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Elevate your style with the perfect hat
Accessories are the secret sauce that transforms an ordinary outfit into a style masterpiece. And if there’s one accessory that reigns supreme in the realm of fashion, it’s the hat. Whether you’re strolling down the bustling streets of the city or basking in the sun on a serene beach, the perfect hat has the power to effortlessly elevate your look, adding that touch of panache you didn’t know you needed.
So, if you’re ready to turn heads and make a statement, let’s dive into the world of hats and discover how they can become your ultimate style weapon.
The Classic Fedora: Timeless Sophistication
The fedora is the epitome of timeless style. With its structured brim and pinched crown, it effortlessly exudes sophistication. Pair a neutral-toned fedora with a tailored blazer and jeans for a chic yet relaxed look. For a formal event, opt for a black fedora to add a touch of mystery to your ensemble. Check out the latest fedora styles at Superbalist.
Wide-Brim Sun Hats: Effortless Glamour
Protect your skin from the sun while embracing a touch of glamour with a wide-brim sun hat. Perfect for beach getaways or outdoor brunches, these hats offer both style and functionality. Choose a hat with a ribbon detail or a colorful band to add a pop of personality to your outfit. Explore a range of wide-brim sun hats at Superbalist.
Baseball Caps: Casual Cool
For a laid-back and sporty vibe, a baseball cap is your go-to accessory. It’s perfect for running errands, attending a weekend game, or simply adding a touch of casual cool to your ensemble. Opt for a vintage-inspired cap to add a retro twist to your look. Discover a variety of baseball caps at Superbalist.
Berets: Parisian Elegance
Channel your inner Parisian with a chic beret. This iconic hat adds an air of elegance to any outfit, whether you’re strolling through a city park or enjoying a romantic dinner. Pair a beret with a trench coat and ankle boots for a quintessentially French look. Explore the latest beret styles at Superbalist.
Bucket Hats: Street Style Edge
Bucket hats have made a major comeback in recent years, becoming a staple in street style fashion. These hats are perfect for adding an urban edge to your look, whether you’re heading to a music festival or exploring the city. Opt for a patterned or reversible bucket hat to switch up your style effortlessly. Check out the latest bucket hat trends at Superbalist.
With the wide array of hat options available at Superbalist, you can effortlessly find the perfect hat to complete your look and make a lasting impression. So, go ahead and experiment with different hat styles to showcase your unique fashion sense and elevate your style game.
Disclaimer: This article was sponsored by Superbalist.
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7 things men wear that women love
When it comes to men’s fashion, I wouldn’t call myself an expert, purely based on the fact that I am not an adult man. But one thing I do know about men’s fashion is that there are certain things men wear that women love
These items exude class and elegance and they give off the impression that you care about your appearance. When you put special effort into how you present yourself, it shows that you are attentive and forward thinking.
Anyways, without further ado, here is a list of 7 things men wear that women love. Use it, don’t use it. (You should totally use it).
Crisp white shirt Nothing says “well put together” like a crisp white shirt. Wear this buttoned up with a tie, or with an open collar and rolled up sleeves. So chic. Find some here.
Fitted jeans
If you’re going to wear jeans, for the love of all things good, please make sure they are unstained and well-fitted! A well-fitted jeans simply says “I have nothing to hide, also, I am wearing a belt so I’m dependable”. Kidding, it doesn’t say any of those things, but it sure does look good. Find them here.
Crewneck sweater
Crewneck sweater’s give me bestie vibes. I mean, they are so comfortable and stylish at the same time, without trying to steal the show. Crewneck sweaters, on a chilly day, give you a touch of elegance and, in a professional setting, is way better than a sloppy hoody. Find them here.
A good watchA watch is more than just a way to keep the time. It is a piece of art and can definitely add some pizazz (but like, the manly kind) to an outfit. We love a beautiful, aesthetic, masculine time piece that sits snugly on the arm. I mean, ill-fitting watches are just bangles with a face, #amiright? Find a stylish watch here.
