tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11083625869039275262024-03-14T09:16:06.537-07:00CatSugar and Spice and All Things Nice, on life being a Mum.
Passions are Positive Parenting. Baking. Arts and Craft. Fashion. Life with kids. Making my house and home.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-9971270648022689162015-03-16T09:24:00.001-07:002015-03-16T09:51:15.214-07:00How to contain the footballs???<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYB0WtexMCDE7kMkENAdY8NO1DGhC6orjpjUJ_UOaHH9LLZ1QfJnJeIbwSDB8MiYJSnP_-F6TgK3mHxwbO-8JrdVX2yyvaKiLhvsrONSn_8XSe0utuZSdIAWALuxkNHPk7RAzg6UdQFNaV/s1600/1426522788891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYB0WtexMCDE7kMkENAdY8NO1DGhC6orjpjUJ_UOaHH9LLZ1QfJnJeIbwSDB8MiYJSnP_-F6TgK3mHxwbO-8JrdVX2yyvaKiLhvsrONSn_8XSe0utuZSdIAWALuxkNHPk7RAzg6UdQFNaV/s640/1426522788891.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So I have a 5 year old boy, he's the middle child, in between two girls. He is adorable, edible, delicious, cheeky, doesn't stop moving and his main purpose in life so far is to kick balls. Having had a girl first who sits for hours doing arts and crafts or reading, I was in for a shock. My little boy arrived and from the word go he wanted to kick, bash, run and destroy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am writing this post for advice. How on earth do I get him to stop randomly kicking EVERYTHING high in the air. This post is also fueled from guilt as I have just seen red as I have witnessed my little boy angel kick yet another item into next doors garden. Last time I looked the neighbour was housing five footballs, one basketball and three tennis balls in his garden. Not to mention various other items of his sisters belongings, that he has decided to launch into the air. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">No matter how many times I tell him, put him on the naughty step, take his favourite toy away etc he still does it! I can see it in his face, his brain does not engage, he just sees a football or an item and thinks 'how high can I kick that??' When it goes really high he has a look of delight on his face. He's proud, happy, nothing else matters. That is until I start nagging him, telling him someone will get hurt or that he will loose all his things and he looks confused.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So what can I do, how can I contain the things to our garden? How? Its a mystery! Maybe one I will just have to live with! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thanks for listening!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Xxx</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-51347715751141847092015-03-13T15:44:00.004-07:002015-03-13T15:44:55.027-07:00Simple things, creative play.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I
don't know about you, but in my house there are SO many toys. Like
millions! They are slowly taking over the place. I am constantly looking
at storage solutions to try and tame the toys. These are always failed
attempts, as the toys expand out of the new storage systems and start to
take over again. Throw a birthday and Christmas into the mix and we
have a full on take over. It's like Toys story eat your heart out!</div>
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The
thing about these toys are that the my kids don't seem to actually play
with them. They get pulled out of their boxes, scattered all over the
floor and discarded. I feel an inner frustration build up in me as I see
the creative side of play seems to be lost. Then I get cross with
myself by being sucked into the commercialism. </div>
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This
being my rant I wanted to share how if you're like me, many parents put
pressure on themselves to buy more and more toys. I was humbled the
other day when my two year old went into my junk cupboard (cupboard full
of stuff I don't know what to do with) and pulled it all out. Initially
I was like, 'oh more to tidy up!' but then I realised she was happily
playing with the things. She had four paper cups, a handful of straws,
some dried pasta, an empty Smarties box, muffin cases and a plastic
storage box. Her play entailed, filling the muffin cases with the pasta,
transferring it to the paper cups. Lining the cups up in the storage
box and taking them out again. Putting the straws in the cups and
generally sorting. This kept her entertained for at least 20 minutes and
it was her own creative play. It was so lovely to see, simple, honest,
cheap, non commercial play. Her imagination and dexterity skills could
be let loose. </div>
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For
parents out their who have to same frustrations as me with the toy
overload, give this a try. Give them some random items from your
kitchen. Paper plates, cups, dried pasta, raisins, even cheerios, some
pegs, a pan and a wooden spoon etc and set it up for them. See what
happens. Its simple, and they love it. </div>
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Happy child, creative play and enjoy a cuppa while they do it. </div>
