Tag: in these stilettos

Happy Birthday Dermalogica – Win a Biolumin-C Serum worth R1599.

Happy Birthday Dermalogica – Win a Biolumin-C Serum worth R1599.

Posted on by Rebecca

A quarter of a century, that’s quite a milestone. Its a turning point and when one of your favourite skin care brands has been changing lives in South Africa for 25 years, it’s most definitely time to celebrate!

It’s no secret that I am a fan of Dermalogica and they have been treating my skin for well over a decade. Pioneers in the facial industry with their
Face Mapping® skin analysis, and always in the forefront of innovative, distinctive facial products. Their mission is to “define and bring success to the professional skin care therapist through excellent education, innovative products and outstanding customer service”.

To celebrate this iconic brand I’ve partnered with Dermalogica on their 25 days of giving during the month of July, to gift one of my all time favourite products, Biolumin-C Serum, worth R1599,00.

A high-performance Vitamin C serum that works with skin’s own defenses to brighten and firm. Advanced bio-technology fuses ultra-stable Vitamin C and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, helping to dramatically reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Its formulated to deliver more Vitamin C into skin, outperforming other Vitamin C products (including those formulated at higher concentrations). Other key ingredients include Vitamin C Complex for brighter, firmer, more radiant skin, Lactic Acid to accelerate cell turnover, Sophora Japonica Flower Extract to help return skin to a calm state after experiencing oxidative stress, and Salvia Hispanica (Chia Seed) Oil to hydrate and help quench free radicals.

Benefits include:

·         Exfoliates and reduces unbalanced pigmentation.

·         Reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

·         Prevents and corrects free radical damage.

Dispense a full dropper and smooth over cleansed face and neck morning and night, after toning and before moisturizing. You’ll notice results within 3 days of using this powerhouse and it was without a doubt my favourite product of 2018. It really is one of their products that I will stand behind 100% and the results are dramatic.

To Enter:

Head on over to my Instagram page and comment on the post celebrating Dermalogica’s 25 years in South Africa. The competition will be run only through Instagram but is in no way affiliated to Instagram. It is valid for one day only, Monday July 15 and entries will close at 5pm.

Stand a second chance of winning with Dermalogica:

Dermalogica is also giving away 25 x R3,000 product and treatment hampers, via other platforms.

– Visit your nearest Dermalogica Stockist, Sorbet, Concept Store or Shop Online

– Purchase any Dermalogica product until 31st of July 2019

– WhatsApp a picture of your receipt to +27 72 116 6400

– If you’ve purchased anything online, your purchase is an automatic entry. 

Increase your chances of WINNING:

– Post a picture of yourself or your products to Instagram or Facebook

– Tag @DermalogicaSA | #DermalogicaSA25

– Add the location of your skincare centre, Sorbet or Concept Store

There you have it! Now head on over to my Instagram page to enter enter enter!

Sleep Aids To Help Baby – The GRO Company

Sleep Aids To Help Baby – The GRO Company

Posted on by Rebecca

Just when the boys started sleeping through the night (well almost, apart from jumping into our beds every other night, but that doesn’t count does it?), we go and dive into the newborn realm again. Cue broken sleep, swaddling and constant bags under my eyes.

I thought we were pretty sorted, with Raya being our third child there wasnt much that we “needed” in terms of product, in fact, for my baby shower, I asked for vouchers just to stock up on nappies etc. Let me just tell you however, since having Yusuf 4 years ago, so much has changed! There are alot of new products on the market that we never had with the boys.

The GRO company recently launched into the South African market, through TommmeeTippee and over the past month I have been using some of the award-winning sleep aids that they produce.

Both Raya and my youngest son are winter babies, which typically involves a ton of temperature control and sleeping sacks. The GRO Company was founded by two parents who battled to get their baby to sleep, they were introduced to “Sleep Bags” and after a 12 hour sleep as a result, the Grobag was born! Since then they have diversified their range all with the aim to help with a better nights sleep. So if you’re a mama to be, or are battling with bed time, you may want to read on and add some of these products to your wish list!

The GroEgg2

The GroEgg is a fantastic addition to any sleeping space. In the blink of an eye you can glance to check that the room temperature is comfortable for baby to sleep in. It changes colour based on the temperature, blue being too cold of course and red being too hot. At optimal temperature it gives off an orange/yellow hue. It also acts as a fantastic night light.

GroFriends

Our little “Owlie” is a gorgeous addition to the nursery and as baby gets a bit older will be a great soothing comfort to her (if her brothers give it back to her). The little friends can attach to the side of the crib and play soothing lullabies. They are sound activated and can sense crying, so when baby wakes the Gro Friend plays sounds to soothe and comfort baby. Its travel friendly and also has a nightlight option.

