Lucas- a police sketch artist in training? He loves to dress up.
Sharing a frozen yoghurt with Adam- it was delicious!
Joining in here.
Life from my point of view as a Stay at Home Mum. Sharing recipes, play ideas, frugal fashion and a bit of crafting too!
Sunday, August 17, 2014
33/52
A portrait of my children, once a week, in 2014.
Lucas- a police sketch artist in training? He loves to dress up.
Sharing a frozen yoghurt with Adam- it was delicious!
Joining in here.
Lucas- a police sketch artist in training? He loves to dress up.
Sharing a frozen yoghurt with Adam- it was delicious!
Joining in here.
Friday, August 15, 2014
Friday Fitness Finds
I am still trying to get back into my running after being off my foot for two weeks. Horrible weather, running buddies with injuries and work have all meant that my runs have been pushed to the side and I keep finding excuses. I am determined to go for a run tomorrow!
I have been trying to find some great transitional items I will need for the next few months as I have somehow agreed to train for a 50 kilometre run- all I can say is that I hadn't had much coffee that day and it seemed like a good idea in my tired state! I have put together some items that I hope to acquire soon to keep me on track and feel good while I am training.
First up- these awesome leggings from FitForever. I could probably hypnotise people with my backside as I run! They look really comfy with their wide waistband, and they come in other funky prints such as leopard print, skull print and watercolour.
As the weather gets hotter, I am really looking forward to getting myself one of these skirts.
I have been trying to find some great transitional items I will need for the next few months as I have somehow agreed to train for a 50 kilometre run- all I can say is that I hadn't had much coffee that day and it seemed like a good idea in my tired state! I have put together some items that I hope to acquire soon to keep me on track and feel good while I am training.
As the weather gets hotter, I am really looking forward to getting myself one of these skirts.
These running skirts from The Running Skirts Shop come with compression shorts underneath, but there are also options with briefs or capri pants underneath. With their flat seams, pockets and sweatwicking fabric, these are stylish and comfortable. They also have heaps of colourful designs, and even do maternity skirts.
Sorry about the close up- but these are amazing! Obviously not a close up of them on me either!
These Intimo briefs are the only bottoms I have found that stick to my curves without clinging. They do not budge under my leggings, and I avoid "hungry bum" syndrome. I have these in three different colours and am looking to get more as they bring them out in limited edition colours as well- currently the featured colour is Sunset.
I am probably the only runner who doesn't have a FitBit yet, so I putting this on my birthday wishlist!
I love the blue colour, and the Flex seems to be the option that would best fit my lifestyle. I have entered a few giveaways to win one of these, but no luck yet! It tracks sleep, distance, calories burned and allows you to set goals. I can sync the information with my computer, and it just seems like it is a gadget that will help me to stay motivated.
The last thing on my radar is one of these waistpockets.
I always struggle with where to put my keys, phone and coins when I am running, and now that the weather is warming up I won't be wearing my zippered vest. The running skirt has a pocket as well, so this option from Fly Active seems like it would be handy for the days when I am wearing leggings or shorts.
I hope this has given you a few ideas of things for your exercise wishlist as well!
Monday, August 11, 2014
Liebster Blog Award
This morning I saw that the lovely Vanessa of Style and Shenanigans had nominated me for the Leibster Blog Award.
What is this award all about?
I think Vanessa said it best when she wrote that the Liebster is an award for bloggers awarded by other bloggers. It’s a kind of peer recognition and a really fab way to find new blogs, make new friends and generally have a lovely and encouraging virtual online hug in the blogosphere.
Sounds like fun, and I love making bloggy friends!
Here is how it works.
1. What/where was the best meal you have eaten?
I vividly remember the venison and duck dishes I shared with my husband at the Sofitel Queenstown- it was absolutely amazing! We had gone down there to celebrate his birthday and I had managed to get free accommodation at the Sofitel so we made the most of it by trying out their spa facilities and food, which didn't disappoint.
2. Carrie, Samantha, Miranda or Charlotte? Big or Aiden?
Can I confess that I have never seen an episode of Sex and the City? At least I knew who you were referencing though! And I would probably be like Carrie if I had her wardrobe.
3. Where did you go on your last holiday?
I actually just returned yesterday from a weekend in Hanmer Springs- I was helping to run a scrapbook retreat so I did have to do some work, but there was still time for socialising, wine and a massage.
4. If you could have a $500 shopping voucher for one store, which one would you pick and why?
I would love a Whitcoulls voucher- books are my happy place and I could get lots of reading under my belt with $500 worth of books!
5. What is your most sentimental treasure?
My scrapbooks- I have over 20 and my children love looking through each album. I would be devastated if anything happened to them as I have put so much time, effort and love into the pages.
