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2018 – Do the thing
It’s the start of a new year and instead of mulling around, making resolutions that I probably won’t keep, I’ve decided to scold myself into a brighter future. You know? I mean, come on, hands up if you’ve ever been “skelled lekker” by your mom or an aunty or a school teacher and it actually helped you to make that indelible change. There’s something about a stern talking to that brings about action. So, when I woke up on January 1st 2018, without a cookin’ clue about what I wanted to do in the new year, I knew that I had to bring out my inner “aunty”.
Inner “Aunty Luchae” looked me in the eye (yes, I looked at myself), took me by the shoulders, and said “Luchae Williams… just do the damn thing!” And that was that. Suddenly everything just made sense. You see, the thing about having a spreadsheet brain is that I over analyse every single thing. Simply making a decision and sticking with it takes half a year. No jokes. But not this year. Not this time. No sir. This is the year of doing the thing!
I made a solid vow that there will be no second guessing, no procrastinating and no fearful decision making in 2018. This is a year of boldness, confidence and strategy.
I wasn’t surprised to find that in Christian circles, the year 2018 is said to symbolise new beginnings. I love this so much. You know, we often say that we want to make a change in the new year. We start diets and hobbies and drop relationships and habits and expect things to dramatically morph into something amazing. But it takes so much more than a physical, shallow act or decision to create a permanent change in your life. We try to do it in our own strength, and that’s the problem.One of my faves, Bill Burns, so eloquently says: “It’s time to forget the past and begin again! The great adventure of 2018 is now beginning, so activate your faith!” I do believe that God’s perfect plan for every single life is a real thing, and not a myth, and if you want to see what God has for you in 2018 all you have to do is ask Him…. activate your faith. So that’s what I’m doing.
I’ve just decided that this year is not going to end the way it started. I mean, I’m not saying that I’m not blessed. Because I am, I really really am. But I want MORE.
2018 and I’m doing the thing! Are you?
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All about 2017, even though it’s 2018 already
We are nine days into the new year and I have yet to chat about how amazingly weird 2017 was. Guys, on a scale of one to Lady Gaga, how weird was 2017 for you? It was uber strange on this side of the world. I mean, sure I birthed a beautiful baby boy and I have a lot to be thankful for, but a lot of ish went down that straight up sucked. For starters, I’ve been tired like, 24/7. In fact, I’m still tired. And I just woke up. But, allow me to further explain, in this super entertaining blog montage! (Insert catchy music here)
January
The start of 2017 was filled with mixed emotions because I tried so hard to figure out how I was going to add one more bouncy baby to our already over populated clan. Our children rock! I just wasn’t sure how I would manage with four of them. It was also the month I realized that I’m totally okay with being a blogger. I mean, I’m not exactly a part of the the group of elite, super bloggers, who dominate the scene in South Africa. But I sure do love doing this! Oh and we found out that Jonah was a little boy! Yay! (Between me and you, I was totally going to name the kid Jonah either way…)February
I remember hearing the news that my baby could have down syndrome. I also remember thinking that God’s plan is better than mine and whatever must happen must happen! My preggy hormones kicked in and I think I gave Hubstopher a hard time, but he took it like the champ that he is. Oh and my teen asked me if he could have a girlfriend. Yep, that happened!
