Reviews
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How useful is a nappy bin? {Win with Tommee Tippee!}
As the name of my blog would suggest, I’m a bit of a nutjob when it comes to making lists. Needless to say, I knew exactly what I wanted and needed, while planning for baby Asher’s arrival. I had opted for items that were practical and efficient. Price point was important and I also wanted to know that I would get the full use of product, instead of throwing money at something that I would only use for 2 weeks. (It happens, Mary, it happens.)
Any the hoo, one of the items on my list was a nappy disposal bin BUT I wasn’t completely sold on the idea. I mean, my initial thought was “how useful is a nappy bin really?” I had managed to successfully raise 3 whole other children without one and I was pretty sure that I would be okay, sans nappy bin/diaper disposal system, this time around too.
And then I got one, you guys. And it changed my mind, like, a lot.For starters, between Jojo’s pull ups and Ash’s nappies, our previous – uhm – ‘nappy disposal method’ was stinky, to say the least. Who wants to have to deal with a bin chockablock full of dirty diapers?! Not I, sayeth the queen.
I investigated a bit more, and found out that the Tommee Tippee Twist and Click Nappy Disposal Bin is so worth the investment! I mean, it’s a kickass nappy bin, sure, but what if I told you that you could use your nappy disposal bin for so much more than just diapers! I know, my mind exploded into a billion pieces too.
Here are 5 different uses for your Tommee Tippee Twist and Click Nappy Disposal Bin. You’re welcome.
1. Top notch nappy disposal bin
The Twist & Click nappy bin keeps your home fresh and stink-free because it has guaranteed odour and germ protection (powered by Sangenic). Yep, that means less trips to the outside bin! Woohoo! The inbuilt plunger pushes up to 30 nappies deep into the bin, sealing each nappy in an anti-bacterial film, to stop germs and smells from invading your home. Very ninja-esque.
2. Sanitary napkin disposal
Once you’re done using your nappy bin for its intended use, you could repurpose the bin and use it to dispose of sanitary napkins and tampons. Yep, you heard me! Because of its sleek and compact design, the Twist & Click nappy bin fits into any room and would actually make for a really stylish looking sanitary pad disposal bin. Plus the twist and click function will ensure that each item is individually wrapped in the optimum amount of antibacterial film. Less waste! Less mess!
3. Skip the flush, bin the paper
South Africa’s water crisis has made us so aware of the amount of water we waste each time we flush the toilet. (It’s 7 to 9 litres, by the way). One of the ways that we’ve been trying to save water, is by skipping the flush. (If it’s yellow, let it mellow etc) Not flushing, every time you go, would make a big difference! But, with this practice comes the question: where do I put the toilet paper?! Well, you could use your nappy disposal bin to bin your paper hygienically. The Twist & Click nappy bin’s anti-bacterial film kills 99% of dangerous germs like e-coli and Staphyloccus Aureus.
4. Covid-19 single use itemsFor those who are in the habit of using single use masks and gloves, during the Covid-19 pandemic, I’m sure you’re quite pedantic when it comes to the disposal of those items. The safest thing to do is to put used masks and gloves into a plastic bag, and then seal it. Because of the “twist and click” feature, the Twist & Click nappy bin individually wraps each item in multi-layer, anti-bacterial film, making this a clever way to bin your used PPE, dramatically reducing the risk of contamination. I also appreciate that the refill cassettes are made from 98% recycled plastic.
5. Food waste
If, like me, you aren’t keen on leaving food waste in the bin where they can attract pests, develop an odor, or become covered in bacteria, why not repurpose a nappy bin to take care of the problem for you. The Twist & Click nappy bin will seal away household waste, with each click, and it’s citrus scented refill cassette will leave your kitchen smelling fresh. Plus, with its slimline, compact design and the on trend colours, it will not look out of place in your kitchen! It’s available in white, blue, green and pink.
Convinced yet? Get your very own Tommee Tippee Twist & Click Nappy Disposal System from one of these stores. You can read more about these gorgeous bins over on the Tommee Tippee website.
Win a Tommee Tippee Twist & Click Nappy Disposal System!Tommee Tippee would like to give one lucky My Spreadsheet Brain reader a Tommee Tippee Twist & Click Nappy Disposal System of their own! To enter the giveaway, simply follow the links to these posts on Instagram and Facebook, and follow the instructions there.
