Tag: gifts

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Recipes

Zesty Orange Shortbread

I love making shortbread and lately have been giving my newly created biscuits as gifts. Rather than make the traditional shortbread, I wanted to do something different.

Why not add freshly squeezed orange juice and zest to the shortbread?

I visisted Todarello’s Katoomba Village Fruit Market to stock up on Valencia oranges to make my zesty orange shortbread. Todarello’s have a great array of fresh produce to choose from and it is my one stop place to get quality ingredients.

Yummy Valencia oranges at Todarello’s Katoomba

I used the recipe from the McKenzies Rice Flour box, but with an added twist of orange juice and orange zest.

The Valencia oranges are so juicy and sweet

INGREDIENTS

  • 225g plain flour, sifted
  • 115g McKenzie’s Rice Flour
  • 115g caster sugar
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 225g butter, at room temperature
  • Juice of 2 fresh Valencia oranges
  • Zest of 2 Valencia oranges
Very orangy shortbread dough ready to roll out and create duck shortbread

METHOD

Preheat oven to 180 degrees C or 356 F.

Step 1: Combine flour, rice flour, sugar, salt, add melted butter, add the juice of 2 Valencia oranges as well as the zest of 2 oranges (TIP: grate the zest first and then juice the oranges). Mix ingredients into a dough.

Step 2: Roll the dough onto a floured surface, make sure you have flour ready for the rolling pin, as well to help with the cookie cutters. Carefully roll to desired thickness and using a cookie cutter, shape into whatever shape takes your fancy. I used many different shapes, stars, a duck, a dog, and also the number 7.

Step 3: Place onto a tray lined with baking paper, prick with a fork, or add any decoration that you wish before the cookies go into the oven. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Cool before moving from the tray (If you move too quickly after coming out of the oven the biscuit can fall to bits – it needs more time to cool and harden).

Dog shaped Zesty Orange Shortbread ready to go in the oven
The baking paper where the dog shaped zesty orange shortbread was
Super cute zesty orange shortbread about to go into the oven
The baking paper where all the ducks were

Don’t the little shortbread ducks look cute

The zesty orange shortbread dough with a number 7 cookie cutter

Zesty Orange Shortbread 7’s for a little person’s 7th Birthday!

Number 7 shortbread waiting to go into the oven

All cooked and ready to eat!

Number 7 Zesty Orange Shortbread cooked and ready to eat
Cute duck Zesty Orange Shortbread all cooked

The shortbread tasted delicious and the zest added a nice texture and added to the flavour too.

The star-shaped Zesty Orange Shortbread

POST FEAST REVIEW

Shortbread is yummy but zesty orange shortbread really is wonderful. The added tang of the Valencia oranges really gave it something special.

Zesty Orange Shortbread with some orange zest for decoration – I need one now with my cup of tea

WOULD I MAKE THIS AGAIN?

Adding fresh Valencia orange juice and zest to shortbread was a great idea, it was very tasty. I would definitely make this again. For the next batch, I want to make it even more orangy and also add dark chocolate to create a jaffa shortbread.

The star shaped Zesty Orange Shortbread looking very yummy. I want one right now!

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Family

MasterClass – The Gift That Keeps on Giving

I love learning new things, and being able to learn from the best in the world is a great opportunity.

How about being able to pay a subscription and do any course from the best and most famous experts in their field and all from the comfort of your own home… in fact, you can learn with MasterClass anywhere, on a train, in a plane, on a bus or in your bedroom.

It is up to you where you login to start your MasterClass journey. The one thing that I love is that it is up to you and you can be in comfort while you are learning from the world’s best.

MasterClass is a subscription-based streaming service that offers online classes taught by renowned experts in various fields, including cooking, writing, music, business, and more. Each class is created and taught by a master in their respective field, such as Gordon Ramsay, Serena Williams, Neil Gaiman, and Martin Scorsese.

3 Reasons Why MasterClass Makes A Great Gift Idea

  • First, it provides access to high-quality instruction from the world’s most successful and influential people.
  • Second, it allows people to learn new skills and expand their knowledge from the comfort of their own home.
  • Third, it’s a gift that keeps on giving, as subscribers can access all classes for a full year and learn at their own pace.

The classes are unique and offer a mix of practical instruction and inspirational guidance. They not only teach the technical aspects of a craft but also provide insights into the creative process and the mindset of successful individuals. I for one love to learn how

Classes are well-organised, with lesson plans and course materials that are easy to follow. Additionally, the platform offers the ability to interact with other students and to ask questions of the instructors.

I believe that it’s an investment in personal and professional growth that allows you to learn and to invest in yourself.

Learning is fun with MasterClass. First, the classes are designed to be engaging and entertaining, featuring high-quality video production and a mix of practical instruction and inspirational guidance. This helps keep learners interested and motivated throughout the course.

Second, the instructors themselves are often famous and accomplished individuals in their field, making their classes both educational and entertaining. For example, a cooking class taught by Gordon Ramsay will not only teach you how to make delicious meals but also provide insights into the world of professional cooking.