  • Their built in CrySensor allows them to listen out for noises made by baby. When the CrySensor is activated, the Grofriends will automatically start playing their soothing sounds and help settle your child back to sleep.
  • Ollie The Owl and Percy The Penguin can hear all noises within a room but are specifically programmed to react to crying or sharp sounds which may disturb your child.

The GRO Snug

This has been used every night for the past 3 weeks! The GroSnugis a 2-in-1 swaddle and sleep sack. You can keep baby’s arms in, or open up the poppers to let them out. Raya has quickly outgrown hers (she is super tall) and we will absolutely be buying another one. Ours is a gorgeous coral/pink colour it has a unique shaped skirt giving baby plenty of room to kick and sleep in a natural froggy legged position. Its suitable from birth upto 5.5 kgs. Personally I LOVE that it opens up from the bottom, meaning you can easily do night time nappy changes without disturbing baby.

GROclock

One of my favourite products from the Gro Company has to be the GROclock. My boys are absolutely loving it! I was struggling with my youngest son waking up at the crack of dawn and not going back to sleep. The GROclock allows you to set a “wake up” time. The LCD screen shows images of the sun, moon and stars to communicate sleep and wake up times. It shines a sunshine yellow when its time to “wake up”. It has a digital clock but it also has visual imaging. Once you set the clock for the night, it has “stars” around the face, with each star representing an hour of sleep. So for kids that can’t tell the time, they can easily wake up and see “there are 3 stars left”. It has an alarm clock feature, which my eldest loves. Now when they wake up all the do is glance at the screen to see if its wake up time.

Other features include a handy key lock option so kids can change the time by themselves as well as an option to set two separate wake-up times; one for nap time and one for night.

The boys anxiously waiting for their clock to turn to sunshine, which means they can leave their room.

GRO Swaddle Dry

All hooded towels are NOT created equal. This uniquely shaped swaddle towel is an absolute game changer, especially in winter! Made from the softest puredry mirofibre it makes for super quick and easy drying for baba, wrapping her up in a blanket like warmth after her bath. The swaddle shape helps me to wrap her up tight and settles her quickly after bath time.

Its machine washable, can be tumble dried and it comes in 4 fun characters. The Swaddle Dry is suitable for upto 6 months and from there they can move onto GRO Towels which are made from the same super soft and absorbent puredry microfibre, as well as the GRO Robes which I think I need to get for the boys.

The Gro Company products are available from Takealot.com, Baby City, Loot, Charleys Boxes, or selected BabiesRUs stores.

GIVEAWAY – WIN A GRO HAMPER WORTH R1500 !!

As a mum of 3 I know the value of a good nights sleep. I have reached the depths of exhaustion and have tried every single trick in the book. Together with the GRO company I will be giving away a hamper to one lucky parent.

The prize includes:

  • 1 x Grotowel
  • 1 x Grobag 1 TOG 0-6m
  • 1 x Groegg2
  • 1 x Grolight

To enter: Make sure you are following In these Stilettos on Instagram and Facebook. All entries will be done via the social media pages and winners will be announced on Thursday June 20.

Creamy Chicken Corn Soup

Creamy Chicken Corn Soup

Posted on by Rebecca

This is one of my all time favourite soups. Its comfort food, creamy and sweet with just the right amount of kick. I combined two family recipes here to come up with my own that’s the perfect consistency for me. Its quick and easy and the perfect soup for any time of day!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cubed chicken breast
  • 1 small finely chopped onion
  • 1 tsp garlic
  • 1 tsp white pepper
  • half a tsp crushed green chillies
  • 1 cup fresh cream
  • 2 tbsps flour
  • salt to taste
  • 1 tin creamstyle corn
  • 1 litre of milk
  • 1 pkt knorr thick vegetable soup (optional)*
  • 1 tsp mustard powder (optional)
  • Butter/ghee for cooking

Method

Braise onion in a pot with butter, garlic, chillies, salt and pepper, mustard powder until translucent, add in chicken cubes and cook on a gentle heat until cooked through. Add a little water and allow to merge together. Add in the sweetcorn and the milk and bring to a gentle simmer, you don’t want the milk to boil, just a low gentle heat. Make a mini white sauce with the butter and flour and add to the pot to simmer until the soup thickens up. Just before serving add in your cream and a fresh grinding of black pepper.

*Optional: If you feel the soup is not thick enough still add in a few tbsps from the pack of thick vegetable soup to thicken it up some more. (Or substitute the addition of flour with a whole packet of thick vegetable), I often just go with whatever I have time for.

