So, 1st Blackheath Scouts had a movie night at the Scout hall, and we needed a solid data projector to show the movie. We’ve used a very old Epson projector in the past, but this time, we got our hands on the brand-new LUMOS AURO v2 Home Cinema projector. Big shoutout to LUMOS for letting us try out their latest model. Spoiler alert: It was a game-changer.
Unboxing and Setup
The kit arrived in two boxes: one for the stand and one for the projector. Setting up the stand was a piece of cake – join the two poles, attach the base plate, and top it off with the 360-degree ball head. It took less than five minutes, and voila! A rock-solid stand ready for action.
Unboxing the LUMOS AURO v2 was like opening a present. Inside, there was the projector, a remote control, a power cable, and an HDMI cable. The only thing missing? Two AAA batteries for the remote. No biggie, though.
Setting up the projector was just as easy. I attached it to the ball head adapter on the stand, plugged in the power cable, and switched it on. That’s it. Simple as that.
Projection Magic
I initially placed the projector in the middle of the Scout hall, thinking I needed some distance to fit the screen I had set up. Boy, was I wrong! The image filled the entire back wall of the hall, which is 9m wide and 3m high. Next time, I’m bringing a bigger screen to take full advantage of this beast’s capabilities. It can project up to a massive 200-inch screen if you have the space!
Once I adjusted the projector’s distance to the screen, it went into an auto-focus routine that left me in awe. In just a few seconds, the image was pin-sharp. Super impressive.
Testing and Performance
The LUMOS AURO v2 is Wi-Fi enabled, so I quickly connected it to my phone’s personal hotspot. Streaming YouTube videos was a breeze, and the preloaded officially certified apps (YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video, and more) worked flawlessly. Just log in, and you’re good to go.
The image resolution is top-notch – super sharp, with vibrant colours and great contrast. Even with the hall lights on, the brightness was incredible. A quick peek at the manual revealed why: 1080p native resolution and 6000 lumens. No wonder it was so bright!
The audio was equally impressive. Despite its compact size, the AURO v2 pumped out loud, clear sound with decent bass. Its certified Dolby Audio Dual (2) Speaker system had rich, strong bass and immersive sound. It was more than enough for a home cinema setup, though I added extra speakers in the large Scout hall to combat the inevitable Scout chatter and popcorn fights.
Next, I tested a film loaded onto a USB stick. Again, the AURO v2 didn’t disappoint. The image quality, colour vibrance, and contrast depth were superb. The Scouts started arriving, popcorn was popped, bean bags were prepped, and we were ready to roll.
The remote control was a pleasant surprise too. Easy to navigate in the dark and worked all the way from the back of the hall. A big win in my book.
Additional Features and User Experience
The projector’s user interface was a breeze to navigate. Everything was intuitive and easy to find, with no confusing menus. The remote control was just right – no unnecessary buttons, making it easy to use even in the dark.
The AURO v2 was silent during operation, a delightful contrast to the noisy old Epson. And it stayed cool throughout the movie, just lukewarm at the end, so we could pack it away immediately without waiting for it to cool down.
One standout feature was the automatic keystone and focus adjustment. Move the projector, and it quickly and accurately adjusted itself. Super handy and very impressive.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the LUMOS AURO v2 Home Cinema projector is an impressive piece of kit. The build quality is solid, the image and sound quality are mind-blowing, and it’s incredibly easy to use. At $498, it’s a steal compared to other projectors that cost three times as much. The Scouts loved the viewing experience, and so did I. It’s five stars from me.
Top marks, LUMOS. You’ve got a winner here.
Grab A Discount
If interested, you may use the promo code “MUMTPO25OFF” for a special -$25 off any purchase during website checkout.
Hey there, adventurous parents and young explorers! Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of the Gobi Desert. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to wander through this unique landscape, buckle up because we’re about to embark on a journey of discovery!
It’s diorama time at school for grade 3, and everyone is off-creating their own dioramas. My little boy chose the Gobi Desert for his project, but the possibilities are endless for your diorama.
You might decide to explore the lush, vibrant ecosystems of a rainforest, the vast, open grasslands of the savanna, or another unique desert environment from around the world, like the Sahara or the Mojave. Each habitat offers its own fascinating plants, animals, and landscapes, allowing you to tailor your project to whatever environment captures your imagination the most. It doesn’t feel that long ago that my girls were doing this same project. Thanks to a homework project, it has sparked an interest in the habitat of the Gobi Desert.
What is the Gobi Desert? The Gobi Desert is a vast, arid region in Asia, covering parts of northern and northwestern China, and southern Mongolia. It’s renowned for its extreme temperatures, from scorching hot summers to freezing winters, making it a challenging yet captivating environment to explore.
Plants and Animals of the Gobi Desert
Plants: Despite its harsh conditions, the Gobi Desert is home to resilient plant life such as saxaul trees, which have deep roots to find underground water, and various types of grasses and shrubs adapted to sparse rainfall.
Animals: Some of the most iconic inhabitants include the Bactrian camel, known for its ability to survive on sparse vegetation and store fat in its hump for energy; the Gobi bear, a rare and endangered species adapted to cold desert conditions; and the jerboa, a small hopping rodent that has adapted to the desert’s sandy terrain.
Soil and Geography The Gobi Desert features a vast expanse of gravel plains, rocky mountains, and sand dunes. Its soil is often sandy and nutrient-poor, contributing to the challenging conditions for plant growth.
Additional Resources and Activities For more fun and learning about the Gobi Desert, check out these resources:
Gobi Desert Colouring Page: Get creative with a Gobi Desert-themed colouring page. Twinkl have all sorts of fabulous resources to add to your diorama.
Creating Your Gobi Desert Diorama
Now, let’s bring the Gobi Desert to life with a fun and creative 3D diorama!
Materials Needed:
Shoebox or any small box as your diorama base
Sand or craft sand for the desert floor
Small pebbles or rocks
Artificial plants like desert grasses
Plastic animal figurines (camels, bears, jerboas)
Paint and brushes (optional, for coloring the backdrop)
Glue, scissors, and tape
I found images of animals and plants from the Gobi Dessert and cut them out to stick into the diorama. On the back we listed what is in the diorama and suggested for people to see if they can find them.
Steps to Create:
Create your backdrop: We used the Gobi Desert Colouring page from Twinkl to give our diorama a nice sense of place. It allowed all the animals and plants to look at home in the Gobi Desert habitat.
Prepare the Base: Line the inside of your shoebox with sand to create the desert floor. Add small pebbles and rocks to mimic the rocky terrain.
Add Vegetation: Place your artificial plants strategically around the diorama. Saxaul trees can be represented with small twigs or painted craft sticks.
Include Animals: Position your animal figurines in their natural habitats. The Bactrian camel might be wandering across the sand, while a Gobi bear rests near a rocky outcrop.
Decorate: Use paint to create a backdrop for your diorama if desired. You can paint distant mountains or a clear blue sky to enhance the desert atmosphere.
Final Touches: Once everything is in place, secure all items with glue or tape to ensure they stay put.
Let the Adventure Begin! Voila! Your Gobi Desert diorama is ready to amaze and inspire. Take a moment to admire your creation and imagine the stories that unfold in this harsh yet beautiful desert landscape.
Whether you’re a parent guiding your child through this project or a young explorer eager to learn more about the world, creating dioramas like this is a fantastic way to blend education with creativity.
Explore more desert environments like the Sahara or the Australian Outback with Twinkl’s desert resources, or venture into lush rainforests and expansive savannahs for more exciting diorama ideas!
Ready for your next adventure? Share your diorama creations with us in the comments below!
P.S. Need more ideas on building dioramas? Check out Twinkl’s tips!
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As a mother, you don’t expect to have expensive gifts, although I would love to go on a trip around the world and be whisked away to a day spa for a holiday by myself, I know this is not going to happen. Well, it could if I magically have heaps of money. (I can live in hope, can’t I??)
In reality, some nice flowers and lunch with hubby and the kids are fine. Or even better is a gift the kids made themselves.
So if you are like me and just wish to be given some nice gifts from your loved ones this downloadable code might come in handy.
Download both versions of the Mother’s Day Code here:
Have you got your mum something special for Sunday? Are you organising breakfast in bed? A nice plant to cheer up the house or the garden? Or taking Mum out for a long and relaxing lunch? Whatever you have planned I hope you have an amazing day.
I hope the Mother’s Day Code helps you out.
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Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/childred-decorating-eggs-3972178/
Say goodbye to holiday boredom with Twinkl’s Epic Easter Adventures!