Signature scent
Every man should have his own signature scent. I feel like this is an unspoken rule of the universe! Instead of simply purchasing a fragrance because of the brand name, test the fragrance on your body first to determine if it’s the right one for you. Find your scent here.
A tailored suit
We love a man in a suit. Don’t look at me, I didn’t make up the rules. It is what it is. When shopping for the right suit, pay special attention to the fit. A less expensive suit will look like a million bucks, if it is well fitted to the person wearing it. Find some here.
What did you think about my list? Drop me a comment below to let me know what I’ve missed.
This post was sponsored by Superbalist.
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5 Tips for Buying Kids Clothes Online
Online shopping is a vibe these days. With so many great online stores (like Superbalist) fully optimized to make your online shopping experience amazing, why leave the comfort of your couch to trek to the store anyways? I must admit though, when it comes to buying kids clothes online, it can be a bit daunting. Shopping for boys clothing, for me atleast, is always a little bit of a challenge since my children are giants.
But I’ve kinda developed a knack for finding the right fits AND the best deals online! So I thought I’d share some of my top tips with you. How kind of me, right? I know, I know, I try. Anyways, here are my 5 tips for buying kids clothes online:
- Size is important
When shopping for clothing for your kid, the norm is to try to find a size in relation to how old they are (6-7 years etc). But, when online shopping, I found that it’s a good idea to know your child’s weight and height measurements too! Most online stores have a “size guide”, that will help you to choose the right fit for your child. Trust me, girl, I’ve tried blindly choosing sizes that I thought would fit. Not ideal. Not ideal at all. By the way – because of my giant Ooma Loompas, I always by a size bigger.
- Read the reviews
Whenever I find something really amazing online I always check out the review section to find out what other people thought about the product. This helps you to determine if the item is true to size. I mean, children’s clothing sizes aren’t necessarily all uniform. This will also give you a better understanding of the fabric and detail of the item. When buying boys clothing I am especially concerned about buttons and zips… my kids are not polite when it comes to play and I’d hate to purchase something online, only to find the buttons popping off.
- Seasonal sales
I love me a good seasonal sale! Stocking up on sale items help me to prepare for the next season – the key is to purchase clothing one or two sizes up! Don’t forget to sign up to your favorite online stores email list to receive up-to-date info regarding their sales and promotions!
- Return policy
I would advise you to check out the stores return policy first, if you are not sure whether you’d like to keep an item. Some online stores may require that you pay for your own shipping, when returning a purchase. You might also want to know what the return policy window period is.
- Hello there, wish list
If you are as indecisive as I am, the ‘wish list’ tab is a good friend to have! I usually browse through my fave online store, adding all the items that I adore to my wish list. When I am ready to make a purchase, I can simply take a squiz through the wish list, comparing items and narrowing down which ones I want to buy. This helps SO much!
So those are my top tips for buying kids clothes online. I frequent Superbalist because I find that they have such a great range of funky wear for little girls and a cool selection of boys clothes.
Which online stores do you love?
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Christmas Gift Ideas: Hasbro’s Great Gifts 2020
It’s no secret, we have many children. Like, many. And, although Christmas gift-choosing may be a headache for some, I quite enjoy it nogals. Even thought we have many children. (Like, many).
Brands, like Hasbro, make it that much easier to find cool toys and games for your kids during the festive season. Hasbro even has a “Hasbro’s Great Gifts” list, which compiles all the best toys of 2020 for you. I know. It’s kiff.
Here are some of my faves:
Play-DohPlay-Doh officianados will vrek for some of Play-Doh’s latest releases. I mean, from slimey to color burst to super stretchy, Elastix Play-Doh… these new options are so cool! My kids love the Play-Doh Color Burst, with speckles of one color mixed into another. The Play-Doh Elastix is another fave. It has a fun pull-apart texture, for new ways to play. It’s perfect to stretch and mould and makes creating even more fun and exciting!
Peealots & Poopalots
If your kids love the the furReal furry friends, you definitely should check out the Peealots & Poopalots Big Wags Pets collection, another expansion of the brand’s successful pet-walking line, with a range of feisty pups and kittens to choose from.