Once again, my hubby prefers a smoother soup, so what I do is add in half the tin of sweetcorn initially. I then blend the soup when its cooked and once its smooth I add in the rest of the sweetcorn. I like the texture of the whole kernels and its a little more aesthetically appealing to me. Garnish with either fresh coriander or some finely chopped spring onion.

Chicken And Vegetable Soup

Chicken And Vegetable Soup

Posted on by Rebecca

Its officially soup season and nothing is better then a hearty chicken soup. We eat soup every evening (well in Ramadan anyway) and have it when we break our fast. On rotation in our house (apart from the odd occasion where I’ll make up a box mix of Haleem), are three staple soups. Chicken and Vegetable being my husbands favourite.

This recipe is adapted from the book “Cosmopolitan Cuisine” by Hamida Kolia. Its literally my go to recipe book, and every single thing in it is a success. My book is so dog eared from being used all the time, I desperately need a new copy. This chicken soup is quick, easy and hugely flavorsome and the whole family will love it. Both my boys eat it and it can be cooked in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup chicken fillets (cubed)
  • 1 small onion diced
  • About a Tbsp Oil/ghee
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic flakes (or fresh garlic)
  • 1 tsp chicken spice
  • 1 Tblsp Worcester sauce
  • 1/4 tsp green chillies (finely ground)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup frozen Veg (I use the carrot, pea and corn one)
  • 1 pkt Knorr Thick Vegetable Soup

Method

  • Braise your cubed chicken in oil with onions and all spices; (garlic, salt/pepper, chillies, chicken spice and Worcester sauce), on a medium heat for approx 10 minutes.
  • Add a litre of water to the pot and bring to simmer
  • Add in your cup of frozen veg and bring to boil again for about 5 minutes
  • Add in your packet of thick vegetable soup (I mix it in with a little cold water first before adding it to the pot, so it doesn’t go lumpy).
  • Boil until soup is slightly thick
  • Using your hand blender, blend until smooth.
  • Garnish with cream or fresh coriander is optional

My husband prefers a smooth soup, so we blend most of ours to a smooth consistency, but this of course, is optional.

I’ll be sharing our other two favourites over the next week, which are creamy butternut and a soul warming creamy chicken and corn. What are your favourite winter soups? Do you eat them as a meal in itself or as a starter?

Giving Back With Cadbury Dairy Milk And “The Little Generosity Shop”

Giving Back With Cadbury Dairy Milk And “The Little Generosity Shop”

Posted on by Rebecca

We all have toys that our kids don’t play with that we want to give away or donate right? We often never know where to drop them off or run out of time to do so. You may have noticed, a few weeks ago I shared a very poignant advert done by Cadbury. It showed paper planes floating down the centre of the iconic Ponte building, highlighting the fact that 3.7 million orphans in South Africa have very little opportunity to experience the smallest things in life, things like toys and books. In a bid to help turn things around Cadbury Dairy Milk has launched “The Little Generosity Shop” across the country.

What is the shop exactly? Its a mobile store that has been set up for you to drop off your toys/ books that Cadbury will distribute to orphanages and homes across South Africa. Today marks the official opening of the store to the public, and yesterday we popped around for the launch and to drop off our donations. When visiting “The Little Generosity Shop”, you can leave any toys or books you may have and get the opportunity to write a personalized message to a child that will be receiving it. In addition, you can learn about the history of Cadbury Dairy Milk and pick up tips on how to spread your generosity further with “Cadbury Chronicles”. The aim is to collect 3.7 Million toys in this period, and you can watch the counter move as each person donates toys. How cool?

Over the past few weeks we have been sorting through our toys, choosing ones we don’t play with anymore. Giving the boys the authority to choose makes the separation a little easier, but to our surprise we received an exchange of chocolate bars in return, which was a lovely treat for the boys parting with some of their precious toys.

I urge all South Africans to get behind this fantastic initiative. We all have old toys and books that our kids don’st play with anymore, and there are so many children who have never had a chance to play with any. Cadbury Dairy Milk is making it easy for us to drop them off and do the distribution, so there is no excuse not to take part!