Terms and conditions:
You can enter on Facebook and on Instagram. Decision is final and we reserve the right to disqualify winners should entry mechanisms not be followed. Products are not redeemable for cash. Winners of any Tommee Tippee competitions in the last 6 months will not be eligible to win. Winner will be drawn on 31 July.
Disclaimer: This post was done in collaboration with Tommee Tippee. Some of the images, in this post, belong to Tommee Tippee.
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How to celebrate a birthday when you’re stuck at home {Win!}
Stuck at home, on the brink of celebrating a birthday, and you’re not exactly sure how you’re going to do any celebrating at all? Well then, friend, this post is for you!
Due to the current Covid-19 pandemic, lock down birthdays are now a thing. And, I mean, you’re probably considering the fact that you kinda need, well, other people in order to put the “party” into “birthday party”. And you’re not wrong. But there are ways and means to celebrate the birthday boy/girl, even though you’re limited on people and resources.
I love birthdays! And I believe that the only real bummer, about a solid birthday celebration, is not having a solid birthday celebration. And you can quote me on that!
Anyways, before I break into song, dance and monologue, allow me to share with you my list of ways to celebrate a birthday when you’re stuck at home:
1. DecorationsDecorating a room in the house, as a surprise, is an easy and cheap way to make a birthday guy/gal feel special! A sneaky late night set up will have your special person waking up to a gloriously festive birthday hoorah in the morning! Here are some ideas:
A balloon wall – All I’m saying is that balloons have the magical powers to make any room feel a lot more festive. There are no hard rules when it comes to this. The more balloons the better! A balloon wall would most definitely impress. Find an easy tutorial here.
Streamers pinned to the door frame – Who wouldn’t want to open their bedroom door, on the morning of their birthday, to find this colorful surprise awaiting them?! Tutorial here.
Make your own bunting – I did this for Jonah’s birthday. His “lock down birthday” theme was Obnoxious Spiderman which is my way of saying that I made sure to incorporate as many images of Spiderman in the decor. He’s 3 years old, and Spidey is his hero, so this totally made his day. Tutorial here.
2. Presents
So we figured out that Jonah was super excited to open a ton of gifts because he had been eyeing all the gifts his sister received at her birthday party. Since we were unable to invite guests to celebrate with him, that meant that there would be no pile of presents for him to open. So we decided to get him a bunch of smaller gifts (things like color in books and crayons, small games, puzzles etc) and wrapped them up individually so that he would have his very own “birthday party gift pile” to indulge in.
3. Drive and DropI know that drive-by parties are all the rage and if you have friends and family members who would be keen to do a drive and drop, then that’s swell! Make it extra festive with balloons and a sign that says “Hoot once for the birthday boy!” displayed outside. Birthday boy/girl could have their own special chair set up, so that they can bestow their royal birthday wave, as their friends drive by.
If you don’t want your guests to leave empty handed, a slice of birthday cake, in a takeaway box, will do the trick. (For teens, how about a slice of pizza?) And again, this is particularly helpful if you have friends and family members who are looking for an opportunity to celebrate with you, and want to drop off a prezi.
4. Fun activities
You could totes make the day fun by arranging a cool scavenger hunt (ooh, hide away the gifts and design a real treasure map!) or by playing backyard or board games with your family. A “game show birthday party” is a fun way to bring some extra glitz and glamour to your celebrations. The usual foray of birthday party games (pin the tail on the donkey, musical chairs) are always a hit and will definitely help to keep the energy up!
5. Virtual fiestaWe fortunately have the technology to stay in touch, even though we can’t physically be in the same room. You may consider hosting a Zoom, FaceTime, WhatsApp, Skype or House Party celebration.
Teens might prefer connecting with their buddies via Xbox or Playstation online gaming. Yep, it’s totally a thing now, parents. I know, I suddenly feel old too.
6. Cake!
I mean, without cake is a party a party? (The correct answer is “heck no”) I knew that I wanted to go big with Jonah’s birthday cake, so I called in an expert to assist.
I had been eyeing the creations over on the Whole Latte Love Facebook page and knew that Leanne would nail my Spiderman birthday cake idea. Leanne’s love for baking started when she tried her hand at making her nieces and nephews birthday cakes. People were kinda impressed with her skill (also, guys, this cake is flippen delicious!) and word got out, which resulted in the start of a little business.