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xxxx</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-59636225840760363062015-03-10T13:50:00.002-07:002015-03-13T15:34:37.240-07:00Milk and Cookies. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWdT-qP5Yp8BcoTedENyYwt1tauJwzWVw2K4_WCrwtrnas0CwEKm2jvlzPFi1UL2ImiZH51-73GhHT4SznlMQGjppoNm04RUq_38XLsqi8YH48KzA0eSopgnkWaSe00RRx3LsWricNbRKj/s1600/1425917245740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWdT-qP5Yp8BcoTedENyYwt1tauJwzWVw2K4_WCrwtrnas0CwEKm2jvlzPFi1UL2ImiZH51-73GhHT4SznlMQGjppoNm04RUq_38XLsqi8YH48KzA0eSopgnkWaSe00RRx3LsWricNbRKj/s640/1425917245740.jpg" /> </a> </div>
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My kids come home from school ravenous. They are so hungry they can't see straight. Tired, exhausted, grumpy and emotional. It's a matter of time before we have absolute melt down. I've spent ages trying to work out the perfect snack for them. If I gave them too much food it would mean they wouldn't eat their dinner. But if I didn't give them enough to eat in their snack I would have them moaning about how hungry they are. It would drive me crazy. I feel sorry for them, having to be on their best behaviour at school. Dealing with playground politics, sitting still when all they want to do is run around. Listening, learning. I began to realise it wasn't just hunger but that they were also emotionally drained too. They wanted was to come home and have some home comforts and a little snack. Not too much that it ruins their dinner but something to take the edge off.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQ4cUSpX2H1RgiA0hciLaFb5II5-y1_dZhQQlKK-o8FPpX22hFLkzQ1u6adVnbRdWpaGjDEn17PDsDoMgD4wuoiESy-Dm14t2tEuKygU3hp4BCeCoJfqvaKMkP3qAln6_7ZsXSW9bkGoY/s1600/1425917410471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQ4cUSpX2H1RgiA0hciLaFb5II5-y1_dZhQQlKK-o8FPpX22hFLkzQ1u6adVnbRdWpaGjDEn17PDsDoMgD4wuoiESy-Dm14t2tEuKygU3hp4BCeCoJfqvaKMkP3qAln6_7ZsXSW9bkGoY/s640/1425917410471.jpg" /> </a> </div>
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Realising the link that they were emotionally hungry too I decided they needed some emotional pampering. Coming home and sitting them up at the table. I would sit with them too, with a cup of tea. No phone, no quick jobs to do around the house. Just me and the kids, giving them my full attention. And the perfect snack for this, cookies and milk of course. Old school snack which goes so well together. I'm hoping it will evoke a lovely childhood memory or them of coming home and having cookies and milk after school. </div>
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What snacks do you give your kids after school?</div>
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xx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-56347741615881563592015-03-06T06:48:00.001-08:002015-03-13T15:35:29.150-07:00I'm doing the flares thang!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When flares went out to be replace by skinnies, I can honestly say I was glad to see the back of them. No more fraying as they were always too long. No more getting soggy in the rain. Another reason I was happy to say goodbye to flares was because they were always low cut and the tops were cropped. This caused problems because unless you were a size -0 there would always be some muffin bits sticking out for all to see. </div>
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When I realised flares were making a come back I wasn't that excited by the fact. I had it in my mind that I wouldn't indulge. Cut to month later and seeing the lovely 70's flares around with a cool boho feel, I found myself purchasing the very funky and reasonable ones from M&S (i know who'd have thought it!!) They are high wasited and not too long. I thought maybe this time round they may have got it right. No more frayed and soggy bottoms! So I got them! They sat in my drawer for a couple of weeks and I even started to think I'd take them back. I showed the to my husband who wasn't keen and said I looked like I was stuck in the year 2000.</div>
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Then with the sunshine coming out, I pulled them out of my drawer and put them on. It was like visiting an old friend, and so comfy. Lush, I thought, I'm so wearing these today! I have to add though I had really wanted to wear them with my converse for total comfort, but that really would have thrown me back to the year 2000. So instead I put them on with my pointy brown healed boots. It set off the 70's feel and looked cool. </div>
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I'm so glad I got them, welcome back to the flares! You have come back new and improved. Thank you!</div>
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Xxx </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-89428881716156375272015-03-05T06:27:00.000-08:002015-03-06T06:45:24.429-08:00Aftermath of the morning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwKGl2yUzJQoqqo3WhU6JNiFK5-m32eBZ_W2yjV-TZwFGACckpZ9I9qNLyCxela2kVxpMicMJMBJwfStiJjuGe2fE8oWe9NMjmMF8kBXKyD7UEZ3QHQWyV8m9r8WS5e0CbcgJd2gFotLI5/s1600/1425560946013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwKGl2yUzJQoqqo3WhU6JNiFK5-m32eBZ_W2yjV-TZwFGACckpZ9I9qNLyCxela2kVxpMicMJMBJwfStiJjuGe2fE8oWe9NMjmMF8kBXKyD7UEZ3QHQWyV8m9r8WS5e0CbcgJd2gFotLI5/s640/1425560946013.jpg"> </a> </div>