Third, MasterClass provides learners with the ability to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. This flexibility allows learners to enjoy the learning experience without the pressure of deadlines or the need to attend classes at specific times.

My favourite classes so far have been

  • Margaret Atwood Teaches Creative Writing – I loved hearing about Margaret’s background, how she started writing and learning about the Handmaid’s Tail. The course was a highlight as Margret’s dark sense of humour kept me watching and wanting to learn more.
  • Steve Martin Teaches Comedy – I love Steve Martin and am a HUGE fan of all his work. I think he is super clever with his writing and comedy and wanted to learn from the best. Steve was very giving and caring when he gave advice to new comic writers and it was interesting to learn from his insight on what works and how to make things better.
  • Richard Branson Teaches Disruptive Entrepreneurship – Richard discusses how he founded Virgin and how he never gave up even if he didn’t have the skills, he kept on going to fulfil his dream.
  • Dan Brown Teaches Writing Thrillers – I am a huge fan of Dan Brown and his book The Da Vinci Code. I am keen to learn more about writing a book and Dan’s course is informative and fun. You will learn lots about writing while having a good time too.
  • James Patterson Teaches Writing – James Patterson was fun, down to earth, and a great teacher about writing books. How to get inspired, what to do to create a book outline and so much more.
  • Shonda Rhimes Teaches Writing For Television – I love Grey’s Anatomy and all that Shonda has done in television. Shonda not only has been a showrunner for Grey’s she has also created many more shows that are very successful. I would love to write for TV and there is no one better to learn from than Shonda Rhimes.

Learning from experts in the comfort of your own home is also a great advantage of MasterClass. It allows learners to avoid inconvenience. This can be especially helpful for people who have busy schedules or who live in remote areas without access to traditional classroom learning.

Moreover, learning from experts in the comfort of your own home provides a more personalized and individualized learning experience. You can watch the classes as many times as you need to fully grasp the concepts being taught, and you can also ask questions of the instructors and interact with other learners in the online community.

Overall, MasterClass is a great way to make learning fun and enjoyable and to gain new skills and insights from experts in the comfort of your own home.

You can access the classes from anywhere and at any time, making it easy to fit learning into your schedule. Additionally, you have the ability to learn at your own pace and revisit classes as needed.

MasterClass is a great gift for friends and family, if you’re interested in learning from experts in various fields and enjoy the convenience and flexibility of online learning, MasterClass may be a great investment for you.

Grab a MasterClass Pass for a loved one today, perfect for Easter, Birthdays, just because gifts, Christmas, and more!

Note: I am an affiliate for MasterClass as I love the platform so much.
I hope you do too. All links are affiliate links.

Categories
Family

Tips for buying gifts for twins and triplets

Buying gifts for twins or triplets or more is more loaded than you would think. Yep, whatever you do seems wrong, so you need to make the best choice possible.

Do you purchase something for the kids to share?

Do you get the same thing for each child and be done with it?

Or do you grab something similar for each kid?

Or get the same item but in a different colour?

These decisions are fraught and ones that I take super seriously. I spend what feels like hours at shops contemplating what would be best, and what would the outcome be? Yes, I fret over it and then sometimes have gotten it so wrong, so I wanted to share what I have done and hope it helps you with your purchases. 

As a mother to twins, this has been my dilemma since they were born. My twins are nearly fifteen now, but this present buying issue hasn’t gone away, although due to their age, they understand why we purchased one of something compared to having a tantrum demanding they have the same game or toy too!

I recently attended an eight-year-old twins birthday party and when purchasing their present I was faced with the same question, how will this impact the kids and also the parents? When the twins were little many people just gave the girls a present to share for their birthday…and this created so much chaos and drama. 


“I don’t want to share with her!”

“It’s mine, not hers!”

 “Why won’t she let me have a go? 
“Why does my sister get a present and I don’t!”

“Why do we have to share this
and why can’t I have my own!”

“I have a birthday too and deserve
a gift not just my sister!”

“I want what the same thing as she has!

Why didn’t I get the same present?”


Many of the above comments are yelled at me so hence the exclamation mark at the end of all the comments. Many times, one kid would take a gift that the other really loved and claim it as their own. Yep, and then enters more disaster with the cherished gift everyone wants.

We made sure to give our girls individual gifts for their birthday, however, if there was a big item like a huge toy that can indeed be shared or if it is a game we only purchased one of these. I did however have many things that we had two off, yes, we had two of many toys, items, books, trinkets and more. It was just easier and made the house much more peaceful. 

So, with the knowledge of what a pain in the arse it is to be on the receiving end of getting shared gifts or just one present for two kids I made sure that each girl at the birthday party had a gift for just them. I did give them the same things and wanted to get each kid something different, but I do know that this can backfire big time, crazy but true.

I’ve previously given my girls something different each, however, there would be one kid who would favour one of the gifts and then there would be a fight for that particular item and the realisation that I should have just purchased two of these products as it would have fixed the horrible annoyance that ended up happening…. Fighting over the one favoured and chosen object. I of course thought I was doing the right thing. Choosing something that would mean it is different from their sisters, shows more of their personality and interests and helps them be more of an individual….NO it didn’t get translated as any of this, all that got noticed is that mummy didn’t get me one of the toys that my sister has, and the other kid wishes she had. 