When I asked for a list of flavours to choose from, these were the ones that I had my eye on:
Chocolate chip cake with caramel and chocolate ganache
Chocolate cake with chocolate fudge buttercream
Mint chocolate chip cake with mint buttercream and chocolate pieces
Vanilla cake with vanilla buttercream / Swiss meringue buttercream
Carrot cake filled with homemade caramel and salted caramel buttercream
Red velvet cake with Oreo pieces and Oreo cream cheese icing
Hummingbird cake with cream cheese icing
Lemon meringue cake filled with lemon curd and covered with toasted meringue
Toffee apple cake filled with homemade caramel and cinnamon buttercream
I know what you’re thinking… YUM! I ended up choosing the chocolate cake with chocolate fudge buttercream because chocolate “cakey” is my boys absolute favorite. The price was quite reasonable and she ended up totally making all my Spidey birthday cake dreams come true. Plus she delivers during lock down. If that isn’t rad, then I don’t know what is!
Other treats available:
Brownies (available in different flavours!), Blondies, Cupcakes (available in a variety of flavours), Cheesecake mousse cakes, Profiteroles, Eclairs, Lammingtons, Cinnamon rolls and more! You can place your order via Facebook.
Win a dozen cupcakes for from Whole Latte Love!Guess what my friends *I say, dramatically, with tears in my eyes* …. Whole Latte Love is giving one of you a dozen of her most delicious cupcakes, to help you celebrate that special ‘lock down birthday’! I KNOW! I’m not crying, you’re crying! Okay, I’m totally crying.
To enter, simply check out this post on Facebook and follow the instructions there.
Winner will be announced on Friday 3 July. Winner must reside in Port Elizabeth and must be able to collect cupcakes in Sherwood.
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Peaceful sleep with the Tommee Tippee Grobag {Win!}
I love sleep. There, I said it. I mean, I function better when I’m well rested, you guys. It’s just, like, a fact of life! And so, because of this fact (uhh of life), I’m always super keen when a brand tells me that their product promotes better sleep for babies.
Ash has always been a good sleeper, but truth be told, I’m always super anxious when he sleeps soundly. I check on him every so often, to make sure that he is the right temperature and that his breathing is regular. I mean, you can call me paranoid, but not to my face.
And now, with Autumn in our midst, the colder weather would mean more blankets. Well, usually, right?
But what if I told you that you don’t really need more blankets, to ensure that baby is snug and comfy? I know I told you about it before, but friends, these Tommee Tippee Grobag’s are perfect for this sort of thing!
For starters, the promoting of “safer sleep for babies” is not just clever words that they say to impress you. The prestigious Lullaby Trust – a UK based charity for safe sleep, highly recommends this multi-award winning product. And, a survey done in the UK actually proved that 71% of babies slept for more than 6 hours, in their Grobag. Legit, right?
The main draw card, for me, was the fact that I don’t need to use extra blankets in his cot. The togs come in various weights and sizes, so Ash is sorted during Winter AND Summer. And, with the ample leg room in the tog, he doesn’t feel restricted. (Also, have you seen his chubby thighs? Lots of leg room is needed to house those bundles of deliciousness.)
Ensuring that your baby is the right temperature is important, since overheating can result in cot death. *shudder*
Your Grobag comes with a cute Nursery Thermometer, helping you to ensure that baby is at a safe sleep temperature. I also like that the YKK zipper and chin guard helps to prevent chafing.
But more than anything, I do appreciate that it’s easy to use, 100% cotton AND machine washable (can I cry now?), so I can pop it into the washing machine if need be. The designs are gorgeous (check them out over here) and would make for such a cool babyshower gift!
PSA: If you purchase your Grobag before end of May 2020, you can use my code: gb15spreadsheetbrain and score yourself 15% off!
Check out the Tommee Tippee online store for this and more amazing Gro products.
Win a Tommee Tippee Grobag!Tommee Tippee and My Spreadsheet Brain are giving ONE lucky reader a gorgeous Grobag! To enter, simply find this specially marked post on Instagram and follow the prompts!