You can find “The Little Generosity Shop across the country at the following points:

  • Johannesburg: Sandton City, Checkers Court (29 May – 17 June)
  • Durban: Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Centre Court (25 June – 8 July)
  • Cape Town: Canal Walk Shopping Centre, Centre Court (19 July – 5 August)

There are mobile shops in the following cities:

  • Bloemfontein: Loch Logan (7,8 & 9 June)
  • Port Elizabeth: Baywest Mall (15 & 16 June)
  • Pretoria: Irene Village Mall (28, 29 & 30 June)
  • Nelspruit: Riverside Mall (12, 13 & 14 July)

To find out more visit www.cadburyglassandahalf.co.za , lets make South Africa a better place together!

https://youtu.be/8dKQH_pkXPA
Win a Keedo Voucher – Eid Outfit Inspiration For Kids With Keedo

Win a Keedo Voucher – Eid Outfit Inspiration For Kids With Keedo

Posted on by Rebecca

The excitement of the morning, waking up before sunrise to prepare for the morning prayer, getting dressed in your very best clothes, eating delicious food and receiving “Eidee” (presents/money) from family. Eid is such a special day for children around the world. Its a celebration of accomplishments and the blessings that we have to be thankful for, to signify the end of the holy month of Ramadaan. With a little over a week to go until the special day, parents everywhere are starting to shop around for Eid outfits for their kids.

It can be hard to find something that looks good, feels good, and can last for a whole day of prayers and festivities. I normally find it to be such a challenge to find cute outfits for the boys that they are able to comfortably play around and last the whole day in. Its either got to be super casual, because if I do go more formal, the jeans are normally too stiff for them to play at ease.

Keedo’s new “Twilight Garden” range has a slightly more formal look to it, whilst still maintaining the comfort and durability that they are known for, making it perfect for special occasions like Eid. Keedo is one of my favourite brands for children, and the fact that I can finally venture into the pretty girls side, makes my heart jump for joy! They are proudly South African and are ethically made, producing clothes that are made for the “adventurous child” who embraces life to the full and loves to be outside and exploring. Sounds like my boys!

I chose for the boys (or rather they chose for themselves), for Yusuf: the “Bookworm Top”, I love the classic lines of this long sleeve top and its a gorgeous thicker fabric with a stretch to it. Stone wash jeans and a Canvas Jacket. For Aadam we chose the “Take Flight” vest, Tab Shirt, Boys Jeans and Smart Cap. I even picked up something for baby Raya Maryam!

The boys will be able to comfortably play around and last the whole day in their Eid clothes this year, and they are already fighting over who gets which outfit! Check out your nearest Keedo Store or online to have a look at your Eid Inspiration.

Giveaway – Win a Keedo Voucher

To help you along the way together with Keedo, I’ll be giving away a R350 Voucher for you to spend towards your shopping! Entering is as simple as following both “In these Stilettos” and Keedo on Instagram and commenting on the picture what you love most about Keedo! Winner will be announced on Monday June 3rd 2019, allowing you enough time to squeeze in your Eid shopping!

Eid Mubarak !!

*Disclaimer* I received a Keedo Voucher to purchase these items, but all opinions and views are my own.

Love Local – Mama Noo Nursing Wear

Love Local – Mama Noo Nursing Wear

Posted on by Rebecca

Its been a while since a proper blog post, in between feeds and winding and trying to make various kiddos sleep a moment to type is quite rare these days. This is one post however that I cant put off any longer, because their products have made such a difference to me post-partum. In today’s Love Local Blog I feature the dynamic duo behind Mama Noo Maternity and Nursing Wear, and not a moment too soon with their winter range launching in 3 days.

I have the lifestyle maternity bra and it honestly is super comfortable. The cotton is soft and is not too tight at all. It has just enough stretch in it. There is nothing worse then a maternity bra that is too tight or “scratchy”, but the lifestyle bra has been fantastic. I love the fact that it is a sports bra style (there are various styles available), ideal for mums getting back into an exercise regime. I also received a pair of the delicate knickers. These are brilliant for your post-partum needs and are high waisted, which allows extra comfort especially if you have had a c-section. I actually wouldn’t take these to the hospital because I wouldn’t want to ruin them with those first few days after birth, I kept mine for when I was home and things were a little less messy 🙂 Either way a set of these and a bra would be the perfect gift for any mama to be!

Tell me more about yourselves and what you currently do?

Sisters by law, friends in awe. We are two sisters-in-law who became best friends through the journey of getting married and becoming stay-at-home mothers. I (Imne) live in Paarl with my husband and two little buttons (4y old boy and 20mnth old girl). Emsie lives in Stellenbosch with her husband and they have a boy (4y) and little girl(2y).

We love motherhood and try our best to embrace the joys, challenges and daily curve balls that life can throw. However, it is such a privilege to raise our children and be able to have our own business and work from home.

How did “Mama Noo” come about?

We love everything about breastfeeding and truly believe in all the rich benefits it holds. We breastfeed our children for at least 18-24 months. So, whilst on this adventure, we realized the complete lack of beautiful (but still functional and comfortable!) maternity underwear. We certainly did not want to flaunt the ones we then wore for months on end. We started out in October 2016 when our first imported bras arrived. It sold like hot cakes, and we realized the opportunity in our hands. Soon after we decided to start manufacturing locally. This allows us to tailor our products to mothers’ exact needs, and provide outstanding quality, whilst supporting ethical businesses in our own economy. 