So with that in mind, I did get the eight-year-old twins the same things…. I did feel bad, but knowing what I knew, I thought it was for the best. I did feel bad as I did want to get something completely different but as a parent that has dealt with the fallout of presents for twins, I knew this was a loaded issue. One that I hope I have helped the parents of the twins avoid the negative impacts of gifts to kids who are multiples. 

I explained to the mum of the eight-year-old twins that I got them the same things to avoid arguments. She was thankful and I said I was sorry that it might not be that exciting, but I told her that I know what it is like as I have first-hand experience with my twins and appreciate the complexity of the present buying dilemma.

Here’s my gift-buying guide for twins or triplets:

  1. If you know they like to do the same things make sure to give each kid the same things; for example, If they like art, include paper, pens, paints, brushes and oil pastels to ensure there are no arguments. My twins always argued about who had what colours and paintbrushes. 

  2. If they have a favourite colour make sure to use the colours for each kid for their gifts. My kids loved purple and blue, (sometimes red) I used these colours to make sure that I had special items just for them, a new pair of pants or a top, hat or even a blanket. It doesn’t matter what it is, the difference in colour makes it more special.

  3. Make sure you give each kid a gift of their own. It doesn’t need to be expensive, just something for each kid to open on their special day. Just because they are born on the same day doesn’t mean they should always get one gift.

  4. You can give bigger ticket items as shared gifts, for example, a giant LEGO set, a game, or say a toy, a trampoline or a cubby house. Many things you don’t need two of.

  5. When they are younger it is so important to have many duplicate items but as they get older you will find that each kid will want things the other siblings don’t like, work with your kid’s interests. 

Are you a parent to multiples? How have you dealt with the present issue? Have you faced the same issues? 

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Categories
Family

Transform your space easily with Photowall

I always thought adding wallpaper to your walls was super hard.

That you had to have special skills or qualifications to add it to your walls.

I had no idea that it was so easy to add wallpaper to a room and in turn that it is really simple to easily transform your space.

Wallpaper nowadays comes in so many different patterns, images as well and of course traditional flower and geometric shapes too. You can even upload your own image to create a unique one of a kind wallpaper. Some of the wallpaper is better described as wall murals or artwork as it is more like images stuck to the wall, but as wallpaper.

Where do you get this amazing wallpaper from?

Photowall is where I purchased my wallpaper and they have so many amazing designs to choose from. I got lost in the possibilities and the wonder of what each would look like in my house. I am now tempted to put wallpaper in all my rooms now!

If you need inspiration, Photowall has plenty to give you. Just check out all the different collections, suggestions on what is popular and other ideas from the Photowall website.

Does Photowall just sell wallpaper?

Photowall also has prints and canvases as well. You can purchase the prints on their own or get them with a frame as well, or add your own image to a print or canvas.

If you are looking for a gift  Photowall has prints that you can get framed and also wallpaper to instantly transform your space super quick.

Smoothing out the joins with the seam roller – We found this tool really handy and it works so much better than your hands

Except for our own level, the picture shows all items that you get in the Wallpaper Kit

Make sure you get the Wallpaper Kit

Make sure that you add the wallpaper kit when you purchase your wallpaper. It really helped us. However, the one item that we used that was ours was our own level (which is shown in yellow in the above image). The wallpaper kit comes with a level but ours was better for the job.



The kit comes with the following items:

A brush for applying glue, a seam roller for making the seams invisible, a paper hanging brush for smoothing the strips, a knife and cutting guide for trimming excess wallpaper, plus a spirit level, a pencil and a tape measure. It is only $26 but well worth every cent, it is a must-have to make the whole process easier.

Pergament Map – This stunning vintage world map is now on my girl’s bedroom wall. It has really changed the space for the better.

What did I order?

The map makes the room look so much more grown up now
We had to make sure that we could easily see Australia on the map

Dandelion Field – Blue – Wallpaper

This wallpaper was for my office. I measured just one part of the wall to add interest in the room. Before it had the Dandelion Field Blue wallpaper it was just painted white. One end of my office has a blue wall, the other end has a blackboard and the rest is painted white. I thought due to the blue in the room and it being my favourite colour the Dandelion Field Blue wallpaper was a good choice. I did look at some very bright and colourful wallpaper but decided on a muted tone for my office. It has really changed the room and space and added more warmth and texture to a previously white and bright area. As a creative person it has also given me a different backdrop for photos and creating more content. 

Each roll is numbered so that you know what part to put on at what time… super easy and helpful
Adding more glue to the sides and making sure it is all sitting right.
Dandelion Field Blue wallpaper all completed and looking fantastic
Getting ready to frame the Reading Circle Poster –
The monster from Where the Wild Things Are reading to the characters in the book.
  • Reading Circle – Poster

    This poster made me laugh. It is the monster from the book, “Where the Wild Things Are” and the monster is reading “Where the Wild Things Are” to the kids in the story. I loved this book as a kid and it still has a special place in my heart and when I saw this poster, I had to had have it. I made sure to get the poster and a black frame to allow me to hang it right away in my office.

