Tips and tricks
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Turning a breech baby – is it possible?
Now, I would never claim to be an expert of anything (expert chicken pops eater – is that a thing?) but when it comes to giving birth, I kinda know what’s up. And with this being my fourth pregnancy, I had planned to give natural birth once again, as I had with all my other kids. I was mentally and emotionally prepared for it.
Until a trip to my OBGYN revealed that baby is most definitely still breech, and at 34 weeks we kinda have a 3 week window period to ensure that he/she moves into position for birth.
Freaking out? Nay, not I, kind Sir. (I mean, I usually speak like a Shakespearean character, nothing out of the ordinary here).
But I would obviously prefer to give birth the only way I know how, as opposed to a C-Sec. Also, given the lengthy healing period and the fact that I have many other children to care for, I would say that a C-Sec (though manageable, I’m sure) would throw a spanner in the works for me.
Anyways, so with that said, baby needs to get his/her little butt into position, so to speak. After talking it out with Hubstopher (who is chilled about it all, as per usual) I did what any normal, sane pregnant woman would do: I Googled (because who are you evens if you aren’t using the Internet to find the solution to your medical problems).
I found a few interesting tips on the interwebs and were more drawn to the ones that did not sound as if it would put my unborn child in danger (because duh). And then I thought, hey I should share these with my readers because even though some of it sounds ridiculous I’m sure there is another pregnant mom with a breech baby situation, scouring the internet for a blog post of this very nature. I’m here to serve. You’re welcome.
Anyways, here are 7 (naturalish) ways to possibly get your breech baby to turn:
1. All about the music
You guys, no jokes, but some websites say that you must put headphones on your pelvis (toward your pubic bone), while playing classical music, and baby will naturally gravitate towards it. Apparently 10 minutes, six to eight times per day will do the trick.2. The breech tilt
So apparently, if you lie on your back with hips slightly elevated and knees bent, you create more room in your belly and naturally coax baby to move into position. You should try this up to three times a day for atleast 10 minutes.3. Just keep swimming
So there are no hard facts but some say that swimming can be quite relaxing and therapeutic and can help to get baby to move into position, naturally.4. Be the light
You could use an amber or red light, moving it slowly from the top down towards your pubic bone, while you’re in a tilt position. This also supposedly coaxes baby into position for labour, since baby will follow the light.5. Forward-leaning inversion
So I read that rocking back and forth on your hands and knees or even doing some gentle pelvic rotations, for about 10 minutes before bedtime, can help to relax the pelvic muscles and increase the gravitational pull inside your uterus.6. Sweeten it up
Eat or drink something sweet (fruit included) and lie on your side with your hips positioned higher than your feet. The sugar rush will get baby moving and your body’s position will coax baby to get into that birthing position.7. Using cold
They say that placing something cold on your belly will encourage baby to move into the correct position. The cold will cause them to react and move and you could basically coax your little one into position, as they try to move away from the cold.So what do you think, friends? Interesting, right? Have you tried any of this at home? I’ve heard of other (more invasive) methods, which I am a bit wary about. Have you tried any of those? Please do share your experiences down below.
Resources:
Today’s Parents
Baby Centre
Parent24
Very Well Family -
Buy healthy and save? Yes, it is possible with Kimbino!
Sponsored – If you look at your budget every month, you will find that most of your money is spent on food. It is important, however, to take a look at what food items you are buying every month. Yes, we do spend a lot of money on food items, but how many of that is actually healthy for us? Now, more than ever, it is important to look at what we put into our bodies. As they say “you are what you eat”!
How can you be healthier?
There are many things you can implement to help yourself have a healthier life. Follow these five tips as a start:
- Drink enough water. Not everyone can drink eight glasses of water a day, but if you can get to five a day, that is a great start. Water cleanses your body and fills you up, so you don’t get hungry so often!
- Cook healthy. Find healthy products that are on special and buy them in bulk. This way, you can cook healthy dishes for longer periods, and for cheaper! Don’t you have time to cook every day? Prepare food for 2-3 days and put food in a bowl and store in the refrigerator. If you don’t have the right bowl at home, you’ll find great tips in the new Tupperware catalogue. In Tupperware catalogue you will find many great kitchen helpers.
- Take your vitamins. It is vital that you get the essential vitamins and minerals in every day. The best way to absorb your vitamins is through eating healthy, but if you struggle to find healthy food every day, supplements are great alternatives to the real deal.