March
My birthday month is always my favorite month, you guys! In 2017 I decided to be a model (this one was for the bucket list). I partnered with three fabulous maternity wear brands and did three really cool fashion shoots. Yeah, I know, how Kim Kardashian of me! In March I also ruffled a few tail feathers when I blogged about the big Spur debacle. Apparently my post insinuated that I do not care about the future of my children, since I am not taking the political tension in South Africa seriously enough etc etc. I obviously disagree. I also don’t allow negative debates in my comments section, just like how I don’t allow it in my own home. Oh and in March I chatted about my role as Seth’s step mama. See what I mean? What a roller coaster and it was only March!April
Facebook “On This Day” posts reminded me of a group of friends who I missed hanging with. But I’ve changed, and they’ve changed. So I wrote a blog post called “Dear friend who is no longer my friend” and you guys could totally relate and you made me feel as if I’m not a crazy lady for feeling the feelings that I…uh… feel. Thank you. Oh and we also debated on whether or not it’s okay to tell your friends secrets to your husband. You guys are so clever.May
Still pregnant, at this point, I was ready to pop the baby out! But first, we had a #ECMeetUp to get through! I somehow got my dates mixed and we ended up hosting the blogger meet up like, a day after my maternity leave kicked in. Yep, I totally almost gave birth at a bloggers meet up. How awkward would that have been? Fortunately, Jo only came a couple of days later. I told you guys about all the strange ways I plan to induce labour. Some of you laughed at me (thanks friends) and some inboxed me really great advice and words of encouragement. And finally, you guys, Jonah Mark Williams was born on May 25th 2017!June
The middle of 2017 was pretty hectic for me. I mean, I was at home trying to recover after just giving birth. But my brain was racing with all the ideas I had for the blog AND I was working from home… all while juggling home life and my needy toddler. It was pretty intense and yes, I did beat myself up about it millions of times. But hey, atleast we had Jonah’s newborn photo shoot to bring on the happy.
July
Guys, the mom guilt (and just like, LIFE guilt, in general) was eating me up by July. I had to re-calibrate and figure out how I was going to balance all the amazing things I have in my life – kids, husband, relationship, work, blog, ministry and the beat goes on. Karis was acting up a bit (because, duh, new baby brother) and I felt slightly responsible even though deep down I knew that it wasn’t my fault (or anyone else’s for that matter… I mean, she’s a toddler! Toddler’s are dramatic!) I also had a revelation that I probably should stop picking fights with my teenager, because he’s at a weird phase in his life and I’m probably not making it better. I know, right? Parent of the Year.August
On that note, I spoke about being an “angry mom” in August. I think being angry all the time stemmed from the need to be in control at all times. If you have as many kids as I do, all with different personalities, going through different stages of their lives, seriously how much control can you expect to have?! So glad I let that one go. Oh and breastfeeding got the better of me. I loved it, but Jonah eventually weaned himself. Talk about rejection. I handled it well though. Oh and I wrote a very emotive Women’s Day post about my husband. I really do appreciate him so much you guys. Even though he never reads my blog.September
So in September someone tried to hack my website. I mean, I don’t know what they were hoping to achieve by doing this. Anyways, they lost and I won. I did blog about it though. I also told you guys about how Jo FINALLY took the bottle! I was a complete stress ball for a while because I thought he wouldn’t be able to go to daycare, which is not ideal since my maternity leave was drawing to an end.October
I feel like I’ve been a hot mess for pretty much most of the year. By the time October came around, I was ready to give up and move to a small island where I wouldn’t have to brush my hair or wear shoes again for the rest of my life. Yeah, one could say that I felt like I wasn’t coping. On the blog front I also chatted about the new law that bans us from spanking our kids and I asked you guys if you call your in-laws “Mom” and “Dad”.November
The year was coming to an end. I felt particularly nostalgic, so I wrote about it here. We also had our final #ECMeetUp for the year, and it was a good one! I love Christmas you guys. But I was weird this time around. I mean, I even wrote a complain post about December! Gasp! The shock, the horror, the betrayal!
December
In December I had many a cool giveaway but also chatted about the 2017 trends that were on fleek and uhh off fleek, in my most humblest opinion. We had a lekker debate about co-parenting and some of you inboxed me, asking for advice and sharing your ideas. Thank you for always engaging, I really do enjoy hearing your opinions! I ended off 2017 on a weird note though because I’ve been too darn tired to bring out “festive Luchae.”I’ve decided to start 2018 right which is why I’ve been on an extended break. You can’t pour from an empty cup, yo! But I have a lot more to share with you soon. Thank you for reading, commenting and sharing! I appreciate all of you.