  • Antique Seed Packets II – Poster

    This poster is from an old company called the “Alexander Drug and Seed Co”, it is the cover of their Summer and Fall Catalogue 1899. I loved it due to the fact that I have a person called Alexander and that it is lovely vintage art. The company was from Augusta Georgia sold seeds by mail subscription.

  • Antique Seed Packets VII – Poster

    This poster is from a company called the “Alexander Drug and Seed Co”, it is the company’s summer offer for 1898. It was for their Early Trucker Cabbage, Buncombe Cabbage and Mammoth Purple Globe Turnip”. I love the artwork and again as we have an Alexander I thought it was interesting. The company sells seeds by mail order and they are from Augusta Georgia.

What did I think of Photowall?

I was super impressed by the shopping experience on their website, the customer service and the quality of their products. Not to mention the quick delivery of all my goodies to my front door. I didn’t even have to leave the house, it got magically delivered to me and that is amazing as I am hours away from the capital city. If they can deliver to me they can deliver to anyone! I would recommend giving Photowall a go, I am sure you will love their products as much as I do. After you wallpaper one of your rooms you will catch the decorating bug and be planning what to do in other areas of your house.

Make sure if you have ordered prints with frames, the prints are not in the frame but sitting on top of them. If you rip the packaging open you might damage your print so be extra careful.

NOTE: This post is a collaboration with Photowall, they allowed me to pick my products and try them out to share with my readers. I loved it so much that I think you will be amazed at how easy it is to redo any room in your house.

A BIG thank you to Photowall for sending me the products to test out and to showcase on my website and also for the discount for my readers for December.

Originally published November 30 2022

Categories
Family

25 Free or Cheap Ideas for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day shouldn’t cost you the earth, showing your loved one how you feel shouldn’t mean you are in debt to the bank. Yep, some people go all out for the day, if you can afford to do so, why not, but if you can’t there are many ways to show your love and how much you appreciate your loved ones without spending lots of money.

Grab a pretty bunch of flowers for your special someone

My youngest asked what you give people on Valentine’s. I told him, cards, chocolates, and other gifts. My little boy doesn’t eat chocolate, so he thought the idea of giving chocolate was horrible!  I mentioned maybe he can give his mates some of his favourite lollies for the day.

Bake some cookies or a yummy dessert to show you care.

Below are 25 ideas to get our special someone for Valentine’s Day:

  1. Cook dinner for your special squeeze. Make your loved one’s favourite food and bake a cake for dessert.
  2. Add love notes around the house – if your special someone takes lunch to work add some secret notes in their lunch.
  3. Take your lover on a picnic – grab some fresh bread, cheese, meats, fruit, and drink of choice to enjoy at a picturesque picnic spot. If not a place with a view a nice park that allows you to have some time together is all that is needed.
  4. Bake biscuits or a favourite dessert. 
  5. Have dinner at your favourite restaurant.
  6. Subscribe to a meal box plan to make things easier.
  7. Get the kids babysat by family or friends to allow you to have a date night.
  8. Use last-minute deals to score a hotel getaway in your own city – a break and room service is always nice.
  9. Create vouchers for your partner to use when they wish. The vouchers will be for things like time alone (so you take the kids), dinners, chores, cleaning the house, and anything that you think your loved one might want. Maybe it is for a massage every week… it is up to you. Time for exercise and more!
  10. Fix things around the house that need doing (complete your honey-do list) or hire someone that can get it done quickly. Trust me finally having the items fixed after many years will be a great weight of everyone’s shoulders and be a WIN for you!
  11. Change the sheets and tidy up the bedroom. It is so nice to get into bed with fresh sheets, you feel great and sleep better.
  12. Book your lover into a course they have always wanted to do. 
  13. Book concert tickets for your special squeeze’s favourite artist (depending on who they are this might not be cheap or reasonable costs…. however, it is a great gift).
  14. Allow your partner to sleep in. You get up and make sure that kids are cared for, and all is organised while your loved one gets more rest.
  15. Make breakfast (maybe have it in bed).
  16. Travel to a different café and have a long relaxing brunch.
  17. Indulge in homemade high tea – scones, sandwiches, and desserts.
  18. Take your special someone to a movie. 
  19. Go for a road trip, stay over at a hotel, and enjoy exploring new places.
  20. Flowers always help make people happy, how about giving your special someone a nice bunch of flowers each week? Or a plant that will allow the flowers to keep on giving back year after year. 
  21. Purchase or give your special person a voucher to get a new outfit.
  22. If your main squeeze likes to get their hair done, organise a day at the hairdressers on you.
  23. Organise a massage for your special someone.
  24. Create a signature cocktail to celebrate your special person, and enjoy the new drink creation over a BBQ in the garden.
  25. Write a letter or poem about what your special someone means to you. 

Create a fun and lovely card to show how much someone means to you

I hope this list gives you some good ideas for Valentine’s Day. Remember these can be given all year round not just on Valentine’s. Showing your love for your special someone shouldn’t be just for one day…you can shower love every day of the year, not just Valentine’s.

