tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87678540255822178322024-03-19T07:24:26.230+13:00SAHM I am- Stay At Home MumLife from my point of view as a Stay at Home Mum. Sharing recipes, play ideas, frugal fashion and a bit of crafting too!Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.comBlogger652125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-14150338236914883122017-01-19T07:00:00.000+13:002017-01-19T07:00:19.638+13:00A book from my childhoodThe second book in my 2017 reading list is one from my childhood, and one that I think a lot of you will be familiar with.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O8Sm44u1v0w/WH8VsqxZOjI/AAAAAAAAM_c/98sSF8NI7Cw_rClW3UKbwAbmrOCJLPmzgCLcB/s1600/img_2010.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O8Sm44u1v0w/WH8VsqxZOjI/AAAAAAAAM_c/98sSF8NI7Cw_rClW3UKbwAbmrOCJLPmzgCLcB/s1600/img_2010.jpg" width="100%" /></a><br />
<br />
Enid Blyton books were a huge part of my childhood, and I would spend many hours poring over the short stories, Faraway Tree series and The Famous Five. Since I wasn't an active kid due to health problems, these books were my chance to take part in something magical, and I especially loved Joe, Beth and Fanny in the Faraway Tree books.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3JTj4ri5c1o/WH1flnjnfuI/AAAAAAAAM_M/llFeAr38-M4hIUcTpwd2LcD7A4zDEHTeACLcB/s1600/15822909_1264115850293583_6456681628426069571_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3JTj4ri5c1o/WH1flnjnfuI/AAAAAAAAM_M/llFeAr38-M4hIUcTpwd2LcD7A4zDEHTeACLcB/s640/15822909_1264115850293583_6456681628426069571_n.jpg" width="362" /></a></div>
<br />
The one thing I will say straight away is that I am disappointed in the censorship of the new Enid Blyton publications. Fanny has been changed to Frannie, their cousin Dick is now Rick, and even Dame Slap was changed to Dame Snap, who snaps at the children instead of hitting them. One paragraph I found particularly humorous was this one- check out the warnings for waving the hot kettle around!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-orClnqQkBWQ/WH8V1AmmjnI/AAAAAAAAM_g/iNeajd9way001xccehpnxYFfpRksAjr9ACLcB/s1600/img_2006.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-orClnqQkBWQ/WH8V1AmmjnI/AAAAAAAAM_g/iNeajd9way001xccehpnxYFfpRksAjr9ACLcB/s1600/img_2006.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Other than the changes due to the PC brigade, I still absolutely love this story and my boys have been enjoying reading a few chapters each day during the school holidays.<br />
<br />
Do you have a favourite Enid Blyton book? I would love suggestions on which ones to read to my boys next!<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-82858989235412096352017-01-17T13:00:00.001+13:002017-01-18T11:05:26.496+13:00Getting a good night's restGetting a good night of sleep is extremely important to me as a mum, but this can often fall by the wayside as I juggle work, my family, household chores and all of the responsibilities that come with life.<br />
<br />
Quite often, I find myself lying awake at night with a mind full of thoughts, and each morning I wake up with eye bags and a strong need for coffee.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r0Ir6udsQSQ/WH0-_gEVNTI/AAAAAAAAM-8/Zz-0l2AN9dASponlt2FvcoeVTdz86wswgCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160707_092321.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r0Ir6udsQSQ/WH0-_gEVNTI/AAAAAAAAM-8/Zz-0l2AN9dASponlt2FvcoeVTdz86wswgCLcB/s1600/IMG_20160707_092321.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
To combat my sleeplessness, I have found a few things that have worked for me to make my bed a sanctuary, not a place to stress!<br />
<br />
The single most important thing I have found that helps is to write a to-do list before I go to bed. This helps to clear my thoughts and so I am not lying in bed thinking about all of the things I have to do tomorrow. My mind tends to jump from thought to thought, and so having it written down and out of my head means that I am less likely to lie awake thinking about my plan for the next day.<br />
<br />
On top of this, keeping a detailed diary of my family's plans helps me to combat the night time stress, as I know exactly what I have planned for the day ahead and I can make sure that I have the correct clothes, food and any other necessary items ready to go.<br />
<br />
My mind also tends to have trouble shutting off if I have been watching TV, and so I make it a rule not to watch any videos or TV shows for the half an hour before bedtime. My bedtime is usually set at 10:30 as I find having a routine also helps, so no screens after ten is a good rule for me to adhere to.<br />
<br />
Once my mind is clear, it is time to tell my body to go to sleep and the best way to do this is for me to have set bedtime routine. I always brush my teeth, remove my makeup and wash my face, and then spend 15-20 minutes reading a book. While I am reading, I like to lie flat and try to relax each part of my body, focusing on my breathing. This helps me to drift off to sleep, and makes me feel less stressed about the day ahead.<br />
<br />
I love these tips from <a href="https://www.leesa.com/products/leesa-mattress">Leesa</a> on how to become a morning person- definitely the right mattress and pillows can help get a better night's sleep too! Check out this review from <a href="http://thesweethome.com/reviews/best-foam-mattresses-you-can-buy-online/">The Sweet Home</a> if you are a stomach sleeper like me and you are looking for a supportive mattress.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xXfd1Bfkk5Q/WH04xFqXlkI/AAAAAAAAM-s/fJVp_IuXMcMO5NIjpYVBqarVl5Fihm2owCLcB/s1600/thumbnail_leesa_morning_person_x2_v3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xXfd1Bfkk5Q/WH04xFqXlkI/AAAAAAAAM-s/fJVp_IuXMcMO5NIjpYVBqarVl5Fihm2owCLcB/s640/thumbnail_leesa_morning_person_x2_v3.jpg" width="361" /></a></div>
<br />
Do you have any tips for a successful sleep? Share your comments below!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-75786616742811441802017-01-04T11:28:00.001+13:002017-01-04T11:28:05.151+13:00WCW- Salami Spaghetti Casserole<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oqAgTXsh6YU/WGrfTBSk4BI/AAAAAAAAM7o/Mque6CLkqisH_1JhrqoLkVgriHUpuIn_gCLcB/s1600/WCW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oqAgTXsh6YU/WGrfTBSk4BI/AAAAAAAAM7o/Mque6CLkqisH_1JhrqoLkVgriHUpuIn_gCLcB/s320/WCW.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I don't know what has happened to the weather here, but is suddenly all stormy and when it is cold I always crave cheesy pasta!<br />
<br />
This Salami Spaghetti Casserole ticks all the boxes for me- comfort food, adaptable to gluten free and delicious!<br />
<br />
The cooked spaghetti is mixed with oregano, garlic, eggs and milk to create the base of the dish.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z2ILbmxgjgU/WGwe4NB0UOI/AAAAAAAAM8Q/JHncvS6SIec0917Zn7m09lacaOvyQ4rPwCLcB/s1600/img_1962.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z2ILbmxgjgU/WGwe4NB0UOI/AAAAAAAAM8Q/JHncvS6SIec0917Zn7m09lacaOvyQ4rPwCLcB/s1600/img_1962.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Layers of cheese, pasta sauce and salami are layered on top of the spaghetti and then the casserole is baked in the oven to get the gooey melted cheese stage.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A6DaWAIn06s/WGwe93sqxhI/AAAAAAAAM8U/x0ycNqoOWOkjtskd8qE3rFd5ppbdzvJVQCLcB/s1600/img_1972.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A6DaWAIn06s/WGwe93sqxhI/AAAAAAAAM8U/x0ycNqoOWOkjtskd8qE3rFd5ppbdzvJVQCLcB/s1600/img_1972.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We love this casserole served with simple steamed vegetables and garlic bread!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mj5xlTqAv50/WGwfCQYAOPI/AAAAAAAAM8Y/VqcomH8Vad8Hc1GV0HIRwubuzacDD2h0ACLcB/s1600/img_1980.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mj5xlTqAv50/WGwfCQYAOPI/AAAAAAAAM8Y/VqcomH8Vad8Hc1GV0HIRwubuzacDD2h0ACLcB/s1600/img_1980.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<b>Salami Spaghetti Casserole</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>1 packet spaghetti noodles (can be gluten free)</li>
<li>3 eggs</li>
<li>1/4 cup whole milk</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon oregano</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon crushed garlic</li>
<li>1 can Watties Roast garlic and onion tomatoes</li>
<li>1/2 cup tomato based pasta sauce</li>
<li>3 cups grated mozzarella cheese<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></li>
<li>300g salami slices</li>
</ul>
<br />
Preheat oven to 180 degrees C.<br />
Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package directions then drain.<br />Whisk together the eggs, milk, oregano, garlic and 1/2 cup of the mozzarella and toss through the spaghetti noodles. Press the mixture into the bottom of a casserole dish,<br />Pour the spaghetti sauce and the canned tomatoes on top of noodles then layer half of the salami on top.<br />
Add the remaining cheese on top of the first layer of salami, and then add the extra salami on top of the casserole.<br />
Bake for 25 minutes and then leave to sit for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-45822969474685846962017-01-03T12:52:00.001+13:002017-01-03T12:52:08.262+13:0026 Books in 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As a total bookworm, I read at least two books a week and find it the best way to relax at the end of the day. Even as a child I always had my nose in a book, and I am glad that I have passed on my love of reading to my children,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When I saw the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GoodwillLibrarian/?pnref=story">Goodwill Librarian</a> reading challenge, I was very eager to get on board as I have gotten to the stage where my bookshelf has been read over and over.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YoIo9HRPgLE/WGrfZLBacmI/AAAAAAAAM7s/Ns2gHc4eABUzHiml5UOvQNzIYLKKKNOpgCLcB/s1600/15822909_1264115850293583_6456681628426069571_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YoIo9HRPgLE/WGrfZLBacmI/AAAAAAAAM7s/Ns2gHc4eABUzHiml5UOvQNzIYLKKKNOpgCLcB/s640/15822909_1264115850293583_6456681628426069571_n.jpg" width="361" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The library is a five minute walk to my house but I am usually there for the boys' books choices, so I have decided to visit the library by myself every fortnight. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am going to do this list in order, and so would love any suggestions you may have for upcoming books!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The first book I am going to focus on is a book I read in school- I loved English class in high school and remember reading ahead as I couldn't wait to finish most of the stories. I also did English Literature classes at university, where I fell in love with the Maus Books by Art Spiegelman. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yu_CR3JkC3o/WGrm7xfjADI/AAAAAAAAM78/aWomWNnMgWcKgG4AV9jvzO_h0P3Yv0gxwCLcB/s1600/img_1953.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yu_CR3JkC3o/WGrm7xfjADI/AAAAAAAAM78/aWomWNnMgWcKgG4AV9jvzO_h0P3Yv0gxwCLcB/s1600/img_1953.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I studied the first book in one of my English Literature classes, and I had to know what happened so I brought the second book too. These books tell the story of the Holocaust through the eyes of the author's father who was an Auschwitz survivor.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You may think this is a pretty heavy reading- but the story is made even more interesting by the fact that this is a graphic novel style book. It portrays the Jews as mice, the Germans as cats and the Americans as dogs, with other nationalities represented by different animals throughout the book also. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wfu6Tw6uyvQ/WGrnKGbDzkI/AAAAAAAAM8A/XztqfC2rJmUiUdumvTgE8StpKu7bJ6quQCLcB/s1600/img_1957.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wfu6Tw6uyvQ/WGrnKGbDzkI/AAAAAAAAM8A/XztqfC2rJmUiUdumvTgE8StpKu7bJ6quQCLcB/s1600/img_1957.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am going to read both Book 1 and 2 in the next fortnight as I go through a lot more than 26 books a year, but these ones are going to bring back fond memories of my time at university! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Each fortnight I will share the book I have chosen, as well as my thoughts on the previous week's book. I hope you will come back and check in on my reading journey this year!</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-27449785446112868712016-12-29T19:04:00.001+13:002016-12-29T19:04:16.866+13:00Elf on The Shelf Week FourThe last week of Ralph hi-jinks has been and gone- here is what he got up to in week four!<br />
<br />