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This post today is just an insight into life as a stay at home mum. Yes I am pleading for your sympathy vote. Here is my living room after a morning at home. Actually it wasn't a morning at home because we went out swimming. So I got up, got the big ones off to school and the bigger one (husband) off to work, and took the little one swimming had an enjoyable but exhausting morning. Got back in time for lunch and whilst cooking the lunch this happened. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I don't understand how some homes stay so tidy, especially when there are little ones around. I called it the Tasmanian devil coming out. You know, when they whirlwind around causing destruction throughout their path. By lunch time and by the time they have their nap I'm faced with this. And today I've decided I'm going to leave it. I'm going to put my feet up and have a cup of tea.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Heres to guilt free parenting and having me time</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Enjoy </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Xx </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-82104252607982430552015-03-05T06:23:00.001-08:002015-03-10T13:51:53.943-07:00As we see winter disappear.....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5uuNWusqPyUghIf0srqbFl8GpGMPiRXgHQma4p5duqZ03c5fsEprvlBWzzYDm3MAjbfjzW_pzxVBXFRke4gzbDDwHh8ntAaqXtzBzYBviEH21x-uoM-gKty6KMZqskEY8Kc7YjOdZADUC/s640/blogger-image-1154842065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5uuNWusqPyUghIf0srqbFl8GpGMPiRXgHQma4p5duqZ03c5fsEprvlBWzzYDm3MAjbfjzW_pzxVBXFRke4gzbDDwHh8ntAaqXtzBzYBviEH21x-uoM-gKty6KMZqskEY8Kc7YjOdZADUC/s640/blogger-image-1154842065.jpg" /></a></div>
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At the start of each winter I look forward to wrapping up warm, getting my big winter coat out, hat scarf and gloves. I dream of going on a cold winter walks to find a cute country pub with roaring fires getting all snuggled and warm with a glass of red wine. That's my romanticised view on it anyway. Hit this time of year and I'm so over it, and what am I left with, severe SAD syndrome as I'm are desperate for the spring to come. All that and totally dry skin my lips are just totally chapped, cold sore after cold sore and lips that look gross. I can forget about putting a lip gloss on because it would literally just flake off - gross yeah!</div>
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I've tried everything, each year to go to the makeup counter or the chemist and try something new. Spending loads of money on products, like crazy amounts. That won't work so I resort to putting the kids Sudocrem on and then I just look ridiculous as I just have white lips to which the husband and kids think I'm mad. </div>
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So I've finally found it. This amazing Blistex is literally the only thing that works. It gives so much moisture and leaves my lips feeling lovely. I know it's a bit of a boring subject to write about but I'm so excited that I have finally found something that works I wanted to share it. </div>
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Why not try it! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-33479154599145984712015-01-29T06:39:00.001-08:002015-01-30T05:56:04.122-08:00Jungle sale<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's winter and a Saturday afternoon and everyone is bored. I'm left wondering what to do with three kids, plus and extra one who's here for a sleepover. </span><br>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">TV, gets boring! There's only so much Peppa Pig and Charlie and Lola that any of us can take. My 8 year old finds movies too scary. A hint of dramatic music or the lowering of lights and she's running out of the room screaming, so that's a no go! I tell them to play with their toys and before we know it there are arguments over who had what first, and an annoying little brother who is trying to take over. So we come up with the idea of having a jumble sale (or jungle sale as the kids were calling it) on the drive. It gets them from under my feet, they get fresh air and learn some entrepreneurial skills.</span><br>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So they go around the house looking for toys to sell. We get some cookies on a plate. Make up some marshmallow snowmen and out they go. They decide on a charity to donate the money to and everyone is happy. So not to take over, I leave them to it (well hovering at the door to keep an eye on them) and they love it. They get independence, have a sense of responsibly and do something for a worthy cause. </span><br>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So if your little one is bored and frustrated this weekend give it a go! It's fun for all :) xxx</span><br>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-88213545273604103572015-01-25T01:56:00.003-08:002015-01-25T13:15:21.941-08:00We all love the faux fur!The winter is all about the faux fur. I've been reading about fur snoods, fur coats and fur waistcoats. <div><br></div><div>I've been loving the fur on my sofa. It totally warms up the room, protects the sofa from little sticky fingers and looks just lovely. </div><div><br></div><div>It seems I'm not the only one who likes the fur. These four beauties love the fur throw, snuggled up to watch a movie. Bliss!! </div><div><br></div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCbUSOTNRhuvzOEtzgAdfw9SnbFEXRvU64roMuIv9AQLuD3E6ZmWdZUS4jaUk7PndYgFPXBXRccqdvyWbkUr5wmojwHXMGfT1FnpsXApxSpnsKtdUjYiAU88rWWmzRhu9AJG9UIeOm_eEF/s640/blogger-image--1497930755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCbUSOTNRhuvzOEtzgAdfw9SnbFEXRvU64roMuIv9AQLuD3E6ZmWdZUS4jaUk7PndYgFPXBXRccqdvyWbkUr5wmojwHXMGfT1FnpsXApxSpnsKtdUjYiAU88rWWmzRhu9AJG9UIeOm_eEF/s640/blogger-image--1497930755.