Categories
Family

Moonpig for Mugs & Cards

Moonpig is a wonderful place to find one of a kind cards and mugs, not only can you get fun gifts you can personalise them to make them even more unique.


Not only can Moonpig create stunning gifts and cards, but they can also mail them for you too!

My new mug from Moonpig…and yes I made it myself.

Moonpig has so many wonderful mugs to choose from and some you can even add your own photos to. I decided to add a fun saying, you will note that my mug says I am having a meeting. It is hard when you work alone most of the time, you have to have a chat with yourself or else nothing gets organised!

Christmas gifts from Moonpig that will make everyone smile
Some fun and new cards from Moonpig

It was super easy using Moonpig to organise and order my card and mug. Once my order was placed it was at my house in a few days time…so that was super quick if you ask me.

Make sure to get a fun card for your next birthday/anniversary/thank you present and while you are there order a one of a kind mug for your special someone.

Check out Moonpig’s latest deals and search for your next awesome present.


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News

Introducing Photobook Worldwide + Discount Codes

Do you take lots of photos?

Is it more than lots, and actually more like thousands or maybe millions?

Well, possibly not millions but fees like it could be? Or looks like millions of digital image files.

If you have been wanting to put all your beloved and treasured photos into a photobook, then I have a great deal for you.

 

I’ve only done two photobooks and both were for the twins first year and birth. However, never kept it up or done one for Alexander (horribly mum moment, and needs to be rectified).

Creating photo books is a great way to showcase some great family moments and treasured images, plus having a book to share with family and friends is a nice present idea as well.

Photobook Worldwide has some great deals for my readers

Photobook Worldwide has wonderful photo books to choose from and an array of other products too, prints, cards, canvas, home decor, calendars and so much more!

The below code is for a free 6″ x 6″ simple book on the Photobook World Wide App – Available on the Apple Store and Google Play

SUZANNEPBWW
– Applicable for a Free 6″ x 6″ Simple Book.
– Redeemable only on our App.
– Shipping not included. (You’ll need to pay the shipping on this deal)
– Valid until 31st December 2019.

In the Photobook Worldwide App, pick the 6' x 6' Simple Book, then click next and start creating your book!
In the Photobook Worldwide App, pick the 6′ x 6′ Simple Book, then click next and start creating your book!

Once you have selected all your photos for your photobook, then you can enter your discount code.
Once you have selected all your photos for your photobook, then you can enter your discount code.

 

You can also use the below code to save 70% off your purchases on the Photobook Worldwide Website.

 

SUZANNE70
– 70% OFF Sitewide*.
– Redeemable only on our website.
– Valid until 31st December 2019.
* Offer is not valid for Flush Mount Albums, Lil’ Photobook, Photo Tiles, Baby Clothing & Kid’s T-shirt.

I’m currently working away at creating my own photobook and will feature what I did, what I created and how I found the process on a follow-up post.

I’ll post soon about my book that I finally create about Alexander’s birth and the first year.

I hope you like discounts and it helps you get some fabulous presents for you, family and friends.

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Categories
Family

Unique Gifts from Modern Map Art

Have you been searching for a unique gift?

I have the perfect solution that will impress your friends and family, and you too!

Modern Map Art allows you to create a special gift that will commemorate an event or an anniversary.

Would you like to present your hubby/wife a lovely star map poster that celebrates your first kiss, your wedding day, the exact spot where you met? Or for the birth of your child or children?

Whatever it is that you wish to celebrate creating a one of a kind star map that is just for you is a super special gift.

How Do you Create your own Star Map from Modern Map Art?

  1. Go to Modern Map Art and click on Create Your Star Map
  2. Now you are at the page where you can enter all your details and to create your very own star map.
  3. You can select, poster, framed poster, or canvas. I got a poster and had to frame the poster myself.
  4. The posters come in various sizes.
  5. Enter your title, date and longitude and latitude for the stars to align to the right place.
  6. To get the longitude and latitude just google it and you will get all the info you need.
  7. Note – The dates default to American dates (10/31/2018). If you are located elsewhere and wish to have your date display differently this is not a problem. All you need to do is email Modern Map Art to tell them and they will ensure it will be displayed correctly.  I need my dates to be displayed like this: 31/10/2018.
  8. Pick a black, grey, navy or white background for your poster. Plus the colour of the text.
  9. Choose a border or not.
  10. You don’t have to have constellations but I think it makes it look fab so for me this was essential.
  11. Once all done and you are happy with your poster and choices, order and pay.
  12. If you are in the USA you get free postage.
  13. If you live in Australia delivery is about 12-20 business days after printing.

 

My stunning and wonderful star map poster from Modern Map Art.
My stunning and wonderful star map poster from Modern Map Art.

 

Why I LOVE my Star Map 

It is something just for me.

It is unique.

Exact stars from where and when I was born.

I took a while to decide on what to get on my Star Map. I have 3 kids so I couldn’t just choose 1.

I wanted to have a star map of our new house but maps in this area don’t have enough detail.

