Category: Reviews

Up-Cycle with NutriStart Active

Up-Cycle with NutriStart Active

Posted on by Rebecca

A little while ago I was approached by NutriStart to work on an “up-cycle” project for their cereal containers. With the whole world finally stepping up to take notice of our consumer footprint, plastic is suddenly a hot topic. While it serves its purpose in some area’s I feel it’s absolutely on us as consumers to fight the good fight and be aware of our effects on the world around us.

NutriStart offers some pretty darn handy containers for some of their cereal range, but how could we reuse them afterward?

Before I dive into my thoughts there, let me start by saying, it was an absolute treat to sample their full range of cereals. My boys were so excited to try their “special new cereal”, and fought every morning over whose turn it was to try which cereal. Our absolute favourite has to be the Granola range, whether its plain, spiced dukkah (yep in a cereal), berries or chocolate; the granola to me was just the right balance of healthy and sweet. Free of artificial sweeteners, preservatives, colourants & additives; NutriStart is one of the healthiest breakfasts available.

The “Active in a cup” and “Oats in a cup” range is perfectly proportioned and is a brilliant on the go option for camping weekends, work, late school runs or anything where your breakfast is “on the go” and, as I have discovered, the containers prove to be the perfect size for a good few things.

I had grand plans for this project, which didn’t turn out exactly as I had panned out as I underestimated how difficult it is to paint detailed designs on plastic. I had visions of sea green and gold designs which ended up being more basic sea green because when I tried to tape of certain sections to be gold the paint would pull off. Although I know if I had done a little more searching there would have been a more appropriate paint. I used a spray paint with a primer for these.

My first and most obvious choice for the containers would be for potted plants and herbs. Once you have created your choice of design on the container cut small holes into the bottom to allow for easy drainage and air to flow through the soil. I love the fact that I can custom colour my herb garden.

Here are some of the other ways we have reused our pots:

They are perfect for Imaginary play! The boys making their own potions, soups, science projects and gardens with their little tubs. The insisted on painting and colouring their own, I may not have let them use spray paint, but they decorated their own pots with good old crayon and acrylic paints.

We turned a few of them into playdough pots, the containers are literally the perfect size for a new batch of dough. They also are great for storing arts and crafts materials. Pom Poms, Crayons, Feathers; they have made a great addition to our arts and crafts shelf.

I’ve also used the pots post school run. Running out of time for lunch, on he way back to work, the pots are super convenient in housing 2 minute noodles, pasta or a salad for when you are on the go.

My husband always jokes that he is living in a house filled with Zimbabweans. While we have British heritage my parents and I were born in Zim, and they grew up in an era of war. Naturally, they had to reuse and recycle most things and my house is one of those houses that if you open up a margarine container in the fridge you may not find margarine 🙂 Containers such as ice cream tubs and margarine containers were never thrown away but were reused as fantastic storage units. 2l ice cream tubs are perfect for “padkoss” on long journeys across Southern Africa.

There is great deal to learn from generations before us on reusing things. We have grown into a very “disposable” society, using things once and throwing them away and sadly our planet is starting to feel the effects. So thank you Nutristart for opening my eyes to this fantastic project, and for giving the kids and I a new reason to get excited for crafting.

 

How would you use your Nutristart containers?

Flash Giveaway – Win Family Tickets to Hotel

Flash Giveaway – Win Family Tickets to Hotel

Posted on by Rebecca

Its my birthday week and I want to spread the joy!

A little while ago I wrote about the fantastic new Kiddies Cinema at Ster-Kinekor Theatres in Sandton City Shopping Centre, https://inthesestilettos.com/2018/05/01/ster-kinekors-new-kid-movie-zone/

It really adds another dimension to kiddies viewing and with an indoor slide, PlayStation and ball pit its a guaranteed winner!

I’m giving away family tickets (for 4 people) to the premiere of Hotel Transylvania at this awesome Cinema!

Little ones will get to enjoy:
Face painting
Free Hotel T masks for the kids
Candy Floss machines
Free popcorn
A fun learn to do the Drac dance session
A chance to win watches from Q&Q
A chance to win movie hampers

The screening will be held on 19th August at 10am in Sandton City.