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's one online at a bit of a steel!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">http://m.direct.asda.com/george/george-home/George-Home-Wolf-Faux-Fur-Throw/002030780,default,pd.html?cgid=D26M02G02C06</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-17647765959041724532015-01-25T00:29:00.001-08:002015-01-26T04:46:30.881-08:00Keeping the peaceSo my husband is away. So I thought it would be a good idea to let my 8 year old have her best friend over for a sleep over (sheer moment of madness, instead of dealing with 3 kids we now had 4!) The logic was, if there's more kids around its more likely they would keep themselves entertained. Yeah?? <div><br></div><div>It was totally jam packed, with a few fall outs. Mainly the target was annoying the little brother and disputes over who's turn it was in the iPad. All in all peace was easily restored and the house stayed relatively tidy (somehow??)</div><div><br></div><div>By bedtime it was time to spoil them with the yummiest of hot chocolates around the table. Smiles all round, nice warm tummies and off to bed. Perfect!!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij5nNiPCEvpcSmeVyvOjewt8uh-5c5yFHrYKECtOYsujlAeKedzB0GYZLYqzZZKSoI-SIMhvjNnPdyCoYn100iJETuNL8uSV91DdwRmYJHQ08Y1FvDULTIByTnyJ4-_g1yDMqEOI1P0Gp0/s640/blogger-image-1706267222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij5nNiPCEvpcSmeVyvOjewt8uh-5c5yFHrYKECtOYsujlAeKedzB0GYZLYqzZZKSoI-SIMhvjNnPdyCoYn100iJETuNL8uSV91DdwRmYJHQ08Y1FvDULTIByTnyJ4-_g1yDMqEOI1P0Gp0/s640/blogger-image-1706267222.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-77510375001291758242014-10-23T11:38:00.001-07:002014-10-23T11:38:54.016-07:00Add a bit of light to your life,<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikDMckAuXaF5_DqAvE1RZswybMzcDBvt9dDJjlQXvkv3kaUrBXfNOPM6__dJgdpszLwfMFHStQYLUN3MT3AUCGte7_JktlVnPxHLCwbTeKf4Ka2nqbGSOKtBGkssK15Fdw1YiaVogSBEMZ/s640/blogger-image-989902247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikDMckAuXaF5_DqAvE1RZswybMzcDBvt9dDJjlQXvkv3kaUrBXfNOPM6__dJgdpszLwfMFHStQYLUN3MT3AUCGte7_JktlVnPxHLCwbTeKf4Ka2nqbGSOKtBGkssK15Fdw1YiaVogSBEMZ/s640/blogger-image-989902247.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Making my home look pretty is more of a hobby it's an obsession. I try and think of ideas all the time of what to do with this space and that. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Lighting is a really important part of this. I wanted something different into living room, so I found myself stacking up some books that I love and placing my beloved shabby chic lamp on top of them. The end result works pretty well I think.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">If you have a space at home you don't know what to do with, why don't you try it. Stagger the books from large to small, make sure you have a platform big enough for your favourite lamp and viola. You have a statement piece without any extra cost.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Enjoy xx</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-79310867480423346002014-10-23T04:19:00.001-07:002014-10-23T04:19:31.478-07:00I just need a shower!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj40BrRkCbgpAnFgyg8IOum8MhTrtpxRHGYlLVYBfEjEKEYG9OHQttOOgZNl0TUtslHPIp41s_QSJU-RDbHdyObQZ038TbBX23UQ1DN-ByvTyySCgGlAjLcF5vPTfZN1T0mdAenVYdXwIkS/s640/blogger-image-2059953973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj40BrRkCbgpAnFgyg8IOum8MhTrtpxRHGYlLVYBfEjEKEYG9OHQttOOgZNl0TUtslHPIp41s_QSJU-RDbHdyObQZ038TbBX23UQ1DN-ByvTyySCgGlAjLcF5vPTfZN1T0mdAenVYdXwIkS/s640/blogger-image-2059953973.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Have you ever had one of those mornings where you just can't seem to get showered and dressed. The little one that you adore is driving you crazy as they are demanding you're attention. Drinks, food, nappy changing, food spilages, more drinks, more nappy changing. And before you know it, it's somehow midday and you're not dressed or had that shower your desperate for.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's an idea for mornings (or afternoons) just like that. Pop you're little one in an empty bath with their bath toys. You probably have 15 minutes of piece as they will have fun playing in a safe place and you get to have you're well deserved shower.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Enjoy!! Xx</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-46042124837853213422014-05-08T14:16:00.001-07:002014-05-08T23:37:34.350-07:00Dinner time conversation, getting your kids to talk.<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithpOKP8K9B1ZcDpBSlkxdjC9N_xDdLXT1ZAuaXe5h8rQVvcD9XIfcx9WTDS2pzrVeswvKlv5NQsmZF8zZ-5tWch3_Seg5i24XTUOaURz9oY2Gd-9G0yDrvZZNUPFQRlydz-mCKepKuy46/s640/blogger-image-2044492271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithpOKP8K9B1ZcDpBSlkxdjC9N_xDdLXT1ZAuaXe5h8rQVvcD9XIfcx9WTDS2pzrVeswvKlv5NQsmZF8zZ-5tWch3_Seg5i24XTUOaURz9oY2Gd-9G0yDrvZZNUPFQRlydz-mCKepKuy46/s640/blogger-image-2044492271.