Each Peealots pet comes with a leash system that allows you to take them for walks and a water bottle so you can give them a drink. Of course, after quenching your pet’s thirst, they’ll need to go! Just lift its tail and watch as your pet lifts its leg and pees – but be sure to clean up after them – it’s the polite thing to do!
Frozen
I mean, need I say more? Elsa and Anna are like celebrities in my home. So why not a cool Elsa fashion doll for Christmas? Kids can sing along with the Musical Adventure Elsa and Anna fashion dolls (each doll sold separately) as she belts out a song featured in Disney’s Frozen 2 movie.
Doll includes batteries so the musical fun can start as soon as kids open the box. All they have to do is turn on the switch on her back and press the button on her bodice to start the catchy tune. Kids will also love her movie-inspired dress with its elegant design and glitter accents.
Power Rangers
So Power Rangers are still a thing. Remember how we grew up watching them (I’m the pink ranger… I’m always the pink ranger, okay?). Well our kids love the Power Rangers too. I was so impressed to see the cool range of Power Rangers toys available from Hasbro.
IT’S MORPHIN TIME! The Power Rangers Beast-X King Morpher is inspired by the Power Rangers Beast Morphers TV show (as seen on Cartoon Network), with light up lion eyes. When kids strap the morpher to their wrist and move around, they will hear show-inspired sounds and phrases. Plus, when they use the included Morph-X key in the Beast-X King Morpher, the Beast-X King mane will flip out and the morpher will enter Beast-X mode, for even more sounds and phrases!
Find these toys at Takealot, Toys R Us and ToyZone.
WIN one of two Hasbro toy hampers valued at R700!Want to score yourself a lekker Hasbro toy hamper for Christmas? Sure you do! To enter simply find specially marked posts on Instagram and Facebook and follow the instructions. One winner will be selected from each platform and you may enter on both platforms – giving you two chances to win!
Terms and Conditions
Giveaway closes on 18 December at midnight. 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 Hasbro competitions in the last 6 months will not be eligible to win.
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It’s Valentine’s Day – here’s how to do a Sunstar GUM #FreshBreathCheck! {And win a hamper!}
It was awkward. My Valentine and I were on the most perfect date, complete with roses, a moonlit walk by the beach and Leona Lewis. Until he leaned in to give me a smooch and it left me, pretty much, knocked out by more than just his good looks.
Bad breath is not cute, you guys.
And when it comes to maintaining a healthy mouth and fresh breath, getting rid of dental plaque is essential. I don’t meant to be dramatic but bad breath totally has the power to make or break that special moment forever!!! *and end scene*
Seriously though, plaque is almost invisible – it’s not easy to spot. So, if you plan to take your dental care seriously, you might want to consider investing in the new Sunstar GUM Red-Cote Plaque Disclosing Tablets. I’m super impressed with it, because it makes it easy to identify exactly where you should improve your oral care routine.
Simply brush, floss and rinse as usual then chew a tasty, cherry-flavoured tablet to reveal any plaque you’ve missed. Then brush and clean in-between again, until your mouth is completely clean. As easy as pie… but, like, fresh smelling pie. If you know what I mean.Sunstar GUM has a range of amazing products that helps you to keep your teeth on fleek. (Does that sentence make sense? Well it does to me. I can’t help it if I’m hip.)
One of my faves is the Sunstar GUM ActiVital Sonic Toothbrush – a super stylish way to ensure a healthy mouth and clean teeth and gums. The ultra-tapered bristles are scientifically proven to remove up to 50% more plaque from between the teeth than a manual brush and reach deeper below the gumline.
The GUM Expanding Floss is perfect for those small gaps between teeth. GUM Expanding Floss is easy to insert, even between the tightest contacts, and expands during use for an exceptional clean.
I love the Sunstar GUM Dual Action Tongue Cleaner so much, man! It helps remove plaque and food debris from the surface of the tongue. The two sides provide a dual-action – bristles to gently brush and a serrated edge to wipe the surface clean.
