Category Archives: 5 Great Finds

5 Great Finds: GrabOne $5 Donations, Skirt with built in shorts, Magnetic Weekly Board, Fabric Rosette Clips and Bordem Busters for Toddlers to pass the time

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EASY $5 DONATION TO CHRISTCHURCH EARTHQUAKE

Ever since we found out about the earthquake in Christchurch on Saturday morning, the residents of Christchurch have been in our thoughts and prayers.

GrabOne, who usually specialises in daily deals has set up an easy way for us to donate $5 to the Christchurch City Mission. As I write this post, they have raised nearly $30,000!

http://www.grabone.co.nz/christchurch

TUTORIAL FOR SKIRT WITH BUILT IN SHORTS

Just today, my 3 year old asked for her “mermaid t-shirt”. The same mermaid t-shirt that I had hidden because it was starting to get too small for her. It is funny how some children form attachments to certain clothing items. With her mermaid t-shirt, she loves to wear her skirt with shorts. Unfortunately, she is quickly growing out of too. So, I was really excited to see this tutorial at The Long Thread, so I can make her another one!

http://thelongthread.com/?p=6417

MAGNETIC WEEKLY BOARD

This weekly board is perfect if you have a little person in your household who loves to know what is coming up next! Even adults find it quite reassuring to see at a glance what is coming up next. Cheri from I AM Momma – Hear Me Roar! has posted a tutorial on how to make our very own magnetic weekly board, and included her cute drawings to download as well!

http://iammommahearmeroar.blogspot.com/2010/09/whats-up-weekly-board.html

FABRIC ROSETTE CLIPS

Little Birdie Secrets has a great tutorial on how to make these really adorable rosette clips! I hope my attempt will look as good as theirs!

http://littlebirdiesecrets.blogspot.com/2010/09/how-to-make-fabric-rosette-clip.html

BOREDOM BUSTERS FOR TODDLERS TO PASS THE TIME

Does this sound familiar? Desperately searching through your bag to find something to occupy your toddler, because there is nothing else for him to play with and the doctor is running late! Perna from The Mom Writes guest posts on Zen Family Habits about “10 Toddler Activities to Make Waiting Time Fun, Worry-Free and Interesting”

I’m liking the idea of having a packet of cherrios (or any other treat with a hole) and some string/ribbon, so they can string the cherrios…it’s an activity and a snack!

http://www.zenfamilyhabits.net/2010/09/10-toddler-activities-to-make-waiting-time-fun-worry-free-and-interesting/

5 Great Finds: Crunchy Lemon Muffins, Lunchbox Survey, Discrete Ironing Board, Magnetic Bookmarks and Preserving Family Memories

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MY FAVOURITE MUFFIN RECIPE

Cat Taylor has shared my favourite Crunchy Lemon Muffin recipe. This page in my cook book is well-worn (splattered).  Crunchy Lemon Muffins are a hit in our house, and they always turn out so soft and moist. I always make sure I have a couple of lemons on hand incase I want to make this recipe. In fact, I whipped up a batch this morning because our cupboards were bare!

http://cattaylornz.blogspot.com/2010/08/crunchy-lemon-muffins.html

REALLY CUTE LUNCHBOX SURVEY

June Pfaff Daley [via Skip to My Lou and My Delicious Ambiguity) has come up with this adorable lunch survey to pop into your child's lunchbox. It asks questions such as..."On a scale of 1-5 how tasty was your lunch today?" and "When I get home from school I want to..."

You can now find June at http://junepfaffdaley.com/

http://junepfaffdaley.blogspot.com/2008/04/official-lunch-survey.html

FAB IDEA FOR STORING AND HIDING YOUR IRONING BOARD

Carolyn from My Backyard Eden came up with a discrete way of storing her ironing board. Don't you just love how it turned out?!

http://www.mybackyardeden.com/2010/08/ironing-board-dilemma-solved.html

PRINTABLE MAGNETIC BOOKMARKS

I remember a while ago, some young boys selling these types of magnetic bookmarks. They are such a great idea! Mollie from Wild Olive [via Crafty Crow] has made these printables so you can make your very own magnetic bookmark. Yay!

http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2010/08/keep-your-spot.html

PRESERVING FAMILY MEMORIES


Kat from Inspired to Action has blogged about this lovely way to preserve family memories over at Steady Mom. Basically she suggests jotting down any memories on an index card daily.

http://www.steadymom.com/2010/08/preserving-family-memories-the-simple-way.html

A little while ago I featured Tag’s free week of requests on Facebook on 5 Great Finds. Well, hubby has informed me that they their special subscription rate is going up after 31 August. If you purchase it at this low price, you will have that price forever!! (So you can understand why I want people to take advantage of the low price!) I have purchased the year one….so I get a year’s access to someone else ringing up stores to find out which stores are having sales on their children’s footwear or find a specific product so I don’t have to take my toddler to a thousand different stores. Someone else can make the phone calls on my behalf while I am out and about away from my landline. Someone else can help me save me time, and make my life a bit easier! Yee ha!