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Dinner time with the kids is total mayhem. Getting the right plate, sitting in the right seat. Each person wanting to tell you about their important day, both at the same time. Once everyone is settled, everyone is calm (ish) and the food is out I try to find out as much as I can about their little lives and what they have so done during the day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I want to share it with you as it helps you get to know your little one, their loves and fears. In our house we each take it in turn to tell each other about the 'best part of the day' and the 'not so best part of the day'. I don't like to ask them 'what's the worst part of the day' as I prefer to use positive language.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So Amélie's best part of the day was that in wet-play a girl did some arts and crafts with her. I ask some open questions to help her expand on this so she can't just give 'yes' or 'no' answers. For example, 'what arts and crafts did you do?' 'What colours did you use?' Etc</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Then I ask 'what was the not so good part of the day?' She said when her teacher got cross with the class. Again I asked her some open questions 'what was she cross about?' 'How many times was she cross?' I always find it imperative during this conversation to ask 'how did it make you feel?' This helps to expand the conversation and they get to explore their feelings. I also get an insight into how big an issue something is. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Sebbie's best part of the day was playing in the playground, even though he got wet ( I think that was what made it so great ). The not so good part was hurting his finger.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I love these conversations, I get a total insight into their day and I'm always amazed and impressed by the things they get up to. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Why not try it with your children, or even your partner. Remember to use the open questions, everyone loves to talk about their day and it helps bring you closer together.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Happy chatting xx</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-57958721712715118882014-05-06T14:31:00.001-07:002014-05-19T07:03:06.776-07:00Egg free cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim-qeryT9ym1ILWWW2xh9gyoQOelkweoa_BNihwe5rGUnDK0WWgZuTDfYbOGPSG0iOjti-2S0KCRdhT973LdImgSXUJ9sRjp-I38u-dRKYJwaOswisWUWLLmXjvJJkXffEhNDrZn6z1tnp/s640/blogger-image--128265854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim-qeryT9ym1ILWWW2xh9gyoQOelkweoa_BNihwe5rGUnDK0WWgZuTDfYbOGPSG0iOjti-2S0KCRdhT973LdImgSXUJ9sRjp-I38u-dRKYJwaOswisWUWLLmXjvJJkXffEhNDrZn6z1tnp/s640/blogger-image--128265854.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I got it into my head that I wanted to make an Easter cake for my family this year. The problem is that one of my children has an egg allergy. I have found this wonderful tasty recipe that is easy to make and everyone loves it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I wanted to share it for anyone out there who also has an egg allergy. This recipe is based on a war recipe, written up when eggs were rationed. People still wanted to enjoy a sweet treat with a cup of tea and this was the alternative. Works well today for egg allergy sufferers. I especially like it because of the history of this scrumptious treat.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">- 175g/6oz <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/plain_flour" class="name food" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">plain flour</a></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">- 3 tsp <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/baking_powder" class="name food" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">baking powder</a></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">- 70g/2½oz <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/margarine" class="name food" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">margarine</a></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">- 60g/2¼oz <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/sugar" class="name food" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">sugar</a></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">- 1 tbsp <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/golden_syrup" class="name food" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">golden syrup</a></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">- 150ml/¼ pint <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/milk" class="name food" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">milk</a></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">- 2-3 tbsp <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/jam" class="name food" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">jam</a></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1. Preheat the oven to 190C/375F/Gas 5. Grease and line two 18cm/7in sandwich tins.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2. Sift the flour and baking powder into a bowl.