- Exercise as much as possible! Try to do a 20-minute workout at least two to three times a week. Exercise keeps you fit and boosts endorphins, which make you feel really good.
- Get some sun. The sun keeps your bones healthy. That’s because your body produces vitamin D when exposed to the sun.
Eating healthy can be expensive
Many people choose the unhealthy option when it comes to food and drinks because it is often cheaper. However, it shouldn’t be. With an application like Kimbino, it is easier than ever to find specials on all the items you are looking for. Kimbino is an online platform that hosts special catalogues from many different retailers. This way, you can find discounts on all the products you are looking for.
Want to start living healthier? Simply search for the items you are looking for on Kimbino’s easy-to-use app or website, and find all the discount prices in one place. But remember, Kimbino doesn’t just offer food product catalogues, they have a variety of catalogues from many stores! Looking for specials from a specific shop, such as Makro? With Kimbino, you can find Makro specials with just a few clicks.
Save time, buy cheaper and live healthier!
Disclaimer: Post sponsored by Kimbono. All content supplied.
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Newborn checklist: My stripped down list of must-haves
When you’re a bit of a baby aficionado, like I am, you kinda know what’s up when it comes to baby stuff. I mean, the running joke is that my next baby’s entrance into the world will be so easy, that it’ll probably appear wearing a whole outfit, including matching beanie and socks. *insert crickets chirping*
But regardless of how, uhm, experienced you are at child rearing, preparing for a little bebe can seem very daunting especially when you eye those extravagantly long lists on the internet, put together by mothers who are – for lack of a better term – next level extra.
I mean, we’ve all been that “next level extra” mom. Aint nothing wrong with that… I mean, I kinda still am, sometimes. But truth be told, my fellow mamas, you actually need very little for baby’s first few days on earth. In fact, if you compare those (very long) lists with the amount of stuff that are very necessary, you’d be surprised at how minimal your baby list should actually be.
Now the only reason why this topic is coming up on my blog today is because I am tired. (Yes, this is the mantra of my life right now, bail a sister). And because I am tired, I haven’t even attempted to do any baby shopping for baby Williams arrival at the end of August. But, in my defense, I know that I only need these 7 things to get by during those first few weeks:
1. Onesies
I love little baby crawlers and onesies, especially for the first few months, because quite honestly you guys, no one is seeing that outfit underneath swaddle blankets. Snap crotch vests are life (I said that here, remember) and comfy crawlers and onesies are perfect for baby’s transition from womb to world. I stan a cute onesie, over a pair of 0-3 month skinny jeans, any day!2. Blankets
Talking about blankets, these are obvz a must. Swaddle sets are cool because it helps you to keep baby feeling safe and tucked in. (Remember, that’s what they experienced in the womb too). So a couple of swaddle blankets, some receiving blankets and a larger fleecy one is basically all I’ll get for my baby right now. I am also planning on using my The Gro Company baby sleeping bags, for safer sleep. (I literally aaacked when they sent me some! I’ll tell you all about it soon).3. Big ticket items
Stuff like your cot, your car seat and your sleep positioner (like this one) is super duper important. I also prefer having a bath seat (like this one), to help me to wash that little body without being a cluts. A good quality baby bag is also a must. Things like a play mat, a feeding chair and a Bumbo seat are great things, but I would probably only aim to get those things later on.
4. Breastfeeding gear
My Medela breast pumps, breast pads and nipple ointments are an absolute MUST! You guys, I switched to Medela, when Jo was born, and my life has never been the same again! (Indulge me as I over-dramatise this moment) Seriously though, Medela was so kind to send me their mini-electric pump and I am planning on getting a Harmony hand pump again, because it works so well for quick pumps. (The pic above was taken in a plane, you guys, I’m a gangsta-pumper).5. Nappies
Because, duh. Nappies and wet wipes are essential commodities, when you have a newborn. Stocking up on nappies and wipes are definitely a life goal, when you’re expecting a little one. You can totally use cloth nappies too (Simone wrote a very interesting article about it here). I must admit, the idea of cloth diapering, while being a working mom with a 2 year old and a 4 year old, totally overwhelms my spreadsheet brain. And yep, baby will be going to a day mother, so no help at home either. So I’ll probably kick it old school and stick to the Huggies I know and trust. Oh and the more wet wipes the merrier!