On Monday morning we found Ralph chilling in the fridge, although he did have a blanket on too.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qqRHYit6jCg/WGSiGUc0GcI/AAAAAAAAM48/x9uNi2TIom4JWgMger1dmiRmNzAZyPrNQCLcB/s1600/img_1162.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qqRHYit6jCg/WGSiGUc0GcI/AAAAAAAAM48/x9uNi2TIom4JWgMger1dmiRmNzAZyPrNQCLcB/s1600/img_1162.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Ralph sent a subtle reminder to the boys to brush their teeth after all the Christmas lollies.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ibRs4y9RJI/WGSikx6iwKI/AAAAAAAAM5A/ZWjsAmPrfMEU5o5wRYeER8TL0vlgGqSNACLcB/s1600/img_1193.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ibRs4y9RJI/WGSikx6iwKI/AAAAAAAAM5A/ZWjsAmPrfMEU5o5wRYeER8TL0vlgGqSNACLcB/s1600/img_1193.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The boys put the tree up with minimal help this year, and so Ralph did some adjusting on Wednesday with the help of a toy fire engine.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sXawKt_ilvU/WGSipvEWsdI/AAAAAAAAM5E/elRPG_-aIvQHzz2lU1RbgIdPRfxKRTP4ACLcB/s1600/img_1264.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sXawKt_ilvU/WGSipvEWsdI/AAAAAAAAM5E/elRPG_-aIvQHzz2lU1RbgIdPRfxKRTP4ACLcB/s1600/img_1264.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Thursday found Ralph helping me with domestic duties!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EEMHUMhk8L0/WGSkXRQxwrI/AAAAAAAAM5Q/nhSGFeyUSUsfZe-t06lPfj67IDCARW_lQCLcB/s1600/img_1309.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EEMHUMhk8L0/WGSkXRQxwrI/AAAAAAAAM5Q/nhSGFeyUSUsfZe-t06lPfj67IDCARW_lQCLcB/s1600/img_1309.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
On Friday, Ralph brought some DIY ornaments for the boys to do as part of their Christmas Craft Day.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OYdEK4Fw3OM/WGSkmZfEctI/AAAAAAAAM5U/EZtKF8dft24K2X66QW957QlrqkNHuSmKgCLcB/s1600/img_1321.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OYdEK4Fw3OM/WGSkmZfEctI/AAAAAAAAM5U/EZtKF8dft24K2X66QW957QlrqkNHuSmKgCLcB/s1600/img_1321.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Ralph said goodbye on Christmas Eve, and left us with a Santa key and a book to read.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iQyMrMtRG1E/WGSkrQjA2II/AAAAAAAAM5Y/ZWUWkGDHm0kT972KKoYKf9b6g1s-GeDHgCLcB/s1600/img_1372.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iQyMrMtRG1E/WGSkrQjA2II/AAAAAAAAM5Y/ZWUWkGDHm0kT972KKoYKf9b6g1s-GeDHgCLcB/s1600/img_1372.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The boys have had so much fun waking up every morning to find Ralph, and even my husband got into the spirit of things and helped out. I know that people are very divided in their opinions of the Elf on the Shelf, but for our family it was a great chance to connect and have fun.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-4633548567164822302016-12-22T16:38:00.001+13:002016-12-22T16:38:13.397+13:00Elf on The Shelf Week ThreeI am a bit late catching up on Ralph's antics this week as I have been busy teaching cupcake classes and dealing with the first week of school holidays!<br />
<br />
Ralph has been busy too, and it seems like he needed a caffeine fix on Monday morning.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KsqYcq2qXI0/WFtFPC8-CZI/AAAAAAAAM4M/bMrWdxWzhlEeOsdN7TZ-jJgb5mtNpUyKgCLcB/s1600/img_0646.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KsqYcq2qXI0/WFtFPC8-CZI/AAAAAAAAM4M/bMrWdxWzhlEeOsdN7TZ-jJgb5mtNpUyKgCLcB/s1600/img_0646.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Tuesday was our Polar Express themed day, so Ralph decided to create a train track to ride on.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nxzcxnmL4SM/WFtFgcgJbYI/AAAAAAAAM4Q/ywm1vzJSPnYxp2glrqbhX-qMuDxkatpHgCLcB/s1600/img_0688.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nxzcxnmL4SM/WFtFgcgJbYI/AAAAAAAAM4Q/ywm1vzJSPnYxp2glrqbhX-qMuDxkatpHgCLcB/s1600/img_0688.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The boys were delighted to wake up on Wednesday morning and find Ralph reading in their bedroom.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClSlSQWmR6k/WFtFsXpJMwI/AAAAAAAAM4U/Ezmw4Pon11IKjY6lxkBnJFvt1iQ5yXSyACLcB/s1600/img_0718.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClSlSQWmR6k/WFtFsXpJMwI/AAAAAAAAM4U/Ezmw4Pon11IKjY6lxkBnJFvt1iQ5yXSyACLcB/s1600/img_0718.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
On Thursday, Ralph brought a new book with him to prepare for an upcoming celebration!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KMs5LWAJD5E/WFtFzFc_-PI/AAAAAAAAM4Y/2-q-AsPLZJQeQ430lyA3RLui9V8OKt3oQCLcB/s1600/img_0744.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KMs5LWAJD5E/WFtFzFc_-PI/AAAAAAAAM4Y/2-q-AsPLZJQeQ430lyA3RLui9V8OKt3oQCLcB/s1600/img_0744.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Friday was our family movie night, and Ralph provided the popcorn!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kIxRp_JcGbw/WFtF6qhGlAI/AAAAAAAAM4c/zWbDdZCfaEE64IX8S4g6I9Ph5GTYJeb6ACLcB/s1600/img_0758.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kIxRp_JcGbw/WFtF6qhGlAI/AAAAAAAAM4c/zWbDdZCfaEE64IX8S4g6I9Ph5GTYJeb6ACLcB/s1600/img_0758.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The boys took a while to find Ralph on Saturday morning- they had been playing with the Duplo and so Ralph borrowed the Batmobile and dressed up as Batman.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ntjRrUpCXDw/WFtGByogGGI/AAAAAAAAM4k/C8b8vIHYVi0rv_bOk5h6HTZ1VhTfoGbYACLcB/s1600/img_0808.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ntjRrUpCXDw/WFtGByogGGI/AAAAAAAAM4k/C8b8vIHYVi0rv_bOk5h6HTZ1VhTfoGbYACLcB/s1600/img_0808.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Sunday was a very special day in our household, as Lucas turned 7. Ralph decorated a special birthday chair for Lucas to sit on, and even had a cupcake outfit on to join in with the celebrations.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JV3PGkSAjnE/WFtGRoBf8qI/AAAAAAAAM4o/izLtEKUPFFYWmU2eYxX5RohWbrbIpHE3wCLcB/s1600/img_0889.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JV3PGkSAjnE/WFtGRoBf8qI/AAAAAAAAM4o/izLtEKUPFFYWmU2eYxX5RohWbrbIpHE3wCLcB/s1600/img_0889.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The next week will be the last week of Ralph's antics as he will return to the North Pole on Christmas Eve, but he still has some great tricks up his sleeve!<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-31565960486841314572016-12-12T08:00:00.000+13:002016-12-12T08:00:22.100+13:00Elf on The Shelf Week TwoRalph the Elf has been up to more shenanigans this week, and the boys have been laughing every morning when they see what Ralph is up to.<br />
<br />
On Monday, Ralph was photocopying himself- maybe he wants to be a twin?<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-madbO4-CKso/WE0PJxPCFCI/AAAAAAAAM3c/a5-8ue7VSK4t4WWXjTrTBpKDj8LTWObOwCLcB/s1600/img_0179.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-madbO4-CKso/WE0PJxPCFCI/AAAAAAAAM3c/a5-8ue7VSK4t4WWXjTrTBpKDj8LTWObOwCLcB/s1600/img_0179.jpg" width="100%" /></a><br />
<br />
Tuesday was our gingerbread themed day, and so Ralph helped out by providing a gingerbread house kit for the boys to make.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vkPiuQLkbB4/WE0PlIEetPI/AAAAAAAAM3g/_WVcYDOGH-w-CdietLUyUerkTXhnJXHBgCLcB/s1600/img_0377.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vkPiuQLkbB4/WE0PlIEetPI/AAAAAAAAM3g/_WVcYDOGH-w-CdietLUyUerkTXhnJXHBgCLcB/s1600/img_0377.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We caught Ralph having a hot chocolate bath on Wednesday!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-56W6v2_TbU4/WE0Pql4GOrI/AAAAAAAAM3k/cSrJhEkD1dANifou-BogRL9uHa9uns0ZwCLcB/s1600/img_0450.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-56W6v2_TbU4/WE0Pql4GOrI/AAAAAAAAM3k/cSrJhEkD1dANifou-BogRL9uHa9uns0ZwCLcB/s1600/img_0450.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Thanks to some free printables from the Elf on the Shelf official website, the boys found Ralph colouring in a picture of himself when they got up on Thursday morning.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-careBvZ07vY/WE0P1dnLggI/AAAAAAAAM3o/Vmp0ay08ZRAemAYnO7P9MVGJk-Q0C5vcACLcB/s1600/img_0479.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-careBvZ07vY/WE0P1dnLggI/AAAAAAAAM3o/Vmp0ay08ZRAemAYnO7P9MVGJk-Q0C5vcACLcB/s1600/img_0479.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Friday is my personal favourite, which my husband set up- didn't he do well? Hulk against Ralph at Connect Four.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KVmFff4vaOM/WE0P-f4fhoI/AAAAAAAAM3s/Y7ga89VyNpQSmQ_yrm-f_IwI7P2xb0k7ACLcB/s1600/img_0506edit.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KVmFff4vaOM/WE0P-f4fhoI/AAAAAAAAM3s/Y7ga89VyNpQSmQ_yrm-f_IwI7P2xb0k7ACLcB/s1600/img_0506edit.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
On Saturday we went shopping for Christmas ornaments for the tree. This is an annual tradition for our family and so our tree is a real mish-mash of items! Ralph was glad to help out financially for the boys to purchase an ornament each.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ozXNXLp3Ys/WE0QDi3HpRI/AAAAAAAAM3w/GcycEoLRFF86_q5-anLDfA0EsvaKO9ukgCLcB/s1600/img_0581.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ozXNXLp3Ys/WE0QDi3HpRI/AAAAAAAAM3w/GcycEoLRFF86_q5-anLDfA0EsvaKO9ukgCLcB/s1600/img_0581.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Sunday was another Elf antic care of my husband- climbing our lamp for a better view of what the boys were up to for his report back to Santa.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KmSkIS1oSGo/WE0QI-AfXKI/AAAAAAAAM30/XpPxTqO7Q1oEsbVJMnVJ8c8Lv8qbrsgJACLcB/s1600/img_0629.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KmSkIS1oSGo/WE0QI-AfXKI/AAAAAAAAM30/XpPxTqO7Q1oEsbVJMnVJ8c8Lv8qbrsgJACLcB/s1600/img_0629.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I can't wait to show you what Ralph has planned for next week, as there are definitely going to be some props and more goodies courtesy of Ralph.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-70138913793390694582016-12-08T08:00:00.000+13:002016-12-08T08:00:03.285+13:00Summer Style during DAREcember Week OneThis December, I am taking part in two of my favourite Style Dares- DAREcember by <a href="http://www.foxinflats.com.au/2016/11/darecember-2016-putting-style-back-silly-season/">Fox in Flats</a> and Summer Style File by<a href="http://www.kimbalikes.com/summer-style-file-14-day-challenge/#.WEPS6NV96Uk"> Kimba Likes</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fiKWVO-rPn4/WEPTJPkwz_I/AAAAAAAAM1A/N0gUwd2XBoYDt6lHdwNUqp9JUmWu8LITgCLcB/s1600/DAREcember-2016-list-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fiKWVO-rPn4/WEPTJPkwz_I/AAAAAAAAM1A/N0gUwd2XBoYDt6lHdwNUqp9JUmWu8LITgCLcB/s400/DAREcember-2016-list-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rvfRXpjtts8/WEPTjtMJN2I/AAAAAAAAM1E/zVEAkwWaKPAE8_MLvYVqHfyahI9yy_03gCLcB/s1600/Summer%2BStyle%2BFile.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="391" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rvfRXpjtts8/WEPTjtMJN2I/AAAAAAAAM1E/zVEAkwWaKPAE8_MLvYVqHfyahI9yy_03gCLcB/s400/Summer%2BStyle%2BFile.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Somehow I missed the first two days and so I then combined the first four prompts together! I wore a Red Lip, a striped and pleated skirt, and added a shoulder shrug to my outfit.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HS_dQEMNYH4/WEcxBETTO-I/AAAAAAAAM2A/PeFCKw4D-rgeySgl-SAOuhqCH7svbxyygCLcB/s1600/20161203_085152.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HS_dQEMNYH4/WEcxBETTO-I/AAAAAAAAM2A/PeFCKw4D-rgeySgl-SAOuhqCH7svbxyygCLcB/s1600/20161203_085152.jpg" width="100%" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
