The Mummy Interviews ~ Catherine Oehlman
Today it's my pleasure to introduce you to Catherine Oehlman

Cath is currently a SAHM living in Queensland with her hubby of almost 10 years and their 2 children; a 3 year old daughter and a 1 year old son. Before children, Cath was a primary school teacher with a particular interest in literacy. Cath’s love of the written word continues as she writes for magazines, parenting websites and her own fantastic blog (http://www.squigglemum.com/) Cath loves to share her own mothering experiences, ideas, tips and inspiration! Cath co-ordinates her local MOPS (Mothers Of Pre-Schoolers) group, can sing, loves to lead worship and has been a Christian since her early teens.

Cath joins us today to share a little of her journey of motherhood so far.


Squigglemum, welcome to Moments for Mum!


• From reading your blog, I can see that you love being a mum; what do you enjoy most about motherhood?


I love seeing the rapid growth physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually as my kids develop. Oh, and the giggles. I love their giggles.


• You probably did some ‘research’ about pregnancy/birth/babies before you had your children but once they arrived did anything about motherhood catch you off guard or shock you?


I knew a lot of “stuff” but knowing it isn’t nearly the same as living through it! The 24-7 nature of mothering definitely caught me off guard. There’s no preparing you for that.


• I’m sure you’ve had a few tough times since having your children? Can you share a really difficult ‘mummy moment’ with us and maybe what you learned from the experience?


My daughter really struggled when she graduated from mum & bub swimming classes to toddler lessons all on her own. Without me in the water she would scream, “I need my Mummy!” over and over, then let go of the bar and go under. It was the hardest thing in the world not to dive in and save her. Much as it hurt me though, I knew it was ultimately for her good. Situations like this give me a little insight into why my Heavenly Father sometimes allows me to go through struggles, and remind me that in many ways I too am still just a child.


• We all aim to parent our children as best we can, but do you have any specific goals for your parenting or ‘hopes’ for your children?


I hope that I help my kids to grow into who they’ve been created to be. And I hope that they love whatever they do in life. That’s all.


• You are a Christian, how does your faith impact/influence your parenting?

Being a Christian doesn’t make being a mum easier, but it does mean my mistakes have already been paid for in full so I don’t have to constantly deal with mummy-guilt. It does mean that I’m not alone on the lonely days. And it does mean that when it comes to the “big picture” stuff I have an eternal perspective.


• I know you are a really busy mum, but what do you like to do in any spare time you have?


Get out of the house! Probably my favourite thing to do is head to the rainforest for some birdwatching. Yep, I’m a bird nerd.


• Do you have a favourite bible verse? Why is this verse important to you?

One of my favourites is Romans 12:11 which says “Never be lacking in zeal but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord.” I’m a high energy person and I always end up involved in lots of things. This verse reminds me to keep my energy God-focused. Besides, I like the word zeal. I hope I’m zealous for God.


• Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?


I didn’t know that becoming a mum would reveal so much to me about the heart of God. When I look at my beautiful, peacefully sleeping children I get a glimpse of how God feels about me. And you. And you...


Cath has kindly agreed to write a guest post for Moments for Mum so pop by again tomorrow for her thoughts about body image.


See you tomorrow :)
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3 Responses
  1. appleleaf Says:
    January 25, 2010 8:04 AM

    Thanks for your inspiration, Cath! That swimming pool story brought tears to my eyes too. And I'm sure there are many bright birds to watch in Queensland. Your high energy is a gift. Keep up the good work!
    Love Paula


  2. Footprints Australia Says:
    January 25, 2010 3:36 PM

    What a great idea Narelle ... I look forward to meeting lots of other great ladies over the coming weeks!

    I agree with Cath ... I learn lessons everyday about God as our Father through my children. Especially seeing as my own childhood was rather dysfunctional, a lot of it is new to me!


  3. Michelle Says:
    January 25, 2010 7:08 PM

    What a great interview! Thanks Narelle and Cath :)


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