6. New York, London or Paris?
I would have to say New York- only because I have an amazing "Moms Group" based in America and would love to do a big meet up with them as well as experience the Big Apple. I loved the character Stacey in The Babysitters Club and always wanted to visit New York as well because of her.
7. What was the last compliment you received?
My sister and friend told me that they liked my boots today! I always get cute little comments from my four year old son as well, such as "oh Mum. I like your earrings" or "Mum, your hair smells like candyfloss".
8. When you were a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
I had huge dreams of becoming an author, so blogging is probably as close as I am going to get to that dream. I do have a couple of friends and also know a few bloggers who have published books though, so it could still be a possibility.
9. What is your favourite book and why?
Ooh, this is a tricky one! I read anything, and always have my nose in a book. One of my favourite authors is Philippa Gregory, and I can read her Wideacre Trilogy over and over. Her way with words is wonderful, and she really gets down to intricate details with each character. No-one in the book is introducted to the story-line without a reason, and I find her books have made me a lot more informed about the Tudor reign.
10. How long have you been blogging for and tell us a little about your blog?
My first post here was published on January 11th 2011. I described my blog as being a place to share my food, scrapbooking, craft and fitness ideas. I have expanded that to some clothing and preschooler related activities as well, but for the most part I think I have stayed true to what I set out to write about.
Thanks Vanessa for letting me share a little bit more about myself! To keep the fun going, I have now nominated ten bloggers to share a little bit about themselves.
Jill at Enchanted Homeschooling Mom
Iris from Love, Iris
Treena-Marie from Creative Mama
Vicki from Knocked Up And Abroad
Sherri from God Life Happy Wife
Carrie from Curly Crafty Mom
Jasmine from Fleurty and Fit
Karen from Made With My Two Hands
Val from Fab Chick Gets Fit
Rachel from Can't Google Everything
I looked on your blogs and tried to see if you ladies had been nominated- as far as I can see you haven't but please let me know if you have already done this! Here are the questions I have for you.
1. What is the most terrifying thing you have ever done?
2. How do you relax?
3. Are you a tea, coffee or hot chocolate drinker?
4. How many siblings do you have, and how well do you get on with them?
5. What is one of your favourite blog posts and why?
6. Have you ever been overseas, and if so, where to?
7. Do you sing in the shower?
8. What is your preferred road trip music?
9. How often do you see a movie in an actual cinema?
10. What colour are your nails right now?
I hope the nominees get a kick out of answering these questions- I look forward to reading them so please let me know when you have answered them! Be sure to check out all of these lovely ladies, they each have inspired me in some way.
I hope you enjoyed reading my answers too, did you learn anything new about me?
What is this award all about?
I think Vanessa said it best when she wrote that the Liebster is an award for bloggers awarded by other bloggers. It’s a kind of peer recognition and a really fab way to find new blogs, make new friends and generally have a lovely and encouraging virtual online hug in the blogosphere.
Sounds like fun, and I love making bloggy friends!
Here is how it works.
- Link back to recognise the blogger who nominated you
- Answer ten questions given by the nominator;
- Nominate ten other bloggers for the award;
- Create ten questions for those nominees to answer;
- Tell your nominees the great news;
- Get yourself a Liebster Award button for your blog.
1. What/where was the best meal you have eaten?
I vividly remember the venison and duck dishes I shared with my husband at the Sofitel Queenstown- it was absolutely amazing! We had gone down there to celebrate his birthday and I had managed to get free accommodation at the Sofitel so we made the most of it by trying out their spa facilities and food, which didn't disappoint.
2. Carrie, Samantha, Miranda or Charlotte? Big or Aiden?
Can I confess that I have never seen an episode of Sex and the City? At least I knew who you were referencing though! And I would probably be like Carrie if I had her wardrobe.
3. Where did you go on your last holiday?
I actually just returned yesterday from a weekend in Hanmer Springs- I was helping to run a scrapbook retreat so I did have to do some work, but there was still time for socialising, wine and a massage.
4. If you could have a $500 shopping voucher for one store, which one would you pick and why?
I would love a Whitcoulls voucher- books are my happy place and I could get lots of reading under my belt with $500 worth of books!
5. What is your most sentimental treasure?
My scrapbooks- I have over 20 and my children love looking through each album. I would be devastated if anything happened to them as I have put so much time, effort and love into the pages.
6. New York, London or Paris?
I would have to say New York- only because I have an amazing "Moms Group" based in America and would love to do a big meet up with them as well as experience the Big Apple. I loved the character Stacey in The Babysitters Club and always wanted to visit New York as well because of her.