On Saturday I relaxed in the sunshine with my denim cuffed shorts and a loose fit t-shirt from Ezibuy.<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1MnfBkiWGA/WEcxRGeQDlI/AAAAAAAAM2E/iiONT4pVuCwuE5Ysurn3xpo5fKVekA8RQCLcB/s1600/img_20161203_160124.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1MnfBkiWGA/WEcxRGeQDlI/AAAAAAAAM2E/iiONT4pVuCwuE5Ysurn3xpo5fKVekA8RQCLcB/s1600/img_20161203_160124.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Sunday was my scrapbooking workshop so I wore a half bun in my hair and put on a maxi dress! The weather as a bit chilly so I threw on my trusty <a href="http://www.boohoo.com/newz/new-in/keira-2-in-1-zip-back+chiffon-jumper/invt/dzz81780">Boohoo zip jersey</a> and some matching blue flats from Farmers.<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O369gPly3YQ/WEcxnHFDyTI/AAAAAAAAM2I/APkPtxJ4FyM7ah9ktFtAW9vcEp9Hct6_gCLcB/s1600/img_20161204_085514.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O369gPly3YQ/WEcxnHFDyTI/AAAAAAAAM2I/APkPtxJ4FyM7ah9ktFtAW9vcEp9Hct6_gCLcB/s1600/img_20161204_085514.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Monday was a bright wrap dress from Ezibuy paired with my black sparkly heels.<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tFYUercuJso/WEcyNcty_3I/AAAAAAAAM2M/Bty_OuYTq687lGgaxfcTaJarZCfb6UK1ACLcB/s1600/img_20161205_180201.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tFYUercuJso/WEcyNcty_3I/AAAAAAAAM2M/Bty_OuYTq687lGgaxfcTaJarZCfb6UK1ACLcB/s1600/img_20161205_180201.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Tuesday's prompt of stripes was the perfect excuse to wear my <a href="http://www.boohoo.com/newz/day-tops/amelia-basic-stripe-oversized-tee/invt/azz35090">navy and white striped top</a>, and I layered three blue bracelets on my arm.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bFVXuLs5i7g/WEcybB6X58I/AAAAAAAAM2U/zRVZSQmhQlMdJBWGc2HRkqO0XXnKK3MIACLcB/s1600/img_20161206_081703.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bFVXuLs5i7g/WEcybB6X58I/AAAAAAAAM2U/zRVZSQmhQlMdJBWGc2HRkqO0XXnKK3MIACLcB/s1600/img_20161206_081703.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Wednesday was all about black- I added some texture with my black lace skirt and added a gold tassel necklace.<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xet_O0zF82s/WEcyyrvCzrI/AAAAAAAAM2Y/IXCMPVaM20Y4_YV9cXa26sFp-q2d3uWNACLcB/s1600/img_20161207_081856.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xet_O0zF82s/WEcyyrvCzrI/AAAAAAAAM2Y/IXCMPVaM20Y4_YV9cXa26sFp-q2d3uWNACLcB/s1600/img_20161207_081856.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Next week I will be sharing my week two outfits-a few prompts are out of my comfort zone and so it will be a fun experiment to see what I come up with!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-76998241688185778942016-12-07T10:14:00.002+13:002016-12-07T10:14:37.668+13:00WCW- Beetroot and Citrus Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HirFdDPlMjo/WEclXSmFIFI/AAAAAAAAM1w/qHQb26Od85w8FPXJlJOtD22jot9NNyytACLcB/s1600/WCW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HirFdDPlMjo/WEclXSmFIFI/AAAAAAAAM1w/qHQb26Od85w8FPXJlJOtD22jot9NNyytACLcB/s400/WCW.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I love summer weather, and with it comes a lot of picnics and potlucks as well as BBQs. This Beetroot and Citrus Salad is great for making and chilling in advance.<br />
<br />
The ingredients all work well together and include goat's cheese, beetroot, baby peas, pecan nuts and quinoa.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iwf7cytyxiQ/WEcixE9mjOI/AAAAAAAAM1Y/ZeMWyu2MQmEa8ySgUND-XOmsYCzhR60UwCLcB/s1600/img_9499.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iwf7cytyxiQ/WEcixE9mjOI/AAAAAAAAM1Y/ZeMWyu2MQmEa8ySgUND-XOmsYCzhR60UwCLcB/s1600/img_9499.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I love creating homemade dressings for my salads, and this one is simple and delicious!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pcXls4lR8NM/WEci8LEFNTI/AAAAAAAAM1c/C082JH8mLP0hvHLtaq5HPxg0pUhuw9SnACLcB/s1600/img_9506.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pcXls4lR8NM/WEci8LEFNTI/AAAAAAAAM1c/C082JH8mLP0hvHLtaq5HPxg0pUhuw9SnACLcB/s1600/img_9506.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Layering all of the flavours together, you get some subtle sweetness from the beetroot, tang from the citrus, creaminess from the cheese and a crunch from the nuts.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l6AnUAwa5zI/WEckAtLtIKI/AAAAAAAAM1k/kFVi1xFhlSAX9eO9SpPclVOVB-XsRTOigCLcB/s1600/img_9508.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l6AnUAwa5zI/WEckAtLtIKI/AAAAAAAAM1k/kFVi1xFhlSAX9eO9SpPclVOVB-XsRTOigCLcB/s1600/img_9508.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
This salad is a great side dish for grilled meats and looks festive enough for any Christmas potluck events.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WvuRmiA3a_Y/WEckHuGkMaI/AAAAAAAAM1o/pBzoZ4Dv4PM2rr6qJfUNI3MYQ1xeecgFgCLcB/s1600/img_9524.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WvuRmiA3a_Y/WEckHuGkMaI/AAAAAAAAM1o/pBzoZ4Dv4PM2rr6qJfUNI3MYQ1xeecgFgCLcB/s1600/img_9524.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Beetroot and Citrus Salad</b><br />
1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa and brown rice mix<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
1 cup frozen peas<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
1 tablespoon lemon juice<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
1 tablespoon sesame oil<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
450 gram can baby beetroot, drained and quartered<br />
1 orange, segmented<br />
4 tablespoons chopped pecan nuts<br />
150 grams goat's cheese, crumbled<br />
<br />
Cook quinoa in rice cooker with peas.<br />
Whisk mustard, lemon juice and oil in a large serving bowl.<br />
Add quinoa, peas, beetroot, orange segments, pecans and goat's cheese. Toss to combine and serve,<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-58571975914830451332016-12-05T08:00:00.000+13:002016-12-05T08:00:11.422+13:00Elf on The Shelf Week OneAn Elf on the Shelf was welcomed into our family on December 1st- here is what he has been up to for the first week of December!<br />
<br />
When the boys came out to breakfast on Thursday morning, an elf was waiting for them! We read the book while waiting on breakfast, and the boys had a think about what to call our elf. The decision was made to call him Ralph the Elf, and so we made it official and then talked about why Ralph was here. Ralph will be in a different position each day, but he also has our advent activity tags.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zy8HVJAkkqc/WEOmhzTfS0I/AAAAAAAAMz4/Ec2kALW_L1smKTig7QDfi_4F6t4qb49AQCLcB/s1600/img_9861.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zy8HVJAkkqc/WEOmhzTfS0I/AAAAAAAAMz4/Ec2kALW_L1smKTig7QDfi_4F6t4qb49AQCLcB/s1600/img_9861.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
When the boys woke up on day two, they found Ralph snuggled up on the couch wearing his pajamas as it was Pajama Day at school. Lucas thought this was pretty hilarious!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jELboqKgR1E/WEOmvQNP1gI/AAAAAAAAMz8/aLnRW1ypQnIAXTv87VJHINFLu_U-lns-gCLcB/s1600/img_0041.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jELboqKgR1E/WEOmvQNP1gI/AAAAAAAAMz8/aLnRW1ypQnIAXTv87VJHINFLu_U-lns-gCLcB/s1600/img_0041.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The boys caught Ralph sending emails to his elf friends on Saturday morning!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rOAnzSVQjjg/WEOnjtirmhI/AAAAAAAAM0E/4kEe2mBYSI4bR91cZ3KeFPyvJJ1i1UggQCLcB/s1600/img_0048.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rOAnzSVQjjg/WEOnjtirmhI/AAAAAAAAM0E/4kEe2mBYSI4bR91cZ3KeFPyvJJ1i1UggQCLcB/s1600/img_0048.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Ralph gave us a hint about what to make for Sunday morning breakfast, so we all enjoyed some delicious pancakes before a busy day.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x7CJGPUHGYE/WEOn7-N5IsI/AAAAAAAAM0I/AA266k7jdJUMxeWmTdZDnui9lgomXHBdQCLcB/s1600/img_0151edit.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x7CJGPUHGYE/WEOn7-N5IsI/AAAAAAAAM0I/AA266k7jdJUMxeWmTdZDnui9lgomXHBdQCLcB/s1600/img_0151edit.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
My two can't wait to see what Ralph the Elf will get up to next week!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-53606263899041629182016-11-30T08:00:00.001+13:002016-11-30T08:00:16.847+13:00WCW- White Chocolate and Salted Caramel Mousse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a4f1zhD19FM/WDTO0iLYR8I/AAAAAAAAMvs/G9-ECpb7KlMPAx9ej33jdeRILvJUGvxkACLcB/s1600/WCW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a4f1zhD19FM/WDTO0iLYR8I/AAAAAAAAMvs/G9-ECpb7KlMPAx9ej33jdeRILvJUGvxkACLcB/s320/WCW.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sometimes you need a delicious dessert that you can make, leave in the fridge, and then serve and still feel like a domestic goddess. This recipe does it for me!<br />
<br />
A white chocolate mousse with salted caramel and buttermilk undertones- this dessert is guaranteed compliments but it is deceivingly easy.<br />
<br />
Sugar, cream, eggs and white chocolate make the basis of this recipe, and my two special ingredients of <a href="http://www.whittakers.co.nz/#/products/artisan/buttermilkcaramelisedwhite142/">Whittaker's West Coast Buttermilk Caramelised White Chocolate</a> and <a href="http://thedollopkitchen.co.nz/ourpuds">Dollop Salted Caramel Sauce</a> take this dessert to the next level.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zNIbZL0-Wdw/WDTO75kAlFI/AAAAAAAAMvw/7Jyy-cdV6_0o-vTph7frfa0nZw4StgIKwCLcB/s1600/img_9493.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zNIbZL0-Wdw/WDTO75kAlFI/AAAAAAAAMvw/7Jyy-cdV6_0o-vTph7frfa0nZw4StgIKwCLcB/s1600/img_9493.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
After beating the eggs and sugar, melted white chocolate and whipped cream is folded in to create a light and fluffy mousse.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gTt_LACkEfA/WDTPBHeL-UI/AAAAAAAAMv0/0tZDhqvaKOQDPqZDIiH1dLxzJbpVfLOAQCLcB/s1600/img_9500.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gTt_LACkEfA/WDTPBHeL-UI/AAAAAAAAMv0/0tZDhqvaKOQDPqZDIiH1dLxzJbpVfLOAQCLcB/s1600/img_9500.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The magic happens when you drizzle salted caramel sauce on top of the mousse, then add shavings and squares of the buttermilk chocolate.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hr6ma3nuJ4M/WDTPO0Zx-5I/AAAAAAAAMv4/Z5XxTWulfKAUXPAA8bxNQ2l3kpzog84ZwCLcB/s1600/img_9536.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hr6ma3nuJ4M/WDTPO0Zx-5I/AAAAAAAAMv4/Z5XxTWulfKAUXPAA8bxNQ2l3kpzog84ZwCLcB/s1600/img_9536.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
This mousse is all about decadence! Perfect for potlucks and this will definitely be on my table for Christmas Day dessert.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsOtTcPSzyM/WDTQuKD7NOI/AAAAAAAAMwA/VXI9yqxGw2IgsUYoKPxA4znUPTIecFAYACLcB/s1600/img_9530.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsOtTcPSzyM/WDTQuKD7NOI/AAAAAAAAMwA/VXI9yqxGw2IgsUYoKPxA4znUPTIecFAYACLcB/s1600/img_9530.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<script type="text/javascript"> function printDiv(e){var divToPrint=document.getElementById(e);newWin = window.open("", "printwin"); newWin.document.write(divToPrint.innerHTML); newWin.print(); newWin.close(); }</script><br />
<div class="therecipewizprintwrapper" id="White-Chocolate-and-Salted-Caramel-Mousse">
<style>#therecipewiz {width:95%; padding:8px;} #therecipewiz{border:#E1E1E1 solid thin;}#therecipewiz #printbutton{float:right; cursor:pointer; margin:-8px 0px 0px 0px;} #therecipewiz #rechead img{float:left; margin:0px 8px 0px 0px;}#therecipewiz #recbody{padding:0px 30px 0px 30px;}#therecipewiz div.title{ font-size:18px; font-weight:bold; margin:5px 0px 1px 0px; padding:0px;}#therecipewiz div.byline{ font-size:12px;}#therecipewiz div.subtitle{ font-size:16px; font-weight:bold; margin:10px 0px 5px 0px;}#therecipewiz div.summary{font-style:italic; font-size:14px; margin:5px;}#therecipewiz .ingredient{ /*width:46%; float:left;*/ display:block; margin:5px 0px 5px 15px;}#therecipewiz .instruction{ margin:5px 0px 5px 15px; display:block;}#therecipewiz .time{ margin:5px 0px 5px 15px; display:block;}#therecipewiz .clear{clear:both}</style><br />
<div class="hrecipe" id="therecipewiz" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/Recipe">
<span id="printbutton" onclick="printDiv('White-Chocolate-and-Salted-Caramel-Mousse'); return false;">print recipe</span><br />
<div class="item" id="rechead">
<br />
<div class="recabout">
<div class="title fn" itemprop="name">
White Chocolate and Salted Caramel Mousse</div>
<div class="summary" itemprop="summary">
</div>
<div class="clear">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="recbody">
<div class="subtitle">
Ingredients</div>
<ul>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">400 grams </span> <span itemprop="name"> white chocolate melts</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">4 </span> <span itemprop="name"> large eggs</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/2 cup </span> <span itemprop="name"> caster sugar</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">600ml </span> <span itemprop="name"> cream</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 bottle </span> <span itemprop="name"> Dollop Salted Caramel Sauce</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/2 block </span> <span itemprop="name"> Whittaker's Buttermilk White Chocolate</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="clear">
</div>
<div class="subtitle">
Instructions</div>
<div itemprop="instructions">
<span class="instruction">Place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl and melt, then set aside to cool.
Beat the eggs and sugar together with a hand held electric mixer until thick and pale and the sugar has dissolved.
Fold through the cooled melted white chocolate until well combined.
Whisk the cream in a seperate bowl until slightly thick and soft peaks form. Fold gently into the mousse.
