“Mum, can you just sayang me a bit please?”

Mornings are hard. School-day mornings, specifically, are the worst. My 5-year-old Jonesy will attest to that. Nope, it isn’t school that he dreads. It’s the mere act of getting out of bed and getting ready for school that bothers him.

It’s the time of day when he needs the mother of all hugs and cuddles while me, lots of deep breathing to keep my sanity in check. Sure, the morning zen is obliterated but those are also the little moments that I want to remember for when he no longer needs my touch. And sometimes with a little bit of luck and creativity, even the most whiny or doleful moments become a celebration (of photo opp) - for me!

From play school to kindy1, this personal photo project documenting Jones’ school-day morning temperaments has been three years in the making. Here’s a glimpse into his morning dread that will speak to the “I’m no morning person” type in some of us. Enjoy. xx