My initial thought was to get something for the house or for others, and then I decided… I should do something for me.

My Star Map Poster is the area I was born in… Yep, a Star Map of Brisbane, Australia.

I picked the biggest size (24×36 inches) and it turned out to be rather difficult to find a frame to fit my fab personalised poster.
I finally found a great frame from Target for $15 and it fits perfectly.

Once my workshop or otherwise known as mummy’s office is complete it will be hung on the wall to inspire me.

This is Kristen's poster of the night she met her hubby. Photo from Modern Map Art Website, courtesy from Kristen's Insta feed - @lovely.as.a.mother
This is Kristen’s poster of the night she met her hubby. Photo from Modern Map Art Website, courtesy from Kristen’s Insta feed – @lovely.as.a.mother

Modern Map Art has so many other products to chose from:

  • Housewarming Gifts
  • Baby Gifts
  • Lake Art
  • Skyline Prints
  • Typography Prints
  • Trail Maps
  • Map Shirts
  • Topographic Map

 

Modern Map Art have so many choices for gifts and your special someone. I’m sure you will find something that will be adored for years to come.

A HUGE thank you to Jennifer and the Modern Map Art Team for sending me my fabulous Star Map Poster. I love it and all the other options you have on your site.

I love sharing wonderful gift ideas that are a one-off, and this certainly is unique.

 

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Categories
Review

Review: Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle: AaaaCHoooo!

All my kids love books. It is a challenge to walk past a bookshop without getting a few books to take home. Do you have the same problem?

So with our love of books, it was a joy to read a fun book called, “Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle: AaaaCHooo“, by Rebecca Rosengrave.

Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle. A fab kids book from Rebecca Rosengrave.
Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle. A fab kids book from Rebecca Rosengrave.

Rebecca is an author and illustrator that lives in Canberra. In fact, she was also born there as well. Her first book for kids is Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle and showcases the city of Canberra.  It gives readers more appreciation for the Capital of Australia.

The book has been published independently and all by Rebecca. Yes, she is a publisher as well!

Parliment House and all the flowers are making Stoyle sneeze!
Parliment House and all the flowers are making Stoyle sneeze!

What is Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle: AaaaCHooo about?

Stoyle is a gargoyle that is suffering from severe hayfever. Yes, he is struggling to do anything.  Bankisia-Bloom-Day and Faye are bush fairies and are Stoyle’s friends. They try and help him out but until his mum comes up with the magic fix (hayfever medicine) he suffers from the sneezes and upset of hayfever.

Such expressive illustrations. Fun and colourful for kids.
Such expressive illustrations. Fun and colourful for kids.

The bush fairies and Stoyle fly around Canberra and you get to see Parliment House and National Carillon building.

The pictures are wonderful, so expressive, fun, bright and kids will think they are so funny as well.

It is lovely to read a book from a local author and illustrator.

Alexander was saying AaaaChooo while we read Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle: AaaaCHooo.
Alexander was saying AaaaChooo while we read Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle: AaaaCHooo.

I also find it amazing that Rebecca is self-published.  I am sure that there will be more Stoyle stories to come and more adventures around Canberra.

Get Your Own Copy of Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle: AaaaCHooo

To get a copy of Rebecca Rosengrave’s fab children’s book, all you need to do is to click on the below link to get to her online shop to purchase your copy of Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle: AaaaCHooo.

 

https://rebeccarosengrave.wixsite.com/rebeccarosengrave/stoyle-the-gumtree-gargoyle

You can buy this amazing Australian book for $11.99 plus $3 for postage within Australia.

This is a great book for a gift. How about Christmas or a Birthday?

Poor Alexander was saying AaaaChooo while we read Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle is not happy. He is suffering from hayfever.

Did you know that Canberra has been voted the 3rd best city to live in and visit from Lonely Planet? Canberra is fun and there is so much to do. I am sure that Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle is off having hayfever free adventures.

Thanks Rebecca for sending us a copy of your first children’s book. We are looking forward to the next story about Stoyle the Gumtree Gargoyle.

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Categories
Family

Christmas Day Fun and Tastes

Our Christmas Day was rather relaxing. Normally we go to my families house for lunch and then in the late afternoon we go to hubby’s side for dinner. My family decided to celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve so that meant we could be at one place on Christmas Day. It was very nice for a change. Also trying to fit two lunches, and a dinner in on one day is not wise and hard to do. I did like the fact that I could just eat one meal and not have to do it again at another house.

The kids and especially the baby were spoilt with gifts this year and as it was Alexander’s first Christmas this was I suppose appropriate. I did find that I was unwrapping all of the babies presents and I found that there were more boxes that were not opened. I checked the name and thought maybe they were for me… no they were for the baby. Oh well.

Before we did go to the relatives house the kids, hubby and I opened our presents. I was very lucky to get a Macbook Air laptop from hubby and the kids. I also got a coffee plunger and coffee. One of the girls decorated a plate for me and it even comes with a stand so that I can display it.

Plate decorated by Lillian. It is also sitting on my new laptop and case. What lovely presents I got this year.
Plate decorated by Lillian. It is also sitting on my new laptop and case. What lovely presents I got this year.