My Hubstopher is a huge fan of the GUM Original White mouth rinse, because it contains StainClear to help remove stains from in-between the teeth and the tiny crevices in tooth enamel. Made with a patented combination of fluoride, Isomalt and vitamins, Original White Rinse delivers advanced mineralisation for stronger and shinier teeth, helping prevent further staining while strengthening gums and teeth.
BTW if you’re not sure whether your breath is fresh enough, take the online Sunstar GUM #FreshBreathCheck this February on www.ivohealth.co.za to find out. You could win awesome prizes! What’s more, Sunstar GUM will once again donate a toothbrush to the Dental Wellness Trust’s oral education programme on behalf of each person who completes their #FreshBreathCheck quiz in February. Legit.
Sunstar GUM is recommended by dental professionals around the world and available from Dis-Chem, Clicks, selected Checkers, Pick n Pay, SPAR, pharmacies and dentists.
Win a Sunstar GUM #FreshBreathCheck oral care kit, valued at over R700!This February – Fresh Breath Month – we’re giving away a Sunstar GUM #FreshBreathCheck oral care kit, valued at over R700. Each kit contains easy-to-use GUM Red-Cote Tablets plus everything you need to super-power your oral care routine for fresh breath and a healthy mouth, including a Sunstar GUM ActiVital Sonic brush, floss, interdental tools, a tongue cleaner, GUM Original White toothpaste and rinse.
To enter simply find the specially marked post on Facebook and on Instagram, and follow the prompts.
Terms and conditions
Giveaway only open to South African residents
Giveaway ends on 19 February at 12pm
Winners will be announced via my social media pages
Sunstar GUM is responsible for the delivery of prizes to the winner -
Faith over Fear: Trusting God for sight
Guest post – From as far back as I can remember, I have struggled with my vision. I started wearing spectacles at the age of six and I remember the very first day I proudly brought my new apple-shaped glasses home. I stepped out of the car with a ginormous leap onto the pavement and a smile stretched from ear to ear because I could actually see where my foot was landing, for the very first time!
You see, my father had glaucoma – a terrible eye disease which often leads to blindness. As an offspring, not only was I extremely nearsighted with an astigmatism in both eyes, but the pressure in my eyes was abnormally high, making me a high-risk candidate for developing glaucoma myself.
As a Christian from a very young age, I had always prayed to God about my eyes but also always carried around an undesirable guilt that there were far worse problems in the world than a young girl with bad eyesight. I realized, albeit sheepishly, that I was okay with or without spectacles – and I made the decision that my vision would never hamper me from fulfilling my purpose in life.
However, one defining moment seemed to challenge my self-doubt. As an adult, I remember sitting in my home church in Cape Town one morning when our former pastor – who has since passed on – prepared a special sermon on healing. There were four specific conditions that he felt the Lord wanted him to speak about and pray over that morning. I wasn’t sure where the sermon was going or what our dear pastor was going to pray about that day, but I remember a nervous feeling brewing in my belly from the very moment he opened his mouth, and before he even spoke the words ‘glaucoma’ I found myself standing up and weeping before the entire congregation.
I’m not entirely sure what happened in the physical realm that day, but I most certainly felt something lift off me in the spiritual. My follow up with my ophthalmologist confirmed that, after 25 years, my eyes were finally beginning to stabilize and that my eye pressure seemed stable and contained – albeit still higher than the average – but within a safe, normal range.
Four years later, in March 2019, I ventured back to my ophthalmologist for what I thought would be a normal visit for a new spectacle prescription and to check that things were still as good as they appeared previously. Not only had my eyes pretty much stabilized and remained unchanged in the last four years, but for the first time in my life, I was eligible for eye surgery to correct both my nearsightedness and astigmatism.
I carefully listened to the doctor’s every word, completely shocked and humbled by this positive news. In my 29 years of wearing both spectacles and contact lenses, I had never been a good candidate for surgery. The downside of this news was that the surgery would cost R21500 which was not covered by medical aid. Money I simply did not have. A little deflated but ever hopeful, I decided to take the quotation home and pinned it up on the fridge so I could look at it each day and be reminded of how far I had already come.