Terms and conditions
Giveaway ends on 30 April. Competition is open to SA residents only. Competition is not affiliated with Instagram. T&C’s apply. Decision is final and we reserve the right to disqualify winners should entry mechanisms not be followed. Products are not redeemable for cash. Tommee Tippee will deliver goods to winner.
Disclaimer: This post was done in collaboration with Tommee Tippee
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Teaching togetherness with Paw Patrol {Win!}
If you’re a parent I’m sure you’re well aware that ‘no job’s too big, no pup’s too small’ when it comes to the type of stuff that the puppy’s over at Paw Patrol are able get up to. As it has famously been said: “Round Adventure Bay, Ryder and his team of pups will come and save the day.” And we stan, right? I mean, I love a helpful, world saving dog. In fact, we need a bit of Paw Patrol magic ’round about now, as we face an uncertain future, due to the Covid-19 lockdown.
So I was pretty chuffed with myself when I decided to use the Paw Patrol message of working together to remind the kids that we are stronger united. I mean, it’s no secret, my (and probably your) kids are kinda Paw Patrol crazy. Using their favorite toys and characters is a great way to teach them about our current crisis AND how they can do their tiny bit to help. Also, playing with toys is a clever way to encourage the stretching of imagination AND it creates a nice break away from those screens. Win-win, for sure.
My kid’s were simply thrilled to play with the new Paw Patrol Mighty Pups Super Paws range that has just landed in SA . These sets are so legit, complete with a character (Ryder and his team of pups: Marshall, Rubble, Chase, Rocky, Zuma, Skye) and cool accessories that light up!
Mighty Pups Supersonic JetThis rad 2-in-1 transforming jet switches from deluxe jet into a mobile command headquarters with room for all the pups and a Deluxe Mighty Vehicle. (These are sold separately) The jet comes with an exclusive Ryder figurine and a mini jet that can be removed. My kids enjoyed pressing all the buttons to activate the lights and sounds and they spent a good while loading the launcher to release the 5 discs. Hands down a legit gift! You can pick it up at Toy Kingdom, Hamley’s, Tru or Toy Zone for R1999,99.
Mighty Pups Power Changing VehiclesWe had a ball of a time with the super sleek transforming fire truck. Marshall’s truck transforms at the push of the spoiler, revealing translucent flame details and projectile launchers! Pull up on the spoiler to switch back into deluxe vehicle. These sets come with a collectible figurine. This one, in particular, includes a cool looking suited up Mighty Marshall figure. Find these at Shoprite, Makro, Game, Toy Kingdom, Hamley’s, Tru and Toy Zone for R699,99.
Mighty Pups Themed VehiclesThe Mighty Pups Themed Vehicles are such cool collector’s items. My kids love their Chase police cruiser, complete with real lights and sounds that are activated at the push of a button. This one includes a chase figurine, looking rather dapper in his blue and silver Super PAWs uniform. You can buy them at PnP, Shoprite, Makro, Game, Toy Kingdom, Hamley’s, Tru and Toy Zone for R429,99.
Mighty Pups Hero Pups
These Mighty Pups figurines are such a nifty way to encourage free play, and to encourage the use of imagination, as your kids create brand new adventures for their favorite Paw Patrol characters. I’ve already promised mine that they will have every single Paw Patrol character because, as I was reminded, they are a TEAM. You can find these at Shoprite, Makro, Game, Toy Kingdom, Hamley’s, Tru and Toy Zone for R199,99.
Check out the video below for more.
Win a Paw Patrol hamper valued at R630!
To spread a bit of Paw Patrol magic, Just Fun Toys and My Spreadsheet Brain would like to give one reader a stunning Paw Patrol hamper valued at R630! There are two opportunities to enter. You are allowed to enter both times but duplicate entries, on one platform, will not be counted.
Terms and conditions
Giveaway ends on 9 April. Competition is open to SA residents only. Competition is not affiliated with Facebook or Instagram. T&C’s apply. Decision is final and we reserve the right to disqualify winners should entry mechanisms not be followed. Products are not redeemable for cash. Winners of any @JustFunToys or @PrimaToys competitions in the last 6 months will not be eligible to win. NOTE: PRIZES WILL ONLY BE DISPATCHED TO WINNER AFTER THE NATIONWIDE LOCKDOWN HAS BEEN LIFTED.