The kids got some LEGO, games, clothes, shoes and some other fun things. Hubby got some replacement Guinness glasses (I smashed the last one by accident. We purchased them when we were in Dublin on our honeymoon), I made sure hubby had Guinness that was cold so he could try out his new pint glasses, he also got some tea cups, and a lovely Santa shirt to celebrate Christmas Day with.

We were very lucky with our lovely presents and Santa also gave some thoughtful gifts. Santa gave me a notepad to help with my blogging in 2017. Thanks so much Santa.

Since I was so lucky to get a laptop I did not mind unwrapping multiple presents for my little boy.

Persian Fetta, Ham, Smoked Salmon and Mango were some of the things that our little boy liked to eat on Christmas Day. Of course our boy likes the expensive items.

Categories
Review

Review: GEOMAG Toys

Have you heard of GEOMAG? Well if you haven’t, it is a brilliant creative construction toy for kids. It could be for adults too, as they list the top age to 103 so if you wish to purchase some don’t let the fact that it is a toy scare you off.

I was sent the GEOMAG Color set to try out. This comes with the following:

  • Magnetic rods
  • Non-magnetic spheres and various accessories

 About GEOMAG

Geomag is produced in Switzerland to the most stringent international toy standards. Geomag has educational benefits such as:

  • Developing  maths
  • Problem Solving
  • Spacial
  • Coordination
  • Creative and thinking skills

What makes this construction toy so different?

  • It is an open ended construction toy that uses the magnets.
  • The use of magnets makes it easy for kids to create amazing works, due to the toy having magnets it makes it easy for all ages to construct anything you set your mind to.
  • It is easy for little hands to use
  • Due to the ease of use kids will never get frustrated

The girls loved the fact that Geomag was easy to use. I have been asked to get more so they can build bigger and higher constructions.

What other types of GEOMAG Sets are Available?

  • As mentioned the kids were sent a set of the classic color set. There are five colourful sets that contain between 30 – 120 pieces and start from $30 RRP.
  • Geomag Classic Panel which gives you different panel shapes. You can have triangles, squares and pentagons.  There are five sets that contain 22-180 pieces from $20 RRP.
  • Geomag E-Motion Spin allows kids to add motion to their creations. Children have the chance to create their very own spinning top and many more dynamic constructions. These sets contain 10-38 pieces and the cost is from $30 RRP.
  • Geomag Glitter has glitterised rods and panels. Now this would add some sparkle and colour to your constructions. There are four sets available and has a piece count of 22-68 from $20 RRP.
  • If you are interested in purchasing or just checking out the Geomag range click here to find out more.

This toy is great for inside play. It kept my kids quiet for hours. I just need to buy more so they can create bigger and fancier projects.

 

Do your kids love constructing things? Whether it is with a toy or just play dough? Mine do.

Categories
5 years and beyond

4 Weeks till Christmas

When I get some presents they will look just as wonderful! Image courtesy of thephotoholic at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
When I get some presents they will look just as wonderful! Image courtesy of thephotoholic at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Today is the 25th of November and it is 4 weeks till Christmas. I am usually much more organised and switched on, but this year I have no clue of what to get people. Yes a big fail for me. Are you in this boat too? Or are you super organised and will put me to shame.

I must say the kids have been pushing the limits lately so maybe I tried to block the whole idea of Christmas out of my head! I did mutter at one stage that Christmas is cancelled. This as you can imagine got kids very upset and I told them that it will all be fine, as long as they are good and nice!

They asked a very clever question, “Mummy, can Santa hear us?” I then said yes he can. In hindsight maybe this was not a good move, as Santa sounds like a spy or a stalker. He does see you when you are sleeping and awake. Does this man have state of the art technology to help him? You can only wonder? Why is it that the poor mummies and daddies of this world are left to our own devices! Not fair I say.

So as it is in fact 4 weeks till the fateful Christmas Day I better step up. What to get the kids? I do have a few ideas but don’t want to spend up big (cannot afford it) and the fact that we don’t have heaps of space for things or even what we have now. I suppose I will have to take some things to the charity shops, get rid of some things and make room for more toys to come live with us or be scattered all over the house. I just hope they last more than a day.

The big question I now face is what to get family, and especially the husband! I am sure I will find something. The twins even are making secret presents at pre-school so they are all organised. Seems like it is just me.

I cannot be all bad, I have managed to purchase a gift for my secret person in FMS Secret Gift Exchange, and it was posted off today. I am super excited and hope the person I bought for likes it. I went with their favourite colour and the twins helped. They had a great time running around all the shops up here to help me pick something wonderful.

One other thing that I need to think about is gifts for the pre-school teachers. This is the girls last year of pre-school and they will be moving into Kindy next year. It is going to be such an emotional farewell and the kids are sad but extremely excited to start their next adventure at big school. I’m thinking of making shortbread and giving the teachers a nice candle each.

What are your thoughts? Send suggestions as it will all help. Have you got all organised for Christmas. It is only 4 weeks away! I don’t mean to worry you, but it is not long at all!