Check out Tag’s Facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/TagPersonalAssistants

Details of the offer here: http://www.tagnet.co.nz/fbpromo.html

http://www.steadymom.com/2010/08/preserving-family-memories-the-simple-way.html

5 Great Finds: Moon Sand, Thank You Cards, Necktie Companion, Fruit Roll-ups and Father’s Day Certificate

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DIY MOON SAND

I can’t wait to try to make my own moon sand with my kids! Kristine from Bilbified shows us how simple it is!

http://bilbified.blogspot.com/2010/08/moon-sand.html

PRINTABLE THANK YOU CARDS

Kellie from 74 Lime Lane has made this cute bunting thank you card for us to download and use! Yay!

http://74limelane.com.au/blog/2010/08/20/friday-freebie-23/

Take a look at another adorable card you can download from HeySusy*

http://susanconnordesign.typepad.com/heysusy/2009/09/many-thanks-free-download-card-design-.html

NIFTY NECKTIE COMPANION

My hubby had one of these, until it disappeared one day. I’m excited that Cheri from I Am Momma Hear Me Roar! blogged about this, because I can whip one up myself. It is a great way to keep a necktie in place discreetly.

http://iammommahearmeroar.blogspot.com/2010/08/magic-tie-trick.html

MAKE YOUR OWN FRUIT ROLL-UPS

I have seen recipes for home-made roll ups before, but I love how Amy from New Nostalgia used freezer/waxed paper to bake it, and then cut it up with the paper attached.

http://amy-newnostalgia.blogspot.com/2010/08/healthy-homemade-fruit-roll-ups.html

BEST DAD CERTIFICATE

Maddie from li’l magoolie, reminded me that Father’s Day was just around the corner in New Zealand, when she posted this adorable Father’s Day Certificate that you can download from FamilyFun.

http://familyfun.go.com/fathers-day/fathers-day-printables/printable-gift-worlds-greatest-dad-certificate-704051/

5 Great Finds: Bookplates, Virtual Assistants, Thank You Box, Apple & Spice Cupcakes and Alphabet Flashcards

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BEAUTIFUL BOOKPLATES

I am in loooove with the many, many bookplates available from My Home Library [via ohdeedoh]. (There were sooo many I wanted to share with you, but I think that you should have a look and pick out your favourites!)

By Mick Inkpen

By Quentin Blake

By Rebecca Elliott

By Martin Ursell

FREE VIRTUAL ASSISTANTS FOR A WEEK! (For New Zealanders)

Out and about and need directions? Want to know what shops stock a certain product? Want to know what shops currently have a sale on kid’s shoes? These are just a few things that I have used “Tag” for.

My hubby and his brother started the company up so that everyday people like you and I have access to our very own Personal Assistants. Those examples I mentioned were all request that I sent via text messages (very, very handy when I was out and about), you can also email requests in. Other clients use Tag to book appointments, find out info about movie sessions, restaurants, shops etc.

This week Tag are offering their services for FREE on Facebook for a week. Give it a go, and put a request up on their wall!

http://www.facebook.com/#!/TagPersonalAssistants?ref=ts

http://www.tagnet.co.nz/

CUTE DOWNLOADABLE THANK YOU BOX

All you need is a piece of A4 Cardstock and you too can have this cute little thank you box to put party favours in, or a wee present for someone. Check out Yellow Mum’s blog where she offers lots of lovely things you can download on her “Freebie Friday”.

http://yellowmums.blogspot.com/2010/08/ff-striped-birthday-favor-box.html

APPLE & SPICE CUPCAKE RECIPE

I have a bunch of bruised apples that I would love to turn into this amazing Apple & Spice Cupcake by Cathie at m.e. I also think that part of me just wants to sink my teeth into that icing! YUMMO!

http://melbourneepicure.blogspot.com/2010/04/apple-spice-cupcakes.html

GORGEOUS ALPHABET FLASHCARDS

Jill from Homemade By Jill has put together these adorable alphabet flashcards for her wee boy, and for us! I also think they would look great on the wall!

http://homemadebyjill.blogspot.com/2010/08/alphabet-flashcards.html

5 Great Finds: Globe & Crossword Wall Art, Free Photography Course, Muffin Doughnuts and Fab Organiser

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GORGEOUS GLOBE

What kid (or adult!!) wouldn’t want this amazing globe in their room. The talented Jennifer from Cup of Coco [via ohdeedoh] created this for a client. It is an interactive globe where the animals and landmarks have velcro on the back so you can put them on or take them off and store them in your cute little suitcase. I just love the adorable plane too!

http://cupofcoco.squarespace.com/blog/2010/3/23/nursery-wall-art-interactive-globe.html

FREE PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE (for Wellingtonians)

Why not take advantage of this exciting opportunity to improve your photography skills and attend a FREE photography workshop series which will be led by wedding photographer, Keith McNabb.

Date: Every Thursday from 19 August for 8 weeks

Time: 7pm-9pm

Venue: Newlands Community Centre, 9 Batchelor Street, Newlands, Wellington

The format will be as follows:

1. Session: Getting the most out of the camera 19th Aug;
2. Session: Secrets of the Exposure System 26th Aug;
3. Session: Taking control of the flash 2nd Sep;
4. Session: How to shoot portraits like the pros 9th Sep;
5. Session: Computer time 16th Sep;
6. Session: On assignment Field Trip 25th Sep Field trip;
7. Session: Assignment results assessment 30th Sep; and
8. Session: Publishing 7th October.

If you’re interested in attending this workshop, please register with Donna Wilson, the Newlands Community Centre Coordinator on any of the contact details below.
P  04 477 3724
F  04 477 3725
M 021 227 8092
DDI: 04 803 8092

MOUTH WATERING MUFFIN DOUGHNUTS

Jen from How to: Simplify, is now my best friend for posting up this delicious recipe (and gorgeous photo!) All I can say is…I want these…NOW!

http://www.howto-simplify.com/2010/08/muffin-donuts.html

CROSSWORD/SCRABBLE WALL ART

I would LOVE something like this on my wall! Kellie from 74 Lime Lane featured this awesome Wall Art on her “Inspirational Files” this week. These were being sold at PoshTots for $500US (Post Edit: Unfortunately they no longer sell them on their site. I guess we’re just going to have to get creative and make our own!)

http://74limelane.com.au/2010/08/09/inspiration-files-whats-on-your-wall/

http://style-files.com/2010/08/03/crossword-wall-art/

FANTASTIC ORGANISER

This organiser is the BEST! It is the brainchild of Wendy Davie from “Totally Organised”, who I met at the Women’s Lifestyle Expo on Saturday. Looovely Lady.

