel that they could not talk to their mates if they were struggling. It is estimated around 45% of males are unhappy with their bodies.
🌜82 men per day call an ambulance due to suicidal thoughts or attempts

05/12/2023

Love letters 💌

05/12/2023

{Multiples} Episode 13 (our LAST for the season!!) lands this coming Thursday 7th!!

We talk to two magnificent mums of TWINS and TRIPLETS and every nook and cranny is covered. From the emotions when finding out, to pregnancy, birth (Vaginal and C-section), feeding, mental health, tips, tricks & hacks and of course, dealing with unwanted commentary from bystanders (everyone has to have an opinion when it comes to pregnant women & mothers don’t they?😏)

It’s all here, unfiltered, raw & honest.

Thank you immensely to our guest contributors; and Taryn Anderson, both of whom completely stole the show!

04/12/2023

{Baseline Hormones} You have to be your own biggest advocate when it comes to your health. Having a general awareness of your baseline hormones can be so advantageous at times where you know you’re “not quite right”.

Running your bloods and spotting deficiencies or unusual spikes is as simple as booking into see your GP, getting a pathology request & having a blood test (sometimes also urine). 🩸

Feeling good, your priority!

01/12/2023

A little peek inside Tori’s holdiay survival kit! Also a great little gift guide … tis almost the season!

🍦The Yamba scent is a must. Calming, soulful, peaceful. Whenever I feel the frustration of the 4-6pm slog hit, I burn a stick and instantly my shoulders drop. It sinks into soul and enables you to practice patience and peace have created such a precious brand to find and harness “you time”
🍦Nike Pro Bike Shorts. Can’t live without them. Many lengths available as we all have different bodies - and as always, nails the sizing, sweat resistance, durability and fit.
🍦Floaties!!!! make beach and pool days far less stressful with little people running around. Cute patterns, bright (and noticeable) colours, the right safety ratings. These guys live in the boot as they’re always on call.
🍦A good summer read and this time it’s the ever so hilarious and insightful Good Material, released last month is the story of a breakup from the male perspective. Addicted. It’s hard not to adore Dolly the great.
🍦 Concealer from Like so many others, the fatigue has hit really hard this year. CT is a way to wake up, glow up & seize the day! Best applied (from personal experience) with a damp beauty blender x

01/12/2023

A little peek inside Dakota’s holdiay survival kit! Also a great little gift guide … tis almost the season!

🍦 SPF. All day, everyday. Rain hail or shine. On it’s own, under makeup, over makeup. Get it on! Find your exact preference from the wide range at (chemical, mineral, mist, cream, tinted - you name it they have it covered!)
🍦 NutriBullet for morning smoothies. It’s wild just how much goodness you can pack into a smoothie and literally enrich your insides within minutes. Love it.
🍦 Speaking of enriching your insides, toddler snacks and meals in the way of … a huge win for women juggling a combination of hats.
🍦 A good pair of swimwear! No surprises here coming from the Queen of Togs herself ( !) it’s a must have in terms of both lifestyle and mental health. I don’t think you could pay our Bridge to stand clear the ocean.
🍦 … it goes without saying, this is the accessory of the year. Make it your own, go big, stay hydrated.

30/11/2023

A little peek inside Dakota’s holdiay survival kit! Also a great little gift guide … tis almost the season!

🍦Sunglasses forever and always an essential in any woman’s bags… & we have a keen crush on
🍦 Spotify!!! Killer playlists change a mood, turn a day around, set the scene. Everyone needs a banger to make their day better.
🍦 Early Grey Tea in a mug that your palms are desperate to hug. This time of year can bring stress, emotional highs and lows, fatigue (amongst joy of course). Warm tea is a fool proof comforting remedy for the leaves and from for the stylish mug, tick!
🍦 Tinted SPF. Because you simply can’t leave the house without it. It’s an essential part of any of skincare regime (especially when you’re investing into treatments and active serums), regardless of age and lifestyle. have changed the market with the Daydream Screen Tinted Veil. So many shades, so much to love.
🍦 White Noise. The Queen of child rearing. The particular machine we are saluting is the small and subtle yet powerful from the Mecca of Motherhood 🌼

29/11/2023

A little peek inside Tash’s holdiay survival kit! Also a great little gift guide for … tis almost the season!

🍦 Royal Oil, which has a cult following for all things skin, hair, body, mind. Cellular renewal (tick!!), brightening (tick!!), protection of the barrier layer (tick!!) It’s an all rounder.
🍦 for escapism, storytelling & the ability to tap into worlds beyond our own.
🍦 … need we say more? All the way from the Netherlands, this choccy is ultra delish while also being ethical and slave free. PS who doesn’t love a delightfully divine wrapper?
🍦 Kids snacks and meals by the brilliant … a must have, must know, must follow, must add to cart to keep your kids bellies satisfied & your own sanity in check! Some days we cannot do it all - so thank you Le Puree for picking up the slack.
🍦 Lip Balm from … Fact; this balm is not only a luxurious emulsion but it’s also formulated with *The* infamous Miracle broth and a hint of mint. A sensational kiss for your lips x

28/11/2023

💌 love letters x

17/11/2023

{To feel seen} Women like - sweeping generalisation ahead - wine, design and supporting other women’s talents. For these reasons, this repost from felt appropriate.

16/11/2023

Mother, grandmother, trailblazer … face of a LVMH luxury fashion house at 88 years of age. Love it.

15/11/2023

{Choice} If we say to women, “You can choose” and then we criticize them because their choice doesn’t align with our own values … it becomes very difficult for women to feel safe. Ever.

Their self-assurance will always wrestle with shame.

For the benefit of our daughters, the only way we can promise safety and security, is if we choose to let them (and all women) steer their own ship, ensuring they have access to relevant information & support, without judgment.