To enter:
Simply share head on over to my facebook page, share this post and tag a friend whom you think would enjoy this as well.
Competition is open to Residents of Gauteng only and the prize will not include transport to the venue.
The tickets are valid for a family of four.

Competition will close on 15th August at 2pm

Oh For The Love Of Books – Giveaway For Book Lovers Day

Oh For The Love Of Books – Giveaway For Book Lovers Day

Posted on by Rebecca

I will take any excuse to snuggle in and read a good book. August the 9th is “Book Lovers Day”, an unofficial holiday that encourages people to pick up a book (or two) and spend the day reading. Thankfully here in South Africa it coincides with Woman’s Day and we all have the day off, it’s the perfect chance to tuck into a good novel.

Book stores to me, are places of magic, libraries are historical wonders. The smell of the paper pages as you walk through the doors instantly transports me to a place of calm and peace. I used to work right above a bookstore and would go down and least 4 times a month, walking away with a new treasure to devour. I’m what you may call a compulsive reader, when I finally get a chance to sit down with a book I enjoy I am fully immersed. I must finish the entire book then and there, forgetting about any of plans for the day. My mum and sister always tease me about my taste in books. I prefer “softer” books, books that take me to a happy place and leave me feeling good. They prefer deeper sci-fi styled books, or historical masterpieces.

Becoming a mother unfortunately put my love for reading on a back burner. For the first two years I didn’t even manage to pick up a book and certainly didn’t have time to browse the book stores either. Thankfully as the boys have gotten a bit older and I have been able to carve out a little more “me time” my love for reading as reignited and hopefully I can pass that onto my boys. Growing up we had a dedicated weekly slot at school for library. In primary school this involved getting a story read by the librarian and then browsing the gigantic library to find a book to take out for the week. It saddens me to think that this may not happen when my boys.

Some of my favourite authors include Nicky Pellegrino whose tales are set in Italy, her stories are about friendship and food, passion and family secrets. JK Rowling, because… Harry Potter, enough said. Sophie Kinsella, yes, I love me a little bit of the Shopaholic series. Not only do the main character and I share a name but we also share a certain penance for our love of shopping. Lastly Lesley Pearce focuses on mainly historical adventures and crime mysterious and writes about characters that are almost impossible to care about.

If you are feeling a bit detached from the literacy world, or even want to encourage reading in your children, here are a couple of ways to reignite your love for reading:

1) Visit your local library

In Johannesburg we are blessed with beautiful local library’s that are largely forgotten about. My favourites are Olivedale and Rivonia. Sign up or dig out your library card and get reacquainted with some lovingly read and best of all, free books!

2) Reread an old favourite

The Harry Potter Series will never get old for me, neither do Nicky Pellegrino’s Italian adventures. Books like this immediately transport me to another place.

3) Visit a literacy haunt

We spent hours on a trip to Rome hunting down a Caffe Greco. It’s not only the oldest café/ bar it Roma but it is famous for being a place where authors and poets used to go and sit for inspiration. Hans Christian Anderson, the famous poet Keats, all frequented this popular coffee house. Such an incredible feeling to enjoy a coffee in the very same spot.

4) Start a book club

Whether it’s done for social needs or to reignite your passion for reading, a book club is a great way to focus your goals, swap and exchange good reads or to just catch up on good gossip.

Together with CNA, One of South Africa’s oldest and most loved Book and Stationery stores, I’ll be giving away one set of books from International bestselling author Lesley Pearse. This set of 3 includes two of my personal favourites, “Belle” and “Dead to me”

 

To Enter:

Share this post

Comment below on your favourite book memory.

Winners will be announced Monday the 13th August.

Winners must be residents of South Africa and not have won any other “In These Stilettos” competitions in the last 3 months.

