Lucie Flynn is an artist and mother who lives in Surrey. She first started getting involved in MM when she was a new mum living in North London in 2010. Lucie works in a studio attached to her home creating paintings and limited edition prints for gallery shows around the world as well as creating large-scale street paintings. She makes her own rules on motherhood and has no qualms in admitting that being a parent is the hardest and most exhausting job in the world - EVER!

WEBSITE - HERE
​INSTA - HERE
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I definitely would not of been able to write a piece about my life until this exact moment, I am a massive believer in things happening at a time that is right. Life has thrown me a lot this past 6 months and I feel very grateful to of been asked by MM to write this piece now, at a time when I am taking a much more holistic approach to my life.

Motherhood and lifestyle was something that I used to separate - I was not very relaxed when it came to my parenting style, which is surprising as a so called chilled creative type! I was one of those people who found the structure of routine extremely important - looking back I guess this did give me the freedom to be more flexible in other aspects of inspirational guidance to my two children, now aged 9 and 12. I did take them both to art fairs and galleries form birth and up, most of my friends are artists/designers of sorts - we are all into fashion and collecting in some shape or form so naturally my children have been surrounded by art, design, fashion and music since they were still in my belly. I am a very honest and upfront person and have installed the importance of talking openly with my children. They have always had the opportunity to be part of my working life too, this includes how I spend any downtime for example being outdoors in nature, exercise, good food and culture as well as my working life as an artist, preparing for shows, working in a very untraditional way, pushing myself out of my comfort zone and most importantly thoroughly enjoying what I do - making artwork!

It was only once both my kids were in pre school that I felt I could really concentrate on my career and give it my all. My life is reflected in my painting, everything works hand in hand - which is why finding a balance to fit everything in is so important. I generally say yes to most projects that I have been asked to be involved with and this has resulted in me working on things that I am genuinely terrified to do but I never regret it. My partner has taught me to say yes and paint, if you don’t like it you can always go over it - that philosophy has brought me out of my shell a lot. However lately there has been a lot more going on in my personnel life which has needed my full attention and the juggling at points has become pretty insane.

In November 2022 both my mum and partner became seriously ill at the same time - my mum was hospitalised with severe depression on the same day my partner was told he had cancer - it was a lot to take on to say the least. As well as this my son had just started secondary school and was finding it extremely challenging, the first term included detentions and regular phone calls from various teachers telling me how he was causing disruptions, refusing to do tests and not complying to pretty much every request - this of course was really stressful as my head and heart were overly consumed with worry for my mum and partner but I had to try and keep on top of what was going on at school too. Don’t worry I am definitely not perfect and did in fact have several phone calls from the school that ended in me putting the phone down due to the high level of stress I was under at the time, after all there is only so much one can take on board. I hated seeing my son so unhappy in school and nine months down the line I am finally looking at getting him assessed for ADHD and have the school working with me in a more supportive capacity. My daughter is a deep soul and we talk a lot about everything thats going on, she understands things are tricky for me sometimes and involves herself in helping out and generally being the calm one of the household. My mum is out of hospital and looking after herself independently, my partner is slowly turning the corner post surgeries and daily treatment - things are settling down (for now).

A lot of my friends and family kept telling me throughout ‘oh wow, you are so strong, it’s a lot to deal with’. Maybe I am so strong because as an only child I have always just got on with stuff, no matter what. My mum is also a very strong woman - installing the importance of speaking your mind and to talk through problems that weigh you down. Or maybe I am not special at all and simply getting on with the daily grind. I believe now more than ever before how everything that life throws your way is a lesson, the things I have learnt this year alone have made me look at my work and life in a completely different light. I supported my mum though a really serious illness, I cared for my partner who was dealing with life changing disease and treatments, I tried to keep busy with a few carefully selected work projects, I definitely took self care seriously, I helped and continue to work with my son’s often challenging behaviour and yes there is the very real fact of still wanting to look and feel good with a spring in my step. Once a nice bottle of wine on a Friday night would kick the worries away, now I am leaning more towards a hydra facial followed by water and an early night - yes really!