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All I want for Christmas is…
You know what, moms, it’s okay to want a Christmas present. I mean, I know that all I’m suppose to want for Christmas, is world peace and for my kids to be happy and healthy. But you can’t exactly put a ribbon around that. So, I decided to make a list of all the other things I want for Christmas. It’s not very long and I’ve precariously removed number 8 (loads and loads of money) because I felt it wasn’t practical. And this here is meant to be a practical list. Do you know what you want for Christmas? Yes? Good for you, lady! No? That’s okay too. Here’s a guide to help you decide:
Oh So Heavenly
My friends over at Oh So Heavenly know that the way into a girls heart is definitely through heavenly scented bath and body products. Good job, team! I’m especially impressed with their ‘Footspa’ range (you can find it in the foot care aisle). Designed to “treat your feet”, these products are ultra-hydrating, deeply nourishing and intensively repairing. The Sole Repair range is specially formulated to help provide rescue and relief to dry skin and cracked heels. The Sole Therapy range replenishes and softens dry skin. And the Sole Retreat range will help you to pamper your tootsies in the comfort of your own home, with its indulgent foot soaks, foot butters and a really cool 3-in-1 pedicure! You (and by “you” I mean “your partner”) can pick these up at Clicks.
Stylish Steppers
I’ve mentioned Stylish Steppers on this here blog a few weeks ago and man, I wasn’t lying when I said that I am super duper impressed! Besides for wanting Michelle to do my hair, every day for the rest of my life (yes, I’m being dramatic) I also really love her specially made Stylish Steppers hair products and wouldn’t mind getting my hands on some of them! Or maybe a Stylish Steppers voucher, Santa? I’m really not fussy. Check out more in this blog post.
Make Up
Guys, I’m not a beauty blogger. Clearly. The other day my social media friends gasped in disgust and dismay as I show them the stubs that I call “my eye pencil”. I had just not had the time to go and get new eye pencil. I didn’t use the stubs though (because I value my eyesight and all that) but I must admit, I have been using my eyebrow pencil as eye pencil. Gasp! I know. I need to get my make up game on. I think that it’s time to stop looking like a sickly, older woman. I’m sure my Hubstopher would appreciate it.
Leather Hand Bag
I’ve been eyeing Wild and Free’s glorious selection of genuine leather bags and basically what I want to say is: AAACK! They are stunning! I’ve fallen inlove with the kudu tote, the stunning leather baby bag (yeah, I mean, seriously who said that nappy bags have to be boring) and their beautiful leather wallets. Can I cry now, or would that be too much? Check out their online store and cry with me.
Sneakers On Fleek
I really wanted to use the term “on fleek” in this post, so there you have it. Guys, I really need a decent pair of sneakers. I’ve been eyeing various brands, and yeah, I’ve seen the high-soled, Spice Girl reminiscent, platforms in stores. I’ve seen the glitter bedecked trainers, the metallic hues and the ribbon laces. I even spotted a pair of leopard print sneakers. And I decided that I’m okay with a “basic chick” normal pair, thank you very much. Something comfortable and cool, that literally goes with everything.
2018 Diary
I love my Christian Art Media daily planners! These are stunning on the inside and out, with a lux leather cover and inspirational quotes that help to keep you motivated and working towards your goals. I especially love the fact that they have zips – because I have a lot of ish to store and I dig that the zip keeps it safe. These go with me EVERYWHERE. Yes, I know, there’s an app for that. But I am a “pen and paper” kind of girl. Definitely planning to check out CUM Books next week for my 2018 Daily Planner.