6. Bottles and pacifiers
I mean, if you plan to breastfeed, you may not want to invest in these just yet. In fact, besides for Jojo, none of my kids even took to pacifiers. But when it comes to bottles (because let’s face it, even if you exclusively breast feed, you may want to express milk and bottlefeed) I would definitely stick to the Tommee Tippee brand. The Closer To Nature range helped me to combo feed Kari and made the transition from boob to breast a bit easier for my girl. It’s a definite must-have for me. (Oh and duh, if you’re bottle feeding, you would want a top notch bottle cleaner, bottle rack and sterilizer).7. Toiletries
Top-to-toe wash and baby lotion is probably the only must-have on my toiletries list. I don’t use powders and oils on my little ones, just because I feel that their delicate skin doesn’t really need it. A solid bum cream is a must though – fans of Sudocream, hollar! (I never thought I would be a fan, of like, a bum cream, but here I am wanting to follow it on Instagram).So that’s my very doable list of baby goodies that I absolutely need to get, like, soon. My spreadsheet brain is also all about that forward thinking, so putting money onto a Baby City (or retailer of choice) gift card every month, during your pregnancy, is a great way to ensure that you have funds to buy those necessary items, once baby is here.
Disclaimer: This post was NOT sponsored by Baby City 🙂
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Easy peasy KOO Cape Malay curry homemade pie (can feed a family of very many people)
Friends, I’m not the best cook in the world. In fact, I’m downright unimpressive when it comes to kitchen stuff. (I just referred to cooking as “kitchen stuff”… point and case). So, when I find a recipe that is quick, easy and tastes delicious, best know that I’m going to brag about it on this here blog and basically make it whenever you invite me over for a bring and share.
At our blogger event, the kind people over at KOO gave us a hamper filled with some of their yummy tinned veggies and I knew I had to do something with it (I mean, besides for give them to a family member with the hint of “here, cook for us.”)
I was kinda excited because I spotted some of the new KOO iconic curry sauce flavours in the press drop. Dude, you need to check this out! KOO – the country’s fave canned food brand – introduced a range of curried mixed veggies to the shelf, in Durban Curry and Cape Malay Curry sauces! And believe me (because it’s food, I don’t joke about food) these flavors are legit! I mean, I had to try them out in a dish!I visited the KOO website for ideas and spotted an easy homemade pie recipe. I mean, it seemed simple enough. The recipe was for individual pies though, and as you know, my family (filled with very many people) are usually ravenous come supper time. So I decided to adapt the recipe a bit to make a large oven pie instead. I am absolutely, without a doubt, impressed with myself. Here’s my recipe:
Disclaimer: Now, friends, if you’re like me (a very undomesticated goddess who wonders why her husband hasn’t tried to trade her in for a Martha Stewart type) then this recipe is for you. It’s easy, doesn’t require any cooking skill at all (obviously) and is one of those quick meal ideas. If you’re looking for something a bit more fancier, look away, my friend. You will not find that here.
Easy peasy homemade pie (can feed a family of very many people)Ingredients:
1kg minced beef
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 egg (beaten)
2 medium onions, chopped
3 cans (410g) KOO MIXED VEGETABLES in CAPE MALAY Curry Sauce
2 rolls of Puff Pastry
You can add cheese (I like it cheesy)
Fresh herbs to garnish if you’re that person. (I’m not that person)
Method:
Pre-heat the oven at 180 degrees C.In a large pot, brown your chopped onions (I usually add garlic and ginger, because that’s what my mother does) and eventually add in your mince. Season with some salt and pepper and cook until brown.
Add your KOO Cape Malay curried mixed veggies to the pot and allow to cook through. (You’re welcome to add salt and seasoning to taste, but I found that it needed very little to no extra salt… all the flavor is there already!) Allow your concoction to cool.Roll out one package of Puff Pastry and press into your oven dish, making sure it overlaps the sides nicely. (Please note, I definitely used Spray And Cook in my oven dish before I pressed my pastry in. Maybe you should too.) Stick your pastry into the oven for a couple of minutes. You want it to be a golden brown.
When it’s ready, remove from oven and scoop your cooled Cape Malay stew into the baked pastry base, adding the second (raw) layer of pastry on top, like a lid.
Brush egg on to the top of your pastry. Stick it in the oven and give yourself a high five because you just made a whole pie without using Google.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes (or until it’s nice and golden).And that’s that. I wish I had more to share, or could tell you guys how I discovered an easy way to do something, but nope. It’s that plain and simple. I’ve never baked with a KOO product before and I must say, this experiment was pretty darn delish!