Over the months that followed, life seemed to go on as normal. As a wife, a mom of two and a freelance writer from home, life has a way of moving forward, whether you’re ready for it or not. However, one morning, my dear husband suddenly had the inclination that I should go back to my doctor and find out about starting the process towards surgery and how we could both pay it off and possibly set a date for the future. I checked my accounts and together we could muster up about half of the costs as a deposit and a future date would give us time to plan and save.Previously it had taken me almost six weeks to simply get an appointment with my ophthalmologist so at the very least, I could now get an appointment and we could figure things out as they went along.
The next morning, I called the surgery to try and book an appointment in advance and get the ball rolling. To my surprise, the kind receptionist informed me that they had had a cancellation for the next morning and that I could come in immediately to discuss my options. Oh dear… suddenly things were moving at a rapid pace.
I went through all the vision tests for laser and before I knew it, I found myself booking a date that was just four weeks away. That meant that we needed over R10000 in just under a month. Gulp.
I climbed behind the steering wheel of my car as I left the surgery that morning and I immediately turned the radio off so I could have a heart to heart with God. This was my quiet time with Him, and I began to wrestle with God in the car. I told Him that I wanted this surgery; that I had booked a date and that there was no going back now. (Cheeky I know). I told Him that He needed to come through because well, how was I supposed to pay for it all.
I called my husband and we thought for a moment about how we would possibly move around funds but that things would be very tight, if not impossible. I went home and sent out a message to my prayer group to explain the situation and to ask for prayer and guidance. I remember telling them that on the inside I was laughing because I was a little broke, but I knew that God had come through for me many times before.
That evening we sat together at the kitchen table and tried to process the day’s events. At this point, my husband had full confidence that God was leading us to have this surgery and that He would take care of it. Minutes later my phone buzzed. It was a potential client calling about a quotation I had sent through a month previously. He wanted to let me know that they were accepting my quote for a year of service, and if possible, if they could pay me in advance for the year…
I put the phone down and burst out laughing. What had just happened? In one day, God had orchestrated a divine appointment that had otherwise taken weeks to secure, and then He provided every last cent and more to ensure that this surgery was going to happen and that my family would be taken care of.
A few days prior to my surgery, a wise gentleman prayed for me at church and told me that He felt that God was aligning my physical sight to that which He had already begun to unveil in my spiritual sight. I knew then that my decision to wrestle with God was me choosing faith over fear and trusting that He would come through for me.
On 2 October 2019 I walked into the Cape Eye Clinic and I walked out without my spectacles. For the first time in my life, I can now sit and type on my computer with no corrective lenses. I can drive without spectacles. I can read without spectacles. I can do life without feeling like I have been hiding behind glass for most of my existence. The goodness of God leaves me speechless and ever thankful.
My eyes are currently in the process of healing and it may take up to 6 months before they stabilise, but I am trusting that God will continue to do what He said He would. My faith over fear journey is therefore far from over, but each day I’m reminded of where I come from and I look ahead to where He is leading me.
If you’re feeling as though you are unworthy of the fullness of God and His blessings, I am here to tell you that God can and will do infinitely more than you or I could ever hope or imagine.
Now more than ever, the Scripture in Proverbs rings true for me which says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight,” (3:5-6).
What are you trusting Him for today?
Author
This guest post is part of my Faith over Fear series. The author, Tamsyn Cornelius, owns TC Editorial Services where she touches on topics of faith. You can check her out on social media: Facebook, Instagram and Linked In -
10 things I wish I could tell my younger self
They say age aint nothing but a number… well, yes, that’s true. Aging is all in the mind and all of that. But hey, regardless of how old you feel or don’t feel, the one thing that I appreciate the most about aging is the life lessons that one picks up along the way.
If you had to meet 20 something year old me, in nineteen-voetsak, you may have gawked at her questionable taste in clothing (because I only wore skirts that were designed to fit 12 year olds) and my even more questionable taste in men (cough cough).
Anyways, a chat with a friend (hey Simone!) reminded me that old Luchae could teach young Luchae a thing or two about life! I mean, if I had to have a chat with 20 year old me, I would definitely fill her in on the following:
1. Guys are just guys. Sure, you can meet the love of your life and possibly get married and have cute little kideos and live happily ever after. But truth be told, the love of your life is still… just a guy. No man deserves to be worshiped… not even your husband.