Place the mousse in a serving bow, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
Serve with salted caramel sauce poured over top and sprinkle with chopped chocolate.</span></div>
<div class="clear">
</div>
<div class="subtitle">
Details</div>
<span class="time preptime">Prep time: <time datetime="PT10M" itemprop="prepTime">10 mins </time><span class="value-title" title="PT10M"></span></span><span class="time cooktime">Cook time: <time datetime="PT2H" itemprop="cookTime">2 hour </time><span class="value-title" title="PT2H"></span></span><span class="time duration">Total time: <time datetime="PT2H10M" itemprop="totalTime">2 hour 10 mins</time></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-62627482304932391762016-11-25T08:00:00.000+13:002016-11-25T08:00:08.588+13:00Getting started with The Elf on the ShelfThe Elf on the Shelf phenomenon has been steady in America for the last few years, and recently this cute tradition has found its way into New Zealand. Unlike other overseas traditions that I am less than thrilled about, this is one I can actually get on board with!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-35e1ca2_5u8/WDY6l8ksPuI/AAAAAAAAMw4/57xHBh4cxnkFN37EBrZFmXfTbCcwBZoiwCLcB/s1600/Elf%2Bon%2BThe%2BShelf.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-35e1ca2_5u8/WDY6l8ksPuI/AAAAAAAAMw4/57xHBh4cxnkFN37EBrZFmXfTbCcwBZoiwCLcB/s1600/Elf%2Bon%2BThe%2BShelf.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<b>So, what is The Elf on the Shelf?</b><br />
The official Elf on the Shelf toy is a sweet elf who reports to Santa each night, letting him know if the children in his assigned household have been naughty or nice. Every morning, he appears in a different location at your house so that the children can have fun finding him.<br />
<br />
<b>Does the Elf have a name?</b><br />
Each family can choose a name for their Elf- <a href="https://www.elfontheshelf.com/elf-registry">register it online</a> and get an official adoption certificate.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>How do I explain his appearance?</b><br />
The <a href="https://www.smartypants.kiwi/shop/books/elf-on-the-shelf/">official set</a> comes with a beautiful storybook, telling the story of The Elf on the Shelf. This means that all the explanations are done for you!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eCT0SbF1kUI/WDY7iWvRBpI/AAAAAAAAMw8/e8w-26g1feMcmRhsqyicF2E3cYkthPEeACLcB/s1600/img_9810.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eCT0SbF1kUI/WDY7iWvRBpI/AAAAAAAAMw8/e8w-26g1feMcmRhsqyicF2E3cYkthPEeACLcB/s1600/img_9810.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Isn't this just a way to get kids to behave</b>?<br />
I hope this Elf will encourage good behaviour in my children, but I think the best part about this is the fun that your children will have trying to find your Elf. For me, the whole of December is full of fun things for my kids to do and I really hope that this will be the start of something that they will remember as part of their childhood. Children only have the magic of Christmas for a short while, and so I want to encourage their imagination while they are still little enough.<br />
<br />
<b>Do I have to do elaborate scenes?</b><br />
Only if you want to! Sometimes, the simplest things are the best- Tall, Short, Tiny and a Pickle has some great <a href="https://tallshortandtiny.wordpress.com/2014/11/26/its-almost-elf-on-the-shelf-time/">simple ideas </a> and <a href="https://nz.pinterest.com/chile_chicken/elf-on-the-shelf/">Pinterest</a> is full of ideas that do not involve any effort. I know that Christmas can be a busy time, but this way I hope my children will get out of bed on time every morning so that we can start the day, as December can be quite full on with the end of school and there have been grumbles in the past. Even something simple like placing him in the fridge with the milk can be fun and doesn't require any props or settings.<br />
<br />
<b>What if someone touches the Elf?</b><br />
Part of this tradition is that the Elf loses his or her magic if touched. However, there are kits you can buy to re-magic him, as well as a reminder not to touch the Elf again!<br />
<br />
<b>What kind of props can I use with my Elf?</b><br />
You can buy so many accessories, outfits and pets for your Elf! How cute would this <a href="https://www.smartypants.kiwi/shop/play-time/elf-shelf-couture-tutu/">tutu</a> be for a little ballerina, or even a <a href="https://www.smartypants.kiwi/shop/play-time/elf-shelf-reindeer/">reindeer </a>to keep your Elf company. I have some Elf PJs for our elf to wear when he brings Christmas pajamas for the boys.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fIKyhXBUHHs/WDY70QsfKUI/AAAAAAAAMxA/WbD8li5KzREP1KlfifHG5PK3EPq7dXPSACLcB/s1600/img_9818.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fIKyhXBUHHs/WDY70QsfKUI/AAAAAAAAMxA/WbD8li5KzREP1KlfifHG5PK3EPq7dXPSACLcB/s1600/img_9818.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Where do I get my Elf from?</b><br />
I got my Elf from <a href="https://www.smartypants.kiwi/products/christmas/elf-on-the-shelf/">Smartypants</a>, a fabulous local shop that sells New Zealand wide. I try to support small, Kiwi businesses where possible and this shop has some fabulous Christmas ideas, dress ups and even a pocket money zone instore, as well as great Elf on the Shelf accessories.<br />
<br />
<b>I love this idea, how do I get started?</b><br />
Your Elf can arrive at any time- the most popular are the day after Thanksgiving, 1st December or the 5th December. He can arrive in stealth mode, in the morning, or at night, whenever suits you and your family. Creating your own traditions for the arrival, goodbye and daily mischief is all part of what makes this so fun!<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>I need some more ideas!</b><br />
<!-- /react-text -->The past few years, there have been Instagram posts using #kiwielfontheshelf - to share ideas, inspire and keep the motivation up! Every Monday in December I will also be sharing our elf's weekly antics, so please check in to see what he is up to and get some ideas for your own Elf.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">NB: I was not compensated for this post, however I have provided links (non-affiliate) for ease of shopping.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-23236625774321072602016-11-23T09:32:00.001+13:002016-11-23T09:32:31.210+13:00WCW- Chicken and Corn Spaghetti<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dWKWiht8Hhs/WDPL-mld5gI/AAAAAAAAMug/m9rCytp3-JoTevgIbgN6YJYJh8yLIOMFQCLcB/s1600/WCW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dWKWiht8Hhs/WDPL-mld5gI/AAAAAAAAMug/m9rCytp3-JoTevgIbgN6YJYJh8yLIOMFQCLcB/s320/WCW.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Hands up who loves frozen vegetables? I alway have a pack (or three) in my freezer so that I can quickly add vegetables to my stews, soups, casseroles and stir fries.<br />
<br />
Today's recipe relies on standard mixed vegetables, as well as a few delicious extras to make a hearty family meal.<br />
<br />
Gather everything together- I use chicken breasts for this recipe but feel free to use thighs if prefered. My secret ingredient is a good quality chicken and corn soup- this makes the base of this recipe a breeze!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NJCyrW_k3PM/WDPMGKzCrkI/AAAAAAAAMuk/3w4MPdKKF2kYH4YJAH8qDNFhr-9TxMZ-gCLcB/s1600/img_9434.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NJCyrW_k3PM/WDPMGKzCrkI/AAAAAAAAMuk/3w4MPdKKF2kYH4YJAH8qDNFhr-9TxMZ-gCLcB/s1600/img_9434.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Everything simmers together in the same pot and then you just need to add cooked spaghetti, which makes clean up minimal. Always a plus in my book!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SlQ9CZv07Vg/WDPMKyVfZDI/AAAAAAAAMuo/FZffo1ZP4tMDtMdm7_L22CRRNIp3mWkawCLcB/s1600/img_9443.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SlQ9CZv07Vg/WDPMKyVfZDI/AAAAAAAAMuo/FZffo1ZP4tMDtMdm7_L22CRRNIp3mWkawCLcB/s1600/img_9443.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
You can even add some toppings to this spaghetti dinner- I had some grated cheese and sesame seeds lurking in my fridge and so they were piled on top.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w3GZXa7BYkw/WDPMQlwUA-I/AAAAAAAAMus/Qr3YmohvyUwfgePYzCFAnjco3IoWJZ3agCLcB/s1600/img_9447.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w3GZXa7BYkw/WDPMQlwUA-I/AAAAAAAAMus/Qr3YmohvyUwfgePYzCFAnjco3IoWJZ3agCLcB/s1600/img_9447.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Creamy coated spaghetti, tender cubes of chicken and the family-friendly vegetables combine to make this dinner. Perfect for all the members of my family as our version is gluten free, but you can use standard spaghetti and soup bases if you do not have those dietary requirements.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ge7LX3aWDNM/WDPMfwH0hRI/AAAAAAAAMuw/POSwnWNte1godJRfiZaJqBQU7QPjc06PgCLcB/s1600/img_9450.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ge7LX3aWDNM/WDPMfwH0hRI/AAAAAAAAMuw/POSwnWNte1godJRfiZaJqBQU7QPjc06PgCLcB/s1600/img_9450.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Even better, this recipe can be made in the slow cooker by placing all of the ingredients apart from the pasta into the slow cooker on high for four hours- then cook the spaghetti and add to the crockpot for the last half hour.<br />
<br />
<br />
<script type="text/javascript"> function printDiv(e){var divToPrint=document.getElementById(e);newWin = window.open("", "printwin"); newWin.document.write(divToPrint.innerHTML); newWin.print(); newWin.close(); }</script><br />
<div class="therecipewizprintwrapper" id="Chicken-and-Corn-Spaghetti">
<style>#therecipewiz {width:95%; padding:8px;} #therecipewiz{border:#E1E1E1 solid thin;}#therecipewiz #printbutton{float:right; cursor:pointer; margin:-8px 0px 0px 0px;} #therecipewiz #rechead img{float:left; margin:0px 8px 0px 0px;}#therecipewiz #recbody{padding:0px 30px 0px 30px;}#therecipewiz div.title{ font-size:18px; font-weight:bold; margin:5px 0px 1px 0px; padding:0px;}#therecipewiz div.byline{ font-size:12px;}#therecipewiz div.subtitle{ font-size:16px; font-weight:bold; margin:10px 0px 5px 0px;}#therecipewiz div.summary{font-style:italic; font-size:14px; margin:5px;}#therecipewiz .ingredient{ /*width:46%; float:left;*/ display:block; margin:5px 0px 5px 15px;}#therecipewiz .instruction{ margin:5px 0px 5px 15px; display:block;}#therecipewiz .time{ margin:5px 0px 5px 15px; display:block;}#therecipewiz .clear{clear:both}</style><br />
<div class="hrecipe" id="therecipewiz" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/Recipe">
<span id="printbutton" onclick="printDiv('Chicken-and-Corn-Spaghetti'); return false;">print recipe</span><br />
<div class="item" id="rechead">
<br />
<div class="recabout">
<div class="title fn" itemprop="name">
Chicken and Corn Spaghetti</div>
<div class="byline">
by <span class="author" itemprop="author"> </span><span class="published" datetime="2016-11-23" itemprop="published"> November-23-2016<span class="value-title" title="2016-11-23"></span></span></div>
<div class="summary" itemprop="summary">
</div>
<div class="clear">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="recbody">
<div class="subtitle">
Ingredients</div>
<ul>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 tablespoon </span> <span itemprop="name"> sesame oil</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 </span> <span itemprop="name"> chicken breasts</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 cups </span> <span itemprop="name"> frozen vegetable mix</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">400 grams </span> <span itemprop="name"> chicken and corn soup</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/4 cup </span> <span itemprop="name"> trim milk</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">to taste </span> <span itemprop="name"> salt and pepper</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">250 gram packet </span> <span itemprop="name"> spaghetti</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="clear">
</div>
<div class="subtitle">
Instructions</div>
<div itemprop="instructions">
<span class="instruction">Heat the sesame oil in a large pan and add cubed chicken breast. Cook for 5 minutes, until chicken is mostly cooked.</span><span class="instruction">Add the frozen vegetables to the pan and cook for a further 2 minutes.</span><span class="instruction">Pour in the soup and milk, and season to taste. Simmer for a further 10 minutes.</span><span class="instruction">Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to packet directions. Stir through the chicken mixture and serve in bowls. </span></div>
<div class="clear">
</div>
<div class="subtitle">
Details</div>
<span class="time preptime">Prep time: <time datetime="PT5M" itemprop="prepTime">5 mins </time><span class="value-title" title="PT5M"></span></span><span class="time cooktime">Cook time: <time datetime="PT20M" itemprop="cookTime">20 mins </time><span class="value-title" title="PT20M"></span></span><span class="time duration">Total time: <time datetime="PT25M" itemprop="totalTime">25 mins </time></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-17766936828026139802016-11-07T21:18:00.005+13:002016-11-07T21:18:51.411+13:00Life LatelyThings have been pretty quiet on my blog recently, and I thought I would let you know I am still around! I have been dealing with a few health issues, which have taken their toll on my energy level, and I also have a new job so I have been doing training for that. With longer daytime hours, social events, days where I am in a lot of pain and also day-to-day planning of our family calendar, time to sit at the computer and type has been rare.<br />
<br />
Here is a quick overview of what I have been up to- and I would love to hear what you have been doing as well!<br />
<br />