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">3. Cream the margarine, sugar and golden syrup together in a bowl until light and fluffy. Add a little flour then a little milk and repeat until all of the flour and milk has been added and the mixture is smooth and well combined. (Add a little extra milk or water if the mixture is too stiff.)</span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">4. Divide the mixture between the two sandwich tins. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until risen and golden-brown.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">5. Remove the cakes from the oven and set aside to cool slightly. Remove the cakes from the tins and set aside to cool completely.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">6. To serve, sandwich the cakes together with the jam.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">You can decorate it to your choice. I have covered it in a chocolate butter icing. Then put chocolate fingers all around the sides and chocolate eggs on the top. The kids love helping with this bit, and licking the bowl!!</span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Why not give it a try. Enjoy</span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Xx</span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 10px 10px;"><br></p></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-90647586080575365852014-05-06T13:50:00.001-07:002014-05-06T13:50:18.626-07:00The joy of shopping with a child in tow<div>
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Have you ever experienced the above with a toddler whilst shopping. With a long list of jobs to do this is not what I needed. </div>
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So I totally had a choice, get really cross with said horizontal child and get both him and myself upset, or attempt some positive parenting. </div>
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I gave him a choice, "would you like to get up off the floor by yourself, or shall I help you get off the floor?" He said he'd like me to help me get him off the floor. This also indicated that he just wanted my attention as he knew I was distracted by trying to get through my list of shopping which is so not fun really for a three year old.</div>
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This time I had a choice, I could carry on shopping and risk the same thing happening again in five minutes time (but tick some jobs off my list) or I could listen to my son. Realising I wasn't going to be able to finish list we comprised on going for a hot chocolate the home. </div>
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I didn't get much of my shopping done, but at least the situation got diffused pretty quickly and we still had a nice afternoon. </div>
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The lesson I learnt today is to make smaller lists when I have my son in tow, and enjoy the time I have with him. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-24040216984186983192013-11-20T11:17:00.001-08:002014-10-23T08:48:41.582-07:00Warm you up<div>
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I just love snuggling up with my little ones and loved ones and getting all cosy. They love hot chocolates and I try and keep having a hot chocolate for a special treat. It's getting cold, we are all full of snuffles so before bed this evening we got our pj's and dressing gowns on and had a special treat - a hot chocolate. </div>
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My children are dairy intolerant, so having a hot chocolate can be problematic. I use their dairy free milk which is called 'oatley' which you can get from any supermarket in the 'dairy free' section. The oatley has added calcium and as it is made from oats it is a natural healing product. I use coco powder and sugar to make up the hot chocolate. Then we have marshmallows on top to make it extra special.</div>
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It is a total treat and perfect for these cold winter nights. We sit around the table, and I ask them to tell me one good thing and one bad thing about their day. Then I ask them to tell me something they are thankful for. </div>
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It's the perfect end to everyone's day. The hot chocolate warms our tummys and the conversation warms our hearts.</div>
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Try it with your loved ones and keep warm xx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-63241062673898402272013-11-19T13:11:00.001-08:002014-10-25T16:25:38.037-07:00Quick and easy party hair ideas with a vintage twist.Going on a night out, party season is approaching fast. No time to do anything with your hair, then check out this little tutorial. <br><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">http://view.ceros.com/monsoon-accessorize/how-to-style-party-hair/p/1</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Don't worry if it's no exact or if it's bit messy if will look quirkier.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Give it a go and be playful.