The Action Station is a handy pad with 52 sheets to fill out every week of the year. Instead of the normal “To Do Lists”, she has titles like “What have I been avoiding?”, “What can I delegate”, “Stuff that really matters”, “Stuff I put off last week” and my favourite “Inspiration Cloud”!

The great thing about “Totally Organised” is they come to you! You can get a few friends together, get tips and buy some really useful (and pretty) products without leaving the comfort of your own home. (They haven’t paid me to say all this by the way, I just love that Wendy took an idea and turned it into a fantastic business with great products!)

5 Great Finds: Hairdos, Photography tips, Ring Sling, Glow Cones, Mindy Gledhill

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GIVE YOUR HAIR A FACE LIFT!


I just love all videos that Cheri from I am Momma Hear Me Roar does! She has done a few video tutorials to show you how to style your hair in different ways.

I’ve been trying them out in my hair, and have felt quite “glam” after the transformation!

http://iammommahearmeroar.blogspot.com/2010/07/hair-week-styling-your-hair.html

http://iammommahearmeroar.blogspot.com/2010/07/hair-week-hair-dos.html (the first blooper video is such a laaaaugh!!)

GETTING RID OF THE BLUR IN PHOTOS

Stacie from Chasing Picture Perfect instructs us the various steps we can take to avoid blurry photos. Me likes!

http://www.chasingpictureperfection.com/2010/07/my-photos-are-blurry-solutions-for-most.html

RING-SLINGS BY KIWI MUM

I am constantly amazed at how many balls we can juggle as mothers.

I stumbled across Oyako Designs which produce quality baby carriers.

Emily is an amazing mother who is juggling 4 children under 8 years old.

After years of experimenting and adjustments she came up with two designs which she believes is the most comfortable and convenient carriers possible. (Hmmmm…..Shall I have another baby just so I can get one of these?????)

She recently received her first wholesale order from “Organic Baby”, 127 Jackson Street, Petone. So you can check out some of her products there, or on her website. Congrats Emily!

Check out her instructional videos, it totally made me want one!

http://oyako.co.nz/Home.html

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Oyako-Designs/140751245949217

GLOW CONES

Amberlee from Giver’s Log shared this fun and easy idea of making “glow cones”. This would make a treat for the family a little bit more special and memorable!

http://giverslog.com/?p=9142

BEAUTIFUL SONGS BY MINDY GLEDHILL

I heard about Mindy Gledhill through CJane’s blog. She is releasing her new album “Anchor” and it’s great! If you are lucky you can listen to a preview of her album on her blog until her album is released (Post Edit: 4 Aug in America)

I loved the words to the song “Hourglass”, totally made me think of my son…

“Little boy, when you speak, I can’t help but kiss your cheeks, I love the way you grab my hands, tell me all about your plans.”

And check out this lovely video to the song “All about your heart”. The dancing by the little girl is so enchanting! Check out the words too…

“I don’t mind your odd behaviour, it’s the very thing I love, if you were an ice cream flavour, you would be my favourite one”

“I’ve loved you from the start, in every single way, and more each passing day, you are brighter than the stars, believe me when I say, it’s not about your scars, it’s all about your heart”

http://mindygledhill.blogspot.com/

BEAUTIFUL SONGS BY MINDY GLEDHILL

5 Great Finds: Self-portraits, Photography Shoot Along, Newspaper Bag, Thank you label, Pick up Sticks

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COME OUT FROM BEHIND THE CAMERA

I am loving this post by Simone from Greatfun4kids. She reminds us that it is important to step out from behind the camera and be in the photo with our children. She has been able to put into words, what I have been feeling lately. I really need more photos with the kids.Getting a smaller camera that the kids can operate, has been my first step. The next step is, as Simone says “Get over myself”.

We have to remember that our children love us, just the way we are (no make up, holey jeans and uncontrollable hair), that is how they see us every day.

http://greatfun4kids.blogspot.com/2010/07/getting-over-myself.html

JOIN IN ON THE SHOOT ALONG

Giver’s Log is a great blog anyway, but now they have teamed up with Carrie Butler and have started a Shoot Along. They are trying to get us to be more purposeful in our photography. They will be including great tips, like last weeks post on “Telling the Story”.

http://giverslog.com/?p=9040

FUNKY NEWSPAPER BAGS

I love these cute bags that Jessica from How About Orange made. Check out her easy to follow tutorial.

http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2010/07/how-to-make-gift-bags-from-newspaper.html

DOWNLOADABLE THANK YOU LABELS

Who wouldn’t want to receive a thank you gift with these labels on it?! You can give these away too, because the girls over at eighteen25 have made some downloadable labels for us to use. Score!

http://eighteen25.blogspot.com/2010/07/party-bags.html

MAKE YOUR OWN PICK UP STICKS

You no longer need to go out and buy the plastic version of this game! You just need a bit of paint, your household skewers and you’re good to go!

I am so glad that whipup.net featured this tutorial, because not only am I loving this idea, but I am loving Holly’s blog Chez Beeper Bebe.

http://chezbeeperbebe.blogspot.com/2010/07/make-this-stripey-sticks.html

http://giverslog.com/?p=9040

5 Great Finds: Free Prints, Monster Bubbles, Colourful Crocheting, How-to Series, Boxy Pouch

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A GREAT LIST OF FREE PRINTS

Jenn from Delicious Ambiguity has provided a fantastic list of free prints that we can download and print off.

Check out this gorgeous print by Angela Vandenbogaard. This and other prints are available from Feed Your Soul: The Free Art Project.

http://www.mydeliciousambiguity.com/2010/07/free-art-for-kids-you-can-frame.html

MONSTER BUBBLES!