🌟 Dive into a wonderland of crafts, colours, science magic, and writing wonders that’ll keep kids of all ages smiling from ear to ear. 🎨🔬✏️ Discover the Joy of Learning with Twinkl’s Egg-citing Resources!
Join the Twinkl family today and unlock a world of fun and educational surprises that’ll make your kids think learning is the coolest game in town. 🚀 Don’t let boredom win this holiday—let Twinkl turn every moment into an Easter Extravaganza!
🐰🌷See a whole list of fun things below and get ready for an unforgettable Easter experience:
Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/childred-decorating-eggs-3972178/
Egg-cellent Easter Adventures Await with Twinkl’s Fun-Filled Activities!
Get ready to hop into the Easter Egg-stravaganza withTwinkl’s egg-cellent lineup of activitiesthat will make your celebration egg-ceptionally memorable! Whether you’re tracing patterns on Easter eggs or connecting the dots with bunnies, Twinkl’s got the creative juices flowing faster than a bunny on a sugar rush!
Feeling crafty? Dive into the Easter Bunny Basket crafting fun or leave Easter Bunny Footprints that will have everyone searching for the elusive bunny! And don’t forget to top it off with the Easter Hat Craft Activity Templates because every Easter celebration needs a touch of fabulousness!
If your brain’s craving a workout, dive into the Easter Differentiated Reading Comprehension Activity and hunt for Easter words like a pro in the F-2 Easter Word Search. Need a laugh? The Easter Joke Chatterbox is your go-to for egg-citing giggles and smiles!
With over 1,600 top-notch resources curated just for you, Twinkl ensures your Easter celebration is not just egg-straordinary but also egg-stremely fun and egg-ceptionally quirky! So grab your bunny ears and get ready for a cracking good time with Twinkl’s egg-citing lineup of Easter activities!
Hoppy Creations: Egg-citing Easter Hat Ideas & Templates from Twinkl!
Step into a world of egg-citement and Easter charm with Twinkl’s egg-stravagant collection of Easter Hat ideas and templates. Dive into a pool of creativity and let your imagination hop away with these whimsical designs that promise to make your Easter celebrations unforgettable.
Imagine donning an Aussie Easter Hat that with its vibrant colours and motifs, is guaranteed to turn heads and elicit smiles at every Easter gathering. With Twinkl’s Easter Hat Craft Activity Templates, you’re not just creating a hat; you’re crafting a piece of art that’s as unique and playful as the Easter bunny itself.
Feeling fancy? Add a touch of elegance with the EYLF Easter Bonnet Template Accessories, where delicate flowers, charming ribbons, and fancy embellishments transform a simple hat into a showstopper fit for an Easter parade runway!
But why stop there? Explore the world of bunnies with the Easter Bunny Headband and Bunny Ear Craft templates, perfect for adding a dash of whimsy and fun to your Easter attire. Whether you’re hunting for eggs or simply hopping around in style, these bunny-inspired accessories are sure to bring joy and laughter to your Easter festivities.
So, hop on over to Twinkl and unleash your inner Easter artist with their egg-citing collection of hats and templates. Get ready to egg-spress yourself in the most egg-ceptional way possible and make this Easter a truly egg-straordinary celebration!
Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-colored-eggs-3972137/
Spark Your Curiosity: Egg-ceptional Easter Science Experiments!
Are you ready to dive into a world of Easter excitement and scientific wonder? Twinkl’s Easter Science Experiments are here to sprinkle some fun and fizz into your learning adventures! Picture this: bubbling magic potions that make you feel like a wizard, shrinking balloons that defy gravity, and day and night experiments that illuminate your understanding!
Get ready to unleash your inner scientist with Twinkl’s creative concoctions. From conduction ice cube challenges to making gloop that’s gooey and glorious, each experiment is a journey into a world of colourful discovery. Imagine falling paper experiments that dance like confetti and ice cream in a bag recipes that are as cool as they are delicious!
But wait, there’s more! Explore potato starch slime that’s squishy and stretchy, or dive into the fizzy fun of candy crystals. Whether you’re a budding scientist or a seasoned explorer of the unknown, Twinkl’s Easter Science Experiments have something egg-citing for everyone!
So grab your lab coat (or apron), gather your materials, and let the Easter Science adventure begin! It’s time to mix, measure, and marvel at the magic of science with Twinkl’s quirky, upbeat, and fun-filled experiments that will have you saying, “Egg-cellent!
Easter Handwriting Eggstravaganza
Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or eager learner, Twinklhas something special for you this Easter. Immerse yourself into a world of colourful activities, engaging games, and delightful Easter-themed handwriting practice that will make learning a joyous adventure.
📚 Explore Twinkl’s handpicked selection of “Handwriting Easter” resources designed to spark creativity and improve penmanship skills. From Easter-themed handwriting lines to playful tracing activities featuring bunnies, eggs, and festive patterns, there’s plenty to keep little hands busy and minds inspired.
🎨 Let imaginations run wild with Twinkl’s Easter pencil control and letter formation activity booklets, perfect for early years and primary school learners. Encourage mindfulness and creativity with celebrations-themed handwriting and colouring booklets that blend learning with fun.
🐣 Dive deeper into the art of cursive writing with Twinkl’s Journey to Cursive series, featuring Easter-themed practice activities tailored for different age groups. From lowercase alphabet tracing to continuous cursive challenges, students will embark on a journey of skillful penmanship.
🌟 Don’t miss out on Twinkl’s Easter portrait page borders, pattern tracing activities, and engaging pencil control worksheets designed to save the day with Easter-themed learning adventures.
📚 Can’t find what you’re looking for? Explore Twinkl’s treasure trove of over 14 “Handwriting Easter” resources and discover a world of educational delights for teachers, parents, and pupils alike. 🌟
It is an animal that is a unicorn and bunny all in one.
I know many dear readers had no idea, but now you are aware of this magical creature, you will definitely keep an eye out for her next Easter. (Read the twins stories to learn more about the Unibunny)
This creature helps the Easter Bunny deliver eggs on Easter Sunday.
Julia dressed as The Unibunny.
I asked the girls to write their story of the Unibunny. Click on the girl’s names below to read the Unibunny stories.
The twins wrote each story yesterday on the computer with a little help from mummy and daddy. I hope you like them.
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Easter will soon be here and so will the Easter Hat parade at your local school.
If this is shocking, then I might have freaked you out. Breathe it is okay!
I will hand you a lovely cup of virtual coffee or tea depending on your preference, and you can have a little quiet time. This will allow you to process that it will soon be school holidays or the fact that kids will be hyperactive and high on chocolate due to the gifts from The Easter Bunny and a well-meaning family.
White Knight and Bear and Sparrow sent my girls some lovely Easter Hat kits. It was so much fun creating them and they look so good. Much better than I would have done on my own.
If you are like me, you failed badly at creating an Easter Hat for your kids. I ran out of time and purchased an oversized beach hat for each child. They were pink so I thought they would love them. However, as soon as decorations were added to these hats they immediately fell off and due to the size of the hat and the fact it had a very floppy rim the kids could not see very well while the hat was on. If you really must analyse how it went, it might be termed a complete disaster.
Hopefully, you are now feeling rested and relaxed after the virtual cuppa I gave you.
Now for my solution to make it all better for Easter, or the very least making the Easter Hat Parade stress free this year! Yes, it can be easier and your child will have one amazing rockstar of a hat.
White Knight Paints and Bear & Sparrow have teamed up to create to help parents take all the stress out of creating the Easter Hat.
“White Knight Paints has been a leading force in the specialty paint market for many years. When painting bathroom tiles, kitchen cabinets, metal fencing, your front porch or just indulging in a fun upcycling project, White Knight has an easy-to-use product for just about every DIY project, to help our consumers always achieve a professional result” says Brand Manager Dilani Fernando.
Bear and Sparrow is a registered Australian owned, boutique children’s decor business. They are based in Brisbane and have some lovely handmade wooden pieces.
The Easter Hats use White Knight Squirt Spray Paints. They come in 43 different colours and the new formulation has a primer and topcoat all in one. This paint dries quickly and is touch dry in just 10 minutes. This is good for craft projects with kids, you know how keen they are to start using their creations.
All the components for making this fabulous Easter Hat can be purchased at the hardware store and craft store, all for under $40.
It should take about 1 hour to make, so that is not long at all. Check out the video and download the Easter Hat Instructions here.
After your kids use their new groovy Easter Hats in the school parade you can also re-use it as a table decoration for family meals during Easter.
Make sure you tag your bunny project with #wkxbearsparrow, #wksquirts and #whiteknightpaints #mummytotwinsplusonecraft
Here are the girls finished hats. They look great, don’t they?
