I am the eldest of four siblings, an independent warrior often torn between realism and flights of fancy. My dreams oscillated between becoming a journalist, a Germanist, or a lawyer. At 16, I began working with a local newspaper and radio station, and by 19, I had left my family home to join television, specifically Atomic TV, a music station once owned by the legendary Bob Geldof, which later evolved into MTV Polska. Those were the halcyon days of my youth.
Studying at both the Humanistic School of Journalism and Social Sciences in Poznań and the University of Warsaw introduced me to many remarkable individuals, some of whom became renowned journalists and celebrities, enduring friendships that still thrive. Interviews with stars, program hosting, and event coverage made for exhilarating times. My work at MTV led me to Korea, where I met a Turk. After two years of friendship, we married. Our first child arrived after four years of marriage, followed by a second two years later. Although our marriage didn't last a decade, we remain devoted parents and friends for our children's sake. I chose to stay in Turkey, despite their father living abroad, and it's been 20 years in Istanbul, a city I adore for its climate, kitchen, and sea.
Everyday life, I've found, is about adaptation, respect, and tolerance for the place and its people. The golden rule is simple: adapt to your community, and it's wonderful when they reciprocate. My passion for sports, shared with my children, sees them as licensed alpine snowboarders in winter and water sports enthusiasts in summer. They've become seasoned travelers, fluent in Polish, Turkish, and English.
In Turkey, I explored various journalism and television production roles, yet the greatest joy comes from what I consider the most demanding yet rewarding profession: motherhood. Spending time with my children has been profoundly fulfilling. Motherhood has taught me invaluable lessons, and through it, I've come to cherish every moment of life. I became a Baby Signs instructor after my son's reluctance to speak as quickly as his sister. It's a fantastic program that enhances communication between babies and parents, reducing stress, crying, and frustration.
As my children grew, I transitioned into mindfulness instruction for teens and young adults, recognizing the chaotic and challenging nature of adolescence for both kids and parents. My interest in positive psychology and well-being aids me in navigating the trials of being a single mother and a foreigner. Having experienced heartbreak, trauma, and stress, I've embarked on a journey of self-healing, acknowledging that the one thing we can control is ourselves.
A year ago, after my daughter was involved in an accident, I reached a breaking point. I needed an outlet for my feelings and depression. With the support of an incredible group of women friends, I launched a podcast in Polish called "Balagan Samotnej Matki." Through it, I share my experiences to reassure other mothers that they're not alone in the chaos of motherhood, stress and difficulties of life.
After much consideration, I've decided to extend my journey here onto this blog, with the aim of reaching more women and mothers like myself. My goal is to create a supportive community of positive, self-loving women who embrace life and themselves wholeheartedly. I would be honored to have you join me here. Together, let's embark on this journey of growth, support, and celebration of parenthood.
