Apologies for not having written for some time – work got in the way, I got in the way. A funny realisation to have actually a few weeks ago when I found that I was feeling stuck with robbieingo, not feeling motivated, allowing certain people around me to drag me down – I suddenly thought, God I am getting in my own way of having fun, success, being creative, getting fit, finding time for me and robbieingo. So quick sticks I got out of my own way! What a relief!

I have learnt over a fast paced 30 year work life that discipline is key, every time. I have started getting up at 5.25am on week days, to enjoy the quiet of the morning, relish in a steaming cup of tea, a piece of toast and actually choose the emails I want to respond to, the bills I want to take time to pay, the school notices I can have a moment to read, instead of always rushing through, feeling frantic and hanging on by a thread with all the information we are bombarded with and expected to retain and respond to immediately, everyday.

 At 6.55am as it is just getting light, I head off for a walk, sometimes more recently with my daughter which I love – breathing in the frosty, clean air and just taking in the silence, the moment the pink sky breaks a new day – all is good in the world. No phone, no emails, TV, noise, deadlines – but a true appreciation of Mother nature and the purity and crispness of a fresh pine tree – I crave the simplicity of life – it is a real choice these days, one that is hurtling like a steam train towards me. Thank goodness.

In a time where I am surrounded by many people totally consumed by social media and the need for adulation, commentary, bullying, harassment, insult, opinion -  I am finding myself running in the opposite direction. Becoming more interested in living off grid, being more ethically aware, living a sustainable life, making different choices, learning, reading, understanding how to re purpose not only clothing but our lives. Finding new champions to read about and admire, sustainable champions like Anny Duff of Good Studios, Simon Bryant and Clare Press, that really do care about our global foot print not who is wearing what label and how many likes they have.

I am finding a calming appreciation in wearing my own styles, knowing they have been designed for purpose – whether it be to throw on when I get home from work ( Robbie) with my Ugg’s, or to sport on a Saturday underneath a cute vintage leather blazer (Charli) or to take to Byron for a brief escape ( Dahlia), I actually love them all and this new found sense of space I have instilled in my daily routine is allowing me the creative time to really put more energy into what I love.

robbieingo is not trend driven or edgy, but it is cool to me, I love wearing it, it makes me feel happy, and the styles are flattering. I know the family behind the production of every garment, there love and support for me as a friend – a designer just wanting to produce beautiful quality clothes, knowing that hundreds of other girls and women will have the same experience. That is true joy.

Seeing my daughter wearing “Tannie” with a long line vintage cardigan from previous collections with shorts and Ugg’s, looking confident and happy in her skin – that is finding joy in what you can do – the art of creating and seeing the beautiful result of someone enjoying your product, THAT is life – you don’t need likes to confirm that – it is right in front of you……..