Review: The Laser Beautique

Review: The Laser Beautique

Posted on by Rebecca

Lets talk about ageing….. or actually, lets not. Lets talk about PREVENTING any signs of ageing. I have this problem, even though I am comfortably into my 30’s now, I still think of myself as an early 20’s university student. Every now and again someone refers to me as “mam” and I nearly trip over my heels. MAM? When did that happen? I also avoid wearing my glasses whenever possible, stupid I know, but thanks to my difference to wearing them I have developed a spectacular frown line from squinting. I’m a little scared of the thought of Botox, but I also know I don’t want to end up with wrinkles like my mum (sorry mama, at least I’m not a smoker). Laser is something I have always been curious about, a little nervous, but curious and may just be my “in between” solution. It typically has me thinking of hair removal, not beauty, turns out there’s a whole world out there I didn’t know about.  The Laser Beautique is a chain of salons specialising in laser beauty therapies like pain-free hair removal, laser lipolysis and more. I was invited to experience their Cinderella Effect facial, using NIR technology, and left very, very impressed. But before I jump into telling you all about it, let me first explain what it is.

The “Cinderella” Effect

The Laser Beautique offers a Cinderella Facial which is a combination of magical lotions and potions using RegimA or Nimue skincare ranges, and Near Infrared (NIR) technology. This combination ensures your skin glows instantly, revealing it revitalized and refueled while being supplied with active ingredients that will leave you feeling and looking fit for a ball. This is a facial designed for royalty, and boy did the Morningside branch make me feel like a princess.

The Laser Beautique makes use of Near Infrared technology to heat the tissue under the skin’s surface, stimulating the infiltration of fibroblasts and the formation of new collagen, this enhances the tightening effect and helps to bolster the skin against future aging. Treatments provide safe, effective skin tightening, body contouring and improves skin laxity and skin architecture.

NIR or Near Infra Red is a type of light that can penetrate deep into your skin to heat up the tissue, causing the collagen fibres to contract, essentially tightening up your skin. The effect is instant but continues over a period of weeks after your facial. This procedure results in the tightening of the skin utilising safe, infrared light that triggers a biological response. NIR is useful in any facial or body area, where there is loose or lax skin. (Why not even use it for post pregnancy loose skin?) It is also useful for improving thin skin or any areas where there is distinct collagen loss.

I was greeted by Ronel, the owner of Laser Beautique Morningside, who walked me through the business and gave me a breakdown on exactly what they could offer. Together we decided the Cinderella facial would probably be best for me. I’m interested in Microneedling as well but baby steps…. Ronel introduced Sarah, my therapist to me, who was professional and friendly but what really impressed me was her knowledge of therapy itself.

A layer of Grape Seed Oil was applied as the base and the laser initially starts on a low energy setting and gradually gets higher and higher until it reaches a warm, manageable level which is when your collagen starts to tighten up. They recommend you have 3 to 4 of these treatments for maximum effect, but Sarah did half of my face first, to show me the difference between the two sides and it was an instant, obvious difference. The half that had received the treatment, was glowing, plumped and flushed, kind of like I had a really good work out ;).  For this reason, many celebrities opt for this kind of facial just before a big red carpet event as well as brides before the big day.

When it comes to laser hair removal this has been something on my bucket list for the past 3 years. I wanted it so badly I even asked for it as a birthday present one year as I always thought it was a bit “expensive”. Sarah gave me a quick underarm hair removal treatment as in insight into the level of “pain”. Well, there was none. If you get your eye brows threaded its a similar feeling, with less pain. A slight pull and “tug” feeling every now and again but nothing at all to make me reconsider. I am so excited to finally get my legs done. It turns out you don’t actually have to pay that big “lump sum” for 8 treatments. Though it does work out cheaper, if you want to start you can pay per session.

So, would I recommend the treatment? Would I go back to the salon? Absolutely! I really do believe that if you want to seriously invest in your ski, then “technology” facials are the way forward. Sure you could go to a “spa” and spend your money on a pampering surface facial, but lets me honest, we can also do a lot of that at home. The theory behind NIR treatments is tried and tested and if we want to invest into good skin going into our 40’s I would recommend this.

I’m already booking my follow-up treatments on my own accord. Thank you Ronel and Sarah for educating this beauty “sissy” and for helping this mama to get a little of her glow back!