I celebrated my birthday at the end of October, which meant a long overdue dinner date with my other half. We went to a local restaurant that has superb gluten free food, and then met up with some friends for the local quiz night.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OtR10LUtMoA/WCA1Dg5iB6I/AAAAAAAAMrA/lmCt2HStsBMiCibAi9cwzabvcz72pzPywCLcB/s1600/img_9216edit.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OtR10LUtMoA/WCA1Dg5iB6I/AAAAAAAAMrA/lmCt2HStsBMiCibAi9cwzabvcz72pzPywCLcB/s1600/img_9216edit.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I also spent Labour Weekend studying up for a fundraiser quiz night, which my team won! Quiz nights have become my new thing since my drama rehearsals have finished, and the bar tabs help!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FTvMrkHGacw/WCA1JdqoGbI/AAAAAAAAMrE/ykLm9dv0-O8p4rGMVPe36HKIoJ-7v3TlwCLcB/s1600/20161023_214820.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FTvMrkHGacw/WCA1JdqoGbI/AAAAAAAAMrE/ykLm9dv0-O8p4rGMVPe36HKIoJ-7v3TlwCLcB/s1600/20161023_214820.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Since I have a new job, my morning playgroup has finished, which I am really sad about as Adam and I loved going. He was happy with his dragon face paint on his last day, and he was very spoilt with a lovely goodbye gift and chocolate cake.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Y2iNUeeNlo/WCA1NUsgYlI/AAAAAAAAMrI/trFhkV3r4osMjPqd51oNjP4fozni7w0xQCLcB/s1600/20161028_110615.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Y2iNUeeNlo/WCA1NUsgYlI/AAAAAAAAMrI/trFhkV3r4osMjPqd51oNjP4fozni7w0xQCLcB/s1600/20161028_110615.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I got into the Halloween spirit with a group of friends, heading to the local pub for a dress up evening with great music, bar tabs up for grabs, and Halloween themed drinks. I went along as a Day of the Dead Senorita and enjoyed a few skeleton cocktails, as well as having a good boogie.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YdU8BjvigIU/WCA1SO0eAAI/AAAAAAAAMrM/GDGjWav4UYYkjZT3roUBKI6brqmaI5o2QCLcB/s1600/20161028_210829.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YdU8BjvigIU/WCA1SO0eAAI/AAAAAAAAMrM/GDGjWav4UYYkjZT3roUBKI6brqmaI5o2QCLcB/s1600/20161028_210829.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
In the weekend we also took the the time to celebrate Guy Fawkes with a BBQ and sparklers! My boys have been very hesitant about fireworks in the past, but this year they loved making shapes in the air with sparklers and watching the fireworks when it got dark. I enjoyed sitting back and watching my kids play with the other children, and it was so nice to catch up with one of my goo friends who has also been unwell.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u-L5OpjeuUs/WCA1b-3H7mI/AAAAAAAAMrQ/crWdCVi5uAc-oXVSXq70ZO6lKtYPs9lswCLcB/s1600/img_9371edit.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u-L5OpjeuUs/WCA1b-3H7mI/AAAAAAAAMrQ/crWdCVi5uAc-oXVSXq70ZO6lKtYPs9lswCLcB/s1600/img_9371edit.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
As you can see, I have been focusing on family and friends over the last month as the weather warms up. Having a health scare has made me realise what is important, and making memories is a huge priority for me.<br />
<br />
My health is still not 100% and I have a few more investigations planned, but in the meantime I am looking forward to preparing for the Christmas rush, Lucas' birthday, getting comfortable with my new job, and finally sharing more blog posts!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-23462320275623092612016-11-03T13:53:00.001+13:002016-11-03T13:53:46.844+13:00Virtual Book Club- Owl BabiesThe book for this week's Virtual Book Club was <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Owl-Babies-Martin-Waddell/dp/0763617105/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1478134119&sr=8-1&keywords=owl+babies+board+book">Owl Babies</a> by Marin Waddell.<br />
<br />
I had the pleasure of reading this book to a group of preschoolers in the holidays when I was running a craft area in the mall, and we did a cute owl activity using black, yellow, brown and orange paper, cotton wool, stick on stars and googly eyes.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7QVgH0EoCpY/WBqJP4ebuoI/AAAAAAAAMqM/dxJ2KcXu9vsUQnwaa1GNpN_Bw_0JgkfGQCLcB/s1600/img_9347.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7QVgH0EoCpY/WBqJP4ebuoI/AAAAAAAAMqM/dxJ2KcXu9vsUQnwaa1GNpN_Bw_0JgkfGQCLcB/s1600/img_9347.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The branch was stuck across the black paper, and I helped to cut beaks and feet from the orange paper. Big blobs of cotton wool became the owls, and we added the eyes to each baby owl.<br />
<br />
The finishing touch was adding the stars and moon to the night sky, and I had some happy parents and preschoolers!<br />
<br />
This book is such a great one to share with children who have separation anxiety or simply love reading about animals. Our version is a small board book, great for little ones to look through by themselves.<br />
<br />
For more owl activities, check out <a href="http://theeducatorsspinonit.com/2012/11/owl-crafts-activities-link-party.html">this post</a>!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-20839258912688098132016-10-19T07:00:00.000+13:002016-10-19T07:00:12.233+13:00WCW- Chicken and Chorizo Rice Pot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S_5VyTI1WDM/WAU-5tiOggI/AAAAAAAAMno/CuUulZJFa_QQSyOV5fjSbopHXhvwNzYyQCLcB/s1600/WCW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S_5VyTI1WDM/WAU-5tiOggI/AAAAAAAAMno/CuUulZJFa_QQSyOV5fjSbopHXhvwNzYyQCLcB/s400/WCW.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Even though Spring has arrived, we are still having some chilly evenings and there is nothing I like better than some warm comfort food in a bowl! Even better if there is minimal prep and clean up. This rice pot is perfect for family dinners when you want something without much effort that still tastes delicious.<br />
<br />
White wine, chicken stock, chorizo, chicken and rice pair together perfectly in this combination. You can also use shrimp in place of the chicken if wished.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ez8zwZVBl1M/WAU_upjeToI/AAAAAAAAMns/qDpB4c-5B_Y6nLUdKGqUe6fowhChTWeWACLcB/s1600/img_8891.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ez8zwZVBl1M/WAU_upjeToI/AAAAAAAAMns/qDpB4c-5B_Y6nLUdKGqUe6fowhChTWeWACLcB/s1600/img_8891.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The chicken is cooked first, then the chorizo is cooked to allow the oils to release. This gives the red pepper such a depth of flavour, and allows the flavour of the chorizo to permeate through the entire dish.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKOxux2URdQ/WAVIZsN3P9I/AAAAAAAAMn8/X_Ck3PjRsPQZVpnyvnC4KW66vK2wDuWgwCLcB/s1600/img_8893.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKOxux2URdQ/WAVIZsN3P9I/AAAAAAAAMn8/X_Ck3PjRsPQZVpnyvnC4KW66vK2wDuWgwCLcB/s1600/img_8893.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Cooking everything in one pot means minimal clean up- always a bonus in this house!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n8sZ2RuJ4ZM/WAVIkLnZVjI/AAAAAAAAMoA/m7GHrupsTjA7oeVG4SGOockxaF_onpgVQCLcB/s1600/img_8897.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n8sZ2RuJ4ZM/WAVIkLnZVjI/AAAAAAAAMoA/m7GHrupsTjA7oeVG4SGOockxaF_onpgVQCLcB/s1600/img_8897.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
As this mixture simmers, it emits a beautiful smell and makes my whole house smell welcoming and homey.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XsDBWKdpH-c/WAVJC5i9CdI/AAAAAAAAMoE/8-Y8Pe3pE0cEZo4lH2aNJ4mPVCM9tojGgCLcB/s1600/img_8898.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XsDBWKdpH-c/WAVJC5i9CdI/AAAAAAAAMoE/8-Y8Pe3pE0cEZo4lH2aNJ4mPVCM9tojGgCLcB/s1600/img_8898.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Best served in a bowl with some mixed vegetables (either mixed through or on the side) and some parmesan cheese sprinkled on top. This goes great with some crusty bread and a glass of red wine for a dinner date, and is just as welcome during a busy weekend or cold evening.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_xjmbCzxQAY/WAVJIMkZwtI/AAAAAAAAMoI/VTmSKXEgW_UB41XBeI3_X7mA9liWNXR3gCLcB/s1600/img_8899.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_xjmbCzxQAY/WAVJIMkZwtI/AAAAAAAAMoI/VTmSKXEgW_UB41XBeI3_X7mA9liWNXR3gCLcB/s1600/img_8899.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<div class="therecipewizprintwrapper" id="Chicken-and-Chorizo-Rice-Pot">
<div class="hrecipe" id="therecipewiz" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/Recipe">
<span id="printbutton" onclick="printDiv('Chicken-and-Chorizo-Rice-Pot'); return false;">print recipe</span><br />
<div class="item" id="rechead">
<br />
<div class="recabout">
<div class="title fn" itemprop="name">
Chicken and Chorizo Rice Pot</div>
<div class="summary" itemprop="summary">
</div>
<div class="clear">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="recbody">
<div class="subtitle">
Ingredients</div>
<ul>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 tablespoon </span> <span itemprop="name"> rice bran oil</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">500 grams </span> <span itemprop="name"> chicken breast fillets</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1, finely chopped </span> <span itemprop="name"> red capsicum</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2, sliced </span> <span itemprop="name"> chorizo sausage</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 tablespoon </span> <span itemprop="name"> tomato paste</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 tablespoon </span> <span itemprop="name"> Tuscan seasoning</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2/3 cup </span> <span itemprop="name"> white wine</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">3 cups </span> <span itemprop="name"> chicken stock</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 cups </span> <span itemprop="name"> white rice</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="clear">
</div>
<div class="subtitle">
Instructions</div>
<div itemprop="instructions">
<span class="instruction">Heat oil in a large frypan. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes until browned. Transfer chicken to a plate.
Reduce heat to medium. Add capsicum to casserole dish and cook for 10 minutes, until softened. Add chorizo and cook for 2 minutes, until chorizo has released some of its oils. Stir in tomato paste.
Return chicken to the dish with Tuscan seasoning, wine and stock. Increase heat to high and bring to boil. Cover with a tight fitting lid and simmer for 30 minutes.
Add rice and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover and cook for 15 minutes until the rice is tender. Remove from heat and stand for 10 minutes.</span></div>
<div class="clear">
</div>
<div class="subtitle">
Details</div>
<span class="time preptime">Prep time: <time datetime="PT10M" itemprop="prepTime">10 mins </time><span class="value-title" title="PT10M"></span></span><span class="time cooktime">Cook time: <time datetime="PT45M" itemprop="cookTime">45 mins </time><span class="value-title" title="PT45M"></span></span><span class="time duration">Total time: <time datetime="PT55M" itemprop="totalTime">55 mins </time></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-90856977599470735522016-10-18T12:36:00.001+13:002016-10-18T12:36:28.051+13:00Eric Carle inspired Mosaic Spider<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kb0oPRWfTsM/WAVfM9gnGdI/AAAAAAAAMo0/keaBFnjdb4k8amELZD4Z4ojUqXYaYpmcQCLcB/s1600/the-very-busy-spider-main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kb0oPRWfTsM/WAVfM9gnGdI/AAAAAAAAMo0/keaBFnjdb4k8amELZD4Z4ojUqXYaYpmcQCLcB/s400/the-very-busy-spider-main.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
My four year old has really enjoyed The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle, so we thought we would make our own busy spiders! I love the mosaic-like look of the spider in hues of blues and greens, so we set about creating our own blue and green spider.<br />
<br />
My son started out by sticking some green and blue scraps of cardstock to an 8x8" piece of white cardstock.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qk5kgnjp8nQ/WAVeRRYgseI/AAAAAAAAMoc/dYdk_vNbQWUFCDW3mgnkd7IOS-9eo9meACLcB/s1600/img_9185.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qk5kgnjp8nQ/WAVeRRYgseI/AAAAAAAAMoc/dYdk_vNbQWUFCDW3mgnkd7IOS-9eo9meACLcB/s1600/img_9185.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We kept layering the blues and greens until he was happy with the pattern.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WCYu6J-avRM/WAVeW5p9oOI/AAAAAAAAMog/1NWvqbSeDeMboRqRwqi7LDq9jNh6rsSFwCLcB/s1600/img_9196.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WCYu6J-avRM/WAVeW5p9oOI/AAAAAAAAMog/1NWvqbSeDeMboRqRwqi7LDq9jNh6rsSFwCLcB/s1600/img_9196.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I then took a side plate and traced around it, and cut out a circle from the mosaic pieces. I also glued down any loose pieces.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qlidlYdSfVo/WAVecmMdTdI/AAAAAAAAMok/_P_1Nuw5tFY5A8V0xRYUtU-M9zv4BpVsQCLcB/s1600/img_9200.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qlidlYdSfVo/WAVecmMdTdI/AAAAAAAAMok/_P_1Nuw5tFY5A8V0xRYUtU-M9zv4BpVsQCLcB/s1600/img_9200.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We added some googly eyes, and Adam chose the colours of popsicle sticks for the spider's legs.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8u_w7aIA7Sk/WAVeh1SP_jI/AAAAAAAAMoo/b-F2Nx7C66gDKFpoSOPIwI70zxaNkgDHwCLcB/s1600/img_9210.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8u_w7aIA7Sk/WAVeh1SP_jI/AAAAAAAAMoo/b-F2Nx7C66gDKFpoSOPIwI70zxaNkgDHwCLcB/s1600/img_9210.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Our finished mosaic spider is complete!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nu8IHTsAJxo/WAVemmLSRuI/AAAAAAAAMos/zmGdkKsxPAszKLYLABcqprxMJ-fCV2uWwCLcB/s1600/img_9215.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nu8IHTsAJxo/WAVemmLSRuI/AAAAAAAAMos/zmGdkKsxPAszKLYLABcqprxMJ-fCV2uWwCLcB/s1600/img_9215.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
This was such a great activity for hand-eye coordination as well as an understanding of what a mosaic is. Of course, there was also the ever important practice with glue and scissors!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-66046776523489195542016-10-11T13:50:00.002+13:002016-10-11T13:50:46.080+13:00Frocktober Week One Recap<span style="font-family: inherit;">Every year, I participate in <a href="http://www.frocktober.org.au/">Frocktober</a>. </span>Frocktober is an annual philanthropic campaign held each October. The campaign invites anyone to take on one or all of the Frocktober challenges (yes, the boys too!) or simply sponsor/donate to those friends, family and colleagues who support the campaign. It’s all about having some fun with fashion with heart in order to raise awareness of ovarian cancer and help to fund research.<br />
<br />