Lillian loves her new Easter Hat.
Julia being cheeky with her stylish Easter Hat.
The girls think their new hats will impress at the local school and also the Easter Bunny.
Check out the bunny tail on the back of the hat. Very cheeky indeed.
C’mon and hop off and create your own amazing Easter Hat as we did. You can download the Easter Hat Instructions here, and make sure to watch the video above if you get stuck.
I hope you have fun and enjoy this project as much as we did.
A HUGE thank you to White Knight Paintsand Bear & Sparrow for sending both my kids a kit each.
Oh, and the hat boxes are so nice and great for storing your finished hat in too. This will ensure that your stylish creation is not damaged.
Julia’s hat is all safe in the hat box.
You can add paper to make sure the hat does not move around.
The kids are super cute and young here, the reason is that this post was created on March 22, 2017. Still a great post and activity.
Paint to paint the wall any colour to fix it before you apply the blackboard paint
Plaster to fix any holes or uneven surfaces
Sandpaper to make sure all smooth if you have plastered
Chalkboard paint
Plastic sheets to ensure you have paint everywhere
Painter tape (you will be thankful you got it, trust me!)
Paint brushes
Chalk to use on the chalkboard
Kids who are keen to be artists and try out their new blackboard! I am sure you will be able to find this easily.
Step 1 – Prepare your wall
Make sure your surface is smooth and clean. My wall had to be patched up as it had some uneven parts. Once we re-plastered those, dried them and sanded them back the wall was painted all over with a white colour. The white colour got two coats and had to dry to make sure it was ready for the blackboard paint.
Wall plastered and sanded. Now ready for the white paint.Painting the wall white, before you add the blackboard paint.
Step 2 – Add the blackboard paint
Once all the wall is dry from the other paint you are now ready to add the blackboard paint. Make sure to place painter’s tape to mark the area where you would like to have the blackboard. This tape is a wonderful thing, it allows you to have great shapes that are neat and great lines and the tape just comes off after the paint is dry. It also helps you not go outside the lines. You don’t want to have black paint on the lovely white wall area. We did two layers for the blackboard paint and let it dry for a few days before we used it. Make sure to read the instructions on the tin.
Adding the blackboard paintThe blackboard is ready. Looking good! Can we use it now mummy?
Step 3 – Test out your new blackboard. Have fun!
Julia very pleased with her new blackboard.
The girls are getting so good at writing and the first thing they both wanted to do was to write their names. As a proud mummy, I had to take pictures of how clever they were, and also due to the blackboard being a new addition to our house.
The art did not just remain with names or cute pictures it did get very wild and abstract. I was pleased and glad that the kids had fun. I like the idea that the blackboard is a place for the twins to express themselves and be creative.
Happy drawing away.The first art that graced the new blackboard, aside from the girls names.The creative art from the artists, Julia and Lillian.
Have you created a blackboard for the kids or yourself? Where did you put it? We made ours on the back wall of the house. This area is undercover and allows the kids to use the blackboard even if it is raining.
Now you see you can have a blackboard in 3 easy steps, why not give it a go? It is a great weekend project. Enjoy and have fun.
March 2nd is a day bursting with joy and imagination—it’s Dr. Seuss Day!
We’re celebrating the birthday of the one and only Theodore Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, whose whimsical tales and colourful characters have enchanted readers for generations.
Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!
🎉📚 Oh, hooray, hooray, it’s Dr. Seuss Day today! A day filled with whimsy, laughter, and play. So gather ’round, dear friends, come one, come all, Let’s celebrate Seuss, the greatest of all!
With rhymes that dance and colours that pop, Dr. Seuss’s stories never do stop! From Horton’s big ears to the Grinch’s small heart, His characters leap off the page, each one a work of art.
Oh, how I adore his fantastical tales, They spark imagination that never fails. From the Cat in the Hat causing chaos anew, To the Lorax who speaks for the trees, it’s true!
But it’s not just the stories that make me cheer, It’s Seuss’s spirit, so bold and sincere. He taught us to dream and to think beyond measure, To stand up for what’s right, to treasure each treasure.
His artwork, oh my, it’s a feast for the eyes, With colours so vibrant, they light up the skies. His style was unique, ahead of its time, A true visionary, his work truly sublime.
So let’s raise a toast to the man of the hour, Whose legacy grows with each passing flower. On this Dr. Seuss Day, let’s read and let’s play, And honour the genius of Seuss in every way!
So grab a book, anyone will do, And let’s celebrate Seuss, oh the places we’ll go! Happy Dr. Seuss Day, to one and to all, Let’s make this day Seuss-tastic, big and small! 🎈📖
Twinkl’s Truffula Treasure Trove: Explore Dr. Seuss Spectaculars:
Dr. Seuss’s creativity and whimsy are truly inspiring. Embracing his style can add a touch of magic to any endeavour. Whether it’s writing rhymes, crafting colourful characters, or simply thinking outside the box, channelling your inner Seuss can infuse your work with joy and imagination.
So let your creativity soar like a Sneetch with a star, and remember, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose!”
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I’ve recently been on the job hunt. It was stressful and very depressing.
Why you ask?
Well, I was getting questions that shouldn’t be asked at all. The questions fell into the following topics:
Parental status inquiries: Seriously, why is this even a thing? Last time I checked, my ability to do the job wasn’t determined by my offspring count.
Postcode obsession: Just to be clear, when I mention my postcode, I’m not sending out invites for a neighbourhood block party. Let’s keep the focus where it belongs—on my qualifications, not my street address.
The sad reality of job hunting for women: It’s like navigating a minefield of sexism and discrimination at every turn. From biased questions to unequal treatment, it’s a frustrating journey.
It all boils down to one thing: Can you do the job, rock those skills, and bring a can-do attitude? Not your sex, postcode, or parental status matters here.
“If you exclude 50% of the talent pool, it’s no wonder you find yourself in a war for talent.” Theresa J. Whitmarsh, Executive Director of the Washington State Investment Board. Image sourced from https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2016/03/quotes-on-women-at-work/
Ah, picture this scenario: Imagine being nestled amidst the serene beauty of the Blue Mountains, where kangaroos might just be your neighbours and the sound of a kookaburra’s laugh is your morning alarm. That’s where our story begins!
So, there I was, having a chat with a recruiter who seemed to think that commuting from the tranquil mountains to bustling North Sydney was like attempting to teleport to Mars. “Sorry, darling, but that commute just ain’t happening!” she exclaimed as if the concept of travel beyond the hills was a mythical tale.
And oh, the fun didn’t stop there! The recruiter, bless her heart, seemed convinced that being a mum meant I could only handle jobs on a part-time basis, as if my superpower was limited to juggling the house and kids instead of full-time work. But hey, I proudly declared, “Yes, I am on the lookout for a full-time gig!”
I even tried to reassure her that hopping on a train was as easy as snagging the last lamington at a bake sale, but she just couldn’t let go of her travel woes. It was like convincing a koala that eucalyptus leaves are so last season!
Then came the kicker: the whole “working from home” debate. When I floated the idea, it was like suggesting we paint the Sydney Opera House hot pink – a firm no-go. But lo and behold, after bidding adieu and sending a polite email, suddenly the tune changed. Flexibility? In this economy? Who would’ve thought!
But alas, despite the picturesque backdrop of the mountains and the potential for work-life balance, something just didn’t sit right. Call it intuition or maybe just good old-fashioned common sense, but diving deeper into the interview process only led to a virtual face-off with the rudest of interviewers.
This Zoom encounter felt more like a scene from a comedy of errors, with the interviewer tossing insults and criticisms like confetti at a parade. It was as if she couldn’t fathom that a mountain mum could also be a professional powerhouse. But hey, I stood my ground, reminding her that qualifications and skills don’t come with a gender bias.
In the end, it was a tale of mismatched expectations, a dash of rudeness, discrimination and a sprinkle of disbelief – all served with a side of resilience and a reminder to always trust your gut, especially when it’s screaming, “Abort mission!”
Why is my family life and travel situation suddenly in the spotlight? It is off-topic, wouldn’t you say?
“Any society that fails to harness the energy and creativity of its women is at a huge disadvantage in the modern world.” Tian Wei, CCTV News. Image sourced from https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2016/03/quotes-on-women-at-work/
Not only was the job opportunity in North Sydney glaringly misrepresented, but it also turned out to be a bit of a unicorn hunt. You see, they advertised for a Marketing Manager, but what they really needed was a Chief Marketing Officer to build everything from scratch. Now, that could’ve been an exciting challenge, but the interviewer seemed more interested in building barriers than bridges. The phone interview felt like a rollercoaster of aggression and discrimination, leaving me absolutely certain that if I were offered the position, I’d politely decline.
