tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61948208120182411042024-03-18T18:47:28.950+11:00retromummyCorriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.comBlogger1469125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-13079106632142316972012-10-22T14:34:00.002+11:002012-10-22T14:34:38.806+11:00come join me at my new blog!That's right! I have a new blog and it's just a little bit fancy. I love it. Come on over and join me at <a href="http://www.retromummy.com/">www.retromummy.com</a> Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-42649016593026796412012-10-18T23:32:00.002+11:002012-10-18T23:32:30.180+11:00no blog post todayYes that's what I wanted to let you know! That I don't really have a blog post for today because all of the content has been moved to my new blog but we have some tweaking and things to do before the new site is up and running perfectly! So this is a blog post telling you that I don't have a regular blog post written up but I'm still here! <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8098079981/" title="Her new bed from ikea by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Her new bed from ikea" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8054/8098079981_5f2476beb5.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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In the meantime I'm hanging out on Facebook, baking, trying to get some walking done, trying to stay on top of the laundry, grabbing a bit of knitting time when I can and looking forward to the weekend. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8098080781/" title="Enjoying her new home by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Enjoying her new home" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8190/8098080781_212143e86c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I'm also admiring the latest addition to our family - a waldorf doll. This is elodie's new doll and the girls have named her Melody. I just bought her because she was so cute and reminded me of elodie. Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-75755604568307317532012-10-16T10:12:00.000+11:002012-10-16T10:38:20.128+11:00fun asparagus sushi<div style="text-align: justify;">
this recipe was supposed to have a fancy name like asparagus and roast capsicum nori rolls. Sounds fancy, right? But as soon as I cut into the first sushi roll I realised I had made a little face in my sushi! Well that looked cute so then I added some rice under the asparagus and it really did have a little face. Cute. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088861398/" title="sushi by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="sushi " height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8323/8088861398_6811f4388e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/webSite/Woolworths/">Woolworths</a> sent me a big box all wrapped up with a bow on it! The kids were jumping around like monkeys and getting so excited about what was in the box - a present for them perhaps? So you can just imagine their faces when I showed them some asparagus and <a href="http://www.birchandwaite.com.au/retail_hollandaise.php">hollandaise sauce</a> in a cooler bag! Oh the disappointment! Not for me. I was going to make up a recipe using some delicious fresh asparagus that is now in season. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088891362/" title="fresh asparagus by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="fresh asparagus" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8183/8088891362_98c08b3472_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I put my vegetarian thinking cap on - you might not know this but I actually have a Diploma in Vegetarian cooking from the <a href="http://www.cordonvert.co.uk/cv08/cv.aspx">Cordon Vert cookery school</a> in the UK. Yes. I'm one of those people that either does something 100% or doesn't do it. So when I started attending cooking classes at the school when I lived in London I knew I had to go for the diploma. Sadly they don't offer it anymore but it was so great to learn lots of great skills and not have to cook meat or fish which I didn't eat at the time. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088893165/" title="asparagus for the steamer by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="asparagus for the steamer" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8189/8088893165_8355053dd1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So you've probably noticed asparagus in the shops at the moment. It's in season and is great for you as it is high in folate, Vitamin C and Vitamin B group too. I've included that info for the health nuts out there. OK, so my challenge was to create a recipe using asparagus and Birch & Waite's new chilled Hollandaise sauce. And I decided that asparagus would look great in sushi and that it would be a filling and healthy meal for everyone in the family. And a meal that they would eat! We enjoy a lot of sushi here at retro mummy and it's so easy to make yourself. In fact the hardest thing is just making the rice and leaving it to cool. And anyone can cook rice! </div>
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<strong>Here's what you'll need</strong><br />
1 bunch asparagus<br />
2 red capsicums<br />
1 cup sushi/short grain rice<br />
sushi seasoning (it's basically a vinegar with sugar in it)<br />
nori sheets<br />
Birch & Waite hollandaise sauce (or mayonaise will do)<br />
soy sauce/sushi dipping sauce<br />
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Rinse and pat dry your capsicums. Place on a baking tray lined with foil and pop in a preheated oven (say 180 degrees) for about 20 -30 minutes. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088892005/" title="red capsicums ready to roast by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="red capsicums ready to roast" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8468/8088892005_1d4fa53177_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Turn a couple of times. You want to burn the skins on all sides so they just peel off. When they're done take out of the oven and place in a large bowl, cover with cling film and leave for at least 10 minutes.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088894882/" title="roasted red capsicums by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="roasted red capsicums" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8464/8088894882_385e91ab13_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then peel the skins off and remove the stalk and seeds. Slice thickly and set aside. This makes the capsicums beautifully sweet and delicious. It might seem like a lot of steps but it's so worth it in the end. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088898440/" title="peeling and deseeding by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="peeling and deseeding" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8329/8088898440_8988fae7ea_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now while your capsicums are in the oven, you are going to cook the sushi rice according to the packet or your preferred method. If you have a thermomix place the rice in the basket, rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. Place basket in TM bowl, cover with about 1L of water and cook for 19 minutes, at varoma temperature and speed 3. Turn off machine and just leave it to finish cooking for 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate, spread out and leave to cool for at least 5 minutes. When the rice is cool you are going to sprinkle over a couple of Tablespoons of sushi seasoning and mix it through with a fork or spoon on the plate. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088895571/" title="sushi rice in the thermomix by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="sushi rice in the thermomix" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8049/8088895571_61f811969e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Break off the asparagus where it wants to break (you don't want to eat the woody bit so get rid of that end), rinse and steam your asparagus. I was sent a gorgeous steamer for asparagus which is just a little bit fancy and did a beautiful job of steaming the asparagus in 2 minutes! With your Thermomix you could just pop it in the varoma and steam for a couple of minutes while your rice is cooking. Or if you're short on time you can microwave the asparagus for just a couple of minutes but remember to always place asparagus in cold water straight after steaming to keep the lovely green colour. You want your asparagus to have a bit of bite and not too soft. Look at my lovely cooked asparagus. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088897156/" title="steamed asparagus by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="steamed asparagus" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8183/8088897156_96875f594e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now lay out everything you need to assemble your sushi. This is when the kids can help roll their own rolls too. And make a mess.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088899566/" title="everything ready to go by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="everything ready to go" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8186/8088899566_f8676c8bbc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now, take out a sheet of nori. Place it shiny side down on your sushi mat (I'd love to show you a sushi mat but little people have been playing with it and it's gone walkies) or down on your workspace. Wet your hands as I find that makes it all easier to handle and using your hands or the back of a spoon spread out enough sushi rice to cover a sheet of nori. Lay 2 pieces of red capsicum down on the sushi with the skin side down on the rice. Now you have 2 options. Lay the asparagus over the top or if you want to create more of a face then lay a bit of rice over the capsicum and place two asparagus stalks on top. Then drizzle the lovely hollandaise sauce over the top. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088864032/" title="padding out the roll a bit by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="padding out the roll a bit " height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8054/8088864032_e269d54d7e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Roll tightly starting with the edge that is closest to you, use a little rice pressed into the nori at the end of the roll to help seal the nori. If you're not using a mat just roll your finished roll a little to get a round shape. Then set your roll aside for a few minutes before cutting. This just helps the nori soften and makes it easier to cut and eat. Now I like to slice my rolls using a serrated bread knife and wipe it clean on a teatowel before cutting each piece. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088869228/" title="presentation by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="presentation " height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8328/8088869228_150920e260_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now for the version in the picture above don't put rice between your capsicum and asparagus. And if you want to make this fancier and not for little ones lay 4 pieces of capsicum down on your rice ( 2x2) and the asparagus in between so that when you roll it the asparagus is enclosed in capscisum. Fancy. And in case you were wondering how I find the time to cook during the day - well I have helpers. Here is the behind the scenes shot! </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088860104/" title="taste testers or mess makers by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="taste testers or mess makers" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8194/8088860104_ca904fddca_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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and a close up of one little girl who had so much fun with the rice and sushi that she needed a bath! Once that sushi rice gets stuck in hair there is nowhere else to go but the bathtub! <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8088857754/" title="chief mess maker by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="chief mess maker " height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8475/8088857754_cda7f95e0f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Thank you to <a href="http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/webSite/Woolworths/">Woolworths </a>for letting me create a recipe and sending me out the goodies. It was lots of fun and I'll be making this again soon! </div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-83254125238856635252012-10-15T16:18:00.001+11:002012-10-15T16:18:41.729+11:00our weekend away Ok so yesterday I showed you all the lovely pics of the wedding and how beautiful everything was. The reality for us was taking all 7 of us out of Sydney for a weekend. Something that requires some planning, finding accommodation that sleeps us all, packing for 7 people (and the smallest members of our family require the most stuff) and trying to keep everyone happy in a small confined space without the comforts and toys from home.<br />
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I had asked my dad before the wedding to make sure, no matter what happened, that he got a photo of us all looking nice. We managed to get this one in while group photos were being taken at the wedding. But you'll now find me doing press ups and toning up my arms for the next month! Yikes! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyY8oOnLYuW_-XWvbGBV3_j8u4-cPfrNuxhPZb0zWCezj3SWBPdHDlXRa3o2SFRokOajblxk9fEcVif7GtZAmCNEr0OVAeyrn9nOaW8aob-ghJusW4weMGH85hCe-ACSrPL-IQNK78i5U/s1600/PA130737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyY8oOnLYuW_-XWvbGBV3_j8u4-cPfrNuxhPZb0zWCezj3SWBPdHDlXRa3o2SFRokOajblxk9fEcVif7GtZAmCNEr0OVAeyrn9nOaW8aob-ghJusW4weMGH85hCe-ACSrPL-IQNK78i5U/s640/PA130737.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A few of you wanted to see what I was wearing to the wedding! I didn't buy a new dress because I haven't lost a lot of weight and also because I'd be wearing emerson on me for most of the day. I wore 'old faithful' - a little black ruffle dress from Country Road, some Diana Ferrari heels that I picked up at their outlet store last year before a school black tie event and I brightened up my outfit with some bright yellow jewellery from Sussan picked out the day before the wedding. </div>
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I love this picture which is me negotiating with finn before the wedding! Unlike the girls he had no interest in waiting for the 'princess bride' to arrive. And then we have daddy with his hands full! </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8085124785/" title="upload by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="upload" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8043/8085124785_6139b94892.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Elodie slept the entire service in her pram! </div>