What did you study – was it in this field or something different?

Hahaha, not at all. In our previous lives (before children) Emsie is a qualified dietician and I’m a social worker and play therapist.

What was your first job and how did you progress to this?

We both worked for a couple of years in traditional 8-5 environments. Emsie had the natural business skills (developed by having her own dietetics practice), and I always had a knack for art and design and was eager to learn more. We both thrive on creativity applying it in a dynamic environment. The interest in textiles, patterns and fashion grew as we started to develop our own collection of maternity panties and nursing bras. Mama Noo is a great channel for us to utilise our creativity and business skills.

What have been the highlights of starting your own business?

There is something so special about developing your own brand when you believe in its value and difference it can make in mothers (and of course dads 😉 ). Developing our own maternity wear and seeing the result of all the late nights of work (working hours are usually from 21:00-01:00) culminate in one-to-one moments with our clients on a personal level is the heart of what we truly do and enjoy. It is rewarding to see a need in the market addressed through our products while improving our products and in the end generating income.

What’s the best part of your job?

We love seeing a mommy’s face light up when she has fit and felt our lingerie nursing bras or maternity panties and loves the fabric, comfort and support that they offer. We believe in our products and it’s a joy when our customers experience the value of it.

Flexible working hours and being able to work from home with the privilege to be with our children is a blessing. 

What is the most challenging part?

We love being mothers and raising our kids from home, but with this privilege comes a few sacrifices as well. We work during the day when we find a gap and after hours which means work is often delayed and take a little longer to finish to accommodate our family life. We have had ups and downs and needed to climb a few mountains to be where we are today. Everyone in the clothing design business would know how technical a nursing bra is. It has taken us two years to design, test and develop our first Lifestyle Nursing bra that is supportive, sports friendly and gorgeous to wear. We are super proud and cannot wait for our next style to launch soon!

South Africa is still quite conservative when it comes to online shopping. Therefore, mom & baby expos and markets are still the way to go until. Expos can be very time consuming, extra hard work over weekends and time away from our family.

Describe a typical day in your life.

Haha, this can really be subject to change as we have our children with us the whole day without nannies. So our children are part of our business and we plan to accommodate them first…then our business 😉 But a typical day might look something like this: 

06:00-08:00 Read and reply to emails regarding orders for stock, arrangements for fittings and discussions around our patterns and adjustments.

08:00- 12:00 Courier comes to collect parcels for clients. At least once a week we will have a fitting as well. 

12:00 when our youngsters sleep we do some more admin. Sometimes we would get an au pair to help us out during the afternoon.

21:30-00:00 After tidying the home and spending some time with our husbands we would attend to customer queries, reply to emails, budget, prep for new orders to go out the following day.

What are the “secrets” to your success?

We believe in our product’s value and that we really address a need amongst pregnant and nursing moms of all types and sizes that look for comfortable, supportive and functional yet beautiful maternity lingerie.

How do you balance being a mummy and starting your own business.

We are on the journey of figuring it out. As a new online business there is so much that still needs to be developed and mastered. We are only two in the business and working from home (apart from our husbands and grandparents that have their own share as well in supporting us 😉 ).

So, it can be challenging when we are in work mode and when we switch off and just relax and give our full attention to our kids without distractions.

What is your dream for Mama Noo?

To be able to manufacture all our products locally and only sell our own garments.

To be in retail so that moms have a store to go and fit and feel our products.

To export to such an extent that anyone anywhere can be able to buy our products online.

Any tips for people wanting to take the leap and start their own business? 

If you have a dream and the determination to fulfil it and know your “Why?”, the “How?” will come in the process and nothing will stop you.

Get in on the action with the Oreo Cup Challenge

Get in on the action with the Oreo Cup Challenge

Posted on by Rebecca

One thing you are guaranteed to find in our house, at any given point, is a good old pack of Oreo’s. We like the original ones, with vanilla cream. We also love a good competition, in fact, I’m a little nervous at how competitive the boys are becoming! The timing of the Oreo Cup Challenge which launched recently, has been perfect, with a little extra time to spend with the boys on maternity leave, I have been introducing Aadam to the world of gaming (he already considers himself an F1 guru on the PlayStation 🙂 )

Oreo’s have always been about bringing people together, whether you are twisting, licking or dunking, the brand stands for uniting people, creating conversation and connecting people with lighthearted fun. The range currently spans across the newer Golden range, Original, Oreo Chocolate Crème and a fan favourite, the Oreo Enrobed. If you currently have any of these packs around your house, you can enter the game.  These wonderfilled games will continue to encourage people to come together as they are and connect with the people and world around them.