In writing this piece I hope to communicate something of myself that is authentic by showing that we can all experience challenging times and to not be held back by them. Look for inspiration in places that you may of not considered and possibly view life from a different perspective - this can be the best route forward when we are stuck. Women are incredibly resilient and open creatures, the amount we can do continuously astounds and surprises me.

Personally I don’t see that things are going to slow down or suddenly become stress free any time soon so I am going to be living in the chaos, embracing the unknown and trying to work with everything that is thrown my way. I hope that some you reading this can connect with where I am coming from. If like me you love a list then see below for some of my quick fire feel good hacks- and most importantly DO THINGS YOUR OWN WAY.

Do not be afraid to be yourself Trust your gut
Speak to your girlies
Go for a walk and look around you Don’t bother dwelling on the past Get an early night
Don’t feel you have to fit in
Take inspiration from something new Love what you have
Be honest
Lots of love Lucie x

Meet Georgia Billings, a force to be reckoned with. She is a mama of three who juggles motherhood while managing the career of Idris Elba's body double and supporting her husband, a badass Muay Thai boxer. Georgia has a keen eye for fashion and is always immaculately dressed, with her children looking like they have walked straight out of a Benetton campaign. On top of her busy schedule, Georgia is a trained doula and a born and bred South London badass, with a soul that shines through in everything she does.
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1)Mum Hacks: Tips and trips for making life easier
As a mum of three (!) and wife to a Professional (World Champion, no less) Kick boxer – of course the first hack that comes to mind has something to do with the bane of my life…LAUNDRY. Ergh. The word even gives me shudders. Of all my accomplishments in life, having an empty laundry basket fills me with ultimate MUM GOAL vibes. Anyway, I digress – 
Hack 1: the sun, not only makes us instantly feel better and more glowy and beautiful but it’s the best for getting out newborn shit stains. How many baby grows are you guilty of throwing away because they had a huge yellow splodge that wouldn’t budge? Give the babygrow a rinse in cold water (with a bit of washing up liquid if you’re feeling fancy) and simply pop the babygrow outside in direct sunlight – and like magic, the stain disappears.
Hack 2: for older kids that play sports (or husband’s that go to the gym a lot (try 4 times a day, 6 days a week in this house…)) a scoop full of bicarbonate of soda, is the best addition to your wash to get rid of any lingering damp/stinky armpit smells.
 
 
2)The secret life of mums: Confessions from the trenches
Not so much a confession, but more a “must” – once you have a baby it’s so easy to loose yourself and your identity – I’ve been there, pretty certain we’ve all grieved our pre parent (have a lie-in till 1pm) selves at some stage. Third baby in, and this time round the “bounce back” (not in loosing baby weight – I wish!) has been so much more powerful – I’m confident in who I am, what I stand for, my priorities, my choices – and my wardrobe. I’m the happiest I’ve ever been – because I’m so concentrated on me. I surround myself with energy boosters. Actually, on reflection, I haven’t bounced back – I’ve evolved. 
 
3)The best and worst advice mums have received
I trained as a doula (although currently, I’ve put that career on hold) and the word “advice” is a bit of a trigger for my doula brain! Doula’s don’t give advice – they encourage clients to use their b.r.a.i.n.s to make informed choices (acronym for: benefits, risks, alternatives, intuition, nothing). If I had to choose..the best advice would be something my husband has said to me countless times, “set boundaries and don’t be afraid to say “no” if you don’t want to do something.”  It’s something I’ve really put in to practice since having our youngest son.
The worst advice, for me personally (after giving birth) would be “don’t worry about the mess, sleep when the baby’s sleeping” I can’t relax if our house is a pig sty – my brain would be way more relaxed, and in turn, I would feel more content if I spent that time tidying my space – we are all individuals, the most important thing is to do what works best for US. 
 