Winter Proof Your Car Battery ! {Win With Battery Centre}

Winter Proof Your Car Battery ! {Win With Battery Centre}

Posted on by Rebecca

As a mom, what are some of your fears? I deal with some of mine daily, being stranded on the side of the road with a puncture, or a flat battery is right up there on mine, particularly if my kids are in the car. I spend so much of my day in my car; dropping and fetching kids, getting stuck in traffic, driving to and from work – the thought of something happening to my car literally sends shivers down my spine. I’ve had two experiences this year alone with flat batteries (two different cars). Thankfully, I was at home and both times my local Battery Centre was able to come to me!

Car batteries are hardcore. They are designed for 5 years’ service and, apart from starting the vehicle, they power every electrical component, from the lights and radio to the air conditioning and mobile phone charger. That said, a car battery is generally out of sight, out of mind – until it dies without notice and leaves you stranded.

With all these freezing weather we have been having, did you know that your car’s battery is more prone to failing? When the terminals are connected, an electrical current is generated by chemical reactions in the battery. Low temperatures like this past week, slow down chemical reactions and can result in insufficient supply of electric current. One of the reasons your battery acts up in cold weather, and something I only found out recently.

There’s not much you can do about the weather, but there’s lots you can do to winter-proof your battery.

Here are 5 tips to keep it charged up all winter long.

Know where you stand

Depending on your driving habits, car batteries generally need replacing every three to five years. The battery specialists recommend getting your battery checked twice a year. Not only can you get a free battery check done at any Battery Centre, you can also get your starter and alternator checked for free. I popped into my local Fourways Centre and they did a free check and clean, in and out in under 20 minutes and I didn’t need to book before hand. Most of us only think of doing a “full check up” before a long journey, but chances are a failed battery can occur when you are closer to home.

Stay warm and keep moving

Park your car in a sheltered area such as a garage or car park. A fully charged battery minimises starting problems so go for regular drives to allow the battery to recharge itself. I recently looked after my parent’s car for a few months while they were away. My only instruction was to give the car a good run every week. It’s amazing how weeks fly by, because sure enough, just as I was about to go on a long journey with said car, I tried to start it and the battery had run flat. This was one of the examples where the kind folks at Battery Centre drove to me. Yet they didn’t just try to shove a new battery down my throat immediately, the honest technician said he should rather test it. He helped me jump it, we warmed up and car and tested it twice, before leaving.

Have patience

Don’t expect magic on the first turn. If your car won’t start after 2-3 seconds, give it a short rest before trying again. Make sure there is sufficient starting power for your engine by keeping all electronics, such as your radio, lights and air conditioning off until after you have started your car.

Clean up unwanted residue

My dad taught me this handy tip on the weekend. Increased electrical resistance causes your battery to work much harder. Clean off any build up or corrosion on your battery terminals with some water. Corrosion on terminals can lead to a poor connection and battery failure. Any additional grime or corrosion on your battery can lead to a poor connection and battery failure. You can also get your battery checked and cleaned for free at your nearest Battery Centre.

Residue build up around the terminal

Be ever-ready

A few basic checks on our car can prevent us from living out our roadside nightmares.

Engine oil tends to thicken and flow slower in winter. Enhance the overall working condition of your car with an oil change. Check your battery twice a year. Check your tyre conditions (tread) and pressure on a regular basis. Always keep a set of jumper cables close by and get your battery checked regularly. With a little bit of attention, your battery and car will go the extra mile and get you where you need to go.

Giveaway

Here’s the good news to warm up your bones, Together with Battery Centre, I’ll be giving away a brand new Raylite car battery, which will be provided and fitted at Battery Centre. If you aren’t in need of a battery fear not, the voucher will be valid for 12 months! The winner will receive a complimentary Raylite Battery replaced and fitted to the value of R2500.00.

Steps

  1. Be a subscriber to my blog.
  2. In the comment section, tell me what the slogan of Battery Centre is.
  3. Share this blog post and tell me across what platform you have shared it.
  4. Giveaway ends on 26 July at Midnight.

For more information visit Battery Centre’s website or follow them on Facebook.