Tori Kelly
You guys, all I want for Christmas is Tori Kelly. (Stalker much?) Kidding. But I really do love her music so much! I’ve recently (I know, right, have I been living under a rock? Geez!) discovered her Unbreakable Smile album and Handmade Songs EP and I have to have them both! I love owning physical copies of albums. I mean, thanks alot iTunes, but I can’t hold you tight, at night, while listening to my favorite song on repeat. I’ve checked online, and the prices are a bit extreme. Musica does not have stock. But here’s keeping fingers crossed that Santa has my number.So this is my Christmas list. What do you guys think? Is there anything on this list that you have to have? Maybe if we ask Santa reeeaaally nicely, he’ll oblige?
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Fat Attack Beach tours make summer a little bit more exciting
If you want to be the cool parent this summer, then this post is for you. I totally scored cool parent points last weekend when I introduced our boys to the Fat Attack beach tours. Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism invited a bunch of us to check out this totally rad new offering to the bays summer itinerary, thanks to Red Cherry Adventures. And guys, it’s totally legit.
So the fat bike is basically like a normal bike, except that it has larger tyres and is ideal to use on trails or to ride in the beach sand. Yep, that’s right! Ride in the BEACH SAND! Romantic ride on the beach, anyone?! Thought so!
Kyle enjoyed the bikes more than I did, well mainly because I’m such a nerd and I don’t do well without a roof over my head. I did, however, appreciate that they were able to give me a “smaller” bike, compared to Christophers. It made me feel as if I’m not going to fall on my face anytime soon. Okay, even though I almost did. But that’s not the point here.My blogger friends (see below (left) Odette, Venean, Lorelle and Laurina) totally kicked some fat bike butt though!
I love my hometown, yo. Nelson Mandela Bay is gearing up for an action-packed summer for visitors and locals who will be in search of activities and entertainment this holiday season.We all know that we have some of the best beaches this side of the coast. The retro fat bike is a cool way to get to those “hard to reach” remote locations and the Red Cherry Adventures trail packages offer fun and excitement for 2 to 3 hours.
Some of the popular offerings include a 15km Lightouhsoe trail to Cape Recife and a 12km Sacramento trail. All activity begins and ends at the popular Something Good Roadhouse, making it the ideal place to plan a refueling session, before you go on to explore more of the bay. Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism also offers the public really legit pass cards, which will give you free and discounted entry into a variety of attractions and activities.for more information, you can visit Nelson Mandela Bay Tourisms website. To book your first Fat Attack beach ride in Nelson Mandela Bay contact Red Cherry Adventures via email or visit the website.
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2017 trends that are blowing my mind
I don’t know if you’re aware, but it’s the 1st of December today. Yep girl, take it in. December is upon us. And as summer goes, there are a bunch of new trends that all the cool kids are running with. Well, in general, 2017 has given us a whole bunch of trends that have totally blown my mind. Some of them are legit. Others have left me more confused than I usually am. And the rest, well, I’m just over here trying to figure out how I feel about them without ugly crying. You guys know what they are:
Off the shoulder tops
As much as I love the off-the-shoulder top, I also don’t. Mainly because the thought of exposing my shoulders to the free world makes me want to shudder. These are totally in this summer though… which you probably already knew, judging by the amount of collar bones and shoulder blades I’ve seen in Spar just this past weekFidget spinners
Are these still a thing? And if so, why? But then again, what do I know. I’m the “give them books and love!” aunty of the family. I do believe that fidget spinners have been a big help to mama’s with kids who are battling with ADHD, so despite the weird contraptions strange name, it actually serves to accomplish a greater purpose. More power to it.