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Enjoy xx</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-90405550243963536182013-11-15T02:31:00.001-08:002013-11-15T03:01:36.271-08:00Give your furniture a make over<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCu8EDTXMtAvCp0up-D_SHJm1G6zCfb-nGDQeeOG9moVlJ9P8ZrOUNrrXciXkTyJHfaVo-gUrXpSSmsY91Usli9Dd83mX5UOantSReiYrs9aOofleliE5NZHD2w4uXCHa4pCc6k7H5CFo/s640/blogger-image--466837039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCu8EDTXMtAvCp0up-D_SHJm1G6zCfb-nGDQeeOG9moVlJ9P8ZrOUNrrXciXkTyJHfaVo-gUrXpSSmsY91Usli9Dd83mX5UOantSReiYrs9aOofleliE5NZHD2w4uXCHa4pCc6k7H5CFo/s640/blogger-image--466837039.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirkovEy2wLKb9MlJONmXqwnJI9_SZbfspVWPSywWeQGjwCgiMeOxKFSNjpMgibrno-G0ukVsxkOrCWuNQcNo7VAYUaO1kYBQpBhnWjgm5R4KJwQ1h-WkWPKQmFIJuIGxxCIlKnklDczEyH/s640/blogger-image--929912889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirkovEy2wLKb9MlJONmXqwnJI9_SZbfspVWPSywWeQGjwCgiMeOxKFSNjpMgibrno-G0ukVsxkOrCWuNQcNo7VAYUaO1kYBQpBhnWjgm5R4KJwQ1h-WkWPKQmFIJuIGxxCIlKnklDczEyH/s640/blogger-image--929912889.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Having a family of five, storage is very important in our house as we have so much stuff! I needed a chest of drawers that I could fit all of my children clothes in. I bought this chest of drawers from IKEA that does the job perfectly <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">It's big and functional but a little overpowering. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/00067830/ </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I wanted to find a way of softening the chest of drawers so it wasn't so dominating in the room. And also so that it looked prettier. A good way of doing this is to change the door knobs. You can have them all the same colour if you have a colour theme going on in your room, or if like me you prefer the shabby chic look you can mix and match the door knobs. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I spent time picking the door knobs up from different places. I love going into little shabby chic boutiques rummaging through the boxes of door knobs and picking them out. I ordered some on line also. You can pick them up anywhere. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I love these for a country cottage feel </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">http://www.notonthehighstreet.com/nkuku/product/fairtrade-daha-knobs </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">or these could look ultra glam if you wanted a more sophisticated look </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">http://www.notonthehighstreet.com/pushka/product/clear-cut-glass-cupboard-door-knob </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Why not have a brouse through and find some door knobs to give your chest of drawers a make over.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Happy searching!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-33819643772098967672013-11-14T12:00:00.001-08:002013-11-14T13:59:17.006-08:00Perfect food for the family<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5KIqFLNDCoo90Ap8s1pemMw3sJGrCx2s-76fVRwA7J4hMTjnpfQkuZkUzFoLkZ51rou0mCKkdsSBNOUEH2Jwa1cXfDfNOgrccavckeHyKxQhy7USFmdWP5xy7FqhyphenhyphenT9lh91L9Rwc-uoJ/s640/blogger-image--232769618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5KIqFLNDCoo90Ap8s1pemMw3sJGrCx2s-76fVRwA7J4hMTjnpfQkuZkUzFoLkZ51rou0mCKkdsSBNOUEH2Jwa1cXfDfNOgrccavckeHyKxQhy7USFmdWP5xy7FqhyphenhyphenT9lh91L9Rwc-uoJ/s640/blogger-image--232769618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqccBBC_9C5a6DVCtrovsYA0CNVL2Ay6oFaGmoI2ZcaXg_-91LUJvArU2p_2ltDekmJx2HHT4BepfISp7arVsRDVOlZ0ae7vgqyF_r6SFjGN8W-NKpF1GwvVT6Z58Acp6ciSrm4EArzszO/s640/blogger-image--629875281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqccBBC_9C5a6DVCtrovsYA0CNVL2Ay6oFaGmoI2ZcaXg_-91LUJvArU2p_2ltDekmJx2HHT4BepfISp7arVsRDVOlZ0ae7vgqyF_r6SFjGN8W-NKpF1GwvVT6Z58Acp6ciSrm4EArzszO/s640/blogger-image--629875281.jpg"></a></div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5KIqFLNDCoo90Ap8s1pemMw3sJGrCx2s-76fVRwA7J4hMTjnpfQkuZkUzFoLkZ51rou0mCKkdsSBNOUEH2Jwa1cXfDfNOgrccavckeHyKxQhy7USFmdWP5xy7FqhyphenhyphenT9lh91L9Rwc-uoJ/s640/blogger-image--232769618.jpg"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Cooking for a husband, a six and three year old and a nine month old with their own individual likes as dislikes can prove to be challenging. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My husband likes tasty food and lots of it. My six and three year old like easy food that they can eat quickly so they can get on with their buy lives that consists of playing my little pony and spider man. Then there's my nine month old who is fiercely independent and loves finger food so she can feed herself.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I have found the perfect recipe to meet the needs of my demanding family. Annabel Kramel's chicken and apple balsa do the job perfectly. They are wholesome, easy to cook and the apple makes them sweet so the kids can't get enough of them. My husband likes them also as the thyme and parsley add extra taste.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I makes these at least once a week and there are no left overs. Why not give it a try for your family, or just for a tasty snack for yourself.