Imagination Play, The Magic of Dolls – Win with Shimmer and Shine

Imagination Play, The Magic of Dolls – Win with Shimmer and Shine

Posted on by Rebecca

If you have been following my blog for a while you probably would have picked up that I’m a bit of a fan of “Imagination Play”. Good old acting, letting the boys immerse themselves and act out experiences they may have had or dreams they want to pursue. I read somewhere that imagination really develops in children between the ages of 2 and 4. To help deal with experiences and make sense of the world around them, they engage in imaginary play.

Its also no secret that my boys love the show “Shimmer and Shine”, and as a parent so do I.  Shimmer and Shine has long been a favourite in our house, it tells a story about the magical adventures of genie sisters “Shimmer and Shine” and their best buddy Leah. “Newly qualified” twin sister genies, Shimmer and Shine, grant Leah 3 wishes to try to help solve her problems. Along the way they go through a number of challenges and often overcome the problem at hand, no thanks to the wishes. I love that it teaches the boys problem solving abilities and positivity. In addition, it teaches kids the value of friendship because Shimmer and Shine shows how friends can rely to each other when times get rough.

We love dolls. I have absolutely no qualms in giving the boys dolls to play with. I bought Yusuf his first “baby doll” when he was 2. He loves babies and playing with dolls helps to develop a sense of empathy and care. The boys were absolutely thrilled when they got sent a “Shimmer” Doll to review. The only conduit being there was one and they had to share. (These school holidays have tested my patience slightly when it comes to the sharing lesson – but thats another blog altogether).

Personally, I feel dolls are one of the best toys to encourage and foster “Imagination play”. Children can act out how they feel and create opportunities for trying out new ideas, ways of thinking and problem solving. The Shimmer doll was perfect and within minutes of unboxing Aadam was transported to “Zahramay falls”. Shimmer is the sister thats always looking to maximize the fun. Her pet monkey Tala is always mischievously by her side and I love that they have incorporated that into Shimmer’s hair comb. The doll comes dressed in a pretty purple satin genie outfit and along with the comb you also get special gem stickers. She’s the perfect size too, fitting into a little ones hand comfortably and being small enough to accompany us on our adventures. My youngest loves to play with hair and had delighted in brushing and playing with Shimmers’ long hair (anything to stop him messing up mine :)).

WIN A SHIMMER AND SHINE DOLL

Our little Shimmer Doll has been the perfect toy to spark curiosity and send them into a world of play. Together with Mattel South Africa, I’ll be giving away one “Shimmer and Shine” Doll which retails at R269.99.

To enter:

  1. Make sure you are subscribed to the blog
  2. Like and Follow “In these Stilettos” on Facebook , https://www.facebook.com/inthesestilettos/ 
  3. Comment below on who your favourite Shimmer and Shine character is!

Its that easy!

  • The winner will be announced on the In these Stilettos Facebook page on Tuesday 24th July. The competition is open to all residents of South Africa. T’s & C’s apply.

 

 

 

A Gem In The Heart Of The Bustling City – J’S Revive Spa Review

A Gem In The Heart Of The Bustling City – J’S Revive Spa Review

Posted on by Rebecca

There is nothing I enjoy more than a good spa day. Who doesn’t? But with so many “spas” and “salons” opening, it’s hard to differentiate the good over the truly superior. If I spend my time and money at a Spa, I want to walk out of there feeling like a whole new person, not just average.

That’s exactly what owner of J’S Revive, Leah Livanos, wanted to do.  “I didn’t design and build this wellness spa for show, I put my heart and soul into creating a home-away-from home that people can enjoy and use when they need to escape life’s everyday stresses.”

In the middle of a bustling part of a city, it certainly is the least expectant place for one to think of putting a spa, but from the moment you walk through the doors it very clear that you have left the hustle and bustle of the city behind you. Natural elements are brought inside with walls covered in moss and pink Himalayan salt lamps on every corner. A short wait in the waiting area sees you being offered a gently infused water and a re energizing hot towel for your hands. Luxury and indulgence peak through in every element. Just the smell of this place left me feeling more relaxed.

