Hi there Reader
Something really small happened this week that's probably not worth mentioning, but I'm going to anyway because it actually made my whole day better.
I was at the post office yesterday morning, juggling my matcha and a stack of packages, when this older gentleman held the door open for me. Nothing groundbreaking, right?
But then he smiled and said "looks like you're having one of those mornings too." We ended up chatting for five minutes, and I walked out feeling genuinely lighter.
It made me realise how much those tiny human connections matter, especially when you're running a small business and spending most of your time behind a computer screen. Sometimes you forget how nice it is to just have a real conversation with a stranger who gets it.
Building this newsletter has been harder than I expected. Most people focus on the big milestones - subscriber numbers, sponsorship deals, viral posts. But honestly, it's these small moments of connection that keep me going.
Like when someone replies to tell me they discovered a new favourite spot, or when I bump into a family at the markets who recognises me from the newsletter.
All this is to say, the small wins count too.
What small, positive moment have you had recently that changed your day Reader? I'd love to know so I can celebrate with you! Hit reply.
Joyce xx
P.S. That lovely gentleman? Turns out he's lived in Geelong for 60 years and has three grandkids. We're going to grab coffee next week so he can share his favourite old-school family spots with me!
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- Unicorn Utopia (Tuesday 30 Sep) Magic awaits at Bluebird Foundation where little ones can craft unicorn headbands, tails, enjoy face painting and cupcakes in this whimsical wonderland.
- Studio Ghibli Painting Workshop (Wednesday 1 Oct) Dive into the magical world of Totoro and Ponyo while creating acrylic paintings on canvas and handmade paper stickers.
- Stamp & Stitch: Upcycled Fabric Fun (Thursday 2 Oct) Transform old tees into wearable art using wooden stamps, fabric paint and simple appliqué techniques for ages 8+.
- 3...2...1 Blast Off: The Final Mission (Daily from Tuesday 30 Sep - Thursday 2 Oct) Join Commander Carl Cosmic and the Space Cadets for an educational adventure filled with planet facts, original songs and a top-secret ending.
- Scout School Holiday Program (Various dates from Tuesday 30 Sep - Friday 3 Oct) A program that's perfect for 5-12 year olds to make friends, learn new skills and explore outdoors through excursions, campfires and creative challenges.
- Kelly Sports Holiday Program (Various dates until Friday 3 Oct) Keep the kids active and entertained these holidays with fun, engaging sports activities at Geelong Sports Hub.
- Sew & Style PJ Workshop (Various dates from Thursday 2 Oct - Monday 6 Oct) Young makers aged 9+ will craft their own boxer-style shorts and customise a t-shirt for the ultimate handmade PJ set.
- Mamma Mia! The Musical (Various dates from Friday 3 Oct - Sunday 19 Oct) Sing along to ABBA's greatest hits in this heart-warming tale of love, family and friendship set on a Greek island.
- Piccadilly Night Market (Friday 3 Oct) Wind down after work with artisan goods, food trucks, live entertainment and a cheeky beverage at Geelong Arts Centre's indoor market.
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The Royal Geelong Show is Victoria's largest regional agricultural show, packed with family entertainment across four days. Kids will love Harry's Farmyard where they can meet farm animals up close, while thrill-seekers can enjoy carnival rides and games.
You'll find everything from blue ribbon livestock competitions and vintage machinery displays to showbags, food stalls, and nightly arena shows. It's the perfect mix of country tradition and modern family fun, with activities suitable for all ages from toddlers to grandparents.
📍 Geelong Showgrounds, Breakwater
📅 Thursday 16 October - Sunday 19 October
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Struggling with the daily dinner dilemma? This guide covers Melbourne's best family meal delivery services that take the stress out of feeding everyone. From fresh meal kits with pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes, to ready-made heat-and-eat options for busy weeknights, there are solutions for every family's schedule and dietary needs.
Whether you want kid-friendly classics, healthy options, or gourmet plant-based meals, these services help you serve up something decent without the afternoon panic of "what's for dinner?"
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PARTNER CONTENT
This boutique Great Ocean Road day tour from Melbourne showcases the coastal route's most famous landmarks in a relaxed, small-group setting.
You'll visit the iconic 12 Apostles limestone stacks during optimal viewing times, explore the dramatic cliffs of Loch Ard Gorge, and stop for lunch in the seaside town of Apollo Bay. The tour includes visits to charming Lorne, opportunities to spot koalas in their natural habitat, and photo stops at the historic Memorial Arch and Split Point Lighthouse.
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This free Children's Week celebration at Vines Road Community Centre features BOPS Music leading interactive singing sessions and a delightful puppet show that's perfect for little ones.
The event is designed for families with young children, offering a morning of music, entertainment, and community connection. The first 30 children to arrive will receive special goody bags, so it's worth arriving early.
📍 Vines Road Community Centre, Hamlyn Heights
📅 Monday 20 October
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Wombat's Memorial Walk is a fundraising event supporting Wombat's Wish, which provides free grief support services to children aged 5-12 who have lost a parent.
This family-friendly community day features bubble soccer, jumping castles, live music, face painting, market stalls, and various family activities for all ages. Whether you're walking in memory of someone special or simply supporting the cause, it's a meaningful way to help local bereaved children while enjoying a fun day out.
📍 Portarlington Football Oval
📅 Sunday 12 October
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