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And to prove that I live in the real world where nothing runs smoothly. Finn decided to throw up his dinner in the early hours of sunday morning. We were staying in a private rental at the resort so it was up to me to clean up after ourselves. So I rinsed everything off, chucked it in the machine to do in the morning so as not to wake the neighbours and went to bed. I woke up early only to put the lid down on the machine and discover there was a sign saying that it was out of order. So I had to clean sheets, pillowcases and mattress protector by hand with bathroom soap. It was lovely, yes as you can imagine. A wonderful experience. Then I had to hope they would dry in time before check out in 2 hours. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8089185814/" title="And then a shelf fell in the villa! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="And then a shelf fell in the villa!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8471/8089185814_74908c151e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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And then as I was unpacking the dishwasher and putting away plates a shelf fell on the dishes below. Thankfully nothing broke and all I thought to myself was next time we are staying in the hotel part! But we checked out, drove home and I made a beautiful chocolate cake for Elodie's birthday. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8089193940/" title="The cake for elodie! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="The cake for elodie!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8190/8089193940_6eaeb2eaf2.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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And everything was good in the world......until I woke up and had to deal with 4 days worth of laundry! But it's always worth it, no matter how much effort it takes us to get away and do something special......it's always worth it. </div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-76932987182913705832012-10-14T14:28:00.001+11:002012-10-14T17:20:52.148+11:00young love<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yesterday I went to one of the most beautiful and heartfelt weddings I've ever been to. One of my younger cousins, Matt, married the love of his life, Jade. They are a young married couple by today's standards and the love that they have for each other is something to be seen. It was beautiful. </div>
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Everything was in place for a beautiful wedding. The setting in the Hunter Valley was beautiful.An outdoor wedding with the service said by their pastor, Pastor Dan. You'd never know it was his first wedding. And from the first words of the service I knew it was going to be full of reverence and reflecting their strong faith. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8085171445/" title="beautiful by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="beautiful" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8474/8085171445_262dcf6105_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And what a lovely surprise that I knew the photographer, the very gorgeous <a href="http://lumsdainephotography.com/">Fe Lumsdaine</a>! I can't wait to see all the stunning pictures of the day! </div>
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And although I totally missed the vows because tillie had managed to run through a big puddle of mud and was howling, I did get to enjoy most of the service. Retro daddy on the other hand sat right back here with most of the little ones. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8084982049/" title="daddy and the kids by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="daddy and the kids" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8051/8084982049_1be6774443_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8084982346/" title="still with the kids by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="still with the kids" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8051/8084982346_e35508b637_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Emerson has a bit of a comb over going on right now! It's pretty cute, though!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8084981306/" title="chubba chops emerson by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="chubba chops emerson" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8051/8084981306_b2ab690ecb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After the service it was champagne, photos and catching up with family before heading back to where we were staying for a quick freshen up - well I'm sure some people freshened up! I changed nappies, got little people into pj's, fed them and got them ready to be good for their daddy for a night of pizza and Despicable Me on tv. Meanwhile, retro daddy did a quick run down to the Brokenwood cellar door and made sure we were leaving the Hunter Valley with a bit of wine. You can't visit wine country without bringing some home with you.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8084914352/" title="totally forgot to take any home by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="totally forgot to take any home" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8328/8084914352_375ba6b378_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8085166877/" title="cute touch by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="cute touch" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8323/8085166877_830376472e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8084915763/" title="the cake by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="the cake" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8467/8084915763_bc4bb8d971_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So I got back to the reception in time and as soon as I walked in I knew that Jade had been on pinterest! The reception venue was full of handmade touches, flowers in jars, buntings, a wooden handmade sign with their married name on it - all so beautiful in the old sandstone restaurant. Perfection.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8084930537/" title="the stunning venue by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="the stunning venue" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8474/8084930537_eed58a7155_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8084918335/" title="flowers in jars by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="flowers in jars" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8084918335_853820c7ee_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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We enjoyed a gorgeous meal, wonderful speeches, lots of laughs and lots of lemonade for me and nana who I was sitting opposite. Emerson was my hot date who slept almost the entire reception on me. Good boy </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8084931419/" title="the married couple by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="the married couple" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8476/8084931419_ca3b2a4478_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8084932389/" title="cousin nick and nana shirley by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="cousin nick and nana shirley" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8048/8084932389_3ebda424f8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8084930862/" title="my table by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="my table" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8190/8084930862_256b426572_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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And Matt's speech blew us all away. I've always known Matt was wiser beyond his years but the passion in his speech and the love for Jade was just something I've never seen before at a wedding. We were all in tears and we wish them nothing but love and joy and lots of babies (well apparently Jade wants lots of babies) in their new life together.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8084934545/" title="champagne by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="champagne" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8331/8084934545_8890c2b79c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8084933272/" title="first dance by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="first dance" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8189/8084933272_79ab73ab06_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I loved getting together with family and celebrating and there is something just so special in that. The sense of belonging and being a part of an extended family. And Matt is the youngest of 4 but first to get married so there may or may not have been a little speculating on the next wedding in the family........</div>
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<em>p.s tomorrow I'll be back with some of my instagram photos of the day!</em></div>