Fluffy sliders
No, these are not slippers, yo! So the faux fur sliders (aka flat slip on sandals) is all the rage right now and my spreadsheet brain wants to understand why, but it just can’t. Look, they are cute, I’ll give it that. But I don’t get why they have to be furry (isn’t it summer… as in, hot… as in fur maybe isn’t such a good idea in the heat…) I say this with an unresolved heart, because who knows, I might just get a pair!Broken jeans
Thank you 2017. You’ve shown me enough knees and thigh flesh to last me a good few years. And while we’re on this topic, apparently it’s okay to walk into a clothing store to purchase a pair of jeans that has rips and tears in them. Try explaining that one to my granny. Exactly. Guys, the trend is way cool, if you’re doing it right. But come on, you have to admit, it makes as much sense as an episode of Jersey Shore.Bitcoin
I don’t know how this got here, but I just want to say that if another person tries to “bitcoin shame” me on Facebook, I am going to use my imaginary fists and beat them in the imaginary face! Yes, yes, yes, Paul. I get it. Bitcoin is not imaginary… it’s real and it’s a thing and surely I don’t want to be rich because I’m not investing in it and all of that. Let’s move along now, shall we?
Contouring
It’s no secret, my contour game is so not on fleek. In fact, it’s pretty much “off fleek”, if you want to be honest about it. I love make up but I’ve never owned enough or had enough know-how to make my cheek bones look as if they are sharp enough to slice through a loaf of bread. I guess the whole contouring trend is totally lost on me.Ombre/Reverse ombre
My hair has been one color for most of my adult life and it causes me to thrive. I’m such a bad-ass. Hahaha. *cough* We both know that’s not the truth. Anyways, the reason why I don’t get “ombre” or “reverse ombre” is because it means that the top half of your hair is a different color to the bottom part of your hair, and where I’m from, it usually means your roots are showing, Wilna, and you need to reapply your hair dye.So what do you guys think? Are there any summer or 2017 trends that you’re totally loving? Which of them are lost on you? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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Oh hi there, ridiculously overpriced festive season…
Look, whether you’re all “tis the season to be jolly” or not, December is only a few sleeps away. And with it comes the ridiculously overpriced festive season that probably has a few of us tossing and turning at night. I mean, the kids need new clothes and fancy gifts. My home needs to be refurnished and repainted to domestic perfection and my hair needs to resemble something out of a Tresemme advert, or else does it even count as hair? Then there are all the staff and ‘end of year’ parties that require you to pay per head. Secret santa gifts needs to be bought and uhm, you didn’t think that I was going to that, wearing this, did you? How does one even keep up?!
Well, I’ve decided that this year, I’m simply just NOT. That’s right. I’m NOT going to keep up. Why? Well, because you’re not a Kardashian… and girlfriend, neither am I. And hey, don’t get me wrong, I am all for big Christmases, but not this year, Patricia. It could be the newly added fourth child that suddenly has me more cash conscious than Scrooge McDuck on a budget saver, but suddenly all the unnecessary things just seem so… I don’t know… well, unnecessary.
For starters, do I REALLY need to buy new curtains for every single window in my house? And if I do, why get them all over the December period? I’m sure my guests aren’t visiting me, during summer, to check out my window fixtures.
And seriously, how many new “outfits” does one kid even need? And if I must buy them something new (which I must, at least, shame guys) there are many stores that make shopping for those summer essentials a lot more affordable. And as for summer entertaining… we’re going retro up in here, kids! I’m talking picnics, walks on the beach and playing Monopoly and Scrabble at the dining room table! (All of which costs a small fee of nothing! And I thank you for that.) Fortunately, I live in the most beautiful city on earth and Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism has a really affordable pass that makes holidaying in our city a lot more affordable. #sharethebay
Then there’s the issue of food. I mean, guys, I get it, holidays means eating. But why. Why guys. Why why why why?! (that’s me breaking out my inner, mis-phrased Rihanna song). Why do we spend so much money on food, in December?! I’ve decided that we’re not doing takeaways every single night of the week (and the crowd goes mehhh) (and by “crowd”, I mean my children). Also, I finally understand why my mom buys in bulk for the festive season! It’s friggen genius, really! I mean, shopping for that bring and braai can be done in your very own refrigerator.
