Welcome to our 7 Questions blog, each post will feature a woman and her 7 honest answers to our 7 (fairly intimate) questions
It’s a chance for us all to be reminded that ALL women have challenges and insecurities, even the ones who look like they’re killing it
‘Elle. Wife, Mother, home-maker and lover of interiors. Making our home in the wake of a disaster; feathering a nest with the dream of having her own “take home” chicks. Navigating a way to feel purpose after the worst loss, the death of our son Teddy. Finding light in darkness, and positivity in times of desperation, and hopefully making a few people laugh along the way.’ – Feathering The Empty Nest
Name: Elle
Age: 34
Lives: UK
1 – How do you deal with overwhelm?
I just say no; to invites, work meetings, anything I can cancel, I will. There was a time when I wouldn’t have dreamed of doing that, but since Teddy died in 2016 I realised I had to put my own mental and emotional wellbeing first when it’s possible. If that means clearing my diary and having a few quiet days, then that’s what I’ll do. (Also; pug cuddles help.)
2 – Do you do what makes YOU happy or others?
I try to find a balance between both. I think that your own happiness is important, but not when it’s at the cost of others. I like to think that there is a happy medium.
3 – What gives you confidence when you need it most
Usually my husband. When I am feeling low or like I can’t do something, he will always be the one to boost me. If I think I can’t, he’ll always remind me why I can.
4 – When someone tells you that you look nice or an outfit looks good, how do you reply
Oh goodness, usually awkwardly. I’ll make a joke about how “It’s amazing what make-up can do!” or similar. I think there are lots of us out there who could be better at taking compliments.
5 – What is your favourite failure
Not getting a job I really wanted when I was living down in Bournemouth. I had always lived and worked down there, it was a safe space. I didn’t get a job I wanted after completing my teacher and assessor training at college (whilst I had also been working full-time and putting in teaching hours). I was gutted; but it spurred me on to think outside of the box. I landed a brilliant job in London that enabled me to use all of my skills and keep working in the industry I loved. We moved to London, both had new jobs, new friends, and then we got married the following year. Everything fell into place, and funnily enough I don’t think I’ll ever move back to Bournemouth.
6 – What 1 eco switch have you recently made
Oh SO many. I’ve been trying my best to make switches in the house over the past year. We got a smart meter installed, which has really helped us to see where we use power and where we can save it. My husband recently got a Soda Stream so that he doesn’t buy bottled sparkling water anymore. I also got a subscription to Who Gives a Crap toilet paper (love that name!). For a long time we have stopped buying fruit and veg in any secondary packing or plastic bags, I buy it from a local farm shop or green grocers rather than the supermarket.
7 – One piece of advice you want to pass on to another woman
Don’t think you can’t, because you can. Whatever it is; an idea you want to get off the ground; something you want to talk or write about; an injustice you see happening every day that needs changing. Just go for it. I guarantee you there will be others out there who feel the same and will want to support you.
Thanks so much for reading, please do let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or recommend anyone who you’d love to see answer these questions
This Post Has 6 Comments
I just think Elle is amazing, her attitude, how she continues to parent Teddy in such a beautiful and impactful way and her taste in interiors! Fan girl-ing massively over here!
Thank you for your comment, She is an absolute babe isn’t she, such a wonderful mother ❤️
Elle is a wonderful, warm person. She reaches so many people and makes her experiences relative to other people, so even if you haven’t experienced what she has and have different difficulties in life, you can relate to and connect with her.
Thank you for your comment, I’m in no doubt that she’s help so so many women ❤️
Elle will never know how much she has helped me. I buried my losses deep down and didn’t talk about my babies. Now I can open up and I’ve helped others close to me. I wouldn’t have been able to do that before. I still have a way to go and I’m thankful for what I have now. But I know I can mourn and no longer hide away from the pain. So thank you Elle for being so wonderful. Lauren you’re a superstar too! X
Hey Paula, so glad to hear that you found comfort from Elle and that you’re on your healing journey ❤️ all the love – Lauren xx