Now, onto the next adventure in job hunting! This time, the opportunity was in Western Sydney, and I was totally fine with that. I knew I’d have to make the trek to the office, but they did offer some work-from-home days, which was a nice touch. However, the interviewer, another woman (go figure!), seemed to think I needed a geography lesson. She bombarded me with emails and calls, listing off the exact mileage between my home and the office, as if I hadn’t already scoped it out before applying. I mean, seriously, why the obsession with my commute?
Despite assuring her that I was perfectly content with the travel arrangements, she just wouldn’t drop it. It felt like everyone was making a mountain out of a molehill! And don’t even get me started on the recurring theme of being judged based on where I live and the fact that I’m a mother. It’s like people have this preconceived notion that being a mum means you can’t possibly handle a full-time gig in the office. Newsflash: I’m more than capable, thank you very much!
Fast forward to another opportunity: after enduring a marathon second interview that lasted nearly three hours, I was later told that I didn’t “fit the business” due to my location and family situation. Can you believe it? Talk about a real slap in the face!
But wait, there’s more. They even threw in some extra feedback for good measure: You had some B2B experience (they knew this and liked my strategy examples and how to change focus for different products and drive sales) “Your interview was solid, but additional concerns were raised over this being a full-time, office-based role, and travel, and the potential impact this may have on your long-term employment.”
I don’t believe that my location was asked at the first interview and this made them decide to not hire me when they found out where I lived. It’s beyond frustrating to witness how outdated attitudes still hold sway over who gets a shot at what roles. And don’t even get me started on the absurdity of postcode discrimination – it’s enough to make your blood boil!
I found a fabulous and fantastic job. The team have been welcoming and friendly, they are family friendly, and I work 1 day a week in the office and the rest of the week from home. I am grateful beyond words that the universe made this happen and thankful that the offer that I got is a place that fits in with my family and allows me to contribute to the business and my career.
Ah, you know what? Looking back, I’m actually thankful I didn’t land that job. It’s like the universe had other plans in store for me, leading me straight to the wonderful opportunity I’ve recently embarked on. It’s funny how things work out sometimes, isn’t it? (I am very happy with my new job and glad that I kissed a lot of frogs to land a prince of a placement).
As the world gradually scales back on remote work options, it’s becoming increasingly clear that women will bear the brunt of this shift. With fewer opportunities for flexible arrangements, many are finding themselves trapped in a conundrum where finding suitable employment becomes a Herculean task. This not only impacts their ability to earn a living and contribute to their financial security but also restricts their freedom to navigate life’s challenges, such as leaving a relationship while maintaining stability.
While COVID-19 brought about myriad challenges, one silver lining was the widespread acceptance and success of remote work. Leveraging technology, we witnessed how seamlessly many roles adapted to remote setups, fostering productivity and work-life balance. So, why backtrack on this progress? Insisting on in-office presence as a measure of productivity feels archaic, reminiscent of a bygone era when physical presence equated to commitment.
Yet, my encounters weren’t isolated incidents. Almost every interview was marred by intrusive, sexist inquiries that left me seething with frustration. I vividly recall a particularly exasperating exchange with a young recruiter who seemed fixated on my ability to balance work and motherhood. Despite demonstrating my capability and track record, I was continually prodded about childcare arrangements as if my gender predetermined my competence.
And the irony? These interrogations occurred for roles explicitly advertised as remote, underscoring the absurdity of it all. The disparity in treatment between men and women in the hiring process is glaring, perpetuating age-old stereotypes and hindering progress towards gender equality.
The ramifications extend beyond mere inconvenience; they threaten to exacerbate existing inequalities in earning potential and financial security. Women, already burdened by the gender pay gap, now face the added hurdle of limited job opportunities. This not only jeopardises their present but also casts a shadow on their future, especially concerning retirement planning and financial independence.
With two daughters poised to enter the workforce, I can’t help but feel disheartened by the persisting barriers they’ll encounter.
Questions loom large:
When will women be judged on their merits alone?
Why are skills and abilities overshadowed by archaic notions of gender roles?
And why do women continue to face discrimination at the hands of their own gender?
These questions demand answers. It’s time to dismantle the barriers that confine women to outdated stereotypes and unequal treatment. After all, the strength of our workforce lies in diversity, and it’s high time we embraced it fully.”
If I was a man, how different would my working life be?
As I reminisce about my youthful days, envisioning a dynamic mid 20-something with aspirations as vast as the moon itself, I recall taking a bold leap towards an exciting opportunity in film production. Picture me, filled with starry-eyed enthusiasm, when suddenly, I’m hit with the age-old question: “Are you planning on having kids?” Swiftly, I respond, “Perhaps someday, but let’s hit pause on that topic for now,” followed by a playful reality check to the interviewer, questioning the relevance of such a query.
But alas, did my honesty strike a dissonant chord? Spoiler alert: I didn’t secure the position. This led me to ponder whether I deviated from their expected narrative, or perhaps—here’s the kicker—that question should have been omitted entirely, particularly when posed to women whose talents extend far beyond maternal considerations.
It’s akin to a broken record, isn’t it? The familiar refrain of sexist and impertinent inquiries that echo through countless interviews. I can’t help but wonder, if I were a man, would they have refrained from delving into personal matters? Would my calling out of the off-key note prompt a swift acknowledgment and a change in direction? Or perhaps, in an alternate reality, such questions wouldn’t even warrant consideration.
At times, I find myself daydreaming about a male iteration of myself. Would the spotlight cast a different glow? Would I find myself juggling a plethora of opportunities? It’s a thought-provoking notion, one that may evoke a mixture of contemplation and frustration.
And here’s the kicker: my husband has never faced the same line of questioning in his professional endeavours, nor have my male friends. It begs the question: why the discrepancy? Why are women subjected to inquiries that their male counterparts don’t encounter?
Have you ever pondered how different the lyrics of your life’s soundtrack would be if you were a man? It’s a compelling question, inviting reflection on the complexities of privilege and perspective.
Women are still undervalued and underpaid. I cannot believe that is still happening.
“Australia’s national gender pay gap is 12 per cent. As of November 2023, the full-time adult average weekly ordinary time earnings across all industries and occupations was $1982.80 for men and $1744.80 for women. For every dollar on average men earned, women earned 88 cents. That’s $238 less than men each week.” https://www.wgea.gov.au/
If I were to don the hat of a man, would I still find myself precariously perched on the edge of a weekly fiscal cliff, facing a deficit of $238, dancing precariously close to an annual loss of $6,188? It’s a thought that sets my instincts ablaze, sparking a rebellion against the injustice that demands swift redress. Employment practices persist in squeezing every last cent, and unfortunately, it’s us women who often find ourselves bearing the brunt of these financial pinches.
In my recent jaunt through the job market, I encountered a relentless barrage of forms prodding for my current salary—a figure as irrelevant to the potential new role as a fish on a bicycle.
Would sticking to my guns as a woman in these negotiations mean resigning myself to settling for less? Or under a different set of societal expectations, would they have gladly offered up the industry-standard salary without batting an eyelid? It’s a question that haunts me, one I’m unable to answer as I remain firmly on the side of the gender coin labelled ‘female’.
Echoes of “The Man” ricochet around my mind as I contemplate the state of my superannuation—what whimsical twists of fate might await me had I navigated this world sporting a gentleman’s guise, free from the gaping maw of the gender pay gap?
Have you wondered what your life and career would be like if you were a man?
How about getting treated the same for pay, career opportunities and more?
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As the lunar calendar flips its pages, get ready to dive into the vibrant whirlwind of Chinese New Year festivities! 🌟 This annual extravaganza is not just a celebration but a joyous reunion of tradition, symbolism, and cultural flair! And in 2024, we’re rolling out the red carpet for the majestic Year of the Dragon—a symbol of power, prosperity, and all-around good vibes! 🐉💰
Gong Xi Fa Cai
Chinese New Year starts on Saturday, February 10th 2024 and ends on January 28, 2025. The Dragon is the 5th animal in the 12-year cycle, and this year the symbol is wood, so it is known as the year of the Wood Dragon.
“The Wood Dragon is the most creative and visionary of the dragons. They are optimistic, ambitious and adventurous. They like to explore new ideas and challenge themselves. They are also generous, compassionate and loyal to their friends.
Therefore, the Year of the Dragon in 2024 is expected to be a time of visionary leaders, innovators and problem solvers. 2024 is also predicted to be a great year to start new projects, explore new opportunities and create value for yourself and others.”