Day one started off with my simple black dress, paired with a floral kimono and tan shoes.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GE7oxK95qtc/V_s9YYD-NTI/AAAAAAAAMmQ/ReAL8Nrotb8s7GkF4W_DCK3N2tJ3N45lQCLcB/s1600/20161001_165057.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GE7oxK95qtc/V_s9YYD-NTI/AAAAAAAAMmQ/ReAL8Nrotb8s7GkF4W_DCK3N2tJ3N45lQCLcB/s1600/20161001_165057.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Day two as a bit chillier than expected, so I layered a grey tee under a grey swing dress and accessorized with flat sandals and a green beaded necklace.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1DUQGKUOhH0/V_s9huSphcI/AAAAAAAAMmU/IOsBFxlnq60Xlr5soSsIrT6fcXAQrUcKQCLcB/s1600/20161002_153749.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1DUQGKUOhH0/V_s9huSphcI/AAAAAAAAMmU/IOsBFxlnq60Xlr5soSsIrT6fcXAQrUcKQCLcB/s1600/20161002_153749.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Day 3 had my six year old as a photographer! Still experiencing some cooler weather so i put on some tights and boots with this floral dress.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6O1wx5lEICE/V_s9oopC8BI/AAAAAAAAMmY/5_zWa0Oa9ngGXhfmJj0z4uYUdcaU9gdGwCLcB/s1600/20161003_084445.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6O1wx5lEICE/V_s9oopC8BI/AAAAAAAAMmY/5_zWa0Oa9ngGXhfmJj0z4uYUdcaU9gdGwCLcB/s1600/20161003_084445.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Day 4 was off to a Christmas launch and so I glammed up my little black dress with a fun blazer and a statement necklace.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KsD2zVlnjQg/V_s9tmxY7LI/AAAAAAAAMmc/VuxpuzOueCAAzUbGwhrcU104Em0bwgVQQCLcB/s1600/20161004_181716.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KsD2zVlnjQg/V_s9tmxY7LI/AAAAAAAAMmc/VuxpuzOueCAAzUbGwhrcU104Em0bwgVQQCLcB/s1600/20161004_181716.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
My navy boots came in handy again for day 5, where I paired them with my leopard print dress and a corduroy jacket.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_2h2nu_LRUc/V_s94VUCuKI/AAAAAAAAMmg/99R-fKj0wGUvI75SzsGks31El1UhxDzMwCLcB/s1600/20161006_181407.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_2h2nu_LRUc/V_s94VUCuKI/AAAAAAAAMmg/99R-fKj0wGUvI75SzsGks31El1UhxDzMwCLcB/s1600/20161006_181407.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Saturday evening was the opening celebration of my friend's cafe, so I wore this maxidress with some gold shoes and a cream bolero.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gZMiD_-uwd8/V_s-C3MCnQI/AAAAAAAAMmk/1SzC-iINQiEU8H0RBtwTV7ow6GP9wyTagCLcB/s1600/20161008_182819.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gZMiD_-uwd8/V_s-C3MCnQI/AAAAAAAAMmk/1SzC-iINQiEU8H0RBtwTV7ow6GP9wyTagCLcB/s1600/20161008_182819.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
My LBD was worn again for a lazy Sunday scrapbooking, paired with a simple grey jersey, black flats and some bling.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aIt9o66uvsA/V_s-IJN_SfI/AAAAAAAAMmo/0TExhLjv1mgBgbqHol67ieRPVX1Xe7_WwCLcB/s1600/20161009_090357.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aIt9o66uvsA/V_s-IJN_SfI/AAAAAAAAMmo/0TExhLjv1mgBgbqHol67ieRPVX1Xe7_WwCLcB/s1600/20161009_090357.jpg" width="100%" /></a><br />
<br />
Next week may be tricky as I have some medical appointments and physio scheduled, and I am finding that the wind leaves me with a few Marilyn Monroe moments during school pick ups! However, I still have a lot more dresses to wear and I look forward to showing you a few more of my favourites.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-9829886228526396382016-09-16T08:00:00.000+12:002016-09-16T08:00:37.018+12:00My Top Five Christmas PhotosThere is something about photos that always makes me smile- I love flicking through my scrapbooks and remembering all of the things that have happened.<br />
<br />
Christmas is a time where I tend to take a lot of photos- I document our daily Christmas activities and December also happens to be my son's birthday, so my camera is often out.<br />
<br />
Sharing these moments every year with my family and friends in Christmas cards is also a wonderful way of keeping people up to date with what is happening in my life, and who doesn't love a Christmas card with a family photo?<br />
<br />
Christmas 2009 was extremely special to me, as I had just welcomed my first son into the world! He was a week old on Christmas Day and even though he slept right through the celebrations, I still took a lot of photos.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WhOQsrNPKUo/V9nVqfjjx3I/AAAAAAAAMgg/O5fV0ddTzBAFDPao84KDGu68GrOLdwXkACLcB/s1600/%2B%2B%2B%2B%2B%2B%2B%2B%2B%2B.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WhOQsrNPKUo/V9nVqfjjx3I/AAAAAAAAMgg/O5fV0ddTzBAFDPao84KDGu68GrOLdwXkACLcB/s1600/%2B%2B%2B%2B%2B%2B%2B%2B%2B%2B.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
One tradition that happens every year is that my father dresses up like Santa Claus, and I just love the wonder in my son's eyes in this photo. My Dad has also been known to dress up like Batman- he is such a kid at heart!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RUrbbFG7Wo0/V9nWPl_AaYI/AAAAAAAAMgk/ldgz7Xt4YbwUkUk9TSzlWKNgBkTsJq3BACLcB/s1600/sam_1124.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RUrbbFG7Wo0/V9nWPl_AaYI/AAAAAAAAMgk/ldgz7Xt4YbwUkUk9TSzlWKNgBkTsJq3BACLcB/s1600/sam_1124.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
My son then had a big announcement to make on Christmas Day 2011, when we told the family that our second son would be making an appearance in July 2012.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GaNrTBUMhqM/V9nWXH-TWiI/AAAAAAAAMgo/hRoGoPzrpXUyGrtPhAUzQGEw2wxh4BPvACLcB/s1600/img_4243.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GaNrTBUMhqM/V9nWXH-TWiI/AAAAAAAAMgo/hRoGoPzrpXUyGrtPhAUzQGEw2wxh4BPvACLcB/s1600/img_4243.jpg" width="100%" /></a><br />
<br />
By Christmas 2012 we were a family of four in our new house. This photo was the header for our family newsletter, which was sent all over the world.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jZnM29w9fno/V9niRap0m1I/AAAAAAAAMgw/XLa6s_G9miorECITqHzU2tietGt25qGuACLcB/s1600/img_9792.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jZnM29w9fno/V9niRap0m1I/AAAAAAAAMgw/XLa6s_G9miorECITqHzU2tietGt25qGuACLcB/s1600/img_9792.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Spending Christmas Day with my boys and husband is important, but I also get my other family members involved. I absolutely love this photo of me and my sister on Christmas Day last year, and once again I wanted to share it with my friends overseas.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pks5u9Xt5XQ/V9niuY_HfrI/AAAAAAAAMg0/l_vapLK1J9wt_ucP7ybfoPmZLaVZlXYAwCLcB/s1600/img_4266.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pks5u9Xt5XQ/V9niuY_HfrI/AAAAAAAAMg0/l_vapLK1J9wt_ucP7ybfoPmZLaVZlXYAwCLcB/s1600/img_4266.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Family photos are a must in my family on Christmas Day, and putting my favourite photos from the year on our Christmas cards and letters is one thing I love to do each December.<br />
<br />
I have family and friends all over the world that receive my cards, and I have recently discovered that I can send <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/lp/christmas-cards">photo cards</a> or even <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/christmas-cards-k">online cards</a> with minimal fuss that will still allow me to share my photos and Christmas greetings. I do take a specific family photo each year with the intention of sending it out to people, and so to have it on the front of a card is the perfect solution. My favourite design this year is a toss up between the <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/christmas-cards-k?card=29359">Christmas Finestra</a> or the <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/christmas-cards-k?version=paper&card=17942">Happy Happy Joy Joy</a> for multiple photos for my overseas friends, as <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/">Paperless Post</a> ships to the US, UK, Canada and Australia.<br />
<br />
Do you send out Christmas cards every year- or even a newsletter? I would love to know your traditions on this!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-49137783815642949382016-09-09T07:00:00.000+12:002016-09-09T07:01:05.982+12:00Dinosaur Week for preschoolersContinuing on my weekly themes for my four year old, we recently spent a week looking at dinosaurs.<br />
<br />
Adam loves art and craft activities, so we made our own triceratops. We started by painting a small egg carton piece with green sparkle paint.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yp2J7ZYwXVU/V8YCuPV4KoI/AAAAAAAAMZ0/OZyvLzYwG1gGXgkkDi8-kLtfXoNqkC4ygCLcB/s1600/img_7496.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yp2J7ZYwXVU/V8YCuPV4KoI/AAAAAAAAMZ0/OZyvLzYwG1gGXgkkDi8-kLtfXoNqkC4ygCLcB/s1600/img_7496.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We used a cupcake liner for the ruffle, googly eyes, and a popsicle stick cut into three pieces for the horns.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lHBFYYoUGEE/V8YC3mB9-SI/AAAAAAAAMZ4/GmQdGiPBlTwIKOxcjJTtJfckO6h7LCWYACLcB/s1600/img_7518.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lHBFYYoUGEE/V8YC3mB9-SI/AAAAAAAAMZ4/GmQdGiPBlTwIKOxcjJTtJfckO6h7LCWYACLcB/s1600/img_7518.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
As you can see, green and dinosaurs are popular in this household!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ygKJpRa2KUc/V8YDirSeWAI/AAAAAAAAMZ8/go8Qi8r7cPgPxaMKLgikGAKSYOaXRSKHQCLcB/s1600/img_7523.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ygKJpRa2KUc/V8YDirSeWAI/AAAAAAAAMZ8/go8Qi8r7cPgPxaMKLgikGAKSYOaXRSKHQCLcB/s1600/img_7523.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We also excavated our own dinosaur from an egg (purchased <a href="http://nature.co.nz/collections/types?q=Shells%2C%20Fossils%20%26%20Stones">here</a>) and it took us a good hour to retrieve the dinosaur from within- a great way to keep the boys occupied although I had a go too!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cn0fF9KvFNw/V8YDp1L40JI/AAAAAAAAMaA/L0FPrt8WTCs7cXHk0IrANT6dBNbpetAzACLcB/s1600/img_7541.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cn0fF9KvFNw/V8YDp1L40JI/AAAAAAAAMaA/L0FPrt8WTCs7cXHk0IrANT6dBNbpetAzACLcB/s1600/img_7541.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We then washed the excavated dinosaur and talked about which species it could be.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i2Eu18erUuU/V8YEXXoOrmI/AAAAAAAAMaI/-RPzEPbuAxkBr-M7xJ-t6Lj1oFGY892ZwCLcB/s1600/img_7549.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i2Eu18erUuU/V8YEXXoOrmI/AAAAAAAAMaI/-RPzEPbuAxkBr-M7xJ-t6Lj1oFGY892ZwCLcB/s1600/img_7549.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Some dinosaur <a href="http://www.itsybitsyfun.com/dinosaur-dot-to-dot.html#_a5y_p=3704296">dot-to-dot printables</a> were a fun activity for both boys to do after school.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x6S6hq-FhJE/V8YEc22_PcI/AAAAAAAAMaM/xq5yWMa1PwoWxPXqykTkXyzSpWsCNfYJgCLcB/s1600/img_7553.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x6S6hq-FhJE/V8YEc22_PcI/AAAAAAAAMaM/xq5yWMa1PwoWxPXqykTkXyzSpWsCNfYJgCLcB/s1600/img_7553.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I cut out some different shapes from green cardstock and we played dinosaur Tangrams.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XfjGAo5Hnyo/V8YEzGXTAiI/AAAAAAAAMaQ/dq5sXVQ2DGInd8tqgbHelcPBGMh3lGzkgCLcB/s1600/img_7611.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XfjGAo5Hnyo/V8YEzGXTAiI/AAAAAAAAMaQ/dq5sXVQ2DGInd8tqgbHelcPBGMh3lGzkgCLcB/s1600/img_7611.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
My six year old really enjoyed this activity, and spent ages making different animals from the shapes. Yes, he has dinosaur pajamas too!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CcKgnRAjwhU/V8YE59zeCOI/AAAAAAAAMaU/8NM6BO0chtscavaz-GHUVdUqsctJle8ewCLcB/s1600/img_7612.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CcKgnRAjwhU/V8YE59zeCOI/AAAAAAAAMaU/8NM6BO0chtscavaz-GHUVdUqsctJle8ewCLcB/s1600/img_7612.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Our family movie night was The Good Dinosaur, and I had purchased a kid's magazine that luckily had this Dino-Flake activity included.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r4RCeXJWeY0/V8YHjNNquII/AAAAAAAAMag/5wVLN3WA0SUakJ0DUyKBW1_mlkpxy9lQwCLcB/s1600/img_7625.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r4RCeXJWeY0/V8YHjNNquII/AAAAAAAAMag/5wVLN3WA0SUakJ0DUyKBW1_mlkpxy9lQwCLcB/s1600/img_7625.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
It also had a dinosaur Peppa Pig workbook, which came in very handy!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cfJYf4GhLpw/V8YH2nNeUeI/AAAAAAAAMak/cJEsJ29_EVwbuOBiED60h8MizYhfRJ3WgCLcB/s1600/img_7505.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cfJYf4GhLpw/V8YH2nNeUeI/AAAAAAAAMak/cJEsJ29_EVwbuOBiED60h8MizYhfRJ3WgCLcB/s1600/img_7505.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We read the Dinosaurumpus book together and played the <a href="http://www.sugaraunts.com/2015/04/dinosaur-gross-motor-movement-game-kids.html">Listen & Move game</a> during a wet day.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lUHCWbNzxW0/V8YIF4BgO-I/AAAAAAAAMao/OCn4fdfTGxQrtPKPrKBIZjfhoV4n0981QCLcB/s1600/img_7503.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lUHCWbNzxW0/V8YIF4BgO-I/AAAAAAAAMao/OCn4fdfTGxQrtPKPrKBIZjfhoV4n0981QCLcB/s1600/img_7503.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Dinosaur week was a big success with both boys!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-11956996154779322352016-09-07T07:00:00.000+12:002016-09-07T07:00:42.040+12:00WCW- Tropical Lunch Buns<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3dDzLQw22aw/V4s_xxD7ogI/AAAAAAAAME8/aAjAMBp_TYogPcTRcHXg0Zl3KJMG0zKJQCLcB/s1600/WCW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3dDzLQw22aw/V4s_xxD7ogI/AAAAAAAAME8/aAjAMBp_TYogPcTRcHXg0Zl3KJMG0zKJQCLcB/s320/WCW.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I love creating quick and easy recipes to replace sandwiches in the school lunchboxes. The same old ham and cheese in between two pieces of bread can get boring after a while, and so I have changed it up a bit with these Tropical Lunch Buns.<br />
<br />