I can’t wait to try the monster bubbles like Valerie from Frugal Family Fun! My kids would love this! She got the idea from Childhood Magic, where they also have link to a good bubble mixture.

http://www.frugalfamilyfunblog.com/2010/07/sunday-snapshot-you-must-try-this.html

COLOURFUL CROCHETING

I’m not sure if is the sun streaming in to the room, the beautiful flowers, the gorgeous colours of the wool, or the pretty crochet patterns…but I am loving the crochet table-cloth that Elizabeth Cat has made [via whipup.net].

http://byelizabethcat.blogspot.com/2010/07/little-table-cloth-with-pattern.html

MUST SEE “HOW TO SERIES”

Marta has got a neat series going on called “The How-to Series: Celebrating the stuff we know”. She has a whole bunch of guest posts covering topics such as How to Multi-task to a post about converting an old TV stand into an adorable play kitchen. [Via Giver's Log]

http://www.martawrites.com/search/label/how-to%20series

CUTE BOXY POUCH

Suzanne from A New Creation is documenting all the things she is making. From Crafts to Yummy Recipes. She recently made this box pouch that turned out really well! She got the pattern from Indie House.

http://anewcreationblog.blogspot.com/2010/07/blog-post.html


http://youarewhatyoukeep.blogspot.com/

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5 Great Finds: Photography Tips, $2 Train Tickets, Picnik Tutorial, Funny Twilight Song, List of Children’s Books

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GREAT TIPS FOR TEACHING CHILDREN ABOUT PHOTOGRAPHY

This article by Digital Photography School is jam-packed with great advice for your budding photographer, or even adults who want to learn a bit more about photography! I’m excited to try some of their ideas!

http://digital-photography-school.com/13-lessons-to-teach-your-child-about-digital-photography

Source: Digital Photography School

$2 ALL DAY TRAIN TICKETS (for Wellingtonians)

You can spend $2 and travel on the Hutt Valley line, Paraparaumu line and Johnsonville line between 9am and 3pm on Tuesday 13 July, Wednesday 14 July, Thursday 15 July! Thanks Tranz Metro! (and thank you Nancy for letting me know!)

http://www.tranzmetro.co.nz/Detail.aspx?ID=5b75b561-505d-4796-bbbe-67c41d2a2d50

EASY TO FOLLOW PICNIK TUTORIAL

Jill from Homemade from Jill walks us through the free Picnik programme to make these lovely printables. Picnik can be used for photo storage and manipulation as well. This looks like fun!

http://homemadebyjill.blogspot.com/2010/07/how-to-make-printables-without-photos.html

FUNNY VIDEO ABOUT THE TWILIGHT CRAZE

I came across this video on Shanna’s blog Just SO and just cracked up at the words in the song!

A LIST OF BOOKS LOVED BY CHILDREN

Alicia from A Magical Childhood has taken the time to collate a list of books recommended by children! I can see that this wonderful list is going to keep us busy at the library for a long time to come! Thanks Alicia!

http://magicalchildhood.wordpress.com/2010/07/09/childrens-favorite-novels-and-the-winner-is/

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5 Great Finds: Amazing ideas…Amazing women

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Today’s “5 Great Finds” is a bit different. I am dedicated this post to 5 amazing ladies (or groups of ladies).

They have taken an idea and with A LOT of hard work, they have transformed a dream into reality. (Totally inspiring!)

Each group is special because they saw a need in their community and decided to fill it. By doing this they have helped many mothers become better informed, and helped them to connect with other mothers as well.

What makes them even more amazing is that most of them are stay at home mothers to young children!

MAMA-LICIOUS

These passionate ladies saw the need for additional information and support for pregnant woman who wanted to know more about breastfeeding.

My friend Cara (on the very right) and her colleagues have developed breastfeeding courses for pregnant woman to ensure that mother and baby have the best possible breastfeeding experience. (Partners are encouraged to come along for support as well!)

KIWI MUMMY BLOGS

When I first started blogging, I had no idea that there were so many Kiwi Mummy Bloggers out there!

Sarah also found it hard to find the kiwi blogs amongst the international blogs. So she developed “Kiwi Mummy Blogs” which provides a comprehensive list of kiwi mummy blogs and teasers to their current posts. She always seems to have a good giveaway going on too!

KAPITI KIDS CONNECT

When you have a look around Kapiti Kids Connect you will soon appreciate how much time and effort that Maryanne puts in to keeping the Kapiti Coast families informed of all the wonderful facilities, events, and businesses available in their area. I’m sure your efforts are appreciated!

MUMS IN THE CITY

We are lucky enough in Wellington that a group of wonderful women have seen that there may be mothers who want to get out of the house, try something new, and meet new people.

Zoe and her crew put together fun events like the upcoming Hip Hop class and a Pamper Evening at a Salon.

YUMMY MUMMY CLUB

If you thought we were lucky with one group…guess what, I found another group which put on wonderful events so mothers can have some ME time!

Although Lisa calls this her hobby, with her committee’s help, I think they do a pretty good job at coming up with interesting and varied topics ranging from workshops on Money and Prosperity to Glamour Photo Shoots!

westfield queensgate childrens activitie

5 Great Finds: Zucchini Spice Cupcake Recipe, Settee Makeover, Braided Headband Tutorial, Musical Mummy Moment, Formal Apology Form

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YUMMY ZUCCHINI SPICE CUPCAKE RECIPE

I can imagine patting myself on the back for eating a “healthy” zucchini cupcake (as I lick all the delicious cream cheese frosting off the top *mmmm*) Thanks Bridget from Bake at 350 for sharing this recipe (and your son who baked it and rated it a 9.5/10!)

http://bakeat350.blogspot.com/2010/06/kiddo-in-kitchen-zucchini-spice.html

FANTASTIC SETTEE MAKEOVER

Kate from Centsational Girl shares how she was able to transform her settee from this:

To this, by sewing together a slipcover:

She shows us how she was able to pull it off, even though she doesn’t consider herself an expert sewer (you couldn’t tell!) I’m inspired!

http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2010/06/slipcovered-settee/

CUTE HEADBANDS YOU CAN MAKE YOURSELF

Jill has made these great headbands in preparation for her hospital stay once her baby comes. They turned out great! On her blog Homemade by Jill she shares the link to the tutorial for these headbands. Thanks for the link Jill!

http://homemadebyjill.blogspot.com/2010/06/hospital-headbands-aka-how-to-avoid.html

USING MUSIC TO LIFT THE MOOD

I love how Becca from Blue Cricket Design retells a real life mummy moment where she was having a tough day, and how she was able to turn it around because she decided to “DANCE or go INSANE” (I agree with Becca. Turning on the music and dancing with the kids has been a life saver and an instant attitude adjuster – for the kids and their mummy!)

http://www.bluecricketdesign.net/2010/06/sunday-flashback-coping.html

FORMAL APOLOGY FORM

Are you having trouble apologising? Or maybe you would like to force receive an apology. Whatever the case, Bureau of Communication has come to the rescue and put together this form which you can fill out online and email to the designated recipient. Fun!

http://www.bureauofcommunication.com/compose/apology

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5 Great Finds: Outdoor Movies, Paper Owls, BBQ Cupcakes, Creative Mending, Whoopie Pies

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OUTDOOR MOVIES

Ever since I saw posts about outdoor movie nights on Karen Cheng’s blog and vintage chica, I loved the idea! Apartment Therapy [via ohdeedoh] featured “The Airblown Inflatable Widescreen Deluxe Outdoor Movie Screen” (available through Target.com for $195.49). Can you imagine having all your children’s friends over for a big movie night on this! Wow!

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/dc/outdoor/inflatable-outdoor-movie-screen-119530

3D PAPER OWLS

Larissa from mmmcrafts is one of those people who puts in a WHOLE LOT of effort, so others can enjoy making beautiful projects. Like this 3D Paper Owl tutorial that was featured on Skip to My Lou. Gorgeous!

http://www.skiptomylou.org/2010/06/20/3d-paper-owl-from-mmmcrafts/

BBQ CUPCAKES

Check out the ADORABLE cupcakes that Kelly Hampton made for their Father’s Day indoor picnic (apparently is was too hot to do it outside….I miss Summer!)

Below is a photo from The Family Fun Magazine, where she got the inspiration from.

http://www.kellehampton.com/2010/06/fathers-day.html

http://familyfun.go.com/recipes/grate-gift-for-dad-888883/

CREATIVE MENDING

Who would have thought that you could mend clothing this way? Sherri from daintytime [via whip up] has inspired me! I have a couple of jeans that my children have worn a hole through that could do with a little TLC. I also read that you could use fabric from one of your child’s favourite shirts (that they have grown out of) to make it a bit sentimental.

http://daintytime.net/2010/05/23/the-unpredictable-geography-of-mending/

WHOOPIE PIES

These look SOOO good. I just want to eat them up now! The real question is, how do I become friends with Mrs Bettie Rocker [via kojodesigns] so I can “pop” by whenever she makes them! YUM! (The recipe calls for Marshmallow Fluff…I don’t think we stock this in New Zealander, so just google how to make a substitute for this)

http://mrsbettierocker.blogspot.com/2010/06/whoopie-pies.html

PS….GO ALL WHITES!! YOU BEAUTY!!

Source: stuff.co.nz

Reuters: All Whites hold champs Italy to shock draw

http://mrsbettierocker.blogspot.com/2010/06/whoopie-pies.html

5 Great Finds: A couple of To Do Lists, Puff Paints, Paper Roses and Cloth Labels

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CUTE DOWNLOADABLE TO DO LIST

I am a big fan of Stephanie Fizer! She is so talented! I already showed you the Wizard of Oz print that I am totally drooling over.

So when I saw that Jena from Modish had managed to get a free downloadable to do list, exclusively for her blog by Stephanie I was excited! (And impressed at her skills of recruiting talented artists!) Check it out!

http://www.modishblog.com/modish/2009/03/freebie-stephanie-fizer-free-to-do-list.html

EASY DIY PUFF PAINT

I love the kind of kids activities that you can do with the things that are already in your house! All you need is self-raising flour, food colouring, water and a microwave! My friend showed this to me once, and I thought it was such a great idea! Melissa from One Crafty Mama provides an easy to follow guide on how you can do this at home! [via Skip to My Lou]

http://www.melissagoodsell.typepad.com/day_to_day/2008/01/holiday-activit.html

GORGEOUS SPIRAL PAPER ROSE VIDEO TUTORIAL

When you see the photo of the beautiful paper rose, you may think (like I did) that is sooo pretty, but I would never be able to do that! Well, let me tell you my friend, Little Birdie Secrets has put together a video tutorial, which is super easy to follow! So give it a go, you may surprise yourself!

http://littlebirdiesecrets.blogspot.com/2010/04/spiral-paper-rose-video-tutorial.html

AWESOME DIY CLOTH LABEL RESOURCE

Last month I showed you Amy from Chick Chick Sewing’s cloth label that she made by using eraser stamps.

Well it turns out there are MANY ways you can make your own cloth labels. kojodesigns has posted a comprehensive list of cloth label tutorials. Yay! Such a great list!

http://kojodesigns.blogspot.com/2009/07/diy-cloth-labels.html

CREATIVE SUMMER TO DO LIST

I am into to do lists at the moment! So this one caught my eye! Gorgeous colours!! eighteen25 has provided a great tutorial on how to put this beauty together. They also include a free downloadable header for it!

http://eighteen25.blogspot.com/2010/06/summer-to-dos.html

If you are like me and are currently trying to keep your toes warm during winter…you may want to consider making your own winter list. My friend posted her list up on facebook and inspired us to follow her example.