2. You’re not too old to do whatever the heck you want to do. Girl, you’re 20! You’ve only been on this earth for 20 years! Madonna has been around longer than you and she’s still making music so what’s stopping you from reaching for your dreams?! Also, being a single mom, and kicking butt at it, at the age of 20 is something to be proud of! You may feel as if your options are limited right now, but honestly baby girl, your mindset is your only limit.
3. In a couple of years time, a crazy man is going to tell you about Bitcoin. Buy like, a hundred of them.
4. Your grandparents, as immortal and strong as they appear to be, are not immortal. Cherish them, sit at their feet and learn as much as you can. And, most importantly, bring along a book and a pen and write down all the stories they will share about their youth. Those treasures are the real inheritance.
5. Try not to invest too much money into partying and clubbing. I mean, sure, a fun-filled December in Cape Town sounds like a great idea for a holiday. But maybe don’t sell your car or spend all of your December bonus money, to do it. Having a good time is, well, a good time. But being broke and carless in January… not so much a good time.6. I know, it feels like such a leap stepping out of your comfort zone to pursue that degree or career that basically has nothing to do with what you’re doing right now. You’re looking around, thinking that your friends (the ones who actually went on to study after high school) are graduating right now and that you’ve missed your turn. Well, you didn’t. Do the thing, girl! Stop being so fearful!
7. You’re not fat. Girlfriend, after you’ve popped out a couple of kids, you’re going to look back at these wonder years and wish you were as “fat” as you are right now. Enjoy your body and look after your health!
8. Oh and talking about kids: it’s never too early to start prepping your body for child birth. Yes, I realize how wack this sounds. Trust me, I know what I’m talking about, Young Luchae. Google “kegel exercises” and “strengthening your core muscles”. You’ll thank me later.
9. Darling, this is a tough one, so I’m going to say it as gently as I can: you don’t need loads of store cards and credit cards. Like, cut it out. Step away from the cellphone contract, I repeat, step away from the contract! Consider this: if you had to add up all the money you spend on paying those bills per month, you’ll actually find that you have more than enough disposable income to make those purchases CASH, once you’ve settled all your debt. Now that’s wisdom for ya!
10. Finally (but not really finally because I have a lot to share but I don’t want to sound as if I’m giving you a lecture), don’t be ashamed or embarrassed to pursue your relationship with God. I know that your friends are not “religious” or into that “God stuff” and you feel like you’ll stand out like a sore thumb. That’s okay. You’re called to be in the world but not of it.
I know you’re overwhelmed. You’re stuck in a wormhole where a gazillion things and absolutely nothing is important all at the same time. You worry about your life decisions… if you’ve made the right ones, will you ever find love, can you repair the damage that (you thought) you’ve done. And hey, I’m no expert, I don’t have all the answers to your many questions. But I am 100% confident that you’re going to be okay, girl. You’re going to be okay.
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Lies I tell myself on my birthday
My favorite thing about birthday’s is that they make you think about how not young you are. Hahaha joking. Kinda. Okay, let me start over. Hello, how are you? I’m fine thank you. It’s my birthday next week and I’m just sitting here, reminiscing on a time when I was a tad bit, you know, younger, and stuff.
I love the saying about how aging and getting old is all in the mind and you’re only as old as you feel and all that other stuff you’d read on a Drake swag note or on an Oprah meme. I guess there is some truth to that, right? I mean, surely.
I know 30 year olds who act (and probably feel) older than some of the young-at-heart 40 year olds that I hang out with. “Age is nothing but number.” Well, that’s what Aaliyah said (and we now know that the song was inspired by the pedophilic R Kelly, so maybe ignore that quote). My point is that we often LIE to ourselves, when our birthday’s loom, bringing with it the reality that we are not as young as we use to be.