Categories
4 years and beyond

Post Birthday Roundup

My birthday and celebrations for graduating from my Master’s have been just wonderful, and I was lucky that my mum surprised me to come stay and celebrate with us. I have dropped her at the train station to start her long journey back to where she is house sitting in Victoria. I hope she has a safe trip, it was very nice to have her here to be with me and the twins.

New purse
New purse

I was very spoilt and hubby gave me a wonderful bracelet that I have never seen before for my birthday, graduation and of course wedding anniversary which is today actually. Nine years together is a traditional pottery gift and I kept my eyes out today but could not find anything. Mum and I went shopping for her last day here and it was very enjoyable.

Also my gorgeous mother in law gave me a great book for graduation pressie and Pandora bracelets for my birthday, not expected and just simply feeling very special indeed. So a big thanks to her and she is just naughty for spoiling me so. 🙂

I was able to use my gift voucher from family to purchase a new purse, and it is very groovy if I do say so myself. What do you think?

Happy colour inside of purse - how special is this!
Happy colour inside of purse – how special is this!

While out and about at the shops I made sure to get more flannelette sheets for my wonderful little girls, it is getting colder so once the other set is in the wash they are feeling the cold. Now once washed and dried they will be ready to go on their beds. Not only did I get my wonderful, unique new purse I purchased a gift for me. What is it you ask?

Well it is a book called Happiness. Yes sounds corny but the book works through things like gratitude, time for you, goals and dreams. I have so many things that I wish to achieve I wanted to get my head, body and mind organized to make the most of my time in the future. Now that I have no more study on the horizon I can concentrate on the things I want to achieve and do.

I am willing to give it a go and as per my new colours in my new purse it looks like I have the happiness bug already.  The happiness courses are also run by Kikki.K and the payment usually has the journal thrown in, however the time would conflict with me picking up kids so I just got the journal.

Happiness Book
Happiness Book, my book mark here was a gift from good friends also for my birthday.

Great guides and topics with the Happiness Book
Great guides and topics with the Happiness Book

Happy saying from the Happiness Book
Happy saying from the Happiness Book

So I am currently resting up while listening to kids run a mock in their room. Giggles and laughter abound. Why are they not tired. Both have been a little under the weather this week and they stayed home on my birthday, Julia went to school on Tuesday and Lillian stayed home. Today both seemed o.k to go to school so they should by all rights be exhausted, not to be so.

I am off to get a nice glass of red wine and watch Revenge a favourite show of mine and put my feet up for a while. Celebrating has been tiring and a break is needed.

Sorry for all readers of the blog, I have been busy the last couple of days and did not post. The next week or so I will fix this issue and post more often. Hope you all have a great night. I am now off to tell the kids to get into bed and behave and get the long awaited glass of wine.

Night night all.

Categories
3 years and beyond

Happy Mother’s Day

Happy Mother's Day
Happy Mother's Day

Today was Mother’s Day and in our household it was also my husband’s birthday. It was a busy day and a day that I thought that I was forgotten about, until the girls presented me with some chocolates and a print out that they both coloured. I know it was both our days, however was a bit disappointed not to be able to sleep in, however got the chance to have a nap in the afternoon.

No fancy lunch but had a great time with the girls and hubby. Next Sunday is my birthday so who knows what other surprises are in store.

We all at Mummy to Twins hope that you had a good Mother’s Day, and that you enjoyed yourself.

I found this image for the Manifesto for mums online, and was on the Lose Baby Weight facebook page – I love the first bit, “The needs of our kids are simple: Clean bums, full tummies and a warm bed”. How true is that. This image is also right that everything else is a bonus.

Kids were so tired from our big day they fell asleep in our arms, I had Lillian and daddy had Julia. We just bundled them up and put them to bed, it was the cutest thing.

I am counting down to my special day next Sunday and of course my time out for next Saturday, facial in the city is booked and will confirm it tomorrow. Looking forward to it all. Have a great day tomorrow and off to bed now too.

Categories
3 years and beyond Uncategorised

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day
Happy Mother's Day

Today was Mother’s Day and in our household it was also my husband’s birthday. It was a busy day and a day that I thought that I was forgotten about, until the girls presented me with some chocolates and a print out that they both coloured. I know it was both our days, however was a bit disappointed not to be able to sleep in, however got the chance to have a nap in the afternoon.

No fancy lunch but had a great time with the girls and hubby. Next Sunday is my birthday so who knows what other surprises are in store.

We all at Mummy to Twins hope that you had a good Mother’s Day, and that you enjoyed yourself.

I found this image for the Manifesto for mums online, and was on the Lose Baby Weight facebook page – I love the first bit, “The needs of our kids are simple: Clean bums, full tummies and a warm bed”. How true is that. This image is also right that everything else is a bonus.

Kids were so tired from our big day they fell asleep in our arms, I had Lillian and daddy had Julia. We just bundled them up and put them to bed, it was the cutest thing.

I am counting down to my special day next Sunday and of course my time out for next Saturday, facial in the city is booked and will confirm it tomorrow. Looking forward to it all. Have a great day tomorrow and off to bed now too.