Unveiling the Magic of Chinese New Year: Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, isn’t just any old celebration—it’s a blockbuster event that ignites hearts and minds across the globe! 🎆 Rooted in centuries-old customs and beliefs, this festival is the ultimate ode to family, feasting, and paying homage to our ancestors.
What’s the Buzz about the Year of the Dragon? Hold onto your hats because 2024 is bringing in the big guns with the Year of the Dragon! 🚀 Symbolising strength, courage, and success, those born under this fire-breathing sign are destined for greatness! 🔥 And as the Dragon takes centre stage, get ready for a rollercoaster ride of prosperity, good fortune, and brand-spanking-new opportunities!
Let’s Celebrate in Full Swing: Embracing the Year of the Dragon 2024 with Zest and Zing! 🐲🎉
Reunion Rendezvous: Gather your tribe for a feast fit for kings and queens! 🍜 Dive into dumplings, slurp up some longevity noodles, and feast like there’s no tomorrow! It’s all about abundance and living the good life! 🥟
Lion and Dragon Shenanigans: Brace yourself for a jaw-dropping spectacle as lion and dragon dances take over the streets! 🦁💃 With drums pounding and cymbals clanging, these performances are not just about warding off evil spirits but about unleashing a tidal wave of prosperity and positivity!
Red Envelopes Bonanza: Get ready to play Santa Claus with those lucky red envelopes filled with cash surprises! 💸 Spread the love, share the wealth, and watch the good karma come rolling in! 💌💰 Grab red envelopes and other decorations here
Fireworks Frenzy & Lantern Love: Light up the night sky with a kaleidoscope of colours and watch those evil spirits scurry away! 🎇 Let your wishes soar high with every flicker of the flame and every flick of the lantern! 🏮
Temple Visits: Pay homage to ancestors and seek blessings for the year ahead by visiting temples and making offerings. Lighting incense, burning paper offerings, and praying for prosperity are common rituals during this time. 🙏 Light some incense, make a wish or two, and soak in the good vibes—it’s a spiritual journey like no other! 🕯️
Dress to Impress: Dust off those traditional threads and strut your stuff like a superstar! 👘 Whether you’re rocking a cheongsam, it’s all about embracing your inner fashionista and owning the spotlight! 💃🕺
Events around Australia to celebrate Chinese New Year:
As we bid adieu to the old and embrace the new, let’s welcome the Year of the Dragon with open arms and hearts full of hope, joy, and endless possibilities!
🎉 May this year be filled with prosperity, success, and happiness galore! Gong Xi Fa Cai! (Wishing you prosperity) 🎆✨
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Do you make something special for Australia Day? What is it you like to create to celebrate? Or do you just have a BBQ and some cold drinks with mates and that is your celebration?
This year I decided to make Chocolate Crackles with the twins. I used the recipe from the Rice Bubble box and it brings back memories of making them with my mum.
The ingredients to make chocolate crackles, but I was missing one ingredient. The icing sugar. I ended up using caster sugar and put it in a pestle and mortar to get the sugar finer. I only had icing mixture not the sugar so this was the best option.
The girls were super excited to help and they did a great job. I had them on the kitchen counter so that they could be near the bowls and help out easily.
The ingredients you need:
4 cups Kellogg’s® Rice Bubbles®
1 cup icing sugar
1 cup desiccated coconut
3 Tbsp cocoa
250g copha®*, chopped
Happy to be making chocolate crackles with mummy and sister.
Step 1
In a large bowl mix all the dry ingredients: rice bubbles, icing sugar, coconut and the cocoa. Note: If you use organic cocoa from the health food shop the crackles do not work out well. I tried it for the kids sixth birthday party and they did not set properly and did not taste the same. I used Cadbury’s Cocoa this time and they worked out the way they should. I am not sure why this would create such a difference but thought it best to point it out.
Adding the rice bubbles
As mentioned I stuffed up and did not have icing sugar. I thought I did! Yes silly I should have checked the pantry better, but it all got fixed. I used caster sugar but had to put it in a pestle and mortar to get the sugar to a finer and softer consistency. It worked a treat but took a bit of time to get it done.
Step 2
Melt the copha. I did not chop it up, although the instructions say to. I put mine in a bowl and the microwave melted it for me. You can chop it up and put it in a saucepan and melt it that way. Either way is fine. It took about 2 and half minutes to get it all melted. Could be a little more depending on how your microwave works.
Copha ready to be melted in the microwave
Step 3
Add the melted copha to the dry indgredients and mix well.
Step 4
Spoon the mixture into patty pans, and then put in the fridge to set. It is best to do it overnight to make sure they are hard and fully set.
Ready to go into the fridge to set In the fridge setting. Note the beer and drinks all ready for Australia Day!
Since we are celebrating Australia Day tomorrow I wanted to add the Australian Flag to the chocolate crackles. Note: Adding the Australian Flag after the crackles have set is harder than you think.
Australian Flags for our Chocolate Crackles. I picked these up for $2.00 at the local supermarket.
And now for the finished product!
My finished chocolate crackles are all ready for Australia Day. Yum!
Have a great Australia Day and long weekend. Hope you are having a nice relaxing time. Enjoy your chocolate crackles if you make some and your time with your mates and family.
Note: This post was posted originally on January 25th 2015, and it was when the twins were much younger.
If you are like me you love receiving gifts and especially if they are ones that allow you to pamper yourself. I recently received a box of Natralus Australia skincare products to test out and share my thoughts with you my lovely readers.
My skin always gets so dry in autumn and winter so having a good quality moisturiser on hand is essential. The weather in the mountains during the colder months means my skin deals with harsh winds, cold temperatures, warm heating, and of course layers and layers of clothing too that don’t help with dry skin.
The wonderful smelling Hand & Body Lotion – Rose, Lilly Pilly & Berries
NATURAL DEODORANT – WILD ROSE This deodorant is so wonderful and makes me smell like a rose all day long. It is not a strong scent, in fact, it is more a subtle rose that makes you feel like you are on holiday or it is summer still. You can get natural deodorants in Cool Spice, Lemon Myrtle, Zesty Citrus, Citrus Spring, and Sea Berry.
NATRALUS NATURAL PAW PAW BALM This natural paw paw balm is so moisturising and stays on your lips for ages. It is thicker and really helps keeps my lips feeling good and also looking amazing. I think you will be super amazed at the quality of this paw paw balm and it will soon be a firm favourite for you too.
This is my favourite item and a must-havefor anyone… you seriously need to get yourself some Natrualus Natural Paw Paw Balm today!
All the amazing natural products from Natralus Australia
Natralus My Little One Gentle Cleanse Shampoo & Wash smells so good, so marshmallowy!
Natralus My Little One Rangecovers all stages of care for children, including lotions, cleansers, and shampoo/conditioners. The creams and washes are so gentle, moisturising and soothing for babies’ and kids’ skin.
We loved the My Little One Gentle Cleanse Shampoo & Wash, it was like a big bunch of crushed-up marshmallows, My Little One Comforting Touch Massage Oil helps protect bubs skin, you can also use the massage oil during pregnancy and post-pregnancy for your skin too.
The oil is “enriched with paw paw to help nourish and protect delicate skin, Rosehip oil to deeply moisture and help support your little one’s skin natural elasticity, Jojoba oil, is gentle and easily absorbed, helps to prevent dryness and leaves skin silky-smooth. Calendula, known for its calming and soothing properties.”
Thanks to Naturalus Australia for sending me such amazing products to try.
I loved them and will definitely recommend them to friends and family. If you are looking for some amazing natural products, make sure to check out Naturalus Australia.
I’m so excited and proud to announce that I am a Twinkl Ambassador….yep what great news. As a parent, I am passionate about kids’ education and anything that I can do to support my children I am doing. This is why I love the tools and resources that Twinkl offers to allow all children to thrive in their educational journey.
What is Twinkl?
Twinkl is a resource for teachers and parents. They have resources that support all levels from Kindy to High School that is aligned to the Australian Curriculum.
Twinkl is an online educational resource platform that provides a wide range of educational resources, activities, and lesson plans for children of all ages. It was founded in the UK in 2010, and since then, it has expanded to serve educators and parents around the world, including Australia.
Here is an overview of the foundation to year 2 level on Twinkl – So many resources available.
I am very proud and excited to be a Twinkl Abassador
Treasure words and Fake Words Phonics Game
Why Twinkl membership is a must
Here are some ways Twinkl can help parents support their children at school, as well as how it helps teachers and homeschooling parents:
Educational Resources: Twinkl offers a vast library of educational resources that align with the Australian Curriculum, from kindergarten to high school. Parents can access materials that cover a wide range of subjects, including mathematics, science, English, and social studies, to support their child’s learning at home.