7. What was the last compliment you received?
My sister and friend told me that they liked my boots today! I always get cute little comments from my four year old son as well, such as "oh Mum. I like your earrings" or "Mum, your hair smells like candyfloss".
8. When you were a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
I had huge dreams of becoming an author, so blogging is probably as close as I am going to get to that dream. I do have a couple of friends and also know a few bloggers who have published books though, so it could still be a possibility.
9. What is your favourite book and why?
Ooh, this is a tricky one! I read anything, and always have my nose in a book. One of my favourite authors is Philippa Gregory, and I can read her Wideacre Trilogy over and over. Her way with words is wonderful, and she really gets down to intricate details with each character. No-one in the book is introducted to the story-line without a reason, and I find her books have made me a lot more informed about the Tudor reign.
10. How long have you been blogging for and tell us a little about your blog?
My first post here was published on January 11th 2011. I described my blog as being a place to share my food, scrapbooking, craft and fitness ideas. I have expanded that to some clothing and preschooler related activities as well, but for the most part I think I have stayed true to what I set out to write about.
Thanks Vanessa for letting me share a little bit more about myself! To keep the fun going, I have now nominated ten bloggers to share a little bit about themselves.
Jill at Enchanted Homeschooling Mom
Iris from Love, Iris
Treena-Marie from Creative Mama
Vicki from Knocked Up And Abroad
Sherri from God Life Happy Wife
Carrie from Curly Crafty Mom
Jasmine from Fleurty and Fit
Karen from Made With My Two Hands
Val from Fab Chick Gets Fit
Rachel from Can't Google Everything
I looked on your blogs and tried to see if you ladies had been nominated- as far as I can see you haven't but please let me know if you have already done this! Here are the questions I have for you.
1. What is the most terrifying thing you have ever done?
2. How do you relax?
3. Are you a tea, coffee or hot chocolate drinker?
4. How many siblings do you have, and how well do you get on with them?
5. What is one of your favourite blog posts and why?
6. Have you ever been overseas, and if so, where to?
7. Do you sing in the shower?
8. What is your preferred road trip music?
9. How often do you see a movie in an actual cinema?
10. What colour are your nails right now?
I hope the nominees get a kick out of answering these questions- I look forward to reading them so please let me know when you have answered them! Be sure to check out all of these lovely ladies, they each have inspired me in some way.
I hope you enjoyed reading my answers too, did you learn anything new about me?
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Fox In Flats Recap for July
It is time to share the last few looks for the Fox In Flats Style Dare!
The eyes have it- I tried a navy smokey eye with lashings of mascara. I don't usually wear eyeshadow due to eczema, but this was fun!
Mixed prints- I mixed my striped cardigan with an apple print dress.
I just love this... I was loving being able to put my running shoes on again after two weeks of being inside and only being able to wear shoes when absolutely necessary. My running shoes have given me so much new found freedom this year, and I have discovered things I have never thought I would be able to do.
The Style Dare definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone but it was actually easier to get dressed in the morning as I always had a certain look or item of clothing in mind. It made waking up in the morning a bit more fun, and gave me a reason to dress up!
Joining in with Wardrobe Wednesday.
The eyes have it- I tried a navy smokey eye with lashings of mascara. I don't usually wear eyeshadow due to eczema, but this was fun!
Mixed prints- I mixed my striped cardigan with an apple print dress.
I just love this... I was loving being able to put my running shoes on again after two weeks of being inside and only being able to wear shoes when absolutely necessary. My running shoes have given me so much new found freedom this year, and I have discovered things I have never thought I would be able to do.
The Style Dare definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone but it was actually easier to get dressed in the morning as I always had a certain look or item of clothing in mind. It made waking up in the morning a bit more fun, and gave me a reason to dress up!
Joining in with Wardrobe Wednesday.
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Friday, August 1, 2014
How I Meal Plan
To help keep my sanity in check, I try to go with a different meal theme each day so that I have some kind of routine. Here is my general guide to how I meal plan- with a little help from a fantastic website.
Our week usually looks like this.
Monday: Meatless Dish
Tuesday: Fish Dish
Wednesday: Chicken Dish
Thursday: Crock-Pot
Friday: Family Fun Night (with a themed menu and activity)
Saturday: Pasta Dish
Sunday: Family Favourites
On Sunday, we also have a special family breakfast together- usually scrambled eggs or pancakes as the kids can help to cook them but I am looking to change this up a bit so we have other options. What do you like to have for a family breakfast that young children can help to prepare? I need some new ideas!
Most weekends I also bake for the week ahead, and I also bake something for preschool on a Wednesday.