If you want to try out the original KOO Crusty Homemade Pie with Curried Mixed Vegetables recipe that this was adapted from you can find it here.The KOO curried mixed vegetable range, retailing for approximately R17.99, is available from retailers and supermarkets across the country. For meal inspiration and delicious recipes visit – www.koo.co.za.
Header image: KOO
Disclaimer: Also, KOO sent me this product to try out. -
How To Start a Blog in 2019
‘How To Start a Blog in 2019’ felt like the most legit title for this article since, you know, we have a bunch of resources available today that our forefather’s of yesteryear may not have had. (Toilet paper. Running water. Google. You know, important stuff.)
Truth be told though, starting a blog now a days is a bit like buying a camera and calling yourself a photographer – anyone can do it. It has become the hobby/part time job of choice and the thing is this: it’s pretty easy to catch the knack thereof, but you kinda need to be born with a certain je ne sais quoi for it, or else you’ll bore easily.
But, if you had to ask me (and so very many of you have asked me, hence this post) how to start a blog (in 2019) I would probably offer you these very simple tips.
(Disclaimer: I am by no means a professional anything (professional parent? is that a thing?) but these are some of the things I did when I started this very blog right here.)
Right, so first things first. What is a blog?
Well, I like to call my blog my online diary. But essentially it’s a website (usually a personal one) that contains a lot of written content (think: articles). Your blog can can be a resource of information, it can be a go to spot for tips and tricks or hey, it can simply be a place where you share your deepest thoughts. The cool thing is that it’s YOUR website and you can pretty much design it the way YOU want to. I think that this is the main benefit of having a blog… it’s a tad more personal than a business/news website because readers are able to link your face/personality to it.
How To Start a Blog in 2019:1. Decide on your blog niche. This means: figure out the type of topics your website will cover. There are a variety of options and you could pretty much have NO niche/genre and still be successful. But I’ve found that when you have identity, you kinda have vision… and when you have vision, you are more motivated to make a success of the thing.
2. Decide on your blog name. Remember that your blog name is, in essence, your website’s name/address. You would want to make it something that will be able to encompass you, as a brand. As I mentioned before, calling it “Single Girl in PE” is a cute idea, except that it may be limiting since you could actually get married and move out of PE one day. Choose a name that will still be relevant after a couple of years.
3. Choose a blogging platform. There are a variety of options (Blogger, Tumblr, Wix) but I’ve found that wordpress.com is the more popular and user friendly option. There are no start up costs, you don’t need to know coding and the themes make it really easy for you to get the look you want. However, keep in mind that because it’s a free option, you may be a bit limited on the design front AND your website will be owned by WordPress.
4. Create the blog. If you’ve decided on your blogging platform (step 3), all you have to do is register (duh). It’s pretty easy and straightforward. Once you’re registered you can choose your homepage layout, select a theme and create a free blog name domain.
Your blog name domain is the name of your website/URL. BUT it will be owned by WordPress, since it’s hosted on their web property. This means that your site will have the phrase “.wordpress” in its URL/address like so: www.girlintheworld.wordpress.com
You could totally roll with this free site (aka your wordpress hosted domain.) But if you wanted to go a bit more profesh (and get that “.wordpress” phrase out of your website address) you could purchase a domain. Buying your own domain is like paying for the space on the interwebs for your blog to live. Owning your domain kinda secures it and makes you look a bit more serious about what you’re doing. You can check out who the service providers are in your neck of the woods. I use Axxess. Other options include: Afrihost and MWeb.
(If you plan to not spend money on purchasing a domain, you can totally skip number 5.)
5. Buy your domain. (Clip note, you could do step 5 before step 4, I did it the other way around) Once you’ve purchased your domain, log into your domain’s admin panel (that means, go into your profile on the domain website). Okay, breathe girl, I know it looks overwhelming, but it’s not! Right, so most (if not all) of these websites will have a one-click option that will automatically instal your WordPress. Click on it, get that WordPress installed and then simply log into your WordPress using the details you’ve used in step 3 and Bob’s your uncle. Unless you really have an uncle named Bob… then you’ll have two uncles named Bob. Easy peasy lemon squeezy. For everything else there’s Google.
6. Appearance. You can now spend all of your days (okay maybe not ALL your days, but a large chunk of it, because this can get really interesting) designing and redesigning your website until you’re happy with it. Find a wide range of ready-to-use themes on WordPress under the Appearance>Themes option.