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Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-72230090064582994432012-10-12T23:10:00.000+11:002012-10-12T23:19:00.586+11:00elodie is 2<div style="text-align: justify;">
I don't know how it happens, one minute they're a little baby and next thing you know they are walking around everywhere and giving you some attitude with their tantrums when things aren't going their way. That is my Elodie right now. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/5082115729/" title="day 2 by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="day 2 " height="640" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4146/5082115729_11faecabb8_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Cute as a button, cuddly as a bear, gives you big wet kisses and is as sweet as they come. But ask her to do something she doesn't want to and she shows you who is the boss! And we love her for it. She was the first of our surprise babies. Conceived 'au natural' as my doctor likes to say and was just meant to be. Which is lucky because I really wanted to use one of my favourite baby names.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/5155711024/" title="morning cuddles by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="morning cuddles" height="640" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4035/5155711024_509b37399b_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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She made her first stage debut at 2 months playing baby Jesus to a packed audience at the Christmas eve mass. The only baby we've timed nicely to coincide with church needing a small baby at Christmas. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/5290137906/" title="elodie is baby jesus by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="elodie is baby jesus " height="640" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5085/5290137906_8bf3c92115_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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And when I think of her as a baby I just think of the hair! All of this dark hair and big blue eyes.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/5492812587/" title="elodie update by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="elodie update" height="480" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5180/5492812587_31f671fd09_z.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/5536081650/" title="taking a rest from rolling by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="taking a rest from rolling" height="480" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5011/5536081650_4f5a7617a5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br />
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and the cheeks <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/5740964869/" title="chilling by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="chilling" height="640" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2212/5740964869_bf890e15c1_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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and her love of pulling faces! this one is probably my favourite face of all time! I am totally sharing this at her 21st! </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/5865288954/" title="what you talking bout willis? by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="what you talking bout willis?" height="480" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5078/5865288954_09457b34da_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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and although she's been behind the other kids in terms of her milestones she's still got there eventually! with plenty of soft landings </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/5847099438/" title="oops by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="oops" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3218/5847099438_e25ff5ec49_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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she's always been a cute model too!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/5846542621/" title="oh those cheeks by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="oh those cheeks" height="640" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2708/5846542621_7d67ab0f1e_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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and she might just be the most photographed of all of my babies! It might have something to do with the fact that I thought she was my last bub! </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/6290124048/" title="sleeping beauty by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="sleeping beauty" height="480" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6220/6290124048_998653a93b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/7041657535/" title="Elodie by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Elodie" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7258/7041657535_259e5260c5.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/6239810369/" title="elodie looks like a doll here by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="elodie looks like a doll here " height="480" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6228/6239810369_f037e4269c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/7092078523/" title="Elodie by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Elodie" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7090/7092078523_8c9ef3a037.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/7122659037/" title="cute by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="cute" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7060/7122659037_417809e819_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/7212473108/" title="she's a natural model by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="she's a natural model" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7239/7212473108_4ed89f269b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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and she always makes us laugh, here's another funny face! </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/7265181382/" title="elodie gives attitude by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="elodie gives attitude" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7090/7265181382_549a29285f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Happy birthday to my sweet little elodie. 2 years down and so many fun years ahead of us!</div>
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Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-76634791956318819132012-10-11T18:45:00.001+11:002012-10-11T18:57:54.620+11:00emerson is 3 months old<div style="text-align: justify;">