4)Mumfessions: embarrassing moments from parenthood
I know there are a million embarrassing moments, probably because the kids are at an age now, where they’re brutally honest about everything – no filters at all...which at times can be pretty toe curlingly embarrassing. I’m still breastfeeding, and being at a work meeting, or a cool brand’s PR event and my milk soaking through my top, still makes me all hot and flustered – although it usually ends up as a bonding tool, as guaranteed at least one other parent in the room can sympathise!
 
5)Parenting fails: when things dont go as planned
A couple of evenings ago – after eating dinner, the baby was having some nappy off time, crawling around the front room before bed. The rest of us were still sitting at the dining table, catching up on the day etc … 5 or so minutes later, my eldest son went to join his little brother on the floor and immediately starting shouting “NO ROBIN!! NO ROBIN!!” 
Intrigued, I went over to see what was happening… Robin has done a poo on the floor, and was picking the sweetcorn out of his log – and eating it. EPIC FAIL.
 
 
6)The truth about potty training: A mum’s perspective 
I potty trained my daughter (she’s almost 5 now) during lockdown. We were all indoors for months – and the first thing I brought was a potty. I didn’t put any pressure on her at all – she naturally just started sitting and weeing on the potty. As with everything children related, consistency is the key – just keep at it. Also, children’s milestones are often a competition amongst parents – battle of the “who walked/used the potty/counted to 5 in French first” don’t fall in to that pressure circle. You’ll know when you’re both ready.
 
 
7)The mum squad: finding your tribe in the world of parenthood
I lead such a busy life that I find it really hard to sync diaries with a lot of my friends that have children. I’m guilty of making plans and then either cancelling or one of us completely forgets that we had a date in the diary – so last minute “hey babes, what you up to today/tomorrow” plans usually work best for me. My true friends don’t take me cancelling or my ‘not seeing them for 6months’ personally – when we do meet up, we pick up where we left off and there is no animosity or hard feelings. This ties in to the ‘boundaries and people pleasing advice’ I mentioned above – I’ve learned to prioritise myself, my family and my work commitments and sadly, that doesn’t leave time for a whole lot else – I’m extremely fortunate and blessed that I’m happiest when I’m with the people that live within my four walls.
 
8)Mum’s night out: the Importance of self care and fun.
I’m a bit of a boring bastard – I don’t get out and socialise or “have fun” how other’s would perceive to be the conventional way, very often. Robin is almost one, although he eats food now – he falls to sleep on my boob every night and I prioritise him each and every time. I don’t enjoy my time out otherwise, knowing he’s distressed. Instead I try to arrange daytime plans (brunch/lunch etc). This year I’ve been consistent with my fitness regime, and holding myself accountable, and I’ve fallen in love with walking – for hours – my fav’ place to walk is Richmond Park, this is major selfcare and “time out” for me.  

Follow Georgina on insta below…
Insta link: https://www.instagram.com/peckhammum/
1) Mum Hacks: Tips and trips for making life easier
As a mum of three (!) and wife to a Professional (World Champion, no less) Kick boxer – of course the first hack that comes to mind has something to do with the bane of my life…LAUNDRY. Ergh. The word even gives me shudders. Of all my accomplishments in life, having an empty laundry basket fills me with ultimate MUM GOAL vibes. Anyway, I digress –
Hack 1: the sun, not only makes us instantly feel better and more glowy and beautiful but it’s the best for getting out newborn shit stains. How many baby grows are you guilty of throwing away because they had a huge yellow splodge that wouldn’t budge? Give the babygrow a rinse in cold water (with a bit of washing up liquid if you’re feeling fancy) and simply pop the babygrow outside in direct sunlight – and like magic, the stain disappears.
Hack 2: for older kids that play sports (or husband’s that go to the gym a lot (try 4 times a day, 6 days a week in this house…)) a scoop full of bicarbonate of soda, is the best addition to your wash to get rid of any lingering damp/stinky armpit smells.