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's the recipe:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1tbsp light olive oil</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 onion, finely chopped</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and grated</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2 chicken breasts cut into chunks</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">½tbsp fresh parsley, chopped</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 chicken stock cube, crumbled (from one year old)</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">50g fresh white breadcrumbs</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Salt and freshly ground black pepper (from one year old)</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Plain flour for coating</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Sunflower oil for frying </span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Heat the oil in a medium-sized pan and sauté the onion for about 3 mins over a low-medium heat. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the onions to cool down.</span></li><li class="instructions" itemprop="recipeinstructions"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Using your hands, squeeze out a little excess liquid from the grated apple. <br></span></li><li class="instructions" itemprop="recipeinstructions"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Mix the apple in a bowl with the chicken, cooled sautéed onion, thyme, crumbled stock cube and breadcrumbs then roughly chop in a food processor for a few seconds. Season with a little salt and pepper if you like.</span></li><li class="instructions" itemprop="recipeinstructions"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Using your hands, form the chicken mixture into about 20 small balls, roll in flour and fry in shallow oil for about 5 mins until lightly golden and cooked through.</span></li><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br>Bon appetite!! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-44978980577574707292013-11-09T12:07:00.000-08:002013-11-09T13:20:58.256-08:00Yummy scrummy recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love cooking, I get such an enjoyment out of making cakes, presenting them and offering them to friends and family with a cup of tea. My husband recently bought home a box of dark and white Lindor chocolates. These are my favourite chocolates and I get quite excited about cooking with them. My mind started ticking over as to how I can mix these delicious chocolates into a cake.<br />
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Although I love making cakes, until recently they haven't always turned out too well. That is until I started using Mary Berry recipes. I find her recipes fool proof, literally every cake I make using her recipes turn out fantastic. I found her 'Death by chocolate' recipe and decided to use my Lindors in it.<br />
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Here is an online recipe of it:<br />
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http://taleof2kitchens.net/2013/02/20/death-by-chocolate-cake-from-mary-berry/<br />
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I made the cake as instructed, except for the icing where I used the dark Lindor chocolates instead of plain chocolate. It was heaven watching the little chocolate balls melt in with the butter. Then I cut the white Lindors in half and put them on top of the cake.<br />
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All I needed to finish everything was my friends and a cup of coffee.<br />
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This is definitely double death by chocolate.<br />
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Why not try it at home.</div>
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Enjoy!! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108362586903927526.post-50070616928827223472013-11-07T04:14:00.000-08:002013-11-14T14:00:24.800-08:00Statement piece ideasI'm currently helping a friend make her home more homely. She's done all the hard work, fitting a new kitchen, bathroom, knocking down walls etc but now she would like help with the soft furnishings. That's where I come in, and I love doing this stuff.<br>
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I would like to share my advice with you too. Go for statement pieces of furniture, colour scheme throughout and do your research on what your style is for example country cottage, shabby chic, vintage, modern industrial, minimal. Stick with that style throughout your house.<br>
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I will share with you some lovely statement pieces I have found, I will try and look at a range of price options.<br>
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Here's my first find.<br>
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Statement lamp<br>
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Ideal<br>
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http://www.lauraashley.com/table-lamps/cream-birdcage-lamp/invt/3391634<br>
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Great deal<br>
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http://www.dunelm-mill.com/shop/cream-birdcage-table-lamp-155465#5050210657124<br>
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This birdcage lamp would be a great statement piece in your living room. It gives a vintage, shabby chic feel to any living room.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17876838838841659523noreply@blogger.com0