Then comes the issue of gifts. Look, I am a self-professed “Christmas Girl” and gifts kinda are my love language. I can’t wait to show you guys some of my fave gift ideas. I don’t know about you, but I’ve made provision (financially) for those cool Christmas gifts. I mean, I love presents, you guys! What is a Christmas tree without a foray of gifts underneath it?! This year, we’re sorted. Call it clever shopping (every other month of the year that is not December)… call it budgeting… as you wish. We don’t get emotional up in this piece. We think ahead. We strategise.
And talking about strategy… how often do you even wear the stunning heels you bought last Christmas? Or the “wedding outfit” you forked out a wad of cash on, two years ago? Recycle, girl! No one remembers, I promise you. You don’t have to wear something new to look good.
Okay, dramatics aside, how many of you can relate? It’s okay to admit that you’re not rolling in the dough this December. (Because, seriously, who wants to roll in dough? That stuff’s a disaster to get out of your hair). Anyways, I thought that this would be a great space to get some cool money saving tips going! Please share your tips in the comments section below because sharing is caring… and atleast we’re not asking you for money.
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To the skinny girl who calls herself fat
I use to be a skinny girl who called herself fat. Know anyone like that? Or are you that person? It’s okay, we’re all friends here. No judgies. Well, I was that person. But, in all honesty, granted I had a few extra lumps and bumps here and there, I wasn’t exactly struggling with my weight. I’m still not, yo. And yet, I still found myself saying pointless things like “Argh, I shouldn’t eat this, I’m so fat.” I only recently (like, yesterday-recently) realized how much of an idiot I am for saying stupid things like that. Like, seriously, is having some “fat” on your body really such a big catastrophe? Who made up that rule? Send that person to the naughty corner. With a donut.
The truth of the matter is that when you call yourself fat, you are inadvertently body shaming. And guys, body shaming is basically the same as bullying. It’s ugly. I did not realize how insensitive my body shaming was until a young girl came to me and, with tears in her eyes, said “I don’t like the shape of my body.” I looked at her aghast! Like, you’re 13 years old! Literally. Your body should be the last thing you worry about!
I wondered where on earth she came up with this nonsense idea that she is not beautiful exactly the way she is. Where did it all start?! And then, on Monday, I posted a status on Facebook saying that I just kick started my diet, with a samoosa. It was a very delicious samoosa, none the less, but my whole conversation, on that day, was about how “fat” I thought I was. Could you get any more obnoxious?And therein was the answer. I was to blame. I was giving this precious girl the idea that being “chubby” was wrong. It was my fault. Mine. Yours. The lady at the hairdresser who called herself enormous. Her mother, who wouldn’t wear a swimming costume because of the dimples in her thighs. We are all to blame.
Here are some revelations I’ve had since then:
1. Being healthy is not the same as being skinny. Skinny is not normal and being chubby is not abnormal. Your normal is who you are… exactly who YOU are. Yes, be healthy, but no, you don’t have to conform to anyone elses idea of normal.
2. It’s okay to like food guys. It’s okay to eat. But do it in moderation and make good decisions. (Mince samoosa, anyone?)
3. Your words have the power to create. If you must speak something over yourself, how about making it positive?
4. I am super insensitive when I body shame myself, because someone else who is really struggling with a similar issue on a larger scale could be hurt or offended by my words. Like, hello?
5. How you look is not who you are. It doesn’t affect your worth, your intelligence, your ability to show love and kindness. How you look does not determine how valuable you are.
So, on behalf of not-fat people, all around the world, I apologize for my words, for running with misconceptions as if they are the truth and for (subconsciously) bullying others into thinking that skinny is life. Clearly, I don’t know what I’m talking about.