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Just Fun Toys
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Prima Toys: 44 Cats brings the cool! {Giveaway!}
If your kids loves tv shows, as much as mine does, then you might be familiar with the hit kids show, on Nick Jr, called 44 Cats. It’s rad because these Italian cats spend their time singing in a garage band (I mean, sold already, right?!) and running interference against the neighborhood bullies (of both the human and feline varieties).
We were excited to learn that Prima Toys has launched a toy range for the hit show, in South Africa a couple of days ago. My kids totally freaked out when they opened their gift from Prima Toys, and saw the cool collection of figurines, play sets and plushies!
These cool plushies come in 4 assorted characters: Meatball, Milady, Lampo and Pilou. My Jojo was so amused to press the plush’s centre, to hear the original music from the series play. This is definitely perfect if you’re looking for a gift for a younger. It measures at about 20.3cm and retails for at R369.90 each.
44 Cats – Articulated Figure with AccessoryThese figurines are such sweet collector’s items, right? You get them in 8 various characters and they each come with an accessory for more realistic gameplay. I’ve so enjoyed watching my kids role play with their figurines… it’s such an easy way to get them to engage in conversation, while playing, helping to develop communication skills and boost their imaginations. These retail at R199.90 each.
44 Cats – Deluxe Playset with FeaturesThese playset’s have become Miss Kari’s favorite! They feature character’s from the TV series, with a variety of accessories. Each playset includes a 7cm figurine, with a unique setting, that makes for creative play. These retail at R369.90.
These cool playsets includes a 44 Cats figurine as well as a vehicle. Jonah’s favorite is Cosmo’s Spaceship, that comes complete with a garbage bin spaceship and a rad wagon to pull it on! You can pick these up at R489.90.
You can pick up any of these sweeeet 44 Cats toys at Toyzone or Toy Kingdom!
Win a 44 Cats hamper valued at R1429!Score cool parent points by entering our 44 Cats giveaway and win yourself a hamper to the value of R1429! Hows that for puuuurfect! To enter simply find these specially marked posts on Instagram and Facebook and follow the prompts!
Competition is open to SA residents only. Competition is not affiliated with Facebook or Instagram. T&C’s apply. Decision is final and we reserve the right to disqualify winners should entry mechanisms not be followed. Products are not redeemable for cash. Winners of any @JustFunToys or @PrimaToys competitions in the last 6 months will not be eligible to win.
Disclaimer: This was sponsored by Prima Toys
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Pumping at work: tips for working moms
So when it comes to breastfeeding, it’s like, totally super fun, like, all the time!
Said no mom ever.Choosing to breastfeed your baby is a full time job, you guys. I mean, sure, it IS an absolute flippen joy to beable to feed your child with your very own bossom. Don’t get me wrong. BUT it’s taxing, for sure. And the thing about the commitment to breastfeed is that you often find yourself in the act of extracting milk from your body even when you’re not with your baby. (Pumping, it’s called pumping.)
It’s even more challenging when you’re at work and your baby feeders are needing to be emptied. But, there are ways to prepare for it, friends!
Here are a few tips (you can find more on the Medela website) to help you have a more pleasant, uhh, pumping experience, at work:
Get yo’ gear
An easy to transport bag should be holding all your breast pump equipment together. Be sure to include:
– Your breast pump (duh). I prefer the Medela range, because its sucking motion mimics that of my baby’s, which means I express more milk!
– Your storage bottles or bags. I use Ziplock bags, but you can totally purchase the handy Medela storage bags or bottles for this.
– Your marker, if you’re using Ziplock bags. Use this to date the storage bags.
– Breast pads or something to clean up with. (Leaky “other” boob, anyone?)
– Wet wipes are always handy.
– Something to read, or a pic of your baby, that can help to stimulate that let down.It would be great to have a pack like this, at work, and a separate pump at home. Take this advice from a mom who totally forgot half of her breast pump at home one time. My boobs were not happy.
Get yo’ space
You are entitled to two 30-minute breaks per day, for expressing milk for your baby at work. Did you know that? Well, you are! This right is protected by the Basic Conditions of Employment Act.Drop your HR an email, before your maternity leave ends, to let them know that you will be expressing and to find out about the allowed time for this and the required private room (not a toilet) for you to pump in. We don’t have to be dramatic about it, moms. I mean, an interview room or a private boardroom will do, provided there is privacy, a comfy chair and electric outlet.