A lot of our Friday and Sunday night meals are red meat based, in case you were wondering, and we also have a few red meat favourites for the Crock Pot.
For example, this week the plan is:
Monday: Cheesy Leek Risotto
Tuesday: Thai Curried Fish with Spiced Rice and corn kernels
Wednesday: Chinese Lemon Chicken with rice and broccoli
Thursday: Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Friday: Swedish Meatballs with Miss Piggy Cupcakes (Muppets Movie night)
Saturday: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Cajun steamed vegetables
Sunday: Sausage Hash Brown Bake
For baking, I made Peanut Butter Banana Swirl Bread and Oddfellow Roll.
How do I keep track of my meal plan and shopping list? I use a website called Plan To Eat.
You can import recipes from the internet or type out your own favourites, then drag them into a weekly or monthly planner. This automatically creates a shopping list for you, which you can edit if you already have the necessary ingredients. I love that you can adjust the list- for example, I have mine done by aisles so I am efficient when I go to the store, but you can have it done by categories such as produce, meat, dairy etc or make the shopping list into whatever subcategories you choose. You can also have categories for your recipes, so I have separated mine by the themes listed above. The other thing I like about Plan To Eat is that you can also have a staples grocery list for things you buy every time you go shopping, and have them separate or merge them into your planned shopping list.
We usually eat the same things for breakfasts and lunches as well as snacks, so I have put them into my staples grocery list and also made them into meals on my Plan To eat menu, with labels such as preschool Lunch and snack options, to effortlessly migrate those items such as yoghurt, fruit and muesli bars to my shopping list.
Finally, to stop everyone asking "what's for dinner?", I write up the weekly menu on my new Magnetic Chalkboard, which was released today! (I got to play with it a couple of weeks in advance, and I love how it looks in my kitchen. Plus I can put memos, notices and receipts on there too.
I hope this helps you to do some meal planning too, this method certainly takes the stress out of feeding my family each week.
NB: I was not reimbursed in any way for my Plan To Eat review, it is just the method that I use and love!
Our week usually looks like this.
Monday: Meatless Dish
Tuesday: Fish Dish
Wednesday: Chicken Dish
Thursday: Crock-Pot
Friday: Family Fun Night (with a themed menu and activity)
Saturday: Pasta Dish
Sunday: Family Favourites
On Sunday, we also have a special family breakfast together- usually scrambled eggs or pancakes as the kids can help to cook them but I am looking to change this up a bit so we have other options. What do you like to have for a family breakfast that young children can help to prepare? I need some new ideas!
Most weekends I also bake for the week ahead, and I also bake something for preschool on a Wednesday.
A lot of our Friday and Sunday night meals are red meat based, in case you were wondering, and we also have a few red meat favourites for the Crock Pot.
For example, this week the plan is:
Monday: Cheesy Leek Risotto
Tuesday: Thai Curried Fish with Spiced Rice and corn kernels
Wednesday: Chinese Lemon Chicken with rice and broccoli
Thursday: Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Friday: Swedish Meatballs with Miss Piggy Cupcakes (Muppets Movie night)
Saturday: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Cajun steamed vegetables
Sunday: Sausage Hash Brown Bake
For baking, I made Peanut Butter Banana Swirl Bread and Oddfellow Roll.
How do I keep track of my meal plan and shopping list? I use a website called Plan To Eat.
You can import recipes from the internet or type out your own favourites, then drag them into a weekly or monthly planner. This automatically creates a shopping list for you, which you can edit if you already have the necessary ingredients. I love that you can adjust the list- for example, I have mine done by aisles so I am efficient when I go to the store, but you can have it done by categories such as produce, meat, dairy etc or make the shopping list into whatever subcategories you choose. You can also have categories for your recipes, so I have separated mine by the themes listed above. The other thing I like about Plan To Eat is that you can also have a staples grocery list for things you buy every time you go shopping, and have them separate or merge them into your planned shopping list.
We usually eat the same things for breakfasts and lunches as well as snacks, so I have put them into my staples grocery list and also made them into meals on my Plan To eat menu, with labels such as preschool Lunch and snack options, to effortlessly migrate those items such as yoghurt, fruit and muesli bars to my shopping list.
Finally, to stop everyone asking "what's for dinner?", I write up the weekly menu on my new Magnetic Chalkboard, which was released today! (I got to play with it a couple of weeks in advance, and I love how it looks in my kitchen. Plus I can put memos, notices and receipts on there too.
I hope this helps you to do some meal planning too, this method certainly takes the stress out of feeding my family each week.
NB: I was not reimbursed in any way for my Plan To Eat review, it is just the method that I use and love!
Subscribe to:
Posts
(
Atom
)