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Prepping for 2018 with Priscilla Shirer
With the end of the year quickly approaching, I find myself looking back on the past year… mistakes made, lessons learnt, that sort of thing. I love this aspect of life… that we are always growing and learning. No one year looks like the next. Well, it doesn’t have to, that’s for sure. We were gifted with choice and the ability to change and (most importantly) adapt to that change. So to help me get my house in order, I picked up two insightful reads (sent to me by Christian Art Media) and I really want to give one of them to one of you!
Firstly, do you guys know who Priscilla Shirer is? Well, she is the lead actor in the amazing Christian blockbuster War Room and is an author, motivational speaker, actress and evangelist. Priscilla has inspired me, since watching that movie, and I was super keen to hear what she has to say in her new devotional book called Awaken.The 90-day devotional will have you reading with intention. In fact, the back of the book says that “this kind of reading is not merely for the purpose of leisure and enjoyment. With this kind of book you’re praying for something more – to hear from God, receive His direction, and be refreshed in the depths of your soul.” Uhm, yes please!
Each day has a dedicated message with the sole intention to equip you to better hear God’s voice, empowering you to make sound decisions about the rest of your life. I needed this for 2018!
I was also so excited to get my hands on Chrystal Evans Hurst’s latest book, She’s Still There. Chrystal is actually Priscilla’s sister. Priscilla has highly recommended this read and, in the foreward, says: “each page will take the numbness away from your emotional limbs and spark a flame in your soul to mine the treasure you’ve been given by God. It will shine a spotlight on the clutter in your life that you’ve been too busy or too tired or too disinterested to unpack so that you can get to the good stuff.” In She’s Still There, Chrystal shares the secret to loving and honoring your life… even if your story is messy. She speaks about her teenage pregnancy and struggles with her weight. Man oh man, I can relate with so much of what she has to share!
When I opened the book and saw the title of the first part called “Fight for your life”, I could immediately feel the hairs on my arm stand on edge. Isn’t that what we feel we constantly need to do, ladies? We’re always fighting for our lives… for our happiness… for justice, acceptance, sometimes even for love. This book will equip you to reject the lie and move forward. Expect to be equipped and refreshed!
Giveaway! Can I please give this book to one of you? Consider it a Christmas present! To enter the giveaway, simply make sure you’re following my Facebook page over here and drop a comment on the specially marked post (like the one above) letting me know what you find the most interesting about it.I’ll draw a winner on Monday, November 20th at midday and will do an announcement on my Facebook page.
Update: Congratulations Carren Brandt!
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Three ingredient meal cooked to perfection in my LG NeoChef Microwave Oven
When it comes to cooking, I’m not exactly the next master chef. I mean, I take the easy way out versus serving up intricate gourmet inspired meals, any day! And hey, the less time needed for preparation, the better! Which is why I was super impressed with the very pretty LG NeoChef Microwave Convection Oven. Yeah, I know, how can I call a microwave “pretty”. Well, it’s that good looking, yo! With a sleek design and stainless steel and matte black accents, this is probably the best looking appliance that I have in my kitchen at the moment.
The other day I decided to give it a go, using a very simple three ingredient recipe, passed on to me by a very clever mom of three who always has the best supper ideas for her family. Yep, you heard me. Three ingredients! Guys, check how easy this is:
I mixed a packet of brown onion soup with some water, to make a quick stir in sauce. You can spice this up, if you want. It can be quite unadventurous without some pepper and/or chillie.
I then lined my chicken pieces up in an oven-friendly dish, poured my soup sauce over it and popped it in the oven for about 10 minutes. I added my veggies (mixed it in nicely) and returned it to the microwave oven for another 5 to 10 minutes, and ta da! My chicken and veggies were cooked to perfection! I read the words “preserves nutrients and locks in flavour” in the LG NeoChef press release, and didn’t truly get it. But now I do!