I can't believe it either! One minute he was this tiny little newborn in the hospital. Would you look at him???? I could stare at newborns for hours. And obviously as a mother of 5, well I have an addiction to them.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/7553852462/" title="little emerson by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="little emerson" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7249/7553852462_304065d9fc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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But next thing you know he's tipping the scales and busting out of his clothes. Literally, he pops the press studs on most of his jumpsuits so I've got him in 6-12 month sized clothes at the moment. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8076322169/" title="Almost outgrown the bath by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Almost outgrown the bath" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8192/8076322169_7f473624dd.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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He gets around most of the day on me. It's the only way I can get anything done and his preferred way to sleep during the day. Today we did a spot of baking, got dinner in the slowcooker and did load after load of laundry- he slept on me. Some people babywear to be close to their baby and for attachment parenting - for me it's the only way I can get through my big list of jobs each day. And of course I love it. I loved it with elodie and I love it with emerson. In fact he's never in a pram! </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8076302471/" title="It's babywearing week so here is my picture :) lots of babywearing in this house because it's the only way I can do anything! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="It's babywearing week so here is my picture :) lots of babywearing in this house because it's the only way I can do anything!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8076302471_e01288a8d5.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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And while emerson is on me, Elodie is kept entertained with a little tub of choc chips and raisins. She picks them out to eat one by one and it's a great way to keep her entertained. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8076300874/" title="My cooking buddy! We are doing a curry, a cake and some cookies! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="My cooking buddy! We are doing a curry, a cake and some cookies!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8335/8076300874_2662930fde.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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So we've survived the first 3 months, I'm feeling more like myself, he's growing at record speed and starting to sleep through the night. What more could a mummy ask for? A flat tummy perhaps.......</div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-87818779885404186692012-10-10T16:38:00.001+11:002012-10-11T07:17:42.721+11:00banana choc chip bites<div style="text-align: justify;">
Recently when I posted <a href="http://retromummy.blogspot.com.au/2012/10/guilt-free-oat-bites.html">this</a> recipe a reader said she likes to substitute bananas for butter and eggs in recipes. And I had 3 brown bananas in my fruit bowl so decided to try putting them in a cookie. Then I decided choc chips and coconut would be amazing and before I knew it I had a huge big bowl of cookie dough. And now that school is back these make a perfect snack.....</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8073083618/" title="So cute by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="So cute" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8041/8073083618_5066696238_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<strong>What you'll need</strong><br />
3 cups oats <br />
3/4 cup desiccated coconut<br />
1 cup plain flour<br />
1 cup sugar ( I love raw caster sugar)<br />
3 bananas, mashed<br />
1/2 cup choc chips (or raisins, sultanas, whatever you want to add)<br />
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Combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl. At first it doesn't look like it all goes together but get your hands in there and combine it all. It's pretty sticky so wash your hands and then dampen them to handle the cookie dough.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8073090277/" title="No butter or eggs in this cookie dough :) by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="No butter or eggs in this cookie dough :)" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8174/8073090277_09704d3d7a_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Roll mixture into small balls, flatten and bake about 20 minutes in a 180 degrees oven. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8073083088/" title="Ready for oven by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Ready for oven" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8032/8073083088_aaba587c9e_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Leave to cool on a cooling rack if you can last that long ( I can't) and enjoy. These are best eaten on the same day if you want a crispy cookie otherwise next day is still good. These won't last too long here. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8073115542/" title="upload by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="upload" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8316/8073115542_2e64d7261d_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Oh and this recipe makes at least 40 cookies so it's great for big families or families with big eaters!Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-47557260373099885012012-10-09T15:54:00.000+11:002012-10-11T07:18:37.532+11:00MillaMia Little Rascals giveaway<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well Keira is back at school and we are straight back into routine. Emerson has decided that after a short stint of sleeping through the night he actually prefers to wake up before 4am and watch a little early morning tv. So I'm finding myself up from 4am and asleep by 8.30pm on the couch every night. Nothing like a spot of warm banana bread to pick yourself up in the morning. Here is this morning's loaf. I used 3 bananas and just increased the flour from yesterday's recipe to a little over 2 cups. It was delicious and made a big beautiful loaf. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8068856571/" title="Hot out of the oven!!!! Yum by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hot out of the oven!!!! Yum" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8169/8068856571_f2811dc43a_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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But this blog post is not about how badly I am sticking to my diet, it's about a lovely giveaway thanks to <a href="http://www.suzyhausfrau.com.au/">Suzy Hausfrau</a>. She asked would I like to giveaway the latest book 'Little Rascals' by MillaMia and I had to say yes. Their patterns are lovely and their latest book is no exception. There are 19 patterns all up and there are patterns for babies and toddlers as well as older children with a few patterns going up to a size 7. And here are just a few of my favourites but I haven't decided what I'll cast on first. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Yvd0wFNgmdcViG6ztmhewQwVVbv-UrBKoJn5DiyGqUfAqMXeFBv_hUNl9PTlgFNTzyJynl3GAtLY89xtnR5uDG5p_HxAh3l2x4IryjCCItq0nc-BXAtvzuOeSxMZxnMKdEyoarqInlQ/s1600/Madeleine_Dress_Putty_and_FuchsiaLow_Res_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Yvd0wFNgmdcViG6ztmhewQwVVbv-UrBKoJn5DiyGqUfAqMXeFBv_hUNl9PTlgFNTzyJynl3GAtLY89xtnR5uDG5p_HxAh3l2x4IryjCCItq0nc-BXAtvzuOeSxMZxnMKdEyoarqInlQ/s320/Madeleine_Dress_Putty_and_FuchsiaLow_Res_medium2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This giveaway is for my Australian readers only (sorry!) and please just leave a comment and you're in the draw. Too easy. I'll even pop in a couple of balls of debbie bliss baby cashmerino that are floating around here and can be used for patterns in the book! Because I'm nice. And because I'm having a huge clearout of my craft room!!!!</div>
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And if you want to buy the book for yourself then <a href="http://www.suzyhausfrau.com.au/products/millamia-little-rascals">Suzy Hausfrau</a> has it for just $29.95 as a special introductory offer and that includes postage. I'll pick a lovely winner this Sunday! </div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com79tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-66236446416136953112012-10-08T13:19:00.002+11:002012-10-09T17:47:26.276+11:00quick banana bread in the thermomix<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well I'm enjoying another day of school holidays here. Turns out I'm not good with dates and missed the announcement that today was a pupil free day. Thankfully I checked on the school website late last night and didn't get everyone up and keira off to school. Phew. But we've had a great break from routine and I'm informed that it's just 10 weeks till the next school holidays so that is something to look forward to. </div>