The Oreo Cup launched globally early on in March and will run till 31 May 2019. It is really simple to enter: simply take the last 4 digits from your barcode number on your favourite Oreo product. The size doesn’t matter, whether it’s an individual 4 pack, or giant-sized Oreo Golden you are set. Each time you enter a barcode number, you receive credits which you can use to play and compete with people from across the world.

If you are lucky enough to get on the leader board (trust me, it’s harder than it looks), there’s a Huawei P20 mobile phone up for grabs, cash prizes and even a PlayStation 4. There are also weekly prizes including Takealot vouchers, airtime and HiSense Smart TVs available to win.

To play any of the games, buy any participating OREO and dial *120*8826# or visit www.oreocup.com Once you’ve logged into the cup website you’ll be able to choose from a variety of different games: There’s Oreo Ladder Dunk, Oreo Crazy Twist, Oreo Flash Lick, Oreo Seesaw Twist and Oreo Spiral Dunk. Follow @Oreo on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

If you are in the following areas, you can join in the fun with the Oreo Cup Activations:

Limpopo

  • Mall of the North – Pick n’ Pay Court: 27 and 28 April

Kwa-Zulu Natal

  • Gateway – Game Court: 4 and 5 May

Port Elizabeth

  • Pier 14- Shoprite Court: 11 and 12 April

Cape Town

  • Canal Walk – Checkers Court: 17 and 18 May
  • Tygervalley – Woolworths Court: 24 and 25 May 

I’m still trying to practice enough to get score over 1000, and beat my husband but so far, I’m failing dismally at both. Word of advice the Oreo Seesaw Twist is way harder than it looks. I think it may be easier to do on a phone rather than a computer.

Keep an eye on my Facebook page for a little snippet of us trying to make our mark globally, but right now I’m off to buy another packet of Oreos, not like I needed an excuse in the first place 🙂

Dino Dig Sensory Play

Dino Dig Sensory Play

Posted on by Rebecca

A “Dino Dig” is something I have been dying to try with my boys. Making our own dino fossils has been top of my “wish list” but I just havent had the time or energy to do it. Recently though I paid a visit to our favourite “Plastic Land” (I feel like that’s a bit of a swear word these days), and when I saw a pack of plaster of paris I quickly grabbed it for my fossils.

I had to write an actual blog for this activity because initially, It was an epic fail. It was my first attempt at using Plaster of Paris, and clearly I hadn’t put much thought into it. I just mixed and poured, and well, it did require some pre planning.

There are a few things you should know if you use this method:

  1. You CANNOT pour Plaster of Paris down the drain, it will break your pipes (thankfully I didn’t), and it sets almost immediately. Which means you have to work very quickly, it also means, use something disposable when mixing it so you can do an easy clean up. That was mistake number 1 for me, I mixed it up in a baking bowl with a wooden spoon; and I then had to try dissolve all of it with Bicarbonate of Soda (which actually worked very well).
  2. Use moulds that you can break or peel away. I had found some playdough moulds at Toyzone that I thought would make the perfect dino fossils, except they didn’t 🙂 I couldn’t get the plaster of paris out of the mould and had to almost break my brand new playdough cutters.

So after I failed one night of trying with the plaster of paris, and getting utterly frustrated, I ended up making good old salt dough fossils the next day. They were super quick, easy, and the boys always love to play with salt dough so it certainly wasnt a waste of time. I just wasnt happy with how they looked in comparison to the “Pintrest” pretty fossils I had seen. I turned to good old You Tube and caught a video where they used plastic around the playdough which was then just cut off and thrown away.

Make your own dinosaur fossils (Plaster of Paris):

Ingredients:

Plaster of Paris

Water for Mixing

Playdough

Small Dinosaur Figurines

Paper Muffin Cups

Method:

Roll out your playdough and cut into shape with your muffin cup, placing your playdough at the bottom of each cup.

Insert and press down with the dino figurine to leave an imprint into your playdough (remove your figurine).

Mix up your Plaster of Paris (In a disposable cup), and pour into your cupcake/muffin cups on top of the playdough. You want it a bit thicker as if it’s too thin it will crack and break easily.

Once set, peel away your paper muffin cups/plastic, whatever you used. Peel away the playdough from underneath and Voila! Instant Dino Fossils! You will notice the playdough does get a little sticky when you peel it away, so I just took a slightly damp tooth-brush to brush away and clean up the playdough.