7. Plug-Ins. Instal plug-ins (that’s like apps) on your blog (under Plugins>Add New) that will help you to safe guard your website, help to track your readers behaviour and a bunch of other cool stuff. Plug-ins that I use include: Wordfence, Akismet Anti-spam, Jetpack and Yoast).
8. Blog, you blogger! Yep… you’re pretty much set up. Now you can start creating that quality content that the world needs to see! Remember that Google and Youtube is your best friend… you may feel as if you need to have an I.T. boffin by your side throughout this whole ordeal, but truth be told fam, my Hubstopher is an I.T. boffin and he literally did ZERO work on my website. I figured it all out myself and with the help of Google and Youtube. And friends, if I can do it, believe me, so can you.
Extra tip: A great idea would be to register social media accounts in your blog’s name. Hint: You would want to make the name similar across all accounts, making it easy for your readers to find you. Social media accounts, for your blog, is a great way to keep people informed with your latest posts. It is also a great way to build community with your readers and to see what people are interested in hearing about.
So there you have it. My very doable, very easy ‘How To Start a Blog in 2019’ guide. You’re welcome.
Other articles that can help you on this blogging journey:
Choosing a blog niche
Blog design
How to start a blog
More on ‘how to start a blog’A huge thank you to Odette of Confidently Insecure for reading through my post to check that I’m not a raving lunatic, giving you guys inaccurate information!
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Netflorist’s personalised lunchboxes made me geek out
When it comes to giving gifts, I’m the type who loves to make it personal. I mean, fancy expensive gifts are totally amazing, but those low-cost, well thought out ones are pretty spectacular too. There’s nothing more special than knowing that some brain juice went into putting a gift together.
And that’s why I spent like, two hours on Netflorist the other day. I mean, you can pretty much personalise almost anything on the online gifting website! My brain was short circuiting, you guys. There were just so many cool personalised gifting options… I needed to have them all! I mean, I didn’t have any specific reason as to why I was shopping for gifts. But I don’t need one, okay? That’s my story and I’m semi-sticking to it.
Anyways, there I was, innocently minding my own business while cyber window shopping and then I spotted an email from Netflorist in my inbox introducing me to the funky Netflorist personalised lunchboxes. I totally spazzed out, you guys. No seriously, I broke out in manic twitches because, get this, it’s a funky lunchbox AND it can be a cool gift idea AND it’s practical… score! My inner Martha Stewart started break-dancing while beat-boxing all at the same time.
A gazillion ideas popped into my head… I could do SO MUCH with a personalised lunchbox and none of these ideas have anything to do with lunch. Guys, if I had a personalised lunchbox, the world would be my oyster! Here’s what I would do with it:
These would make for an excellent alternative to a boring ol’ gift bag or wrapping paper. I would totally fill a personalised lunchbox with trinkets and keepsakes, for an extra quirky and thoughtful birthday/Christmas gift idea.
It would also double as a really cute festive treat box! Moms who put together “night before Christmas” gift boxes, how about filling one of these with all your favorite festive season snacks? Or how about a “Exams Prep Box” filled with energy gummies and snacks that will get your kid through those long study nights?
My kids would love a personalised lunchbox filled with cool gel markers, felt tip pens and colour in pencils! This would make for a cool “back to school” gift or, hey, if you’re simply looking to make your kid’s day! (Oh and Father’s Day gift idea anyone?)What you need to know
These personalised Netflorist lunchboxes come in a variety of different designs. You simply pick your design and type in the name of the person that the gift is intended for. I appreciate that it’s a sturdy Addis lunchbox, which means it’s BPA free.
The dimensions of the lunchbox is 20cm x 15cm x 6cm which is perfect for safely and neatly storing lunch and snacks for a typical school day.
Order your personalised lunchbox online from NetFlorist at only R129,95 and have it delivered nationwide.
Okay, real talk, and this is a serious question: what would you put into your personalised lunchbox?
Disclaimer: these lunchboxes were a gift from Netflorist. And yes, I’m legit crazy about them!
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How to find exactly what you need, for less!
Ever had your eye on something really special, but it has been too expensive to buy on the spot? Perhaps you’ve wanted a new cellphone for a long time, or you have wanted to restyle your home with new furniture and decor. We’ve all wanted something a little bit out of our budget before, and it can be quite disheartening! However, with the right tips and tricks, whatever you want may not be too far out of your reach. Let’s look at how you can get your hands on the special things you have been dreaming of:
Keep your eye on the latest catalogues
Today, one of the best-kept secrets to finding the best deals is browsing through online catalogues! Yes, with sites such as latestspecials.co.za you can find all the latest leaflets from your favourite stores all online. This way, you can find exactly what you are looking for, on your phone or laptop, from the comfort of your home. And if you didn’t find it this week, perhaps it will be in tomorrow’s catalogues!