2) The secret life of mums: Confessions from the trenches
Not so much a confession, but more a “must” – once you have a baby it’s so easy to loose yourself and your identity – I’ve been there, pretty certain we’ve all grieved our pre parent (have a lie-in till 1pm) selves at some stage. Third baby in, and this time round the “bounce back” (not in loosing baby weight – I wish!) has been so much more powerful – I’m confident in who I am, what I stand for, my priorities, my choices – and my wardrobe. I’m the happiest I’ve ever been – because I’m so concentrated on me. I surround myself with energy boosters. Actually, on reflection, I haven’t bounced back – I’ve evolved.

3) The best and worst advice mums have received
I trained as a doula (although currently, I’ve put that career on hold) and the word “advice” is a bit of a trigger for my doula brain! Doula’s don’t give advice – they encourage clients to use their b.r.a.i.n.s to make informed choices (acronym for: benefits, risks, alternatives, intuition, nothing). If I had to choose..the best advice would be something my husband has said to me countless times, “set boundaries and don’t be afraid to say “no” if you don’t want to do something.” It’s something I’ve really put in to practice since having our youngest son.
The worst advice, for me personally (after giving birth) would be “don’t worry about the mess, sleep when the baby’s sleeping” I can’t relax if our house is a pig sty – my brain would be way more relaxed, and in turn, I would feel more content if I spent that time tidying my space – we are all individuals, the most important thing is to do what works best for US.

4) Mumfessions: embarrassing moments from parenthood
I know there are a million embarrassing moments, probably because the kids are at an age now, where they’re brutally honest about everything – no filters at all...which at times can be pretty toe curlingly embarrassing. I’m still breastfeeding, and being at a work meeting, or a cool brand’s PR event and my milk soaking through my top, still makes me all hot and flustered – although it usually ends up as a bonding tool, as guaranteed at least one other parent in the room can sympathise!

5) Parenting fails: when things dont go as planned
A couple of evenings ago – after eating dinner, the baby was having some nappy off time, crawling around the front room before bed. The rest of us were still sitting at the dining table, catching up on the day etc … 5 or so minutes later, my eldest son went to join his little brother on the floor and immediately starting shouting “NO ROBIN!! NO ROBIN!!”
Intrigued, I went over to see what was happening… Robin has done a poo on the floor, and was picking the sweetcorn out of his log – and eating it. EPIC FAIL.


6) The truth about potty training: A mum’s perspective
I potty trained my daughter (she’s almost 5 now) during lockdown. We were all indoors for months – and the first thing I brought was a potty. I didn’t put any pressure on her at all – she naturally just started sitting and weeing on the potty. As with everything children related, consistency is the key – just keep at it. Also, children’s milestones are often a competition amongst parents – battle of the “who walked/used the potty/counted to 5 in French first” don’t fall in to that pressure circle. You’ll know when you’re both ready.


7) The mum squad: finding your tribe in the world of parenthood
I lead such a busy life that I find it really hard to sync diaries with a lot of my friends that have children. I’m guilty of making plans and then either cancelling or one of us completely forgets that we had a date in the diary – so last minute “hey babes, what you up to today/tomorrow” plans usually work best for me. My true friends don’t take me cancelling or my ‘not seeing them for 6months’ personally – when we do meet up, we pick up where we left off and there is no animosity or hard feelings. This ties in to the ‘boundaries and people pleasing advice’ I mentioned above – I’ve learned to prioritise myself, my family and my work commitments and sadly, that doesn’t leave time for a whole lot else – I’m extremely fortunate and blessed that I’m happiest when I’m with the people that live within my four walls.

8) Mum’s night out: the Importance of self care and fun.
I’m a bit of a boring bastard – I don’t get out and socialise or “have fun” how other’s would perceive to be the conventional way, very often. Robin is almost one, although he eats food now – he falls to sleep on my boob every night and I prioritise him each and every time. I don’t enjoy my time out otherwise, knowing he’s distressed. Instead I try to arrange daytime plans (brunch/lunch etc). This year I’ve been consistent with my fitness regime, and holding myself accountable, and I’ve fallen in love with walking – for hours – my fav’ place to walk is Richmond Park, this is major selfcare and “time out” for me.