Get yo’ timing right
As your maternity leave comes to an end, begin to jot down the times when your baby would usually breastfeed. This gives you an idea of when to schedule your expressing time, at work. It will also help you to express more milk since your milk supply will usually follow the same schedule as baby’s feeding times.Hey, you could even arrange a practice day, yo! While on maternity leave, allow baby’s carer to bottle feed for the day, so that you can do a trial run of pumping at work. I usually schedule my first day back at work to be on a Friday so that I can get the hang of expressing and allow my body to adjust slowly to the new routine.
You need a Medela breast pumpOkay, I’m not just saying so because I was sponsored to. My Medela breast pump totes changed my life, you guys! This award winning breast pump does the job, and then some! Most pumps feature 2-Phase Expression technology, which mimics babies’ natural sucking rhythms, allowing mums to express more breast milk in less time. HOW COOL?!
The Medela range of breast pumps are all high standard and high performance. From a hospital-grade Symphony, to a high-performance manual Harmony pump (I love mine – it’s handbag friendly!) to the double side Freestyle electric or the mini-electric (this one is great for my night time pumps), there is basically something for everyone.
I like that Medela continuously works with researchers and developers to provide us with the best feeding and breast feeding devices and products. I mean, they take their job seriously. I appreciate that. Although challenging, your season of breastfeeding your baba is so short and special. Choose products, like the Medela’s range, that will help to make the experience of breastfeeding and the collecting, handling and storing breast milk easier and more convenient.
Disclaimer: Medela gave me one of their pumps. But I’ve owned a few over the years and I love them all! My comments in this post are completely honest.
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Baby’s First Christmas: 5 gifts that are totally legit
Okay, so a serious topic popped up at the dinner table the other night. My kids (mainly the most dramatic one) wanted to know if baby Asher will be receiving a Christmas gift from Father Christmas. They firmly advocated for their baby bro, explaining why our four month old shouldn’t be left off of the Christmas gift list just because he’s still little.
They made fair points, I must admit. And I totally could get the kid a small gift just to, you know, have his name on something under the tree. But then I had a brain fart you guys. (Yeah, flexing Genius Mom muscle).
My brain wave is this: I’m going to give baby Asher a useful gift that will benefit me too. Woohoo! *raises hand for a high five*
Don’t leave me hanging. Do you think this is a brilliant idea, or what?
Well, fortunately for me, my friends over at Chicco and Prima Baby usually have us parents in mind too, when devising all their nifty kids toys and accessories. These are my top five Chicco finds, this festive season and would make totally legit Christmas gifts… uh… for your baby.
1. Chicco First Dreams Mobile I didn’t know how much I needed one of these until I installed Asher’s mobile and found myself baby-free for a good while! He was so fascinated by the four removable plushies and, the soothing classical music made bed time that much more calmer. It also has a diffused nightlight and can be attached to wooden and travel cots, as well as co-sleepers.
My boy permanently wants to be in my arms, so it really helped that I am able to lay him in his cot for a tad bit longer, while I see to my other kids. It also gives him something to focus on (other than, you know, crying) when he wakes up and I’m not around. Double score, in my opinion.
2. V-Tech Baby My First Gift Set I love the idea of the V-Tech Baby hamper. I mean, it has four really legit tech toys that can serve as entertainment (uhh, aka mom hands-free time) all while helping your kids reach his/her milestones. The boxed set includes a soft hippo teether, a rattle and a cool musical piano that has three light up music buttons, introducing your child to animals, numbers and colours.
3. Chicco Move and Grow Tummy Time Pillow A tummy time pillow fascinates me because, to be honest, tummy time makes me nervous. I mean, who else hates laying your baby on a flat service while they strain to lift their heads to find you. There is usually lots of tears and crying involved (baby cries too)… so I’m not a fan, but I know that it IS important for baby’s development. The Move and Grow makes tummy time a bit more pleasant. It’s made of memory foam and has lots of entertaining accessories attached. The book, mirror, textures and colours are designed to keep their developing minds busy and active. I also like that the pillow was made by Boppy – leaders in the nursing pillow market.
