Whimsy & Wonder Blog | A Soulful Journal by Em Whalan
A Journey Through Motherhood, Loss, Creative Business, and Becoming
A journal & blog of words and wonder, born from a life lived deeply — in all its beauty, ache, softness, and strength.
Here, I share raw and reflective stories of motherhood, womanhood, creativity, and connection — from my home in Medowie, nestled in the heart of Port Stephens and near the wild edges of the Hunter Valley.
It’s a space where stories unfold slowly — led by wonder, shaped by seasons, and stitched from an eclectic life lived with heart. It’s also the beating heart behind Whimsy & Wonder Photography — where storytelling doesn’t end with words, but lives on through soulful imagery, honest connection, and the quiet power of being seen.
Rooted in the Unraveling
There are stories that don’t just move you — they undo you, gently and all at once. This is one of those stories. A reflection on the show that cracked me open, the ache of motherhood, the beauty of chosen family, and the raw, rooted life I’m growing as a woman, photographer, and homeschooling mother in Port Stephens.
From the Mud, We Bloom.
"Returning to Her"
There’s a moment — quiet and holy — where we turn inward and meet the younger version of ourselves. The one who dreamed barefoot, felt everything deeply, and simply wanted to be held with kindness.
This image is a visual prayer to that moment. A mothering of the self. A remembering.
Drawn from the heart of my own healing, this artwork symbolizes the journey of reconnection — where wounds are not hidden but witnessed. Where softness is reclaimed. And where the child within finally feels seen.
My latest blog shares the story behind this image, a piece of my own return. I hope it holds space for your own.
Barefoot & Blooming
Barefoot & Blooming is about rooting into what matters and growing gently, together. This isn’t just a blog. It’s a space to come as you are.