If you are really OCD and want a smoother fossil, you can sand down your fossils, but this mama does not have time for that!

Sensory Play

Once I had my fossils ready I pulled out some of my old moon sand/ cloud dough, which is just a combination of flour and oil, you can view my recipe here. If you have a sandpit even better! I “hid” the fossils under the sand and got some old paint brushes, a magnifying glass and some dino books for us to read. Once the boys had found the fossils, I whipped out the original figurines and we made a bit of a puzzle out of it, matching the figurine to the fossil, and then learning about that dinosaur! It was a great activity and really did keep them occupied for quite some time.

The best part is everything is saved and packed away for another day of play!

I would absolutely love to hear your feedback. Have you tried making your own fossils before? Let me know what you think of the two different methods and what you prefer. Happy playing!

Hospital Bag Checklist – What To Pack For Mom And Baby

Hospital Bag Checklist – What To Pack For Mom And Baby

Posted on by Rebecca

I finally did it! At 38 weeks I finally packed my hospital bags 🙂 I always love to leave things till the last-minute, but better late than never right? I asked a poll on my Instastories a few weeks back how many of you were still unsure of what to pack in your hospital bags, and 80% commented that they needed help. It’s one of those things where there are so many lists around you never know quite how much to pack or what is actually needed.

You would think that on baby 3 I would pretty much have this down pat by now but there are still things I stress about forgetting. My packing is pretty streamlined and I know exactly what I will need and when so in terms of bag organisation I think I have that down. The only time you should actually stress about not having something you specifically need is whilst you are in labour, so make sure you have a “mini bag” ready for labour. The rest of the time you aren’t actually away in another city, most of the time hubby or support can pop home to fetch something you need if its urgent. I always pack for a 3 day stay as you never know what might happen, even with all the best intentions you may end up having a c-section so rather be over prepared and ready.

Here are the key items I have packed, separated into moms and baby’s bags 🙂

For Mama:

I pack a smaller bag inside my hospital bag, to take with me into the labour room with essentials such as:

Snacks: I cannot emphasize these enough. By the time Yusuf made an appearance I was so hungry I could have attacked anything in sight. The midwife had kindly organized tea and some breakfast for me (it was about 11am by the time I was in my room), but it did not touch sides at all. Hubby was about to go home to get some sleep himself but before I let him go I made him drive to the nearest Woolworth’s and buy 3 ready-made meals. I literally devoured 3 meals before 2pm came around. There is nothing worse than being in your room and a snack attack hits and you don’t having anything to munch on. For my suitcase I pack the Woolworth’s trail mixes, dried fruit, chips and Energades. I also always pack a packet of gum or some mints.

Identity documents – These are pretty important and can be easily missed. I have to lug my passport everywhere but if you are a South African Citizen your ID would suffice).

Socks and Slippers: Your feet get cold! I pack 3 pairs of socks and I always save up those slippers from hotel or spa stays so I pack a pair of disposable slippers ( I don’t want to take them home after walking around a hospital). You can also pack flops for the shower.

Entertainment: This is your own personal preference. I pack my iPod (yes I’m still old school and I own a separate iPod), my Qu’ran (electric and travel size), I listen to the electronic one normally in early stages of labour. This time around I’ll be packing my iPad with a few pre-downloaded Netflix series on as well. I try to sleep as much as I can when I’m in hospital because I know once I’m home and have the other kids around, rest is not something I’ll be getting a lot of. DO NOT FORGET YOUR CHARGERS!

In my Larger bag I pack:

Nursing bras: I pack 3, these are crucial. You will need the support, but you will also need to be able to whip out your boob on a moment’s notice 🙂 We have a wide selection available in South Africa now from the traditional Carriwell to the modern and functional Bravado, Sophie and Jane and Mama Noo Bras

Disposable underwear: Really, they will be your best friend. Apart from my “going home” outfit I don’t even bother with normal underwear when in hospital. I want to throw everything away. So, I pack 4 to 6 pairs to make sure I have enough. At this point I use the good sexy Carriwell high-waisted ones. The ones that look like you are wearing a hair net, on your bum 🙂

Button up Pyjamas: I only realised the power of a button up pyjama top after having Aadam. It was something as a first-time mum I have never even considered before but after my first night in hospital I promptly sent my mum out to buy me a pair from Woolies. There are some utterly gorgeous lounge style pyjamas out there at the moment, with some equally gorgeous price tags 🙂 So for now, my favourites are typically all from Woolworth’s. I pack 3 pairs.