Cheese, bacon and pineapple is such a classic combination, and always a winner in our household!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VG5dDK5R9vs/V8yqlKgMDHI/AAAAAAAAMb4/WTt4ssJGKK8jOufBd9Ho7uWmBS-dpZOngCLcB/s1600/img_8299.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VG5dDK5R9vs/V8yqlKgMDHI/AAAAAAAAMb4/WTt4ssJGKK8jOufBd9Ho7uWmBS-dpZOngCLcB/s1600/img_8299.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The rolls can be made bite size, lunch size or man size depending on who you are feeding.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hEUSrrWr84U/V8yq00KwJRI/AAAAAAAAMb8/bLZoiV3FUkkQ-0V61Qcbo9mZR_7WRAj8wCLcB/s1600/img_8306.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hEUSrrWr84U/V8yq00KwJRI/AAAAAAAAMb8/bLZoiV3FUkkQ-0V61Qcbo9mZR_7WRAj8wCLcB/s1600/img_8306.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
These rolls are also great for picnics or as a welcome to the neighbourhood gift!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rE02F1c--qE/V8yq7CNEDFI/AAAAAAAAMcA/jn2Ew34NkywNxP8NbbntzvlKL3RsRabHACLcB/s1600/img_8346.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rE02F1c--qE/V8yq7CNEDFI/AAAAAAAAMcA/jn2Ew34NkywNxP8NbbntzvlKL3RsRabHACLcB/s1600/img_8346.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Someone couldn't wait to try one.....<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BU7r78r29TA/V8yrCTZ6D3I/AAAAAAAAMcE/8kXoT7jkdBofb9ZL6WZ2W2cZGeRzgf17wCLcB/s1600/img_8355.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BU7r78r29TA/V8yrCTZ6D3I/AAAAAAAAMcE/8kXoT7jkdBofb9ZL6WZ2W2cZGeRzgf17wCLcB/s1600/img_8355.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Delicious warm with butter, or cold in a lunchbox, and even better with soup for lunch!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ue3EIJbaxXw/V8yrhyBtVYI/AAAAAAAAMcI/9E9yrRpy9HQJO-r-bUAFXiUOtf-w-11FgCLcB/s1600/img_8339.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ue3EIJbaxXw/V8yrhyBtVYI/AAAAAAAAMcI/9E9yrRpy9HQJO-r-bUAFXiUOtf-w-11FgCLcB/s1600/img_8339.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<div class="therecipewizprintwrapper" id="Tropical-Lunch-Buns">
<div class="hrecipe" id="therecipewiz" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/Recipe">
<span id="printbutton" onclick="printDiv('Tropical-Lunch-Buns'); return false;">print recipe</span><br />
<div class="item" id="rechead">
<br />
<div class="recabout">
<div class="title fn" itemprop="name">
Tropical Lunch Buns</div>
<div class="summary" itemprop="summary">
</div>
<div class="clear">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="recbody">
<div class="subtitle">
Ingredients</div>
<ul>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">250 grams </span> <span itemprop="name"> bacon</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">4 cups </span> <span itemprop="name"> plain flour</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 teaspoon </span> <span itemprop="name"> salt</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 teaspoon </span> <span itemprop="name"> baking soda</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 cup </span> <span itemprop="name"> grated tasty cheese</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">500ml </span> <span itemprop="name"> milk</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/4 cup </span> <span itemprop="name"> canned crushed pineapple, drained</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/4 cup </span> <span itemprop="name"> extra grated cheese</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="clear">
</div>
<div class="subtitle">
Instructions</div>
<div itemprop="instructions">
<span class="instruction">Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C.</span><span class="instruction">Cook the bacon for 3-5 minutes until crisp and chop into small pieces.</span><span class="instruction">In a bowl combine the flour, salt and baking soda. Stir in the bacon, first measure of cheese and pineapple. Add the milk and stir until the dough comes together.</span><span class="instruction">Knead on a floured surface for 1-2 minutes or until smooth. Shape into 12 balls. Place on lined tray, just touching. </span><span class="instruction">Sprinkle rolls with the extra cheese and cook in the oven for 35 minutes.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-27665870986870931702016-08-31T07:00:00.000+12:002016-08-31T07:00:05.533+12:00WCW- Gluten Free Lemon Loaf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YqtH8qnsaxY/V8QJJZKjmvI/AAAAAAAAMZI/WXkH3bBUtrQOK4IHjgi50YJHh0LJ_9txgCLcB/s1600/WCW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YqtH8qnsaxY/V8QJJZKjmvI/AAAAAAAAMZI/WXkH3bBUtrQOK4IHjgi50YJHh0LJ_9txgCLcB/s320/WCW.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I have been trying my hand at gluten free baking, and I have come up with a way to use my bounty of lemons at the same time.<br />
<br />
This lemon loaf is perfect for those with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity- but everyone who sampled this loaf did't realise it was made with gluten free flour. That is a win in my book!<br />
<br />
Here is what is needed to make the lemon loaf. If you do not have lemon oil, feel free to substitute normal vegetable oil and add in one extra lemon.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RpOY5L6Ud9I/V8QKhgTYjVI/AAAAAAAAMZY/0FJ8BmsJXAUS7XZqJQL_6ZvFzDu5oq3wQCLcB/s1600/img_8599%2B%25283%2529.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RpOY5L6Ud9I/V8QKhgTYjVI/AAAAAAAAMZY/0FJ8BmsJXAUS7XZqJQL_6ZvFzDu5oq3wQCLcB/s1600/img_8599%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The batter is so fluffy and yellow, with beautiful chunks of lemon zest shining through.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nXe1slMI_cw/V8QKmcdJoAI/AAAAAAAAMZc/wObEU_VlixAEJU59ERMYNInbKBcPlHY9ACLcB/s1600/img_8602%2B%25283%2529.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nXe1slMI_cw/V8QKmcdJoAI/AAAAAAAAMZc/wObEU_VlixAEJU59ERMYNInbKBcPlHY9ACLcB/s1600/img_8602%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Out of the oven, it made my entire house smell delicious!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b6LXHk7yYoc/V8QK2a_h9UI/AAAAAAAAMZg/2gOvHbRAjoA62O_2_uc2HadoZC-J3KCOQCLcB/s1600/img_8610.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b6LXHk7yYoc/V8QK2a_h9UI/AAAAAAAAMZg/2gOvHbRAjoA62O_2_uc2HadoZC-J3KCOQCLcB/s1600/img_8610.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Most of this loaf was gone before I had the change to take a photo, but here you can see the lemon glaze and the light, moist inside.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zg7doH_LH8E/V8QLAagHZEI/AAAAAAAAMZk/qmU_Y0_Gp9o0ah5L1iUBef7TM_wyfyrcgCLcB/s1600/img_8621.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zg7doH_LH8E/V8QLAagHZEI/AAAAAAAAMZk/qmU_Y0_Gp9o0ah5L1iUBef7TM_wyfyrcgCLcB/s1600/img_8621.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Totally good with coffee, for 3pm nibbles or even for breakfast!<script type="text/javascript"> function printDiv(e){var divToPrint=document.getElementById(e);newWin = window.open("", "printwin"); newWin.document.write(divToPrint.innerHTML); newWin.print(); newWin.close(); }</script><br />
<div class="therecipewizprintwrapper" id="Gluten-Free-Lemon-Loaf">
<style>#therecipewiz {width:95%; padding:8px;} #therecipewiz{border:#E1E1E1 solid thin;}#therecipewiz #printbutton{float:right; cursor:pointer; margin:-8px 0px 0px 0px;} #therecipewiz #rechead img{float:left; margin:0px 8px 0px 0px;}#therecipewiz #recbody{padding:0px 30px 0px 30px;}#therecipewiz div.title{ font-size:18px; font-weight:bold; margin:5px 0px 1px 0px; padding:0px;}#therecipewiz div.byline{ font-size:12px;}#therecipewiz div.subtitle{ font-size:16px; font-weight:bold; margin:10px 0px 5px 0px;}#therecipewiz div.summary{font-style:italic; font-size:14px; margin:5px;}#therecipewiz .ingredient{ /*width:46%; float:left;*/ display:block; margin:5px 0px 5px 15px;}#therecipewiz .instruction{ margin:5px 0px 5px 15px; display:block;}#therecipewiz .time{ margin:5px 0px 5px 15px; display:block;}#therecipewiz .clear{clear:both}</style><br />
<div class="hrecipe" id="therecipewiz" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/Recipe">
<span id="printbutton" onclick="printDiv('Gluten-Free-Lemon-Loaf'); return false;">print recipe</span><br />
<div class="item" id="rechead">
<br />
<div class="recabout">
<div class="title fn" itemprop="name">
Gluten Free Lemon Loaf</div>
<div class="byline">
by <span class="author" itemprop="author"> </span><span class="published" datetime="2016-08-31" itemprop="published"> August-31-2016<span class="value-title" title="2016-08-31"></span></span></div>
<div class="summary" itemprop="summary">
</div>
<div class="clear">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="recbody">
<div class="subtitle">
Ingredients</div>
<ul>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 2/3 cups </span> <span itemprop="name"> gluten free self raising flour</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/2 teaspoon </span> <span itemprop="name"> salt</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 cup </span> <span itemprop="name"> white sugar</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">3 </span> <span itemprop="name"> lemons</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/3 cup </span> <span itemprop="name"> lemon flavoured oil (can sub with vegetable oil)</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 </span> <span itemprop="name"> eggs</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/2 teaspoon </span> <span itemprop="name"> vanilla extract</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">150 grams </span> <span itemprop="name"> lite sour cream</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1/4 cup </span> <span itemprop="name"> milk</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 1/2 cups </span> <span itemprop="name"> Chelsea lemon icing sugar</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 tablespoons </span> <span itemprop="name"> hot water</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="clear">
</div>
<div class="subtitle">
Instructions</div>
<div itemprop="instructions">
<span class="instruction">Preheat oven to 180 degrees C.</span><span class="instruction">Zest the three lemons and place in a mixing bowl with the salt, sugar and oil. Mix lightly then add the eggs, one at a time, and the vanilla extract. </span><span class="instruction">Add the sour cream and milk to the mixture, as well as the juice from the three zested lemons.</span><span class="instruction">Fold in the gluten free flour and pour into a loaf pan.</span><span class="instruction">Bake in the oven for 45-55 minutes.</span><span class="instruction">When the loaf is cool, mix together the icing sugar and hot water then spread over the top of the loaf.</span></div>
<div class="clear">
</div>
<div class="subtitle">
Details</div>
<span class="yield">Yield: <span itemprop="yield">1 loaf</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-66446043737364693012016-08-30T07:00:00.000+12:002016-08-30T07:00:15.445+12:00Party Bag BuntingThis month's #30dayflip challenge was to make Something out of Nothing.<br />
<br />
Now, I have lots of bits and pieces floating around at home just waiting for a project, but they all require some money (or my husband's handyman skills) in order to be finished.<br />
<br />
I was sitting here pondering the challenge and then I got a message from my friend saying "I need some bunting tonight to use outdoors- can you help me?"<br />
<br />
Well, this got my brain thinking. I didn't want to use cardstock as to me it would have been too flimsy for the outdoors, and my stash of vinyl was reduced to iron-on white, which wasn't appropriate either. My eyes then drifted to some leftover party bags from a craft show I had done a couple of weeks ago. They were a heavier feel than cardstock and coated to be damp-proof, plus they were lovely bright colours. So I set to work to make a bunting banner out of party bags!<br />
<br />
I cut the sides out of each party bag, which gave me two seperate pieces to work with. I also cut out the handles of the bags.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OSKROg6hQ4g/V8QGYNY_ZRI/AAAAAAAAMYk/jw_xqkPuEFkugZVQR52zi9DjscCfg8lcACLcB/s1600/img_8567%2B%25283%2529.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OSKROg6hQ4g/V8QGYNY_ZRI/AAAAAAAAMYk/jw_xqkPuEFkugZVQR52zi9DjscCfg8lcACLcB/s1600/img_8567%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="100%" /></a><br />
<br />
I used my Cricut to cut the banner shape and got two pennants for each party bag rectangle. If you don't have a cutting machine, it would be easy enough to cut these using a template and add some holes with a hole punch.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MMRutwRMUc4/V8QGdhaNdcI/AAAAAAAAMYo/-dLZeBp7sNgZ9T3AJqwxrOkbBtSc0ndyACLcB/s1600/img_8573%2B%25283%2529.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MMRutwRMUc4/V8QGdhaNdcI/AAAAAAAAMYo/-dLZeBp7sNgZ9T3AJqwxrOkbBtSc0ndyACLcB/s1600/img_8573%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Once I had my pennants, I arranged them into a pattern order of red and green. I am excited to use this again at Christmas by the way, how perfect will it be for my outdoor BBQs and festivities!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CgFJXDCEmm0/V8QGhzEPn_I/AAAAAAAAMYs/hbkTOzngGi0kiVcaFbCOq7C0VBttRV3nQCLcB/s1600/img_8575%2B%25283%2529.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CgFJXDCEmm0/V8QGhzEPn_I/AAAAAAAAMYs/hbkTOzngGi0kiVcaFbCOq7C0VBttRV3nQCLcB/s1600/img_8575%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I attached each piece with some red and white twine I had in my craft stash. Depending on the occasion, you could use ribbon, wire or string to attach your bunting.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8aqS2wbgER0/V8QGmnfCpcI/AAAAAAAAMYw/OijmE5cpKJEhnAWopsreUTCQDJNjgSvtACLcB/s1600/img_8576.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8aqS2wbgER0/V8QGmnfCpcI/AAAAAAAAMYw/OijmE5cpKJEhnAWopsreUTCQDJNjgSvtACLcB/s1600/img_8576.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
And here is the finished party bag bunting, ready to be hung up!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bReD-FzZFgU/V8QIeEuhIfI/AAAAAAAAMZA/pbt2KB1EkCAecmMVShCkiC9qATAdKQjdgCLcB/s1600/img_8578.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bReD-FzZFgU/V8QIeEuhIfI/AAAAAAAAMZA/pbt2KB1EkCAecmMVShCkiC9qATAdKQjdgCLcB/s1600/img_8578.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