Simply browse the different categories, choose the retailer you would like to buy from, and then view their online leaflets – with all the latest discounts. Looking for a new phone? Browse through the latest MTN catalogue. Want amazing new furniture for your home? Try the Makro specials. It’s so easy to find all the things you want for less.
Shop at different stores
Retailers often have different prices for certain items. Therefore, it is worth it to shop around for a bit. If you’re not in a rush, shop around. The first store is not always the best or the cheapest! Try to compare foods in two supermarkets. Who has the better price for cooking oil? Is it Makro or Shoprite?
Start shopping onlineMore and more stores are opening their doors online. No longer do you have to go to the mall to find what you are looking for, simply browse your favourite store’s online shops, fill your cart and have the products delivered straight to your door. Many stores have great specials that are only available online. So, make sure you don’t miss out, and keep an eye on those online shops!
Try to buy second-hand
There are certain things you can’t buy second-hand but luckily, certain things you can! For example, cars, electronic appliances and furniture can all be bought from second-hand sellers. Just make sure that the person or company you are buying from, is a trusted seller. By buying pre-owned, you can save a lot of money.
Whatever it is you are looking for, be sure to use latestspecial.co.za to browse through the latest catalogue first. Not only will you save money, but you will also save yourself a lot of time. Think about the things you really want, and find it for less. Hassle-free!
Disclaimer: Post sponsored by Hyperia SRO. All content supplied.
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How I made a breakfast bar using WEET-BIX!
My family has an ongoing love affair with WEET-BIX, you guys. I mean, seriously, besides for it being a fave in terms of breakfast cereals, it has also become my teens go-to midnight snack of choice. Do I understand it? Not always. Have I embraced it? Uhm, definitely! I mean, I’m not completely opposed to its wholesome goodness. It also helps that it contains 97% of wholegrains, no preservatives or colorants. (And let’s not forget the deliciousness factor… very important IMO).
But that’s not what you came here to learn. You came here to find out how on earth I made a breakfast bar using WEET-BIX. (Me, with my limited knowledge of baking. I did it. Can somebody give me a high five please?)
Well, for starters, you need to know that I did not devise the amazingly easy recipe myself. I mean, my Hubstopher will confirm that I am a low-key genius. (Right, babe?) But alas, I cannot take credit for this one. I actually spotted the recipe on the WEET-BIX My Way mobi-site. The site is filled with a ton of really great recipe ideas that kinda inspires you to eat your WEET-BIX a lot differently compared to how you usually would enjoy it.
Whether you’re a smoothie kinda person, or you like that extra crunch in your mac and cheese, or you’re daring enough to enjoy it with atchar and chillies, there are so many different ways to incorporate your favorite wholegrain breakfast cereal into your everyday snacks and meals.
Right, back to me being impressive with my WEET-BIX breakfast bar. Here’s how I made it:Ingredients
WEET-BIX crushed
Flour
Baking powder
Rolled oats
Brown sugar
Fruit and nutmix
Eggs
Milk
Margarine
Honey
You can find the exact measurements on the mobisite over here.
Method
Mix together the flour, baking powder, crushed WEET-BIX, oats, sugar, fruit and nut mix.
In a separate bowl mix your egg, milk, margarine and honey.
Then combine the concoction with your dry ingredients.
Press the final mix into a prepared tin and bake in a preheated over for 25-30 minutes.
Once baking is done, take out of oven and allow to cool, before cutting it into bars.
You can find the exact method on the mobisite over here.
GIVEAWAY
(This giveaway is closed)
Will you be giving this a go? Or have you spotted an interesting WEET-BIX recipe on the mobi-site? Well, friend, try out one of the cool recipes from the site, take a snap and tag me on social media and you could win a R500 shopping voucher, compliments of WEET-BIX! Giveaway ends on 28 May 2019. Winner announced on 29 May 2019.
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Great Mother’s Day gifts because she’s worth it! {Giveaway!}
So, I’m not sure if you guys know, but I love Mother’s Day! I mean, it took me a long time to get to this place (teen mom syndrome) but when I eventually realised what a blessing it is to be a mom to my kids, I could finally enjoy the Mother’s Day celebrations. Also, gifts are my love language, so it’s a win-win situation (I win, and then I win again.)