The spa is spread out over 4 floors. Yes 4 FLOORS of luxury treatment, and Leah has really thought of it all. From bespoke manicure and pedicure lounges to Dead Sea flotation pools, Rasul chambers, steam rooms, indoor heated pools and a decompression lounge where clients relax for as they like in comfortable recliners after treatments. The Spa offers a gym on the 4th floor and a hair salon in house. You’ll never have to leave a spa with greasy hair after a massage again. The manicure station has meticulous attention to detail. Enough so, that even if you were to just book a manicure or pedicure you would still benefit from a “spa experience” Rows upon rows of colour selection and a bespoke selection of Revive scrubs and lotions to choose from according to your needs. Having a Mani and Pedi alone is a huge treat. Whilst on the subject of attention to detail, each treatment room offers colour treatment therapy, with the lights adjusting to enhance your mood.

The wellness spa offers the latest fitness and fat loss technology including the innovative Body Tech system, which works by stimulating the deeper lying muscles in the body with gentle electrical impulses. Just one session is equivalent to five sessions in the gym. PERFECT. Clients also have the choice of signing up to the exclusive functional training gym, a first-class facility offering private personal training sessions as well as boxing classes for all ages including kids.

The sheer size of JS Revive makes it the perfect place to host a party and they are in the midst of opening a JD Revive Kids section as well.

Special Offer:

Up until the end of July, to help you combat these cold winter days, JS Revive is offering clients a phenomenal winter warmer package.

You can experience a Soy Candle Massage, a float, sip on some herbal infused tea in the decompression lounge and get a blow wave all at an incredible price of R1000!

Details:

Revive Day Spa
41 Randjeslaagte Rd
Highlands North
2192

011 887 2123, 011 887 1862

0873532500

Info@js-revive.co.za

Visit:

Facebook: Revive Wellness Spa

Call: 011 485 0122

Follow them on Instagram: Revive_Wellness

Website: http://www.revivewellnessspasa.co.za/

Disclaimer: I was provided treatments at JS Revive, but I have gone back a number of times on my own account as well. These are my views and I have honestly been utterly impressed by the quality of treatments and friendliness of the staff.

Family Fun These Holidays At Fourways Mall

Family Fun These Holidays At Fourways Mall

Posted on by Rebecca

Eeeeeek ! It’s the first day of the Winter holidays here in South Africa. 3 whole weeks of school kids being at home and craving entertainment. As a parent I know one of my biggest questions is “what can I do with the kids”, “where can I take them”. If you are still looking for places around Johannesburg to take your kids you can see my favourites list here, or if your looking for child friendly restaurants have a look here .

These holidays I officially have one more place to add onto that list. Fourways Mall is the place to be these winter holidays, with a range of specially created and curated fun experiences adding to the centre’s already exciting mix of entertainment offerings for the whole family. Whilst it is under construction, with some even more exciting kid friendly additions (KidZania I am counting the days), the mall is still very much open!

Over and above the firm favourites such as BOUNCE, Adventure Golf and The Fun Company (including Tenpin Bowling and SpinZone Bumper Cars), the Mall has created 14 popup entertainment stations along the shopper’s journey, giving kids and adults alike the opportunity to take a breather whilst shopping.

 

The #FourwaysFun popup stations include activations such as ‘A Spot of Fun’, where kids (and maybe mums and dads!) are encouraged to stick coloured dots anywhere and everywhere, all over the walls and furniture too. For younger kids this is a chance to break all the rules and stick stickers where ever they want!

Instagrammable opportunities abound, from the Snow Globe selfie station to the Thought and Speech Bubbles corridor that adds a social twist to the passage to the bathrooms. Magnetic walls and colouring in opportunities create the Bucket List Wall outside Mr Price Home, along with a giant selfie frame to finish off that perfect shot.

Play-Doh has also jumped on board with an interactive Pop up “Play-Doh Town”. Journey through the interactive Play-Doh world and with a purchase from the stand and join the Play-Doh jamming section, where a modelling artist will be on hand to guide kids while they play, sculpt and mold their unique creations. On Friday June 22nd come and meet Childhood development expert and owner of the Pikanini Brand, Una van Staden. While the tots play, moms will get some great advice and tips on how to get the most out of playtime and inspiring imagination with Play-Doh.