Printable Worksheets: Twinkl provides printable worksheets that parents can use to help their child practice their skills at home. These worksheets cover a range of topics and are designed to be engaging and fun for children.
Interactive Activities: Twinkl offers a range of interactive activities that parents can use to engage their children in learning. These activities include games, quizzes, and puzzles that help children learn while having fun.
Lesson Plans: Twinkl has a variety of lesson plans for teachers that cover a range of topics and subjects. Parents who are homeschooling their children can also use these lesson plans to structure their child’s learning.
Homeschooling Resources: Twinkl offers a range of resources for parents who are homeschooling their children. These resources include lesson plans, worksheets, and activities that are designed specifically for homeschooling families.
Twinkl is a valuable resource for parents who want to support their child’s learning at school, as well as for teachers and homeschooling parents. With its extensive library of resources, printable worksheets, interactive activities, lesson plans, and homeschooling resources, Twinkl provides a comprehensive solution for parents who want to help their children succeed academically.
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I spent Wednesday and Friday this week trying to get Taylor Swift tickets. And yes I am one of many that never got the chance to get to purchase anything at all.
My girls were so excited that Tay Tay was coming to Australia. They were desperate to see her or just be at the concert in any capacity at all.
I knew that everyone would be wanting to go and the competition for tickets would be fierce but never thought it would be this bad that you wouldn’t even be let in for a chance to purchase by Ticketek.
I made sure I had all passwords, code for presale and credit card ready. I logged in early to be in the queue or so I thought and then spent hours and hours not getting through to get tickets.
The page kept on saying don’t refresh or leave the lounge. I heard that others just got on and instantly got tickets. Why can’t I get tickets? When will I be let in and when is it my turn to buy tickets? You would have thought after hours of waiting it would be my turn at some point. But no, my turn never came.
I do know that not everyone can get tickets to a concert. However, if you are on a system and it says that you be let in soon you should be after waiting for ages and ages.
I had many browsers open on different computers as well as on my mobile. Please forgive the breakfast bowl as I was fearful of leaving my desk in case I did get in to get tickets. Also doing work too at the same time.
I have since learned that the system is random and wasn’t letting the next person into the queue. I thought that this was frustrating and made me so angry. If it is indeed random then I can close my browser windows and just cross my fingers that I might be that lucky person to get tickets next.
A few times, I tried to just open new windows and close others as I have not progressed and nothing is happening. Still nothing. No progress. Still in the horrible wait with the line going across the screen brainwashing me to stay although my actions and the actions of the page are not changing. It was maddening. It was crazy and it all resulted in a very upset and stressed-out mummy.
How can you have a system that is completely random and then tell people to stay in the queue, have codes for presale and more to show that you will at some stage be let into the magical area to buy tickets.
I was magically let in at some stage on my mobile on Wednesday during the presale, however, there were no boxes to drop down to enter any info. No area to enter my presale code and therefore I couldn’t progress. If this was different I would have indeed purchased tickets and our outcome would be different. But this was not the case. I couldn’t see what to do and tapped every part of the screen and changed the view. Was it a different capability for mobile users compared to desktop?
FFS really I get to purchase and then cannot do anything! Of course, that happens.
Friday was no different, I thought I would try different browsers and open browsers at different times to see if I can indeed be one of the random lucky people getting tickets, but this was not to be. I was finally let in after 6 plus hours to find that I couldn’t purchase the 4 tickets I needed and even found that 3 tickets couldn’t be purchased. I looked at all the other days and of course, they were sold out and therefore we had missed all chances and opportunities to go at all.
In all my years purchasing concert tickets this has been the worst experience ever. Below are some recommendations:
You should have been able to be let in for the presale more easily to allow more people the chance.
If Taylor Swift had more concerts around Australia there would be more chance of getting a ticket. I know she added an extra show for Melbourne and Sydney but these are the only ones for the whole of the country. Three in total for Melbourne and four in Sydney. Everyone all over was purchasing tickets to these concerts. If for example there were concerts in Perth, Brisbane, South Australia or other places it would have allowed more people to go.
A better system for allowing people to get tickets is needed. If you have a presale ticket system with codes it should be on priority and next in line not a random thing that it is only down to the internet gods that you magically get tickets.
Not allow people to have more tickets to other concerts – give everyone a chance.
I did want to see if I can get the girls tickets to the concert for their birthday this year and of course for their Christmas present but it was not to be. I am wanting to create more experiences rather than buy stuff.
Maybe I can get tickets to another concert, however, I do hope that the way to purchase tickets for whatever concert it is isn’t like what the Ticketek experience was.
I think I am scarred by this experience to secure tickets and exhausted over the whole event. If I never see the blue line going back and forth on another webpage I will be very happy.
Yep, I know that some magically were lucky to get tickets super quick, but for the people like me that tried for hours on end to secure nothing I am sad to hear this. It shows that the ticketing system is flawed and really not fair. Especially for those that waited hours for both days for the chance to be let through the next screen to part with lots of money for tickets to this sought-after show.
I was happy to part with lots of money to get my tickets but one thing I think is unforgivable is how many tried and were never let in to purchase at all. I don’t get how it was never my turn or others’ turn either. How is this possible????
Ticket availability is ultimately determined by factors like venue capacity and artist preferences, so with the huge demand for the limited tickets for each concert and the number of people wanting said tickets, I don’t think I stood a chance at all to get any at all.
How did you find the experience of getting Taylor Swift tickets? Were you one of the lucky ones? Or are you like me and tried for hours and came up empty-handed?
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Why is it a good idea to take a technology break? Find out 5 reasons why taking a technology detox can help you feel better.
Selena Gomez‘s decision to take a break from social media for the sake of her mental health is a brave and wise choice. While social media has its benefits, such as staying connected with loved ones and discovering new ideas and information, it can also be a source of stress and negative emotions for teenagers, as it has the potential to amplify feelings of comparison, bullying, and isolation.
P!nk has recently shared that she has received hateful and horrible messages in the media over very old articles years ago. The focus should really be on her new album and all the hard work that went into it, however, the media are focused on rehashing things from when she was in her 20’s, just silly if you ask me. The issue here is that P!nk is honest in her interviews and tells it how it is – I find it interesting that if you have an honest opinion even if you say that you didn’t get on with someone and have since made up with that person that the news that these comments keep getting retold and beat up. Honestly, I think P!nk is amazing and love her raw honesty, passion and hard work. See the social media bashing is happening to us all!
I’m a lot older than Selena and I’m an avid user of social media. However, there are times that I look at some people’s images and accounts and get rather depressed. I am sad about how amazing their life looks; they look stunning in their designer outfits, they have an awesome home and have the perfect vacation overseas with their family. Oh how I would wish for that too. I like Selena have purposefully taken a break from being online, removing my phone from being close to me, not taking my phone with me when I am out or not looking at any of my accounts or sharing what I am up to for a while. What about you?
Teenagers and social media
Firstly, social media encourages teenagers to constantly compare themselves to others. This constant comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and even depression. Teenagers are bombarded with images of “perfect” bodies, luxurious lifestyles, and seemingly flawless relationships, which can lead to unrealistic expectations and a distorted view of reality.
Secondly, social media can be a breeding ground for bullying. Anonymous accounts and online anonymity can make it easy for bullies to target their victims, causing serious emotional distress. Cyberbullying can have severe consequences, including depression, anxiety, and even suicide.
Lastly, social media can prevent teenagers from developing meaningful relationships in real-life situations. It’s essential for teenagers to have face-to-face interactions with their peers and to engage in activities that allow them to develop social skills, such as team sports, clubs, and volunteering. Social media can be a tempting substitute for real-life interactions, but it can never fully replace the importance of human connection.
My kids have had some issues with bullies online (It is so easy to be horrible to people when you are anonymous, right!). These bullies used fake accounts and created made-up things about the kids to share with their friend groups. All of this was disgusting and horrible and of course not true, however for teenagers or younger kids having this happen is a nightmare. I did try and tell my kids to just not look at the phone and ignore it. Or maybe just delete the app altogether. However, this response was met by the kids saying “my friends will think that we are ignoring them and more!” My response was that if these people are truly your friends ignoring them on the app is not the end of the world, then explaining in real life via a face-to-face will be what is needed.
When I grew up there were no mobile phones, no internet and no social media! The only way to connect was face to face and if you did have a disagreement you would just not play with this person for a while until you made up or it could be forever depending on the relationship or what had happened.