This got me thinking of all the possibilities- using extra goodie bags for bunting for a themed party would be the top of my list for trying this again! What would you use party bag bunting for?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-18370270970472448402016-08-17T10:08:00.001+12:002016-08-17T10:08:33.083+12:00WCW- Pokeball Nutella Cheesecake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2lve8V3d0YM/V6fgsyAcYHI/AAAAAAAAMSs/qJxl5LirWJERmzeM2-K166U9ZjtkmtqfgCLcB/s1600/WCW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2lve8V3d0YM/V6fgsyAcYHI/AAAAAAAAMSs/qJxl5LirWJERmzeM2-K166U9ZjtkmtqfgCLcB/s320/WCW.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
My husband recently celebrated his birthday, and instead of a birthday cake he requested a cheesecake.<br />
<br />
Now, my boys have been getting into the current Pokemon trend, but I think my husband is the biggest fan in this household! I thought it would be easy to transform his cheesecake into a Pokeball for his birthday treat.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x5RHpfZpbLg/V6kOOeinbzI/AAAAAAAAMTc/vB1GPsPUu1otxmRlj55ayY2jt1Vo62_sgCLcB/s1600/img_8482.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x5RHpfZpbLg/V6kOOeinbzI/AAAAAAAAMTc/vB1GPsPUu1otxmRlj55ayY2jt1Vo62_sgCLcB/s1600/img_8482.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I gathered all of the ingredients together to create the cheesecake- looks delicious already!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c-JbaDYwKYc/V6kNwO9OQvI/AAAAAAAAMTM/8U4pLKOune4ZBV7E7YMrxdP-7s98BHSAgCLcB/s1600/img_8422.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c-JbaDYwKYc/V6kNwO9OQvI/AAAAAAAAMTM/8U4pLKOune4ZBV7E7YMrxdP-7s98BHSAgCLcB/s1600/img_8422.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I melted the butter and then added it to the crushed up Oreo biscuits to form the base of the cheesecake.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oX7hawwaoUY/V6kN1ty0qHI/AAAAAAAAMTQ/Pj9mmiiK220NNa08INaDAqI2oTv13pK4gCLcB/s1600/img_8423.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oX7hawwaoUY/V6kN1ty0qHI/AAAAAAAAMTQ/Pj9mmiiK220NNa08INaDAqI2oTv13pK4gCLcB/s1600/img_8423.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
This is a baked cheesecake, so all of the other ingredients get mixed together and then bakes at a low temperature to set.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pjHJoy82tr8/V6kN8AeGxHI/AAAAAAAAMTU/ssBvoSzJPWI-KyYRwnjK1fo1x_H8ShIdACLcB/s1600/img_8438.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pjHJoy82tr8/V6kN8AeGxHI/AAAAAAAAMTU/ssBvoSzJPWI-KyYRwnjK1fo1x_H8ShIdACLcB/s1600/img_8438.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
With the help of some food colouring and baking paper, I was able to transform a round cheesecake into a Pokeball.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HhHYalkK8xY/V6kOGdTgDuI/AAAAAAAAMTY/ct1umoSk_BY8ldM8N1XUWsYFss4hnABpgCLcB/s1600/img_8468.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HhHYalkK8xY/V6kOGdTgDuI/AAAAAAAAMTY/ct1umoSk_BY8ldM8N1XUWsYFss4hnABpgCLcB/s1600/img_8468.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Once the two sides have been spread with cream, you can add the black fondant for the finishing touch.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sWthy4AtD7c/V6kOUuaqHXI/AAAAAAAAMTg/7Gjgf5kDDH4xtamaVyPxcRMyR9rVQ9y5ACLcB/s1600/img_8471.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sWthy4AtD7c/V6kOUuaqHXI/AAAAAAAAMTg/7Gjgf5kDDH4xtamaVyPxcRMyR9rVQ9y5ACLcB/s1600/img_8471.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l2qocyPIpnQ/V6kOgqeuUnI/AAAAAAAAMTk/5J4twYVhjAUa5zReT2BBwBdu2CJvb3JDwCLcB/s1600/img_8477.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l2qocyPIpnQ/V6kOgqeuUnI/AAAAAAAAMTk/5J4twYVhjAUa5zReT2BBwBdu2CJvb3JDwCLcB/s1600/img_8477.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
If you don't like Nutella, feel free to substitute melted chocolate or peanut butter instead!<br />
<br />
<script type="text/javascript"> function printDiv(e){var divToPrint=document.getElementById(e);newWin = window.open("", "printwin"); newWin.document.write(divToPrint.innerHTML); newWin.print(); newWin.close(); }</script><br />
<div class="therecipewizprintwrapper" id="Pokeball-Nutella-Cheesecake">
<style>#therecipewiz {width:95%; padding:8px;} #therecipewiz{border:#E1E1E1 solid thin;}#therecipewiz #printbutton{float:right; cursor:pointer; margin:-8px 0px 0px 0px;} #therecipewiz #rechead img{float:left; margin:0px 8px 0px 0px;}#therecipewiz #recbody{padding:0px 30px 0px 30px;}#therecipewiz div.title{ font-size:18px; font-weight:bold; margin:5px 0px 1px 0px; padding:0px;}#therecipewiz div.byline{ font-size:12px;}#therecipewiz div.subtitle{ font-size:16px; font-weight:bold; margin:10px 0px 5px 0px;}#therecipewiz div.summary{font-style:italic; font-size:14px; margin:5px;}#therecipewiz .ingredient{ /*width:46%; float:left;*/ display:block; margin:5px 0px 5px 15px;}#therecipewiz .instruction{ margin:5px 0px 5px 15px; display:block;}#therecipewiz .time{ margin:5px 0px 5px 15px; display:block;}#therecipewiz .clear{clear:both}</style><br />
<div class="hrecipe" id="therecipewiz" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/Recipe">
<span id="printbutton" onclick="printDiv('Pokeball-Nutella-Cheesecake'); return false;">print recipe</span><br />
<div class="item" id="rechead">
<br />
<div class="recabout">
<div class="title fn" itemprop="name">
Pokeball Nutella Cheesecake</div>
<div class="summary" itemprop="summary">
</div>
<div class="clear">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div id="recbody">
<div class="subtitle">
Ingredients</div>
<ul>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">255g packet </span> <span itemprop="name"> Oreo biscuits</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">70 grams </span> <span itemprop="name"> melted butter</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">200 grams </span> <span itemprop="name"> Nutella</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">400 grams </span> <span itemprop="name"> Cream cheese</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">80 grams </span> <span itemprop="name"> plain yoghurt</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">60 grams </span> <span itemprop="name"> castor sugar</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 teaspoon mixed with 60ml of hot water </span> <span itemprop="name"> powdered gelatine</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 1/2 cups </span> <span itemprop="name"> icing sugar</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 </span> <span itemprop="name"> eggs</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 teaspoon </span> <span itemprop="name"> vanilla essence</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">300ml </span> <span itemprop="name"> cream</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 teaspoon </span> <span itemprop="name"> red food colouring gel</span></span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount"> </span> <span itemprop="name"> black fondant</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="clear">
</div>
<div class="subtitle">
Instructions</div>
<div itemprop="instructions">
<span class="instruction">Crush the Oreo biscuits and add to melted butter, stirring until mixed through. Push into the base of a circular spring form pan.</span><span class="instruction">In a mixer, beat together the Nuteela, cream cheese, yoghurt, prepared gelatine, sugars, vanilla essence and eggs. Pour onto the biscuit base and bake in the oven at 180 degrees C for one hour.</span><span class="instruction">Leave the cheesecake in the fridge for at least four hours to make sure it is cool and set before preparing the topping.</span><span class="instruction">Beat the cream in a cold, clean mixer. Divide in half and colour one bowl with the red food gel. </span><span class="instruction">Take a piece of baking paper and trace around the cheesecake pan base. Cut out the circle and fold in half. Spread the white cream on one side of the cheesecake, then spread the red cream on the other side, leaving a slight gap in the middle. Reserve a tablespoon of white cream.</span><span class="instruction">Cut the black fondant into a long strip and two circles, one slightly bigger than the other. Layer the strip across the middle where the cream meets. Add the larger circle to the middle, then add the leftover white cream to the middle of that circle. Top with the smaller circle.</span></div>
<div class="clear">
</div>
<div class="subtitle">
Details</div>
<span class="time preptime">Prep time: <time datetime="PT20M" itemprop="prepTime">20 mins </time><span class="value-title" title="PT20M"></span></span><span class="time cooktime">Cook time: <time datetime="PT1H" itemprop="cookTime">1 hour </time><span class="value-title" title="PT1H"></span></span><span class="time duration">Total time: <time datetime="PT1H20M" itemprop="totalTime">1 hour 20 mins </time><span class="value-title" title="PT1H20M"></span></span><span class="yield">Yield: <span itemprop="yield">1 cheesecake</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8767854025582217832.post-76968106653618758242016-08-12T07:00:00.000+12:002016-08-12T07:00:15.047+12:00Space Themed Week for PreschoolersI have been getting back into themed weeks for my 4 year old, and Space was one of the themes that came about as my 6 year old has been learning about planets at school.<br />
<br />
We had a huge supply of Space themed books already on the bookshelf- including these gorgeous ones from the Elmo's Learning Adventure set we purchased a couple of years ago.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKqBHF4mQ60/V4xy4s8giCI/AAAAAAAAMIY/kOzKELbqQWYgkgp6mvmQ811QOoMVk6bLwCLcB/s1600/img_7255.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKqBHF4mQ60/V4xy4s8giCI/AAAAAAAAMIY/kOzKELbqQWYgkgp6mvmQ811QOoMVk6bLwCLcB/s1600/img_7255.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
One of the first things we did was to make yellow Playdough to create stars for the <a href="http://www.prekinders.com/space-play-dough-math-mats/">counting mats</a>- Adam insisted on using a large cookie cutter to make star shapes so we ended up stacking stars on top of one another.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vTNLeLUEzyE/V4xzFFeWVAI/AAAAAAAAMIc/fNCOUBSirCcl71Vrr7DGyKd4qRJRZf6JwCLcB/s1600/img_7272.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vTNLeLUEzyE/V4xzFFeWVAI/AAAAAAAAMIc/fNCOUBSirCcl71Vrr7DGyKd4qRJRZf6JwCLcB/s1600/img_7272.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We also decided to make our own galaxy in a jar. We got together a clean jar, some water, cotton balls, acrylic glitter paint and a paintbrush to create the galaxy.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lf6t9mZDZRo/V4xzdDlWB0I/AAAAAAAAMIg/SI6Xc_VuQ0Es-yhBqvSI3LV92kP7x62AACLcB/s1600/img_7281.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lf6t9mZDZRo/V4xzdDlWB0I/AAAAAAAAMIg/SI6Xc_VuQ0Es-yhBqvSI3LV92kP7x62AACLcB/s1600/img_7281.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We mixed some water with the acrylic paint to create a pourable consistency.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vH8PnDphgXk/V4xz3jChX4I/AAAAAAAAMIo/laisLK6rdRwPDtku4kzDSmtjmiUs71B_QCLcB/s1600/img_7285.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vH8PnDphgXk/V4xz3jChX4I/AAAAAAAAMIo/laisLK6rdRwPDtku4kzDSmtjmiUs71B_QCLcB/s1600/img_7285.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We then layered cotton balls in the jar and used one colour of paint at a time, mixed with the water, to soak in and create this galaxy.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0HiLVaXDuSM/V4x0KhU52UI/AAAAAAAAMI0/wrjZrhWx3YkOqnS4l7ESPCgJVKvG-aS0wCLcB/s1600/img_7297.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0HiLVaXDuSM/V4x0KhU52UI/AAAAAAAAMI0/wrjZrhWx3YkOqnS4l7ESPCgJVKvG-aS0wCLcB/s1600/img_7297.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Another simple cookie cutter activity also involving glitter paint was to stamp stars on a black background- Adam loved layering the stars and had to create three pages of them!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tUd_kLYGJW0/V4x0QOcK6NI/AAAAAAAAMI4/2C05qG0yjQoco6fRRAGLp0wwlu4hjiKXwCLcB/s1600/img_7346.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tUd_kLYGJW0/V4x0QOcK6NI/AAAAAAAAMI4/2C05qG0yjQoco6fRRAGLp0wwlu4hjiKXwCLcB/s1600/img_7346.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We talked about why we can only see stars at night and I showed Afam how a telescope works to view things in space. Adam wanted to make his own telescope so we stuck two toiler tolls together with washi tape and then decorated it with star stickers.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IH-bj2a4R4A/V4x0VEoNwxI/AAAAAAAAMI8/dD-aaWkn7OwcaWrL5rwOPqNvJyUe4a1TgCLcB/s1600/img_7354.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IH-bj2a4R4A/V4x0VEoNwxI/AAAAAAAAMI8/dD-aaWkn7OwcaWrL5rwOPqNvJyUe4a1TgCLcB/s1600/img_7354.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
This was great for imaginative play, as Adam was walking around looking through his telescope and telling me what he could see.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cg18ClBWdbM/V4x1xnT16HI/AAAAAAAAMJU/LfBjF7b2e7gsVcU4OpZQzclS6q6LU6N0wCLcB/s1600/img_7365.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cg18ClBWdbM/V4x1xnT16HI/AAAAAAAAMJU/LfBjF7b2e7gsVcU4OpZQzclS6q6LU6N0wCLcB/s1600/img_7365.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Our snack was a planet of rice cake, banana and cheerios with peanut butter, surrounded by a cheese star and some smaller rice cracker and cherry tomato planets.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4UkwkUs4sBg/V4x2IocGj1I/AAAAAAAAMJc/OTc9VFjCsz05B8l4DJIYFYVP_6o4B1egQCLcB/s1600/img_7476.jpg"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4UkwkUs4sBg/V4x2IocGj1I/AAAAAAAAMJc/OTc9VFjCsz05B8l4DJIYFYVP_6o4B1egQCLcB/s1600/img_7476.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Adam also really loved this Lego <a href="http://thoughtsofesme.blogspot.co.nz/2012/09/aliens-love-underpants-freebie.html">game</a> for building his own rocket ships. It was a great math lesson too!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xL0j_F5Qoz8/V4x2RPOOG5I/AAAAAAAAMJg/oI2hmYwp-dADTCYTp2kcpAwxWIBVZN3rACLcB/s1600/img_7489.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xL0j_F5Qoz8/V4x2RPOOG5I/AAAAAAAAMJg/oI2hmYwp-dADTCYTp2kcpAwxWIBVZN3rACLcB/s1600/img_7489.jpg" width="100%" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Our Space week was a lot of fun and I cannot wait to share more preschooler themes with you in the coming months.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><div style="float: right; margin: 4px;"><a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/green_tea/pin.jpg" /></a></div></div>Lauren http://www.blogger.com/profile/12309387543197425353noreply@blogger.com0