Some of things she included:

  • Going puddle-stomping in our gumboots.
  • Having a pajama day with lots of snuggling in bed with my littles and reading my favourite old books to them, creating worlds with the hills of our knees under the blankets and populating them with duplo animals.
  • Winter walking on the Waikanae beach, rugged up warm and toasty, but knowing by the end of the trip we’ll be stripped down for paddling and chilly but delighted!
  • BIG bubble baths…
  • Snuggling on the couch with popcorn and fun movies.
  • Making home made bread and big pots of yummy soup.
  • Getting some cute new WARM winter pjs.

Wherever you are in the world, why not put a list together (even if it is on a spare piece of paper, stuck on the fridge door) of fun things to do with the kids and enjoy the season you are in ;)

5 Great Finds: Stationery Box, Flower Garland, Greeting Card, Photography Tips, Itune Apps

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STATIONERY BOX VIDEO TUTORIAL

You know how I have been in love with stationery and letter writing lately…then you will understand why I was excited to read Little Birdie Secrets post on these stationery boxes. The post included a link to Dannie’s Designs where she has made a video tutorial on how to make these gorgeous boxes!

http://danniesdesigns.typepad.com/my_weblog/2008/09/stationery-box.html

EASY FLOWER GARLAND

LOVE THIS IDEA! I must admit, when I see something that looks good, and seems easy, I am head over heels! Sarah from Create Studio shows us how to use our sewing machine to create a gorgeous flower garland that twists and turns in the breeze.

http://createstudio.blogspot.com/2010/04/easy-flower-garland-tutorial.html

CUSTOMIZABLE GREETING CARD

I am loving this downloadable card design by Erin from Schlosser Designs [via Delicious Ambiguity]. The bonus with the adorable card is that Erin has made it so you can CHANGE the words. So your Mother’s Day card can turn into “I’m Thinking of You” or “Happy Birthday” or whatever you like! Love that! She also has made the card in two colours!

http://schlosserdesigns.blogspot.com/2009/05/customizable-mothers-day-cards-anyone.html


TIPS ON TAKING FAMILY PHOTOS

Read these two blog entries by some amazing photographers regarding taking photos with families…and especially how to take good shots of children:

Me Ra Koh gives a great tip about asking a child if you can take pictures of anything besides their face (eg their pretty shoes).  She says they will never know if you zoomed in or out, and they will be more relaxed.

http://www.merakoh.com/2010/06/03/part-3-photo-tips-for-family-portraits-seattle-confidence-photography-workshop-for-women/

On Photos by Emile [via Blue Cricket Design] shared a good tip about sitting a child on a chair if you find they can’t keep still or tend to run away.

http://photobyemilieimprove.blogspot.com/2010/04/mays-tip-of-month.html

They have other helpful tips and beautiful photos, so be sure to check them out!

FUN TIME-WASTERS AT THE ITUNES APP STORE

As if you didn’t have enough things that suck up your time, I thought I would share with you 2 free application. (Disclaimer: Just go to the app store to get these applications…but I take no responsibility for the amount of time that gets “lost” when playing these games…hehehe)

Runway: It is a relatively simple game, but can be a bit addictive ;)

You are the air traffic controller, and you have to land the planes, unload, refuel, reload and then get the plane to take off. Did I mention that there are about 4+ planes that you are controlling?!?! (My free version is a bit more basic than this screen shot below)

Doodle Find: You are told to find certain objects in the doodles/clip art on your scrren…eg 1 umbrella, 2 scissors, 4 buckets etc. It is one of those games where you constantly want to beat your previous score.


5 Great Finds: Cookies, Freebies, Box Template, Eraser Stamps, Kid’s giftware

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LEARN TO ICE COOKIES LIKE THE PROFESSIONALS

Watch this video at “University of Cookie” to learn how to do basic outlining and flooding to make professional looking cookies.

http://www.universityofcookie.com/2010/05/basic-outlining-flooding-for-decorating.html

While you’re at it you should stop by Bridget’s blog (who is from University of Cookie) where she shares beautiful photos and tutorials for all her gorgeously decorated cookies and mouth watering recipes!

http://bakeat350.blogspot.com/2010/05/strawberry-picking.html

Check out the detailed tutorial on how to make these cookies for your children’s teacher. There is a link for the free downloadable topper as well!

http://bakeat350.blogspot.com/2010/04/for-very-popular-teacher.html

AWESOME WEEKLY FREEBIES FROM AROUND THE INTERNET

I just love all the amazing things that Kellie from 74 Lime Lane seems to find from all over the web for us! It’s one of my favourite blogs at the moment.  I love her “Friday Freebies”.

http://74limelane.com.au/category/friday-freebie/

GET THIS CUTE BOX TEMPLATE!

Now that Kellie has opened my eyes to the world of downloadable stationery (I just feel excited thinking about it!) I went for a search and I was amazed at what was out there! Check out this box template by Melissa at IS•LY (also known as I Still Love You). It is so cute!

http://melissaesplin.com/home/2009/08/rainy-day-cloud-box-download-thoughts/

HAND CARVED ERASER STAMPS

Amy from Chick Chick Sewing has made some cute stamps using an eraser and her craft knife! In her post, she has included some links to some blogs that show you how to do them.

I can just imagine turning some of my children’s artwork into stamps!

http://chickchicksewing.blogspot.com/2009/11/hand-carved-eraser-stamps.html

CUTE ONLINE STORE AND FREE DELIVERY FOR NEW ZEALAND ORDERS

Have a look at all the cute children’s things 3 Wishes have to offer!

They are currently offering FREE delivery for orders within New Zealand until the end of July!