4. Disney Baby Mickey and Minnie First Abilities 25CM PlushWhat’s better than a cuddly soft toy? A cuddly soft toy that keeps your kid busy for long periods of time, giving you a couple of minutes to enjoy your coffee while it’s hot. Right? These Disney Baby plushies are designed to do just that, friends. It features various activities to keep your baby engaged, while developing those fine motor skills. It’s a great cuddle buddy too!
5. Chicco Move and Grow Happy Hippy Walker I love the colourful and interactive Happy Hippy Walker from Chicco. With fun colours and activities designed to stimulate, the walker is a fun way to encourage your child to take their first steps. The walker also serves as an activity station and is perfect for kids aged 9 – 24 months.
Find these toys at selected stores including Babies R Us, Takealot.com, Loot.co.za, Thekidzone.co.za, selected Kids Emporium stores, Hamleys, Lilliputs and others.
This post was done in collaboration with Prima Toys.
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Make bath time oozy, gooey fun with Zimpli Kids! {Giveaway}
Our kids are going crazy for the Zimpli Kids Gelli Baff and Slime Baff products. And this is me being nonchalant about it. When I say they are “going crazy” I mean they are totally freaking out!
I always try to keep my small ones out of the pool when it’s super hot outside, simply because I’d rather them not be in the sun for too long. The baby pool is fun, for a while, but I soon have a pair of hot, bored small people who are driving me cray cray.
Enter: Gelli Baff and Slime Baff! (Yes, this is me flexing my Genius Mom muscle again). My friends, you’ll thank me for this bit of information. Simply add this amazing product to your baby pool water to turn it into fun goo! This instantly turns the boring ol’ baby pool into a super cool gooey, oozy bath of gunk!Slime Baff turns your bath water into a gunky bath of slime. By just adding more water, the slime can be diluted into coloured water that can be safely drained away. I hide small toys away, in the slime, to make a fun interactive sensory game fit for most kids and toddlers!
Gelli Baff is a totally unique fun bath time product that lets you turn water into goo and back again. By adding Gelli Baff powder to water, you create a thick colourful goo. Add a ‘dissolver’ powder, to turn the goo back to water. Pretty darn clever. I mean, if your kid isn’t into bathing, you could totally use this as a draw card.The Glitter Gelli Play is super fun and, yep you guessed it, glittery. My daughter is obviously a fan of this one.
These amazing products have been designed with bath time in mind. So, because of this, they are non-irritant and 100% safe on skin, stain free and non-toxic. Pick them up at Want It All, Takealot and Toys R Us.
Win a Zimpli Kids Gelli Baff/Slime Baff hamper!
Zimpli Kids would like to give one My Spreadsheet Brain reader a cool Gelli Baff/Slime Baff hamper!
To enter, simply follow the prompts below find the specially marked post on Instagram and follow instructions!
Giveaway open to SA residents only. Winner announced on 27 December and has 24 hours to claim prize.
This review and giveaway was done in collaboration with Zimpli Kids.
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Christmas gift idea: Roly Polyz for the win! {Giveaway!}
Since it’s Jojo’s first Christmas as an actual person (aka he’s old enough to know that it’s Christmas) I knew that we had to make it extra special. An extra dollop of festivities and a special Christmas gift is a must!
Festivities and cheer, I can do. I mean, come 1 December, I pretty much jingle as I walk. But I wasn’t really sure what type of gifts to get him. I don’t know about you guys, but I always find gift buying for boys a lot more challenging than it is for girls.
Jonah loves music and sport… so getting him a musical instrument or a ball is kinda… I don’t know… obvious. I wanted to add something else to the mix.
When I spotted these super cool construction and monster trucks from Roly Polyz, I knew that they’d be a legit finishing touch to his gift!
The Roly Polyz monster trucks come in a variety of colors and you are even get a monster truck launcher that propels the truck and makes fun monster truck sounds. Build your own ramps and set up your own off road adventures, then use the launcher to propel your truck over the obstacle course.They come in a variety of designs and colors and are super sturdy, making it perfect for outside play.
The Roly Polyz construction range features construction vehicles AND a construction worker uniform and tools, making imaginative play that much more interesting for your little one.
My kids enjoyed using the construction trucks to really dig up and transport dirt (so fun for me to clean up afterwards). I love that it’s more than just a pushing around of mini cars. They really get into it!
