Motherhood Stories with Kayla Vandenham

What’s your name and where are you from? 

Hi lovelies! My name is Kayla, and I’m from Brisbane in Queensland, Australia. 

Tell us about your family - Who are the special people in your life? 

I have two beautiful boys, aged 9 months and 2. They are my absolute whole world, along with my hubby! 

Tell us about your work - Are you a stay at home mom? Do you have a full-time job? Do you work from home? Run your own business? 

I’ve been a stay at home mum since I had Ari, 2.5 years ago. I started my own business when he was only a few months old. Originally I started out doing Macrame, and have no delved into the stunning floristry world. Making wreaths out of both fresh and dried florals and dried bouquets, and arrangements. 

Tell us your motherhood story - Did you always know that you wanted to be a mom? When did you have your first child? What is your hope for this motherhood journey?

I’ve known since I was a little girl that my calling in life was to be a mum! Anyone that would ask, if one day I’d have kids I couldn’t wait to tell them just how excited I was to have babies of my own one day. That one day came and all my wildest dreams came true, along with struggles sure but it’s what I like to call, beautiful chaos. I was 24 when I had our first baby, Ari. 

My hope for motherhood is to bring my sons up knowing nothing but love, freedom and equality. I’m raising young men, to always be kind and respect both men and especially women. It’s such an important role in raising sons - you’re creating and raising men of the future. Men with integrity and heart. Always nurturing, and allowing them to feel, model strong and healthy relationships. Encouraging individuality and always being open. This is my hope for them, my boys. 

What does a typical day in your life look like? 

A typical day, you’d usually find us around home. Between a 9 month old and a 2 year old - nap times are all over the place. As much as I try to sync them, and have them nap elsewhere it just doesn’t work. So majority of the time, you’ll see us cuddled up at home - drawing, playing, wrestling (boy mums!) and all things fun indoors. We try to get out of the afternoon when daddy comes home! 

What are you most passionate about? 

I am most passionate about how I model as a mother - what I’m teaching my boys, how I act and react. I am so passionate about being vigilant and making sure that those boys are always seeing the best version of myself. My passion is them. 

What is the most joyful part of being a mother?

Watching them grow - it’s crazy how quick time goes and sometimes we’re so busy we forget to stop and take a look at just how much they’re growing and learning! That is the most fun part! 

What advice do you offer new moms? 

Always be open minded, listen to your heart, and don’t be so hard on yourself. You’re doing absolutely amazing! 

How did you discover Kantha Bae? 

I came across Kantha Bae on Instagram! Have loved every single piece since! 

What are your favorite Kantha designs?

I absolutely love the Kantha quilts, especially the baby quilts. My goodness are they special! 

You can follow Kayla on Instagram @dearestchildren.