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Here we are trying to take a power walk yesterday - retro daddy was recovering from his weekend in melbourne so I had to take everyone with me instead of a nice run on my own. So he's promised I can get that run in tonight! I could write a whole blog post on how hard it is to exercise when you have so many little people. I've even tried exercise dvd's but they freak elodie out and she cries and howls at me feet if I try to move to them. </div>
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<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8065246633/" title="No run for me! Walk with 5 kids while daddy recovers from yesterday by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="No run for me! Walk with 5 kids while daddy recovers from yesterday" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8182/8065246633_120f85ebc5_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></span></div>
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Now on my mega baking weekend I made my melt & mix banana bread in the Thermomix for the first time. It was a piece of cake. Ha ha. I know, I'm so funny. If you want the original recipe just go <a href="http://retromummy.blogspot.com.au/2009/05/melt-n-mix-banana-bread.html">here</a>. Here is the recipe for your Thermomix. It's lovely and light and super easy to make. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8065264809/" title="Melt + mix banana bread in the thermomix by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Melt + mix banana bread in the thermomix" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8314/8065264809_184cd2c9f0_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<strong>What you'll need</strong></div>
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2 large bananas, roughly chopped<br />
125g butter, cubed<br />
1Tbsp vanilla essence/extract<br />
2 Tbsp milk <br />
2 eggs</div>
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1 cup caster sugar <br />
1 1/2 cups plain flour (you can use SR flour and just leave out the baking powder)<br />
2 tsp baking
powder</div>
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Preheat oven to 180 degrees. Place butter into TM bowl and melt by processing for 2 minutes on 100 degrees and speed 2. Add in banana and process for 10 seconds on speed 4 to mash it all up. Add in vanilla, milk, eggs and sugar and process for 20 seconds on speed 4. Scrape down sides of bowl once inbetween mixing. Now add in sifted flour and baking powder and process for 15 seconds until combined. You don't want to overdo it but you do want everything combined. Scrape down sides of bowl once inbetween too as flour tends to rise up the sides when you first add it in. Pour into a lined loaf tin and bake for about 40 minutes in a 180 degrees oven. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8065263995/" title="Banana bread by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Banana bread" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8311/8065263995_04a348e72c_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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When a skewer comes out clean your cake is done. Remove the cake from the tin by lifting it out by the paper and leave on cooling rack. If you love your banana bread warm just use a long serrated knife to slice it! We love this recipe and it never fails me but now that I've done it in the Thermomix there is no turning back now. </div>
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Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-81350165439483534312012-10-07T12:24:00.001+11:002012-10-09T17:47:40.392+11:00old fashioned orange sponge<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's been a bumper weekend of baking here at retro mummy. Retro daddy had to go to melbourne for work and a black tie function and that left me and the little ones here at home. I think I lost myself in the kitchen and loved it. I did have a purpose, it wasn't just to take a break from my diet. We had wanted to do something for my dad's birthday and he didn't want a fuss so we did a little brunch.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8061146066/" title="Diet? What diet? by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Diet? What diet?" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8312/8061146066_5dcd0fa6fe_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;"> I do wonder what I'd do without my lovely dining table for photos - it is worth evey cent.</span></em> </div>
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Those of you who have a Thermomix know that there is a great orange sponge cake recipe in the everyday cooking book that comes with your machine. Only thing is that it has a whopping 250g butter in each cake. Great for special occasions but not so healthy for everyday baking. So I found an old fashioned recipe for orange cake and got it going in the Thermomix. The result is a delicious and light orange cake that uses just 50g butter. Which would you prefer - I know I'll take the 50g version anyday.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8061149876/" title="Citrus colours by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Citrus colours" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8314/8061149876_02c805c77f_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<strong>what you'll need</strong></div>
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1 orange - zest and juice </div>
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1/2 Cup sugar</div>
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50g unsalted butter</div>
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1Tbsp vanilla extract/essence</div>
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1 egg</div>
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1 Cup self raising flour</div>
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1tsp baking powder</div>
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extra sugar to sprinkle on top </div>
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<strong>Thermomix instructions</strong></div>
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Slice rind from the orange and place rind in your TM bowl with the sugar (I use raw sugar) and process for 10 seconds on speed 9. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8061144840/" title="Orange rind and caster sugar! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Orange rind and caster sugar!" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8171/8061144840_52b663f982_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Add in softened butter and process for 20 seconds on speed 4. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and process for another 5 seconds on speed 4. If your mixture is not looking creamy just do another 5-10 seconds on speed 4. Add in egg and process for 20 seconds on speed 4 with a scrape down of the bowl in between. You do need to stop your machine to do this:). Add orange juice and process 10 seconds, speed 4</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8061150282/" title="upload by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="upload" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8036/8061150282_9bc9149144_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Add in sifted flour and baking powder. Process for 20 seconds on speed 4. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8061150794/" title="Orange sponge with 1/4 of butter of the thermomix orange sponge:) by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Orange sponge with 1/4 of butter of the thermomix orange sponge:)" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8450/8061150794_df8c94e6a3_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Pour into a lined round cake tin (something small about 20cm is good as this is not a huge cake mix) and sprinkle sugar (I used raw sugar) over the top. About 1 to 2 Tablespoons is good. Bake for about 25 minutes in a 180 degrees oven. Pop a skewer in the centre to test it's cooked. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8061148984/" title="Old fashioned orange sponge cake!!!! Only 50g butter whole cake:) so u can eat more by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Old fashioned orange sponge cake!!!! Only 50g butter whole cake:) so u can eat more" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8318/8061148984_cfd7f48713_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Cool the cake on a cooling rack, slice and enjoy. This was really delicious and the sugar on top makes the top of the cake deliciously crispy so that you don't need any icing. It was a hit with everyone and makes for a great morning or afternoon tea. If you prefer lemon cake just use a lemon instead of an orange.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8061143897/" title="Mmmmm by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Mmmmm" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8454/8061143897_201ec65100_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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And the birthday boy got my coffee machine up and running. Wow, such a good coffee and froth with skim milk. I paid no attention to what he did but he has written me up a guide to using it so I think I'll be having homemade cappuccinos more often.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8061204982/" title="Home made cappuccino by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Home made cappuccino" height="569" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8180/8061204982_68ea08861e_z.jpg" width="581" /></a></div>
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And that was my sunday morning! As soon as retro daddy gets home I'll be going off for my little afternoon run.........a few too many jam drops and pieces of cake. </div>
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Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-31112526916863906342012-10-05T06:23:00.003+10:002012-10-09T17:47:51.594+11:00sewing for my girls<div style="text-align: justify;">
I really know I'm getting over the newborn days when I get to switch on my sewing machine and do a spot of sewing. I just feel normal and like my old self again when I get the chance. For anyone new here, I love to sew. I love craft full stop but I love getting the time to sit at my machine. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8054623364/" title="Ready for action!!!! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Ready for action!!!!" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8315/8054623364_c631df5974_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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I picked it up again when keira was a baby and haven't stopped since............well except each time I have a new baby. Summer is a great excuse to make up some simple dresses for my girls. They don't cost a lot of money to make, they're easy (I avoid any girls pattern with a zipper in it) and my girls love wearing them. I do find it hard to pay $60 for a cotton dress when I can make my own in an afternoon. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8054631634/" title="Elodie has a new dress! There were lots of breaks to feed Emerson, make lunch, change nappies, keep elodie entertained! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Elodie has a new dress! There were lots of breaks to feed Emerson, make lunch, change nappies, keep elodie entertained!" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8033/8054631634_a48604dda9_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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First cab off the rank was Elodie. I decided to make her <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-2260-toddler-dresses.aspx">this</a> dress (Simplicity 5695) and make it size 2. Only trouble was that I couldn't find the ruffle piece for the pattern so I used a ruffle from another pattern that was bigger. Anyway the whole dress turned out to be a big size 3 so we moved it on to Tillie. She was pretty happy about that and that's the great thing about having 5 kids! Something will always fit someone in the house. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8054630429/" title="Might make it as a tunic too to wear over leggings by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Might make it as a tunic too to wear over leggings" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8449/8054630429_a8690baaa9_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8054631001/" title="Perfect by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Perfect" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8032/8054631001_c854c85f17_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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and like all girls, Tillie needed to test out it's 'twirlability'. Happy to report it passed the test. She wore this dress 2 days in a row and wanted to wear it to bed. We've agreed to make another one in a different colour and I got it in the washing machine as fast as I could! By the way and because I know you'll ask the fabric is Lecien Colour Basics. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8054632127/" title="She loves it by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="She loves it" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8317/8054632127_47e3518196_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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I then pulled out a <a href="http://www.modkidboutique.com/">modkid</a> pattern that I had been selling at markets. Keira picked out some crazy fruit fabric and I then put it back and picked out a few fabrics I thought would work a bit better. I have to say that <a href="http://www.modkidboutique.com/">modkid</a> patterns are fabulous. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8054622447/" title="I'm happy:) by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="I'm happy:)" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8459/8054622447_ef1afa23a1_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Super easy to follow instructions, she leaves nothing to chance and you don't have to wing your way through the pattern the way I often find I have to when instructions aren't clear or the designer has used a round about way of doing something.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8054572830/" title="Pink pink and more pink by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Pink pink and more pink" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8037/8054572830_02f04687d5_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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The dress came together easily and fairly quickly - except that when you have a baby on you or near you it's not as quick. I got a little bit unstuck with my overlocker. I always use my overlocker for seams and especially when you've ruffled/gathered something, you have threads going everywhere and the overlocker trims them all away and you get a nice neat edge. I love using it when I do my gathered skirts. Only thing is that this is a curved skirt and I was moving too fast - I finished up with the overlocker, inspected my work only to discover I'd sewn over some of the skirt at the back. I very carefully unpicked the stitches but my worst fears came true - the cutting knife had cut right through the back and left a big hole. Bummer. That was not the word I used but you get the picture.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8054565159/" title="When your overlocker cuts the dress :( I've got a solution! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="When your overlocker cuts the dress :( I've got a solution!" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8446/8054565159_7a431041e0_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Thankfully I made my boo boo on the back piece of the apron. So I simply cut off that back piece and when I assembled the dress I just sandwiched the front apron piece inbetween my skirt front and back pieces and sewed the seams together. Ta da. You'd never know. And next time I'll flick back the cutting knife!