If it’s on social media you choose to disagree with somebodies choice - simply Unfollow or scroll on by.

This collection of posts touches on choice surrounding fertility. Included is an excerpt from The Panic Years by the brilliant , the choice to terminate a pregnancy by the brave and the choice to prevent a pregnancy by the very honest but real

To the women who are not afforded choice, for a plethora of reasons, sending love. 🤎

14/11/2023

{Zonked} If you’re ever unsure of your fatigue or you’re feeling off, visit your GP and get your bloods tested.

It’s such a fine line between being tired due to busy life/kids and being tired because you’re deficient in something crucial.

Allow yourself the time to run a test & be sure. Answers can bring relief, less concern and therefore more energy!!

13/11/2023

{Circular} Buying … a thing of beauty for modern day times when life is costly & going clean and green is kindly wise.

As well as Market Place & DePop, there are some superb retailers (some like with a social responsibility arm) who have given a whole new (and luxe) meaning to “2nd hand.”

Preloved style, a thing to love. Last month wrote, “One of our favourite ways to be sustainable shoppers is to embrace the circular fashion model. There are now so many great luxury resale sites and stores to choose from, where you can sell your unwanted designer wares, and invest in new (well, secondhand, but new to you) pieces for your wardrobe.” Jessica Davis.

Linked in this post are some great places to shop while keeping your wardrobe circular. These links cover both RTW and Luxury brands.

13/11/2023

💌 Love Letters x

13/11/2023

{Be Kind} Repost from both and … how sad that this still happens. Especially to women who generously share their hard times for the benefit of others

This is a dedicated post on World Kindess Day.

Send a random text, email or tell someone or do something nice today. Perhaps not because you have to but because you can.

To there are so many people in the world who are better off simply due to your wonderful existance. This includes many, many parents who have children with autisism & ADHD x

13/11/2023

The winner will hear about their WIN via email 📩💌 so be sure to refresh a few times towards the end of the day!

Good luck … oh and PS, happy World Kindess Day. TFW really hopes this competition is KIND to you!!! 🤞

12/11/2023

{LIVE} Sunday afternoon. Feet up, comfies on.

Come and join us on the couch! Link in Bio 😘

11/11/2023

{Painful s*x} If anyone is experiencing pain during a time which should offer the opposite, pleasure!, this recent article may be insightful. Zoe Moscovici, alongside medical experts including gynecologists, explores the condition, … something often missed by doctors at a general check up. The {link} to “What to Do When S*x Hurts—and What Your Doctor Might Be Missing” can be found in our bio.

Women such as the brave & beautiful have normalized the conversation around such conditions as (in her co-written debut book The Space Between with ) and it’s important to keep the conversation going for women who need the helpful resources & support from those with lived experimence.

Pain is a sign that something is not quite right. When it comes to your health, only you can be your biggest advocate 💃🏻

10/11/2023

New Episode landing {SUNDAY}. This episode, ep 12, is a classic ‘woman to woman’ chit chat. Tampons, Check. Body image, Check. Gwyneth, Check. Wrinkles Schminkles, Check. Toasties & paper plates for dinner, Check. Low vibe to high vibe, Check. Wine consumption (or lack thereof), Check. Growing ‘with’ our daughters as a way of role modeling, Check.

Tis all here.

If there was ever a true example of a “gals chat” this is it.

Next time you need a dose of female company - we are HERE for you! From understanding PC pronouns to bringing back Yakult (yes the funny little drink). From exploding va**na candles to careful treatment of the word ‘fat’. From moments where we feel “unattractive” to discovering new ways to find true restoration & calmness.

Candid, random, honest, real.

See you on the couch!! X

07/11/2023

{x} When you’re emailing another female in a work capacity, do you sign off with an “x” ? OR is it totally dependent?

Anyone else ever wonder when, and when not to ‘x’?

Inspired by .gemmell ‘s piece “What your email sign off says about you” in the .australian over the weekend (see next slide) - it felt like a curious need to also address the e-kiss.

Now. To consider when reviewing this question;

- You work in an industry where colloquial/casual communication is considered appropriate. Do you ‘x’ ?
- You’ve done a social media stalk and in doing so, you’ve learned the recipient is within your age bracket. Do you ‘x’?
- You’ve met this person once or twice in real life, at work events. In these instances you have greeted one and other with a kiss on the cheek (over a handshake). Does this ‘x’ now convert to email?
- You do not know the female recipient personally however you sense you’ve got a good gauge on her character, her tone and your working relationship. Do you ‘x’ ?
- She ‘x’d you … You don’t really know her, but you felt honored she felt so comfortable. Do you ‘x’ her back?

Cheers,
TFW (Tori) x

07/11/2023

When you randomly stumble across a peice of writing as think - was that intended for me?

You’re never alone in this world. And sometimes things happen that make you feel as if a note of friendship from the universe has landed in your inbox. Thank YOU

I think many women will find comfort here.

“It seems to me, and this is purely anecdotal, that every mom I speak to recently (myself included) has hit a wall. We all wear similarly pained smiles at dropoff, same, “hey how’s it going…” “it’s, uh…it’s going.” Starting with Halloween, I felt like I entered what I’ve become used to thinking of as two months of if I can just get through this week. If I can get through this week, I’ll be fine. If I can get through this overscheduled, overtired, under-snacked, under-napped weekend…I’ll be fine. And so many interactions I have, especially with other moms, start super pleasantly, but then I can’t stop myself from veering into darker and darker territory, usually I’m still painfully smiling through it, which I think makes the whole thing even more uncomfortable...”

Words via newsletter, Subscribe to Lauren for more x

The First Word

05/02/2024

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