The Mall will also be home to a baby grand piano – next to Foschini, seemingly held afloat by a cloud of balloons, and shoppers are invited to tickle the ivories for a touch of whimsy mid shopping journey. Get involved with creating art by trying your hand at the “Yarn bombing”, creating unique pieces of art with wool and pins.

The Emoji Mojo Corner offers a themed backdrop and endless emojis and other props to make the most of emoji moments, from ( 😀 ) to (hearteyes), (kiss), and of course (stareyes). This along with the Selfie Station filled with emoji balls may have just been the highlight for my boys.

 

For those that find shopping a little stressful, three pillars throughout the Mall are wrapped in bubble wrap, with shoppers invited to pop as many bubbles as they can. Can you say toddler heaven?

The Fun Factory offers Tenpin bowling, Spin Zone Bumper Cars, and a X-Rider 4 D Theatre, all in addition to its thrilling arcade games, making it the perfect destination to round off a busy day at the Mall. The beauty of this is that the bumper cars are “safer” for younger kids. I’ve taken my boys on some seriously rough bumper car rides before, where the impact was too rough for their little 4 year old bodies. This one however, with the boys safely on mom or dads lap was perfect for them.

What kid doesn’t love trampolines? BOUNCE is running a holiday programme in venue all day, every day of the school holidays and BOUNCE Epic Passes are available for anyone who wants all day access. For the more adventurous they also offer the first its kind wall climbing area called Clip ‘n Climb, as well as an adventure X-Park with an aerial runway.

Without a doubt my kids favourite stop at the Mall is Adventure Golf. Its Yusuf’s request every weekend to go and play a few rounds. At Fourways Mall the setting is so serene with waterfalls and tropical trees, it’s a treat for everyone!

While the 14 #FourwaysFun installations will only be in place from 22 June to 1 July 2018, they hint at the full “shoppertainment” offering that will be on offer once the Mall’s refurbishment is complete. New venues in the pipeline include KidZania, a massive children’s educational city, a Panarotti’s family restaurant on the lower food court level, and a new French Taco (Mezzanine Level) among others.

Fourways Mall has something for every member of the family, these holidays make a challenge out of it and see if you can spot all 14 of the #FourwaysFun installations. Its my number one family friendly mall!

 

Dermalogica Sound Sleep Cocoon Review – Tips For A Better Nights Sleep

Dermalogica Sound Sleep Cocoon Review – Tips For A Better Nights Sleep

Posted on by Rebecca

I used to pride myself on getting a full nights sleep. 10 pm on the dot was my bed time and not a minute over. That was “BC” before children, and way before working hours saw me doing admin way past the midnight hours. Safe to say over the past 4 years, between 2 kids, broken sleep and vampire working hours, my skin was taken a beating.

I think Dermalogica noticed, because I was invited to the launch of the incredible “Sound Sleep Cocoon” and I’m pretty sure the sleep therapist was talking directly to me. How on earth could they tell? Turns out I’m not the only one.

When it comes to skin care, sleep is a crucial component for the skin’s recovery. Just missing a few nights of good sleep results in a decline in health and leads to dull skin prone to dehydration. A huge number of individuals around the world suffer from chronic sleep deprivation.  Hence the development of Sound Sleep Cocoon.

This gel-cream transforms your skin through the midnight hours, optimizing skin-recovery. Formulated to work at night, Sound Sleep Cocoon works with your body’s natural circadian rhythm. Better quality sleep means your skin can effectively regenerate and restore itself from the harmful pollutants of the day.

Infused with motion-activated essential fragrances of French lavender, sandalwood and patchouli, this trio works together with tamarind seed extract, helping to send you into a deep, restful sleep while caressing your skin in a cocoon of soft and hydrating nourishment.

Can we just pause for a moment to look at the glorious list of ingredients?