So in a nutshell, the NeoChef is more than just a microwave. It has new, very clever smart inverter technology, making it a convection oven as well. Basically, a microwave convection oven can cook food evenly and quickly, as opposed to a normal microwave which simply uses hot, circulated air, to heat something up.This baby can roast, bake and even air-fry, your food to perfection!I guess the reason why it cooks super fast is because it heats up to 1200 watts. According to Hubstopher, that’s pretty impressive. It can do a bunch of other really legit things too, like dry fruit, make yoghurt and even bake a cake. I mean, really! What more do you want?!
This dish took me probably half the time it would in my normal oven and I didn’t have to keep checking it. (I mean, not that I even had the brain capacity to do that, with Jo and Kari literally climbing all over me).
I was also curious to learn more about the Anti-Bactieral Easy Clean Coating, that I read about. So I learned that there is a special layer of protection, on your NeoChef, that eliminates 99.99% of harmful bacteria, making it difficult for contaminants to stick around.I can’t wait to try out a few more recipes with my LG NeoChef. Keep an eye out for more next week! Oh and if you’d like to find out more on the LG NeoChef Microwave Convection Oven do check out their website or do a google search (NeoChef) to see what others are saying about it!
Disclaimer: The LG NeoChef Microwave Convection Oven was sent to me. But the review is totally honest and my own opinion, I promise.
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What my kids are playing with: Transformers, Fantastic Gymnastics and Yo-kai
It’s almost the most wonderful time of the year and if you’re anything like me, you have your Christmas gifts list covered. Spreadsheet brain, remember? Christmas shopping for my kids is usually a mild affair anyways since they are all so very predictable. Kyle wants electronics. Seth loves to learn new things, and Karis… well, she’s a princess. If your kids are not as predictable as mine are, then this post is for you. My friends over at Hasbro is keeping us in the know, with all things toy-related, and sent me some information for moms and dads who leave toy stores with a “huh” expression on their faces. Some of my favorite picks, from Hasbro, for this year’s Christmas stockings, are: Transformers, Fantastic Gymnastics and Yo-kai.
Transformers
If you didn’t know (who evens are you), Transformers are human-like robots with the unique ability to turn into vehicles or beasts. I’m sure you knew that though. Right? With the newly released Transformers: The Last Knight movie, Hasbro has released a bunch of updated Transformer toys and regalia that is sure to make your little one squeal with delight on Christmas morning. Karis had a ball of a time transforming Optimus Prime (head honcho over at Transformers headquarters) from standing mode into truck. Considering the fact that the movie did really well in South Africa – ranking number 1 at the Box-office in South Africa during opening week – these toys are still pretty popular. Kids are also encouraged to #pledgeYourAllegiance and join #teamautobot to help Optimus Prime save the world by defeating the Decepticons or join #teamdecepticon and help Megatron take over the world. Choose your faction on www.morethanmeetstheeye.co.za
Fantastic Gymnastics
If you have a big family and are looking for fun group games, Fantastic Gymnastics is the perfect game for you! So basically the game requires players to flip the gymnast figure around the high bar, hitting release at the right moment to let him fly and try to stick the perfect landing. It’s super fun! You can play solo, head-to-head or challenge friends to a tournament. Get into the swing of things with this compelling and fun game, ideal for ages eight and up.
Yo-kai
If you’re down with having your kids stretch their imagination, then you should totally allow them to experience the world of Yo-kai with the Yo-kai Watch and Medals. Yep, I know that you know what a Yo-kai is because kids are going nuts over this children’s anime series based on the video game of the same name. So anyways, with the Yo-kai watch toy, children can imagine summoning Yo-kai characters, and when used with the medals, the Yo-kai watch plays sounds, music, and phrases. Insert one of the collectible medals displaying a Yo-kai into the watch to hear the character’s name, tribe song and more sounds.The latest board games and toys from Hasbro are available from Toys R Us, ToyZone, Toy Kingdom, Hamleys, Lilliputs and other major retailers. You can also shop online at Takealot.com
Disclaimer: All product mentioned above was sent to me by Hasbro, but the opinion in the post is entirely my own, I promise.
