Vesre Mother Lauren Kozicai: by Theodore & Walter
Name: Lauren Kozica @laurenkozica
DOB: 24 August 1984
Place of birth: Melbourne, Australia
Occupation: Founder of Ring Around
1. What brings you joy when you are having a bad day?
It depends on what’s causing the bad day. Usually, a quick walk, some loud music and a cuddle on the couch with my boys will do the trick. That being said, if my crappy day has been caused by an overload of tantrums, I generally seek joy in margaritas - usually with my girlfriends in a dark bar.
2. What has surprised you most about being a Mama?
You feel 85 but 23 at the same time. It amazes me that one minute, I feel so old (and just want to listen to golden oldies on the radio and go to bed at 9 pm). But then the next minute, I feel young and full of adventure.
3. What is your morning routine?
Morning routine?! No such thing. Morning in our house is about survival. It’s vital to get those boys fed, dressed and out of the house before they burn it down. The best technique is to sit them in front of the TV with some breaky while I race upstairs for a quick shower. Then I get them dressed, and we leave straight away. Although I never eat breakfast, I need my caffeine. So I’ll pull up and grab a coffee on the go. Then it’s off to school or the park depending on the day.
4. Is there a moment or event that radically changed the way you saw the world?
Losing my Mum at a young age and having my first child were both obvious moments that made me see the world differently. They both made me see how precious life can be. It’s not always easy to appreciate each and every day (because let’s be honest, some days totally suck) but I try and check-in with myself and treasure what surrounds me.
5. What are your favourite mid-week dinner treats?
On Mondays to Thursdays, I used to be a strict ‘no booze, no carbs’ kinda girl. But since having kids, blow out weekends ain’t a thing anymore. So my favourite mid-week treat is a few glasses of Beaujolais, a bowl of fresh pesto pasta and half a packet of Haighs Speckles.
6. How do you unwind after a busy week of work?
For me to unwind, I need to feel balanced. So it’s important to plan a weekend that involves family time, me time and adult time. Family time is having ‘kiddy dinner’ with some of my mates and their little ones. Usually, we throw pizza at them while we sit up at the kitchen bench and crack open a bottle of Rosé. Me time is pilates on Saturday morning. Adult time is a Netflix binge session on the couch, or dinner out with my partner and friends.
7. Who are your role models?
I have so many role models in my life. But I generally look up to anyone who is calm and nurturing. I also admire a person who can survive a tragedy and come out on top.
8. What are some grocery items that are in your basket every single week?
Brown rice, eggs, canned tuna, pre-washed bags of spinach, frozen berries, greek yoghurt, almond milk, salty revolting kids snacks, and red wine.
9. What is one thing you are loving right now?
Anything indulgent! The world has had a tough couple of months, and I feel like there’s nothing wrong with a little luxury. I love a good eyebrow wax, a Thai massage and a martini. I’m not massively into podcasts, but recently I’ve loved listening to Maggie Dent - How to Raise Boys and Juliet Allen’s - Authentic Sex. Parenting and sex don’t usually go hand in hand, but both very important topics!
10. How has it been creating your business?
It’s scary putting yourself out there and hoping people will believe in what you’re doing. But honestly, bringing Mums together and having a good ol’ time is something that comes naturally to me. It also filled a gap in my life last year when I was feeling very isolated and struggling with two kids under two. I think because I’m a young mum (well not so young) and living the day-to-day challenges. The business is an extension of me and my experiences, so other Mums can often relate and want to be a part of that.
Lauren wears Verse One Letter 18-Karat Gold Tourmaline Bracelet
Film photography: Theodore (4) Walter (2).