Mikayla & Cruze

The Mother Village

Mar 17

Mikayla and Cruze were the second mum and son duo that I had the privilege of spending time with as part of this project. Mikayla, a passionate veterinary nurse, spends all of her time outside of work with her affectionately named ‘little love’ by her side.

When I visited their home at Albion Park Rail, I learned about Mikayla’s past travels, including a stint in the UAE where she lived and cared for a young family member. It seems that Mikayla was destined to become a devoted mother, displaying early motherly instincts in her work and tendency to save animals in need of a temporary or forever home.

Cruze was 6 months old at the time of our photoshoot, an age I cannot yet relate to but I know is just around the corner. It was on Mikayla’s recommendation that I have now enrolled my son into Baby Sensory classes at North Wollongong Surf Club thereby, expanding my own Mother Village. I am thankful for this connection and cannot wait to catch up with this sweet duo again.

Each of the mothers involved in this project were interviewed about their experiences and connections to community. Throughout this blog, I will share some direct quotes captured in these interviews.

How would you describe Motherhood? The best, most difficult, yet most rewarding job anyone could ever have. Being a mum is the one thing I know that I was supposed to do with my life.

“Being a mum is the one thing I know that I was supposed to do with my life. ”

— Mikayla

What does your Mother Village look like? I love baby sensory, toddler time and swimming lessons. These activities provide such incredible moments where I get to bond with my little love while also talking with other Mums and doing life alongside each other, and fully supporting each other no matter what.