Maternity Pads: You know its real when you have to go out and do the grudge buys like linen savers and maternity pads 🙂 I’m rejoicing at the fact that lil-lets have come to the party with their own range of maternity pads now. Making child-birth a teeeeeny bit more glamorous 🙂 With the boys I used the age-old Carriwell “boats” that you constantly had to check and made sure they didn’t crunch up or shift. I have now stocked up on the lil-lets brand as they are certainly A LOT thinner and look a lot more “user friendly”.

Breast Pads: You may not may not use these while you are still in hospital. Your milk normally “kicks in” on day 3 but boy oh boy when it does you need to be ready for leakage 🙂 As soon as I am home I use cotton washable ones, but in the hospital, I normally pack 2 or 3 disposable ones.

Toiletries: What you pack is completely up to you, but you want to make sure you have the basics covered. I pack my Johnson’s Face Wipes – if you get in visitors but don’t feel up to walking to the bathroom they are ideal for a quick refresh, I keep a pack next to my bed and apply a little make up on to look fresh! I also pack a bar of dove soap, my Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream , Toothbrush ( I throw this away as well when I leave), Toothpaste, Dove deodorant, small bottles of shampoo conditioner and body lotion and my tangle teezer hairbrush. I certainly do not apply full make up when in hospital but I do take my “basics” which include my L’Oreal infallible foundation, Maybelline Colossal Big Shot Mascara, Matsimela lip balm (always always pack lip balm), a brighter shade lippy for a pick me up. I also pack my Dettol instant hand sanitizer. You guaranteed not to run short on a hand sanitizer in the hospital, but its nice to always have your own.

Eye Mask: My cousin gifted me one at my first baby shower with a little note to say that sometimes they don’t switch off the lights or if you want to have a snooze in the day, to “use this”. I thought it was the sweetest thing ever and something I never forget to include now.

Going home outfit: You can pack this but its something ill often get hubby to bring with on day 2 or 3. So that it’s not all creased and “hospitally”. Remember to pack something looser as you will still be swollen.

Bath towel and face cloth: In case you haven’t noticed I have a slight phobia around hospitals and germs. Yes, even though you are in a labour ward, there are still germs!. I always pack my own towel and facecloth. Pack a plastic packet as well to put it in, just in case it’s still damp when its home time.

Babys’ Bag:

Blankets: I pack 3 muslin wraps, 1 fresh for each day. They are so lightweight and breathable, and baba is snug as can be. I also pack one softer fleece one to put over baba for a chillier night. You are guaranteed to have at least one leakage episode while in the hospital so pack an extra think blanket for just in case. I love how soft the Maccie Bamboo Muslin Blankets are.

Facecloths: 2 facecloths and one longer burping cloth. My one from Baby Little One is the perfect size!

Dummy: I always pack a dummy, with Aadam we got him on his before we even left the hospital, Yusuf never ever took to one though. The brand we have had the most success with has always been NUK.

Clothing: I pack 4 outfits (you always need a spare for any accidents and if you are having a boy I’d probably pack 5 🙂 Boys like to wee, especially when you take off their nappies 🙂 This time around I have packed outfits together in packs to make it easier to grab for changes. In each pack I’ve put a nappy with a vest, 1 x long sleeve babygro (woolies button up ones are perfect for hospital), socks and a hat. I then have a separate one for baba’s going home outfit. There’s a baby grow my mum in law brought over from the UK before I had Aadam. He went home in it, Yusuf went home in it and I’ve packed it now for this baba too. It’s quite sentimental and super cute 🙂 So that’s at least 3 x vests (I pack 4), 3 x Babygro’s, 3 pairs socks and 3 hats.

Hooded Towels: Baby typically only has one bath while in hospital, so one towel should suffice. Though I do remember with Yusuf they put one down and covered him in one too.

Nappies: That’s a given. The newborn ones normally come in handy smaller packs, perfect for chucking into your hospital bag. My personal preference for newborn nappies is Huggies. They have the best fit and they even go down a bit in the front to accommodate the umbilical cord.

Toiletries: Cotton Wool (for toping and tailing), I also don’t use wet wipes on my newborns, I only use cotton wool and water. Those first few nappies with their black “poop” are always sticky so I prefer a wet piece of cotton wool. A gentle baby wash (I use pure beginnings for my babies), surgical spirits for their umbilical cord and some bum cream. For the first few days I also don’t put body lotion onto baba. I just think their little skin is so soft and pure, If I do need anything I put a little coconut oil onto their skin. Remember newborns typically have skin that peels a bit.

You can download this printable list by clicking on the link below:

In these stilettos Hospital Bag Check List True

The rest is your own personal preference, but I prefer not to overpack and to keep things simple. Don’t forget your chargers. Happy packing and if you are reading this and getting ready to give birth, wishing you a beautiful birth experience, whatever it may be!