I love the idea of these novelty trucks because, well, they are flippen cool! But also, I like that there are various items in each range, making it a great gift that you can add on to for birthday’s and special occasions.When it comes to Christmas gifting and toddler boys, I never spend money on toy/pretend weapons, simply because I don’t want my kid to grow up thinking that a gun is fun or something to be desired.
I also don’t want to spend copious amounts of money on intricate toys that they will probably lose interest in or rip apart after a while. Also, while I am a firm believer in books and puzzles, I know that my two year old is a rambunctious scallywag and he needs a bit more than a good ol’ book to keep him occupied.
So the Roly Polyz construction diggers and monster trucks kinda hit the mark for me! They are available from Toys R Us at a sweeeet R70 each! How’s that for a great deal?
Win a RolyPolyz trucks hamper!
RolyPolyz would like to give one My Spreadsheet Brain reader a cool trucks hamper complete with 6 monster trucks and 4 diggers!
To enter, simply follow the prompts below:
1. Find the specially marked post on Instagram and follow instruction to grab 1 entry.
2. Find the specially marked post on Facebook and follow instruction to grab 1 entry.Giveaway open to SA residents only. Winner announced on 27 December and has 24 hours to claim prize.
This review and giveaway was done in collaboration with RolyPolyz.
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Show Your Style with MRP x Barbie! {Giveaway!}
My daughter has an eye for style! (Must get that from her mom… cough cough). She loves to show off her (sometimes interesting) outfit choices and I enjoy letting her do just that. (Mom’s who allow their kids to put together their own outfits – hollar!)
I see clothing and fashion as a way for her to get creative and express herself. And I love that her choice in clothing often represents her mood for the day. But, no matter the mood, the girl insists on looking fabulous at all times. So she was absolutely smitten when she received a gift containing some of the stunning new MRP x Barbie pieces.
Yep, you read that right, friends! Our favorite fashionista – Barbie – has released hot new items which can only be found in MRP stores.
Yes, you may “aaack”, I’ll wait.
In case you’re wondering, we’re aaacking because MRP always brings the hottest fashion at affordable prices! And with Christmas around the corner, it’s cool to know that we can pick up our fave Barbie styles, from one of our fave retail stores, and not break the bank doing so.Kari and I decided to play around with some of the MRP x Barbie items (because being extra is the new chilled). I love the easy to wear denim pieces. The fabric is perfect for a hot South African summer, while not losing the chicness that only denim can bring.
Another fave is the printed fringe vest, that my girl insisted be worn over her swimming clothes, as she lounged at the pool. The slouchy fit and bright coral makes it kinda perfect for the beach, don’t you think?We also adore the MRP x Barbie range of bags. The duffle bag is great as an overnight OR for trips to the beach. The sling bag is kinda cool, you guys. You could fill it with funky accessories and sweeties, for a fabulous Christmas stocking gift idea. I know, I’m a genius.
In true Kari style, my girl wanted to show her cousins her fabulous new outfits. So we decided to put together a few flat lays.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: you probably have to be a Pinterest Mom to get your flat lay just right. Well, friend, I’m here to share with you some of my easy flat lay tips. I mean, it’s so easy even I could do it (with a baby on my hip, no lie).
Here are a few flat lay tips:
1. Always use natural light. Stand in front of a window for the best results!
2. Try to stick to one color pallette or theme
3. Choose one item to be your focal point and add props that complement that item, but does not steal the show.
4. Move around props after every few frames, to ensure that you have a nice amount of pics options to choose from.
5. A white background (or anything with a solid color) works best because it is not distracting.
Win one of two MRP x Barbie hampers valued at R1000 each!
We are giving away two gorgeous Barbie hampers valued at R1000 each! We’ll choose one winner from Instagram and one from Facebook. To enter, simply follow these prompts:
Instagram: Find this post, on Instagram and follow the prompts! (Entry prompts have been changed to give more people the opportunity to enter)
Facebook: Find this specially marked post on Facebook. Take a snap of your little one rocking her Barbie outfit and upload it in the comments section, using the hashtag #MyBarbieStyle. Make sure you’re following My Spreadsheet Brain on Facebook to check if you’re a winner!
Giveaway open to SA residents only. Winner announced on 27 December and has 24 hours to claim prize.
This review and giveaway was done in collaboration with MRP x Barbie.
44 Cats – Plush With Music
44 Cats – Figure and Vehicle