Social media has its benefits, it’s important for teenagers to be aware of the potential negative effects it can have on their mental health. Taking breaks from social media and engaging in real-life interactions can help teenagers develop meaningful relationships, improve their social skills, and prevent feelings of comparison, bullying, and isolation.
Being online constantly can have both positive and negative effects on mental health. On the one hand, it can provide social connection and support, especially for individuals who may feel isolated or marginalized. It can also serve as a platform for self-expression and creativity.
On the other hand, social media can also lead to negative consequences. Excessive social media use can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness, especially if individuals compare themselves unfavourably to others on social media. The pressure to maintain a curated online presence can also be stressful and overwhelming, negatively impacting mental health, and not a real way of living and being. It would take a toll on anyone to have to keep up with the illusion of fantasy at all times.
Taking a break from social media, as Selena Gomez did, can be a helpful way to prioritize mental health and focus on oneself. It can provide an opportunity for individuals to disconnect from the constant barrage of information and comparison on social media, and instead focus on personal growth and well-being. I for one have felt that there has been a lot of bad news, so stepping away from the news sites, social media and tv reports for me has been helpful too.
Being online all the time is not good for you. A break is a good thing to have.
Taking a technology detox, or a break from technology, can offer several benefits:
Reduced stress and anxiety: Technology can be overwhelming and create feelings of stress and anxiety. Taking a break from technology can help you relax and unwind.
Improved sleep: Exposure to the blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with your sleep cycle. Taking a break from technology can help improve your sleep quality and quantity.
Increased productivity: Technology can be a major distraction, and taking a break can help you focus on important tasks and be more productive.
Improved mental health: Constant use of technology can lead to feelings of depression and isolation. Taking a break can help you connect with people in real life and improve your overall mental health.
More time for other activities: Technology can be time-consuming, and taking a break can free up time for other activities, such as exercise, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones.
Overall, a technology detox can help you recharge, refocus, and reconnect with yourself and others.
Have you taken a technology detox? Was it just on your social media? How did you feel after your break?
Yep and I understand the irony of me writing this for my online blog…even if you just take a break from your phone for the weekend, or just during the evenings, it will help you feel better.
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Young kids usually have only a vague sense of time. They probably know that an hour is longer than ten minutes, and a week is shorter than a month, but it’s difficult for them to gauge time’s passing.
Making a paper chain calendar can help them learn this valuable math skill.
What You Need:
Calendar
3” x 8” strips of colored construction paper
Glue
Make a Paper Chain Calendar
What You Do:
Pick a date in the future that has some meaning for your child, for example, the first day of school, the date a relative is set to come visit, a birthday, or the start date of a favorite activity, like soccer. Ideally, the date should be about a month away.
Pull out your calendar, and with your child’s help, count the number of days until the event you’ve chosen.
Give your child the construction paper strips and explain that each strip stands for one day. Together, count out the correct number of strips (one for each day until your event), then help your child make a paper chain, by gluing the end of each strip together to form a link, then adding the rest of the links to form a “chain”.
Hang your chain in your child’s room, or in a prominent place. Each day, allow her to remove one link from the chain. As the days pass, this will give her a visual picture to associate with the numbers she sees on the calendar.
Not only does this provide a concrete image for the passing of time, but it gives your child a great excuse to practice counting backwards!
A big thank you to Education.com for this creative way to help kids learn. If you have not checked out their website make sure you stop by. Education.com have excellent resources to help your kids be super clever.
Note: This is a long story about me losing something important and thinking it was something else entirely, as well as my first thought that it was a criminal gang involved. I blame all the true crime podcasts I have been listening to (Morbid especially – I love it so it is not a negative about the show, just that I am now thinking there is crime everywhere!) The story has a few swear words in it and I was rather annoyed and upset about the situation.
Having fun at Darling Harbour
A while ago I took my little boy to the city for a day out. I drove into the city as the last time my little boy and I ventured out we took public transport everywhere, and this made him very tired. I thought why not make things easier by being able to just get in the car and drive home.
We had a good trip in and then I thought I was at the parking station that I had pre-paid for. I approached the car park and then soon realised that it was the wrong one due to the height of the garage, this was a place that my car cannot fit so I looked on Google and it appeared that the car park I needed was in fact around the corner.
I punched in the details into the GPS and then was on my way. I am sure that my GPS said that I had arrived at my destination and the car park was able to let me in for the height of my car and my credit card allowed me to enter (So I thought I was in the right place).
There was an office on the left, access to the car park was blocked off and two ladies approached me and said that it is valet parking and that they will park my car. I felt a little uncomfortable, but I do know with many car parks in Sydney that they have valet parking due to the difficult spaces available and to fit more cars in. My six-year-old and I got our things and got what we needed, handed the keys to the valet parker, and went on our city adventure.
As you might imagine my six-year-old was non-stop chatting to me and if that wasn’t happening, he was not listing to instructions and doing as he was told. I had to keep on negotiating and trying to listen to him and make sure we were on our way to our first stop in the city, lunch at Darling Harbour.
At Pontoon Bar at Darling Harbour having lunch – Cheese and Vegemite Pizza
I don’t know about you but when you have a kid who is super excited and madly chatting, as well as all the other things in your head you are not fully concentrating on everything. Sad but true.
We managed to make it to our booking for lunch 15 minutes earlier, we sat down and relaxed, ordered dinner, and had some drinks waiting for our food. I did think that my little person would eat his cheese and vegemite pizza, but he had a few slices and then announced it tasted like pasta. Oh well, no more pizza for him. My burger was yummy and filled me up for the remainder of the day and as you will soon find out I wasn’t hungry for the rest of the day.
Darling Harbour, Sydney.
After our food, we went off to the Darling Harbour playground to burn off some energy and to fill in time until we could go to our other activity. We then made our way to Dymocks to see Grug for Book week. Once arriving at the bookshop, I realised we were early, we busied ourselves looking at the books and my little boy was convincing me to buy many things in the shop that we really don’t need.
On the flying foxHaving fun on the HUGE Slippery Dip
Grug finally arrived and we met him, although I was the only one that got a picture with the famous star of his own books.
We left the bookshop and walked through the Strand Arcade, this is where my six-year-old decided he needed a necklace, as he saw some in a very expensive shop. He wasn’t understanding that purchasing these necklaces would mean spending thousands if not hundreds of dollars. To allow this suddenly necklace wanting child to get something that wouldn’t break the bank I took him to Paddy’s markets and he was thrilled at his new sparkly purchase.
The multi-coloured necklace that I got my little boy
My little boy was very tired by this stage, and I decided we should go to the car park, get the car and make our way home. I went to the address that I had on my email booking for my pre-paid parking.
We both arrived where I was sure I parked the car. The car was not there. The place was closed and in fact, looked a bit different, however, I was sure it was the place. It was the address on my ticket as I pre-paid for parking.
I asked a man where the people at the office were, and he said he didn’t know. I said I need to ask them where my car is, and he said just go and find it and then said some rude things and raced down the stairs.
I was in a HUGE panic that I couldn’t find my car… and yes I did think it was stolen
By this stage, I was rather worried, concerned, and getting rather outraged that I couldn’t find the car. I went down to the bottom car park area and our car was nowhere in sight.
I then went to the building to see if I can ask someone about the car park and why it was empty and to find out where my car might be.
My six-year-old and I finally got to where the security guards were and explained what had happened. I told them that I was sure I parked my car there and that I was worried about the fact that it is not there. They asked me some more questions, I explained that my car was parked by the staff in the car park. They said they don’t do that in this car park.
Geez this now made me think that it was criminals stealing cars, two women told me to give my keys as they park the car. Now I was feeling very stupid, upset, and annoyed. Have I given keys to people to just take my car?
FUCK! Maybe there is a gang of car thieves doing this all over Sydney? Oh, why oh why has this happened? How am I going to get home with a little kid on the train late at night? And I was going to take the train but decided to drive! At this point, I was kicking myself for taking the car.
I walked around screaming and yelling and then started to cry! I realised that my car was not there and I had no idea where it was…. I have really stuffed up and I was very upset about it all.
The security guards checked the security footage and claimed that I am not on it at all. I was so upset that I thought this was part of the conspiracy but on the off chance it was true maybe I parked somewhere else, but where??????
In the area, I parked there was a Wilson’s Car Park on every corner, and some I cannot park in due to the height of my car. My little boy and I went to a few with the security guard and no car. I called the police and was waiting for over two hours. My little boy was tired, hungry, and really wanted to go home, and I was feeling the same as well as very upset with myself.