I mean, I often catch myself lying to myself about the fact that I’m passed my sell by date. You can’t start that new career… you’re too old. You cant attempt a new hobby… like, at your age, what are you trying to do, win a Guinness World Record or something?! And duh, you can’t be successful in your field of interest at such an “old” age (mind you, I’m only in my 30s… somebody call Dr Phil) because people who actually made it did so when they were in their 20s. Oh the lies I tell myself and actually believe.
I also lie about the fact that I look old now. Oh I’m SO fat! I look SO tired, like, ALL the time. My hairstyle is so lame. My clothes are so mommy-esque and boring. I’M SO OLD. What utter crap? I’ve seen stylish, healthy moms prove me wrong on all points. And it’s made me realize that letting go of my health and letting go of feeling good about my appearance is a decision I make. It’s a lie I tell myself. And it’s one that I don’t have to be stuck in.We often lie about how much potential we have, “now that we’re old”. But in my situation, I think the lie was birthed over time, on all the days when I birthed my kids. The lie tells you that one more baby equals a little less potential, ability, creativity and overall awesomeness.
We lie and tell ourselves that our children are a life-suck… you know, they suck the life out of us. “Oh but I mean, I LOVE them! I can’t imagine my life without them!” *huge smile* The truth is that they’ve done nothing but add value to the adorable badass that is you and you’re probably more capable of great things now that you’ve learnt to manage a whole entire household. Show me a fancy CEO who can simultaneously bath a 4 year old, while on a conference call with your teenager’s school, as you attempt to feed a hyperactive 2 year old AND keep a watchful eye on the pot on the stove. This stuff is not for sissies.
Anyways, the point of this rant is that it’s my birthday and I’ll age if I want to. But that doesn’t mean I’m losing my poise, my power or my passion. It doesn’t mean that this is the end of me. The super fierce girl who wanted to take over the world, when she was 22, is still there somewhere. And like fine wine and a great pair jeans, she only gets BETTER over time.
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Inspiring Christmas gift ideas for her {Giveaway!}
If you’re a Christmas gift fundi – you know, the type that collects the stuff like stamps or rare coins – then you are a woman after my own heart. Welcome, friend! I have just the post for you! Today I would like to introduce you to my favorite CUM Books gift ideas for HER … yes, “her” as in your mom, sister, best friend, kid’s teacher and hey, even you. Yep, buying Christmas gifts for yourself is a necessity. It’s just as important as decorating the Christmas tree and singing along to Mariah Carols on your way to work. Yes, THAT important.
CUM Books has a range of stunning gift ideas that are both pretty, practical and packed with inspiration. I mean, who wouldn’t want to end the old year and go into a new year with something inspirational in your home, on your desk or in your hand bag.
I love a good theme, you guys. Themed gifts are always a great idea, if you have a message that you’d like to impact the gift receiver with. This “I choose joy” gift set is the perfect example. The trinket tray is ceramic and would make a really cute ring holder, on your vanity. You can pair it up with the 3 pack notebook set (yep, 3!) and pop them into the very whimsical gift bag, that comes complete with pretty tissue paper. Christmas gift sorted! (Three-Piece Notebook Set R99.95; Trinket R149.95)
Talking about gift bags, CUM Books has a variety of gift bags, in various collections, that are perfect any season and any type of gift! The gift bags are constructed of heavyweight, coated paper which makes it easy to hold a variety of gifts and their weights. Most of them include satin handles, tissue paper and a gift tag for a personal message. (Medium Sized Gift Bags R44.95)
If the special lady in your life loves having beautiful things in her home, why not gift her with this stunning pastel floral mug set. This 4 piece Inspirational Floral Mug Set is made of ceramic, and the mugs feature Philippians 4:16, Psalm 46:10, Jeremiah 29:11, or John 3:16. Also featured on the mugs is a pastel floral design with unique flowers and colors for each one. This gift comes with a matching gift box for easy wrapping and delivering to a loved one. (Ceramic Mug Set R399.95)
CUM Books always has a wide range of themed mugs, and I become quite a mug fanatic when I visit one of their stores. I mean, who wouldn’t be! You just want to have them all! They are all well priced and you can pick up a design for just about any special person in your life. Hint: My fave gift ideas are the dad mugs for grandfathers (because who wants another handkerchief) and the pretty mugs are my fave gift ideas for teachers. (CUM Books Mugs prices ranges from R79.95 to R139.95)
Another great idea for teacher gifts are these classic luxleather journals. I’ve had a bunch of them in a variety of styles and colors and literally only have this one left. Yes, I love journaling that much. The gray LuxLeather journal holds 400 lined pages with a ribbon marker for keeping your place. The Serenity Prayer is displayed in gold foiled text on the front cover. Give this journal to someone in your life who could use some encouragement to write their thoughts, prayers, and reflections down. (Luxleather Journal price R249.95)
WIN a Christmas hamper compliments of CUM Books!CUM Books is one of the largest stockists of Christian and inspirational books, Bibles, music, resources, movies and gifts, in South Africa! CUM Books focus is on spreading the Good News to the homes and hearts of people across South Africa. I’m also especially pleased that we can now shop online – the Cum Books online store is a dream!