Because the day is so special to me, when it comes to purchasing Mother’s Day gifts, I’m usually pretty pedantic with the type of love offerings I present to the moms in my life. I mean, I want it to be sentimental and meaningful and not just a “I had to do it because everyone in the country is doing it today, so here.”
This is why I love taking a stroll through Cum Books ‘round about this time of the year. They usually have a lovely selection of gift ideas for that special mom in your life. I mean, I would buy them all, if I could! Looking for a special gift for your mom that shows how much you value her? Check out this list of great Mother’s Day gift ideas:
Life Lists for Women/MothersYou guys, I instantly fell inlove with the Lift Lists for Women and Life Lists for Mothers ranges! These beautifully designed books and cards are designed to encourage your special person to live an abundant, faith-filled life. Think: scrap booking made easy!
The Life Lists for Women paperback and Life Lists for Mothers hardcover comprises of 101 practical lists to help women become the beautiful, strong, purpose filled individuals that God has called them to be. It has awesome journaling prompts, inspirational quotes and scriptures and pages for your mom to jot down her life goals and lists.
In the Life Lists for Women book, expect to find topics related to staying positive, finding peace, building confidence and becoming a prayer warrior. I especially love the topics covered in the Life Lists for Mothers book. These include praying for your children, simplifying your life, speaking kind words and prioritizing.
If reading a whole book is not your gal’s thing, you could gift her with the Life Lists for Women or Life Lists for Mothers boxed card set. Both comprises of 44 beautifully designed double-sided cards, containing short lists and scripture that help you to stay God focused and goal-driven. The box set aimed at moms, focuses on the specific needs of mothers. This is such a great gift and is perfect for that busy mom who may not have the time to sit down and read (so that’s like, all of us.)
Pick up the Life Lists for Women Paperback for R180 and the Life Lists for Women Boxed Cards for R89. The Life Lists for Mothers Hardcover retails for R180 and the Life Lists for Mothers Boxed Cards for R89.
My Prayer Journal
I fell inlove with the gorgeous My Prayer Journal diary. You guys, this is a 120-day journal for women of all ages (so not just moms, but wow, what a wonderful Mother’s Day gift it would make!) that prompts you to have a more intentional prayer life. I love that it teaches you the ACTS method of praying which is: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving and Supplication.
The journal has enough space to record your daily scripture verse, prayers lists and even specific requests. You can also jot down your list of prayers of thanksgiving to God.
The My Prayer Journal retails for R89.
Prayers to Strengthen Your FaithIf you’re all about that boxed card life, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a whole range of really stunning boxed card sets available! The Prayers to Strengthen Your Faith set comprises of 50 double-sided cards, that features scripture based prayers that will definitely help your mom to start her day off right. I especially love that there is space provided at the back of each card, so that she can write down her own prayers.
Pick up the Prayers to Strengthen Your Faith Boxed Cards for only R90.
Promises to Bless Your Soul
This 50 double-sided card set features Biblical promises to bless and encourage that special woman in your life. There is also space provided behind each card, which she could use to jot down daily reminders from God or even use to pen a personal message to share with loved ones and friends. Love this!
The Promises to Bless Your Soul Boxed Cards retails for R90.
199 Favorite Bible Verses for Women/Mothers These paperbacks are filled with best-loved scripture verses, on beautifully designed pages. This is the perfect set up for the mother who is keen to memorise scripture, or simply wants to get into the word of God. It also serves as a daily reading, and is a great way to start or end the day.
The 199 Favorite Bible Verses for Women and 199 Favorite Bible Verses for Mothers paperback books retails for R49 each
A Womans Battle for Grace
Popular speaker and ministry leader, Cheryl Brodersen’s fantastic new offering, A Womans Battle for Grace, tackles the topic of self-condemnation. In this fascinating read, Brodersen talks about the daily battle we face, as women and mother’s, and helps us to pinpoint the real enemy behind it all. I loved this excerpt, describing the book: “God wants His daughters to live moment by moment in His victory, but first we have to see whats at stake when we go our own way. The truth about grace is simpler and deeper than you may realize.”
A Womans Battle for Grace retails for R230.
