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Michelle Matangi

@michellematangi

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Mental Wellness | Lifestyle
Creative expression through sewing, gardening, knitting, crochet, interiors, cooking @themindfulmakernz

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On Friday sadly we had to say goodbye to our darling little Pepper (Peps, Monkey, Tiny Dancer) 💔 Losing her has completely rocked our world. We are devastated and so heartbroken.

Pepper was such a special little lady — full of sass, personality and unconditional love. She was the boss of our little pack, and had the confidence of a dog ten times her size — she always made sure everything was safe for the others first — especially Maisey, she really was the brave little leader of our pack ♥️

We’re so thankful for all the memories we made together — beach trips, walks, cuddles on the couch, sunbathing in the garden, and all the little everyday moments with our three dogs together as a family.

The grief is so raw right now. Pepper has been our constant companion for almost 12 years, the house feels unbearably quiet without her noisy barks and tap dancing paws. Alfie and Maisey miss her so much, they were the best of friends and together always.

Thank you for being the best little girl we could’ve ever wished for. You will always be our sunshine sweet girl and we will love you forever 🥹♥️🌈🐾 by @michellematangi

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5 months ago

On Friday 15th March my beautiful Mum passed away, even writing these words make my eyes well up. I’ve shared so much of this on my stories but haven’t officially posted it here. These recent weeks have been surreal, despite anticipating this moment, the pain remains palpable. Yet, I find solace in knowing that Mum is now at peace, free from suffering.

In Mum’s presence, I found comfort and strength. She was my rock, and her absence leaves an unfillable void. Though life without Mum seems daunting, I am determined to honour her memory and embrace the lessons she imparted. Her love knew no bounds, wrapping each of us in unconditional love, support and understanding, Mum always encouraged me to follow my heart and find happiness, no matter what anyone else thought. Her belief in goodness, and resilience in the face of adversity inspires us all.

Mum, I’ll miss your infectious smile, your laugh, your comforting hugs, the sound of your voice, your baking, your wisdom, and simply having you around. Rest in peace, dear Mum, your love will forever illuminate my life. Your legacy of love, kindness, and resilience lives on in so many that were lucky enough to know you, and is a timeless tribute to the extraordinary woman you were. All those beautiful memories will forever be etched in our hearts. I love you Mum 💔❤️‍🩹 by @michellematangi

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3 years ago

When you’ve been going to the same hairstylist for all of your adult life 🫶🏻 @pip_drake_hair can do no wrong! Always nailing the perfect creamy beige blonde 👱‍♀️ by @michellematangi

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a year ago

One week ago, I was lying in a hospital bed at Mercy Ascot in Auckland - fresh out of surgery—hopeful, but uncertain. I’d just had a hysterectomy and excision surgery for endometriosis, after years of living with chronic pain. I didn’t know what the outcome would be, only that something had to change. Life before surgery felt so heavy. Each day was filled with pain and the constant effort to keep it all together without falling apart.

Today I’m 11 days post op and in this surreal space where… I’m not in pain. And honestly, I can’t remember the last time I felt like this. It’s amazing and exciting—but I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a little scary too. There’s still a part of me afraid the pain might return.

So right now, I’m just trying to stay present, soak in every moment of relief, and hold onto hope. Maybe—just maybe—this is the start of something better. A future with less pain and more peace.

Fingers crossed, heart open ♥️

And to anyone else walking through pain, waiting for answers, or navigating recovery—my heart is with you. You’re not alone, and there is hope, even when it feels far away. Be gentle with yourself 🥰 by @michellematangi

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2 years ago

One year of missing your hugs, your voice, your laughter, your smile, your baking-all the little ways you showed your love. Not once did I ever have to question how deeply you loved me. I truly hit the jackpot having you as my Mum, which makes losing you even more heartbreaking 💔 It still doesn’t feel right that you’re not here, and life just isn’t the same without you. I know you’re always with me in other ways, but my gosh I miss you Mum 🥹 by @michellematangi

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2 years ago

It’s been a while since I’ve sewn something for myself—I’ve been cheating on sewing with knitting 🧶😅 But spending the last couple of days immersed in the chaos of sewing was exactly what I needed, even though I didn’t realise it. It’s so easy to forget the joy of doing something simply because you love it, without the pressure to be “productive.” Making this fun tomato top has reminded me just how much creativity fuels me.

There were a few moments while I was sewing when I almost felt my mum’s presence with me. It’s the first time I’ve experienced that since she passed nearly a year ago, and it was quite surreal. Maybe it’s because she taught me to sew when I was around nine years old—it felt like I was transported back to those moments when she first showed me how to sew. I felt so close to her while making this, and although I can’t quite explain it, I truly hope I get to feel that again ❤️‍🩹 by @michellematangi

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2 years ago

The prettiest little one-year-old—I can’t believe my baby girl is all grown up now! 🥹 This past year has been incredibly tough without Mum, but Maisy has truly helped heal my heart. Her love and cuddles mean the world, and her sass and playful personality have brought so much joy to our little family ♥️ by @michellematangi

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2 years ago

Kicking off 2025 with the copper hair of my dreams! 🧡 I’ve wanted to do this for years but always chickened out, I LOVE it!!! @pip_drake_hair by @michellematangi

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2 years ago

Meri Kirihimete by @michellematangi

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2 years ago

Loved this conversation with one of my good friends and colleagues Michelle. She and I dive deep into the strategies you can use to help maintain balance and wellbeing across the festive 🎄 season.

Link here or in link tree https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/mikkipedia/id1538311674?i=1000680726131 by @michellematangi

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2 years ago

It’s taken me a while, but I finally got my Christmas tree done. Instead of having one in every room, I’ve kept it simple this year with a trio of little trees in the living room. Honestly, I’ve been feeling a bit anti-Christmas, which is so unlike me. Facing the first Christmas without Mum has felt incredibly hard, and I think I was protesting in my own way.

But then I thought about how sad Mum would be if she knew I didn’t decorate at all. She was the one who instilled my love of Christmas traditions, no matter what challenges we faced. That thought gave me the push I needed. We got a tiny real pine tree for the smell, and I love how perfectly shaped and full it is—it doesn’t need decorations.

So, it’s finally starting to feel like Christmas is on its way. I still can’t quite believe it’s only two weeks away. This year feels like it’s flown by, yet it’s been one of the hardest I’ve ever known. If this year has been tough for you too—whether through grief or other challenges—I see you. Sending you a big hug and hoping 2025 will be kinder to us all 🙏 by @michellematangi

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2 years ago

One of my favorite colour combinations and some of my absolute favorite flowers. Add a few peonies, and it would be perfect! But for now, I’m working with what I’ve found in the garden. There’s just something about bearded irises that steals my heart—maybe it’s their fleeting, blousy beauty that makes them feel extra special 🧡💜
Florine Compote from @ohflorastore by @michellematangi

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2 years ago