-Persian Silk Tree Extract reduces signs of skin fatigue and restores vitality.
-Whu-Zhu-Yu Extract provides visibly radiant skin by morning and promotes a more refined skin texture.
-Kakadu Plum Extract, rich in antioxidant Vitamin C, is clinically shown to improve and brighten skin tone.
-Tamarind Seed Extract cushions the skin, creating a nourishing cocoon of comfort for softer, more hydrated skin.
-Encapsulated essential oil with motion-activated technology encapsulated, motion-activated French Lavender oil, along with calming Sandalwood and Patchouli, soothe the senses with aromatherapy to help promote deep, restful sleep for healthier-looking skin.

 

Even the packaging has been thought over with the finest detail. The top of the bottle shows the phases of the lunar cycle. It has a twist to unlock function, perfect for keeping in your overnight bag if travelling. Apply 1-2 pumps (I use 1 pump). Massage into your skin and then cup your hands over your nose and take 3 DEEP BREATHS….

Because Dermalogica always goes one step above and beyond they have also created an app that you can download. It plays sleep sounds, taking you into a place of relaxation and meditation, the which lasts 20 minutes to help you fall asleep. Between this and the addictive smell of the lavender you should be immediately transported to a place of serenity. You can have a listen here. 

Sound Sleep Cocoon currently retails at R1295 for a 50ml, which I know is a pretty pricey product, but one bottle of this miracle worker should last you 3 months.  Its absolutely worth it.

I leave you with Dermalogica’s 6 tips for a better nights sleep:

  1. Turn off electronics and dim the lights 30 minutes before bedtime
  2. Make your room as dark as possible and slightly cool
  3. Avoid alcohol, sugar and caffeine before bed
  4. Breathe deeply – it helps calm and relax your body
  5. Go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day
  6. In the morning, seek out bright light to help regulate your body clock.

Ultimate Fathers Day Gift Guide

Ultimate Fathers Day Gift Guide

Posted on by Rebecca

Fathers day is one of those days that I absolutely adore buying gifts for, but I’m so tired of seeing the standard “beer, braai, biltong” gifts around. Sadly none of the men in my family are huge star wars fans (apart from my brother in law), because there certainly is not a shortage of star wars paraphernalia around. I never struggle finding gifts for my dad. Hes a “mans” man, so he loves anything outdoors, survival tools, a good chocolate or a giant bag of liqourice. My husband on the other hand always leaves me stumped. He has more refined taste. He likes luxury clothes and colognes that I often cant actually afford 🙂 I’ve previously gifted him with experiences an opposed to material things and that proved a hit, so I have listed some here.

I’ve put together my top list to help you out with some of the thinking. Be it something small, like the ultimate survival tool from mantality, to a bigger buy such as the swing tracker or drone; there’s something in here for everyone!

From top left to right:

The Satchel 13” – The Burgundy Collective R2500 . Simulator and Intro Flight Experience – Mantality R2999. DJI Tello Drone (This is a great mid range drone and its on special) – The Gadget Shop R1799. Matsimela Vanilla and Sandalwood Medium Crate R380 .Victorinox – Spartan 91mm – Red Swiss Army Knife – Takealot.com R305. Tonglite light up Braai Tongs – Mantality R320. Sorbet Man Voucher (or Shaving Kit products). Invitcus by Paco Rabanne – From R1030 at Edgars. Wild & Wolf Grooming set – Mantality – R799. Fathers Day Pyjamas – Edgars – Starting from R129.95  Gear Cuff Links – Mantality – R149. Garmin TruSwing Golf Club Sensor – Loot.co.za – R2131. Mini Survival Kit (Perfect for climbers) – Mantality – R99. The Dopp Kitt – The Burgundy Collective – R650.

There you have it, just some of my favourite picks to spoil the special men in your life. As I was out and about this weekend I also saw some cute PJ’s for dad at Edgars (you can view more on my instastories) and Netflorist.co.za is always a fantastic place for personalized chocs and cookies.

“A Father is someone you look up to. No matter how tall you grow.” – Unknown

Whatever you get enjoy every second spoiling your loved ones. Happy Shopping!