The Better Mom DevotionalThe Better Mom Devotional is filled with 100 devotions power packed with scripture, prayers and reflection questions to help every mom discover just how God uses parenting and motherhood to deepen your relationship with Him. How amazing?! I love that it tackles hot topics, such as mom guilt and trying to be the perfect parent (hello, this is so for me!) and it helps you to view motherhood as a challenging and rewarding adventure. Some of the lessons you’ll learn as you delve into each beautifully designed page includes:
- How God uses motherhood to change you from the inside out
- Intentional ways to deepen your faith in any season of parenting
- The true calling of motherhood: training, disciplining and loving your children well
- The life-giving impact of honest, loving friendships.
The Better Mom Devotional and all the other items in this post are available at any Cum Books retail store or from their online store.
GIVEAWAY!Want to spoil your mom this Mother’s Day? Or are you a mom, desperately in need of some lovin’? Well, I’ve partnered with Cum Books to give 2 of you an amazing Mother’s Day hamper, compliments of Cum Books. You can enter either on Instagram or Facebook (or both, to increase your chances of winning!) Both entry prompts will require you to:
- Follow me and Cum Books on the various channels. You can find the handles on these specially marked posts on Instagram and Facebook.
- On those specially marked posts, also tag a mom that you feel deserves a win! (You can tag as many moms as you’d like)
Each platform and comment will count as an individual entry. Giveaway ends on 11 May. Giveaway not open to readers outside of RSA.
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Office politics is not always a bad thing, right?
Office politics. Come on, we’re all familiar with it. It’s there… like a ninja… stealthily hiding away, ready to strike, as soon as Susan is away for an extra 10 minutes during her lunch break.
You can literally cut it with a knife during staff meetings (especially when Mike tries to be Head Boy again, brown nosing the manager every chance he gets) and you can even catch a whiff of it when someone does something that goes against the grain of the office. (Yes, I’m looking at you and your boiled eggs, Frank.)
Office Politics. You can’t escape it.
And, I mean, you could be employed at the best company in the whole entire world and you’ll probably STILL be inflicted by some sort of office drama. Why? Well, because we human beings are a fickle folk. And when you chuck a hodge podge of personalities into one mixing bowl, chances are everyone won’t always get along. The political nature of the office means that there will always be some sort of conflict to manage and road blocks to work around.
But is office politics ALL bad? Well, I think it’s not.
I mean, sure, we’ve all had our fair share of backstabbing, manipulation, favoritism and (dare I say it… yes I do!) even sexism or racism, in an office environment. People can be pretty crude when there is an opportunity for advancement or a better income. But if you’re really out to WIN (and not in the financial way, Tina) you would use office tension to better your communication and conflict handling skills.
In fact, an article in Forbes magazine, basically pushes you to engage in office politics. The article says: “If you are not currently engaging in office politics, it’s time to get started and here’s why: Being politically savvy is a crucial ingredient in your career success. Forging good relationships up and down the org chart is a sure way to get yourself promoted, and a key to becoming a respected leader.”
It speaks about staying true to who YOU are, while maintaining transparency, as you deal with the various personalities in your office. You can totally use conflict to help build trust and create clearer lines of communication in that temperamental environment.
You can deal with office politics by:1. Not being a jerk, man. I mean, it’s lekker to be recognized by your boss but it’s even better to make sure you display integrity and honor, even when Pete next door does not. You don’t always have to have the upper hand to … you know… have the upper hand. (Hey, that’s good, I should tweet that!)
2. Getting off the grapevine! Yep, gossiping will probably not be a good idea if you’re looking to build healthy relationship AND create a self-image of maturity and stability. No one trusts the office gossip. Build your reputation as someone who can be trusted and someone who turns a negative into a positive. I want to be around that person, don’t you?
3. Doing your job. It’s as simple as that. You’re employed to do a job, so do it. Hey, do a little bit extra if you have the time. Who cares what Penny is up to. Penny is not your responsibility. You were not employed to keep tabs on her. Stop being an Aunty Mildred, step away from your dining room curtain, and focus on your own work!
4. Speaking up! Okay, honestly Bob, if you don’t like the fact that Sindi is subjecting the whole office to her extensive Cher collection, simply tell her… politely! But walking around like a grump, muttering all sorts of negative things to whoever has an ear, probably won’t get Sindi to turn her music down.
5. Guarding your heart and staying free of offense. I get it, doing the “right thing” sometimes feels like an injustice (because Linda needs to know what a terrible person she is!) but consciously deciding how you will respond to office politics, and how you will allow it to affect your heart, could go a long way towards choosing joy and peace, over turmoil. And anyways, taking the burden of office politics home with you is not part of your job description.
Have you ever had to deal with politics in the office? How do you handle it? Share your advice with us below.