But hey, I know why you’re here! You want to win an amazing Christmas hamper, compliments of Cum Books! 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.
3. Comment below and let me know which gift idea your favorite guy would appreciate, to grab 1 entry.
Hint: You can grab 3 more entries by checking out this post!)Disclaimer: the hamper does not look like the one in the pic above.
Giveaway open to SA residents only. Winner announced on 14 December and has 24 hours to claim prize. Keep your eyes peeled for the rest of this week, for more entry prompts! -
Three cool things to do with your family in Port Elizabeth
If you’re planning a visit to Port Elizabeth (now known as Nelson Mandela Bay) this holiday, firstly, you clearly have excellent taste. I mean, besides for the exquisite beaches, amazing nature reserves and friendly locals, Port Elizabeth also offers visitors a chance to get to know the city’s history. There’s something for everyone! Check out these three cool things to do with your family in Port Elizabeth:
The Beach
Always the beach. Whether you’re looking for a safe place to sun tan, or a shady area near the waves, to watch your kids play around in the sand, the beaches in Port Elizabeth are the perfect place to park your umbrella. The coastal region of Nelson Mandela Bay offers you 40kms of beautiful, golden beach! Kings Beach extends from the harbor wall to Humewood and is ideal for swimming and body surfing. Hobie Beach, which is in the vicinity of the Boardwalk and Shark Rock Pier, is a hot spot for volleyball enthusiasts and is the venue for the annual “Splash Festival”.
The History
My family and I are a sucker for a good adventure. We have spent countless hours exploring Port Elizabeth’s rich cultural heritage sites, such as the Fort Frederick, South End Museum and the Donkin Heritage Trail. The Donkin Reserve and Lighthouse building are famous monuments, and we’ve spent many a school history tour learning about these attractions and how they’ve played an integral party of the establishment of our city. But my most favorite monument of all has to be the Campanile. This historical building, erected to commemorate the landing of the 1820 Settlers, is situated at the entrance to the railway station and docks in Strand Street. It is 50m high and has a climb of 204 steps! The magnificent view of the harbor, once you’ve reached the top is priceless!
The Wildlife
While residing in Port Elizabeth is not exactly deemed as “outback living” we have our fair share of wildlife and nature. On the outskirts of Nelson Mandela Bay, you’ll be pleased to find an array of hot spots that showcase the natural beauty that the Eastern Cape has to offer. Some of these include Van Staden’s Wild Flower Reserve, Settler’s Park, Maitlands Nature Reserve, Baviaanskloof Wildnerness Area and Groendal Wilderness. You are also spoilt for choice, if gaming is your thing. Nelson Mandela Bay boasts an amazing selection of stunning game reserves and game drives that might bring you face to face with a member of the Big 7! For more, check out Addo Elephant National Park, Kragga Kamma Game Park and the Seaview Predator Park.
But hey, don’t take my word for it! You should totally give our friendly city a go, this coming Summer season! For more information do check out the Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism website, where you can find more deets on a NMBT pass card that will give you free access and many great discounts to many of these attractions!Disclaimer: This post was written in collaboration with SA-Venues.com.
All pics used in this post were borrowed from the NMBT website.