I had to leave as they were closing the building. I told them I had to take him to get something to eat.
While at Circular Quay McDonalds I got a call from a policeman about a few things about the car. I told him that my little boy was hungry and over it all. Told him what he needed to know and where we were. He said he was going to go to another car park and do a check elsewhere and then give us a callback. He called back and asked if we were still at McDonald’s, I said yes and then his colleague said that they would come and get us and take us to hopefully find our car.
We met the police officers outside Macca’s and explained a bit more about the whole situation. One officer said that we needed to get into their police car to go and find our car. Since the police showed up my super tired and annoyed child was now talking a million miles an hour, was super fascinated by the policemen, and was so happy to have a ride in a police car. Geez, I felt bad that we had involved the police and that I had no idea where my car was. I still thought that there was a criminal gang working the Wilson car parks, taking keys to say they will park the car and then racing off with it… Like Ferris Bueller but not returning the car.
In my head, it was an organised gang of thieves that target all the car parks and then sell off the cars to make huge profits. I am a huge fan of true crime and love listening to podcasts that detail murder, crime, and mysteries. I for one was thinking that this incident with my car might be a crime mystery…Yes, I did.. and this is a reason to maybe take a break from my true crime to relax. Clearly, it is not that relaxing.
So now we are both in the back of a police car off to another parking station to see if my car is there. It wasn’t. We then all went to the one I was sure I parked at and talked to a few people and then the police said what the security guards said, that I am not on the video surveillance footage. We did a few tests and then found out that we are on it from the time I was looking for my car but not when I came in the morning to park my car.
While at the parking station I answered some more questions while my little boy was fascinated by all the equipment that the police wear on their body for a days/nights work. After answering questions about the fact that the valet parking was near a hotel and some more, then the kind officer answered all my little boys’ questions. He was still going non-stop as he thought the officers were way cool!
One officer said that he had called Wilsons to get a person to come around and take us to other parking stations. With the info about the fact that the valet parkers said about the hotel, the officer asked the Wilson’s employee if there was a car park near a hotel. He said yes, so we decided to go to that one first to see if my car is there.
I really hoped it was, although I felt like a real idiot about the whole situation. However, while searching for my car at another car park one of the officers said someone else is having a really bad day at a Wilsons Car Park, I asked how? He then mentioned that this poor person had their foot run over by a car! I honestly cannot imagine how horrible this would be and the pain it would cause, I was thankful that our feet were intact and not run over by any vehicle! However, my car was still at large and I had no idea where it was.
We arrived at the Wilson’s Car Park near the hotel and it looked familiar. I handed my ticket to the people at the desk and they said to me that my car was there. It was now after 8pm and we started our journey to get my car around 2.30 or 3pm, so it had been hours.
The officers wanted to make sure that my car was indeed in the car park and joined us in the lift to go to the next level to see if it was really my car. We arrived on the level and just out of the door of the lift I could instantly see my car.
It was here. I found the car!
It wasn’t a criminal gang stealing cars? It wasn’t dodgy that the people at the other place didn’t have me on the CCTV, I wasn’t there at all and in fact at another place entirely!
Yes, I did a stupid thing and blanked on where I left my car.
I swear although parts of the car park looked familiar I didn’t remember the place.
I thanked everyone for their help and said how upset I feel that I wasted their time on a car. I know that police have bigger things to sort out than a woman who lost her car. I was pleased that I had the time for my parking for hours later than I needed so the time that I left the car park was all paid for as part of my parking. (I normally add extra hours to my booking in case I want to stay longer, not thinking about losing my car and taking hours to find it).
My little boy and I were so happy to have found the car. We both got in and drove home. We got home after 10pm and I finally was hungry by this stage and had a little something to eat. As you might imagine my six-year-old fell asleep on the way home and I tucked him into bed while I enjoyed some quiet time eating and watching an episode of one of my shows on Netflix.
Part of this story has shown I need to slow down and take time to make sure I notice things. However, it is hard when you have a million things going on in your brain, a kid going ten to the dozen and making sure that you are thinking of what you are doing next to not be late for events and things.
One of the girls’ friends’ mum had a horrible car accident that same weekend and she said that she needed to slow down and not think about everything too. It is so hard to slow down when you are the person that does many things for everyone. It is hard to just stop for a bit. I do think it is needed but with the chaotic world we live in, I believe that time out when you can think and have some silence (alone time) is essential.
I will now also try to not listen to 100% true crime in my alone time as I see conspiracies everywhere now.
What about you? Have you had moments when things have happened and if you just slowed down and had the chance to take more time at that moment the incident wouldn’t have happened?
Note: First published July 2014..although this is great no matter what year.
Have you wondered what to do with the kids these school holidays? Worried that if you take them somewhere or do anything it will cost you? Well, I have a list of fun things to do that will not break the bank. Yes, these fun things will keep the kids happy as well as your bank balance.
1. Playdough Fun
The night before I made a whole batch of playdough. I created multiple colours and also some had glitter in them as well. I added the food dye to each batch and made sure they were very bright vivid colours to make it even more fun. (Make sure you wear gloves as my hands were stained for a couple of days – yes I had green and red hands)
Playdough – In resealable bags so that the dough remains fresh and does not dry out.
I gave the kids cookie cutters, rolling pins, toothpicks and more so they could make patterns and be as creative as they wished.
I made the playdough recipe from McKenzie’s Cream of Tartar for playdough as it gives a nice smooth fluffy feeling. If you use this way to make playdough it will come out so nice and soft, just like the ones at the store. Yes, you heard that right! Give it a go and see. Make a big batch and put it all in containers for a rainy day. The kids loved this and played with the dough and their creations for hours.
All the kid’s playdough creations drying. Once all is done we can have them on our shelves to display. Don’t they look amazing?
2. Baking Fun
My girls love to make cakes and of course, after the cake is in the oven, they love to lick the mixing bowl and spoon. I did that as a kid and it is the best as the mixture always tastes wonderful and is so chocolatey!
I created a marble cake and added a vanilla cake mix to a chocolate one that had chocolate bits added to it as well. Once mixed in it created a marvellous marble mixture and looked great once it was cut into. Sorry I did not get any other pictures than the one before it was all eaten. Yes, it was that good. Maybe I should be a Masterchef????
Yummy Marble Cake – Get your little chefs busy with this easy-to-make cake
If you have a packet of cake mix this keeps things easy and all you need to do is add the eggs/egg and milk, stir and then put it in the oven. Simple cake made! You can ice it or add chocolate bits as we did, the choice is yours. Enjoy!
3. Painting Fun
I wanted to get the kids painting, and I did not want paint that causes issues with clothes or bad if you accidentally eat it. So I made my own paint. How do I hear you ask??
These are the ingredients I used:
Cornflour
Water
Food dye
I started with 1 cup of cornflour and enough water to make a paste. I created all the mixture before I added the colour as I wanted different colours that would allow the kids to paint a picture and not be restricted to two colours only. I added the mixture without the colour into a cupcake tin and then added the colour to each area of the tin.
I decided to make, yellow, purple, orange, blue, green and red. I ended up using more cornflour as it was not quite a paste consistency and I used more water than I should have as it was my first attempt at making this. To make each paint set I put it in the freezer to set. I am not sure if that is the done thing but it worked out quite well.
It might have been in the freezer for a bit long but after adding a bit of water with the paintbrush the colour melted a bit and it was just like real paints but with cornflour and water.
Having fun painting. Such creative artists.
Great paint mummy! What else can I paint?
4. Movie Fun
It is always fun to watch a film you have never seen before and to have lunch. I fed the kids some food while they all sat and watched Frozen. Yes, we are late to the party and have just seen Frozen.
Mesmerized watching Frozen
Now all the kids are singing is, “I want to build a snowman!” AHHHHH Oh well, so glad they loved it and sat still to watch it. Winning I think!
So grab a film that no one has seen as it will capture their interest for longer. If you want why not make a bed on the floor of the living room and make a treat of the film. You can even popcorn if the kids like that.
5. Park Fun
Around the corner of the house is a park. So I walked the kids to the park and they all ran amok at the park. One went on the swing, the other on the monkey bars and one other was going down the slippery dip. Fresh air and exercise always help keep kids happy.
The park is free and if you are not near one you can drive to one and bring the bike/scooter the child can get more enjoyment out of playing with their toys.
Swinging is fun! I am doing it all by myself now mummy!
Look at me, I can do the monkey bars all by myself. How clever is she!
I hope this list of some fun things to do with kids helps while they are on school holidays or for the weekends. Enjoy!