If you are overseas, they will contact you about how much freight is…but it may be worth it, as the prices are really reasonable and with the currency conversion it makes some items a bargain!

http://www.3wishes.co.nz/

Check out this awesome Spy Writing Set for only NZ$5.20! (While stocks last! I have already ordered some for my kids’ letter writing and for presents)

Disclosure: Like with everything else, I just stumbled across this website, and thought I would let you all know about it. No free goodies or payments coming my way except knowing that it may be helpful to some of you ;)

(I received my package two days after placing my order and Sandra from 3 Wishes included the pirate writing set, and the yorkie writing set as a thank you and to show me what other stock that had available. So sweet of her!!)

5 Great Finds: Jewellery Organiser, Tooth Fairy Bunnies, Art Displays, Berenstain Bears and Bubble Blowers

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JEWELLERY ORGANISER

Alissa from 33 Shades of Green shares a really easy tutorial to showcase your jewellery (or jewelry as the American’s spell it). I can’t help thinking that after making these lovely organisers, I would feel I would have permission to go out and buy lots of gorgeous pieces of jewellery!  (Thanks to Jane from Finding Fabulous for finding this gem of a post!)

http://33shadesofgreen.blogspot.com/2009/11/easy-jewelry-organizer.html

TOOTH FAIRY BUNNIES

Where do you put your child’s tooth after it comes out of their mouth? Ohdeedoh featured Brooke from Inchmark who made these cute and functional bunnies to house the treasures while they wait for the tooth fairy to arrive!

http://inchmark.squarespace.com/inchmark/2010/4/22/tooth-fairy-bunnies.html

DISPLAYING YOUR CHILD’S ARTWORK WITH STYLE

I LOVE these two examples of clustered artwork displays by two talented bloggers:

Diane from The Perfectly Imperfect Life has made a lovely art display in their play room. I love that she has included baby pictures in the display, and the white frames go nicely with the softer coloured art work.

http://theperfectlyimperfectlife.blogspot.com/2010/05/play-room-and-day-bed-reveal.html

Angie from Echoes of Laughter has created this gorgeous art gallery wall in her family room. I love all the bright art work, which seem to really compliment the different array of frames on display.

http://applevalleygirl.blogspot.com/2010/05/finallymy-art-gallery-wall-is-complete.html

BERENSTAIN BEARS ON TV AGAIN (FOR NZ)

You may be familiar with the Berenstain Book series that handle such issues like going to the dentist for the first time or about having a messy room (sooo  many great titles). Their TV series has returned to New Zealand television on Kidszone at every day at 9.35am, 1.35pm and 5.35pm. This is a great show to sit down with your children because it all about helping your child learn life lessons through the experiences that brother and sister bear have on the show. I remember recalling to my children one of the episodes to do with swearing when they asked me why people swear. (I think I even borrowed a few explanations that mama and papa bear used!)

http://tvnz.co.nz/content/3485071

BUBBLE BLOWER TUTORIAL

Alison from HowDoesShe features a tutorial to make your very own bubble blower by using every day supplies that you could probably find around the house – plastic bottle, a rag or sock, rubber band and dishwashing liquid. I can not wait to try making nice long bubble snakes with the kids!

http://www.howdoesshe.com/making-bubbles

GRAB A BUTTON IF YOU WERE FEATURED

5 Great finds button

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5 Great Finds: Barretts, Pillows, Invites, Motherhood, Cards

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Guess what?! I gave “My 5 links for the week” a face lift!!

It is now called “5 Great Finds”, and if you love reading them, you can grab this button for your blog:

5 Great finds button

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GORGEOUS BARRETTS YOU CAN MAKE FOR YOUR DAUGHTER.

Molly from The Purl Bee provides a step by step tutorial for making these super cute barretts. (Cheri from I am Momma – Hear my Roar! put me on to these lovely barretts)

http://www.purlbee.com/rose-barrettes/2010/1/23/mollys-sketchbook-rose-barrettes.html

PERSONALISE YOUR PILLOWS

Tiffany from Lemon Tree Creations has used iron-on transfers to create some fabulous pillows for her family. I luv!

http://lemontreecreations.blogspot.com/2010/04/pillow-ideas.html

How about scanning a page from your favourite children’s book?

Or a scanned page from your favourite page in the Bible?

How about your own family pillow? Love it!

The possibilities are endless!

FREE KIDS PARTY INVITATIONS

The talented Simone from Greatfun4kids has set up a separate blog where you can print off some wonderful children’s birthday invitations that she designed for FREE!

http://kidspartyinvites.blogspot.com/

YOU’RE A FABULOUS MOTHER – INSPIRATIONAL POST

Alicia from A Magical Childhood writes a beautiful post about motherhood that is a must read! Here  is an excerpt:

“I keep hearing from mothers this week about how stressed they are and what terrible mothers they think they are.

What?  Oh pah.

I’m  here to tell you to stop it.

You rock.  You’re a fabulous mother”

http://magicalchildhood.wordpress.com/2010/05/13/youre-a-fabulous-mother/

LOLLY FILLED CARD TUTORIAL

Megan from Simple Pleasures is so creative! Check out this neat lolly filled birthday card that she made!


http://domesticblissnz.blogspot.com/2010/05/my-creative-space-lolly-filled-birthday.html

GRAB A BUTTON IF YOU WERE FEATURED

5 Great finds button

<a href=”http://jugglingmotherhood.com/category/5-great-finds/”><img src=”http://jugglingmotherhood.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/vt-button.jpg” alt=”5 Great finds button” width=”150″ height=”150″ />

My 5 links for the week

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I hope you all had a wonderful Mother’s Day! I felt very pampered from morning till evening. (Now, if I could just work out how to get that kind of treatment for the other 364 days of the year I will be set!)

EXCELLENT video tutorial on DIY Stenciling.

Cheri from I Am Momma Hear Me Roar! has provided this easy to follow video tutorial on how to do your very own stenciling using freezer paper. (I *heart* video tutorials!)

http://iammommahearmeroar.blogspot.com/search/label/freezer%20paper%20stenciling

You have to check out this awesome born to ride t-shirt she made her son:

http://iammommahearmeroar.blogspot.com/2010/03/born-to-ride.html

She has got some serious talent!

A HUGE collection of flower tutorials!!!

Alison from Oopsey Daisy has provided a massive collection of flower tutorials. Felt, paper, fabric…you name it, she probably has included it.

http://oopsey-daisy.blogspot.com/2010/04/wednesdays-wowzers-3-dozen-flower.html

Check out this flower topiary that by Julia Sandvoss that was featured.

http://buzybunny.blogspot.com/2010/03/spring-paper-flower-topiary.html

FREE Birthday Printables.

When you join up to HowDoesShe‘s newsletter, you get these free birthday printables as well some other free printable goodies. Awesome!

http://www.howdoesshe.com/free-birthday-printables

A BIG batch of cookies to suit the whole family.

Nicole from Planning with Kids and Kate from Picklebums swear by this recipe. Not only does this recipe make a huge batch of 100+ cookies…but you can separate the batch out so each child can add their own extras like chocolate chips, 100s & 1000s, raisins etc. You will be able to keep all the punters happy with different cookies made from the same batch.

http://picklebums.com/2008/05/31/so-many-biscuits/

http://planningwithkids.com/2008/07/02/school-holiday-activity-baking-biscuits/

A GREAT reading list for children.

What books spring to mind from your childhood?? I remember Judy Blume books, Anne of Green Gables and who can forget “The BFG” by Roald Dahl?! Trevor from Literacy, Family and Learning has a whole bunch of posts to choose from, each containing comprehensive lists, that will keep you busy at the library for the rest of the year! (Follow Nicole aka Planning Queen on Twitter because she is great at finding fab links, like this one!)

http://trevorcairney.blogspot.com/search/label/lists%20of%20books

I like the link to Chapter book for young readers

http://trevorcairney.blogspot.com/2009/08/chapter-books-for-younger-children.html

and Chapter books for Young Girls aged 6-12 year olds

http://trevorcairney.blogspot.com/2009/11/chapter-books-for-girls-6-12-years-old.html

(this is what my copy of anne of green gables looked like…ooo the memories!)

and tips on how to help to get boys into reading with suggested books.

http://trevorcairney.blogspot.com/2009/11/getting-boys-into-reading-through.html

My 5 links for the week

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Great wall display using ply and coloured paper to brighten up a child’s room. I’m loving this  simple, yet effective art project by Homestyle Magazine.

http://www.homestylemagazine.co.nz/get-creative/childs-play

Friendship Bracelet to make with your kids. Crafty Crow featured scrumdilly-do! and this Fab Friendship bracelet. My daughter and I have had a lot of fun making the other type of friendship bracelets using embroidery thread, so I can’t WAIT to give this a try!!

http://scrumdillydo.blogspot.com/2010/04/knots-and-string-and-friends-and-things.html

May Day Flower Baskets

I have two wonderful versions, which look really simple to pull together.

Crafty Crow featured this Woven Basket by Joel at Made by Joel:

http://madebyjoel.blogspot.com/2010/04/may-day-flower-baskets.html

Or you could try this Free Printable May Day Basket by Cindy at Skip to My Lou:

http://www.skiptomylou.org/2010/04/30/may-day-basket-tutoria/

Revamp your laminate furniture. Kate aka Centsational Girl walks you through how to give your laminate furniture a face lift. I am already imagining my cheaper Stationery Warehouse shelves getting a new look!!

http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2010/04/go-right-ahead-and-paint-that-laminate/

Before:

After:

My 5 links for the week

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Tutorial for Plastic Bag Flowers. Tali from Growing up Creative shared an easy tutorial on how to make flowers out of your average plastic bag. I think it would look stunning hung from trees for a garden party, or a special girl’s fairy party. Cost: FREE!

http://www.growingupcreative.com/2010/04/6.html

10 tips For Coping with a Larger Family. Nicole from Planning with Kids had this to say about this post, “Although the tips..could easily apply to a family of any size, the difference being for us is how critical they are to smooth daily running of family life.” I was nodding my way all through the post, all the things she mentions we do in our house, and it makes SUCH a difference! Check her website out, it’s great!

http://planningwithkids.com/2009/07/21/10-tips-for-coping-with-a-larger-family/

I love this quote! Alicia from A Magical Childhood always finds the BEST quotes (and the best web finds! The plastic flowers was from her blog too!) Look at this quote that she shared recently:

“Discipline isn’t just about winning or losing.
Every power struggle offers you the opportunity
to connect with your child or disconnect.
The relationship you will have with your child
when he’s an adolescent
lies in the words and actions you use today.
Ultimately your real power is in that emotional bond.”

–Mary Sheedy Kurcinka
Kids, Parents and Power Struggles

http://magicalchildhood.wordpress.com/2010/04/24/wise-words-2/

Yummy recipes! Caitlyn from Knitter in the Kitchen has a great blog where she shares mouth watering recipes along with her knitting/craft projects.

Creative You. Simone from Great Fun 4 Kids shares a wonderful post that talks about how we often have a limited view about what Creativity is. She says,

“We are all artists, girls. Our canvases are our children, our homes, our gardens, our relationships, our lives.

We express our creativity through the obvious: art, craft, music, cooking, decorating, style…

…and the less obvious: celebrating, encouraging, enjoying, giving, nurturing and appreciating the beauty we see around us.”

She goes on to talk about how we might have to find out where our creativity lies. So ladies!! It’s not that we aren’t creative….we just need to do a bit of experimenting. (I am soo on that journey, and loving it! I have tried more things in these past 2 years than the previous 8 years put together!)

http://greatfun4kids.blogspot.com/2010/04/creative-you.html

http://www.growingupcreative.com/