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8054564669/" title="Ta da! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Ta da!" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8454/8054564669_8972b74e51_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Now this is not a pretty stylised photo of her wearing the dress because I was interrupting her playtime!!! This is the size 6 in the pattern and fits her perfectly. She loves the dress, she'd prefer it not to be in pink, but she loves it. The spotty fabric is Lecien Colour Basics and the cherry blossom fabric is Kate Spain Good Fortune. The stripy fabric was from the quilting section at Spotlight, a few years back.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8054571341/" title="upload by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="upload" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8040/8054571341_fb2a4f0383_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Now to make a dress for Miss elodie and I'll be happy. </div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-86428761326247925742012-10-04T11:18:00.000+10:002012-10-09T17:48:11.425+11:00guilt free oat bites<div style="text-align: justify;">
School holidays are almost over and we've had such a great time. Although I've been trying to stick to my diet and it's been tough. One of the hardest things has been giving up my baking. Even if I make something low fat I have a tendency to eat way too much. You know how it goes......hot out of the oven, smells so good, better test that they're done, just one more, the best diets always start tomorrow. They are all my excuses and I have plenty more up my sleeve. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8052218173/" title="Love my ikea chopping trolley by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Love my ikea chopping trolley" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8456/8052218173_1a7ba2a862_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">this is my new ikea trolley that retro daddy put together for me. Yes, there were swear words uttered during it's construction.</span></em> </div>
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But I love to bake and I also need to bake. Yes, need. My little people are eating me out of house and home. They can demolish a packet of biscuits faster than I can make a cup of coffee. And I've been finding that the healthier muesli bars are too sweet or just don't fill me up. So I searched the internet for how to make a cookie low fat and the answer was apple sauce.</div>
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So I got out some basics and was a little nervous about how these would turn out but the results were great. Give them a go especially if you need a little guilt free snacking. Now I know that these won't be guilt free enough for some people because they have sugar in them, but to me these have no butter or added fats and that's guilt free enough for me. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8052219855/" title="Guilt free baking! Taste so good! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Guilt free baking! Taste so good!" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8452/8052219855_f8a2b1d9e7_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<strong>What you'll need</strong><br />
3 cups rolled oats <br />
1 cup plain flour<br />
1 cup sugar (I used raw caster sugar and you could use less if you prefer)<br />
1-2 tsp cinnamon<br />
1 cup raisins or dried fruit ( we used craisins) <br />
1 cup apple sauce (I used a 250g jar but you could make your own)<br />
some chopped nuts (optional, don't add nuts if these are for lunchboxes but we're home and added a handful of chopped walnuts in)<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8052177951/" title="Trying to make healthy cookies this afternoon! Own recipe creation .... by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Trying to make healthy cookies this afternoon! Own recipe creation ...." height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8313/8052177951_a210906373_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Preheat your oven to 180 degrees (I do everything on 375/400F these days because my oven is circa 1972!) Combine all of the dry ingredients first and then add in your apple sauce. Mix well. The mixture will appear too wet but you are going to pop the whole mixing bowl in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8052193627/" title="No egg or butter! Fingers crossed for baking success by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="No egg or butter! Fingers crossed for baking success" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8322/8052193627_f5cbbbf0ca_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Now remove from the fridge and roll into small balls (about a tablespoonful) and flatten on a lined cookie tray. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8052224844/" title="Ready for oven by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Ready for oven" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8461/8052224844_f275eb95ff_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Bake for about 15 -20 minutes until golden. Cool on tray and enjoy. These are actually best eaten hot but we had a few the next day and they tasted great. They won't taste like your best buttery cookie but they make me feel healthy! </div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-13194968637834603042012-10-03T10:02:00.000+10:002012-10-09T17:48:28.032+11:00today I join The Remarkables<div style="text-align: justify;">
Picture this......over 6 years ago I was sitting on my couch, feet up to rest my poor fat pregnant ankles, laptop on my lap and 40 weeks pregnant with my first baby. I had been reading some knitting blogs and saw on blogger a button to create your own blog. Oh, OK I might create my own blog. Name of blog. Um. Knitter and new mum (what a mouthful). And that was the start of my blogging career. A split second decision to start a blog and share my new life as a stay at home mum. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/201266414/" title="bunny ears by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="bunny ears" height="480" src="http://farm1.staticflickr.com/76/201266414_f713b6d4c5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<em>1 week old keira</em> </div>
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We had just bought our first house, we had gone from two good incomes to one, I only knew one other mum in the area but was so excited and nervous about the life ahead. All I knew was that I wasn't returning to banking and that my dreams of being a stay at home mummy were about to come true.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/418744387/" title="keira's first wedding! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="keira's first wedding!" height="480" src="http://farm1.staticflickr.com/176/418744387_51fe9f43b5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<em>a mummy of one</em></div>
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Fast forward 6 years and that little family has grown to a family of 7! I still can't quite believe that has happened (but yes, I do know how it's happened!) and my traffic of about 3 readers per post has grown to thousands. And I've had over 3.5 million page views here on my retro mummy blog. Wow. That statistic is just crazy! I went from having a little knitting stash to becoming a full blown craft addict. And I receive the most beautiful emails and messages from my readers telling me how much they love my blog and then sharing their stories with me. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/4213384157/" title="quick family portrait by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="quick family portrait" height="375" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2539/4213384157_de97cd382a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<em>the family has grown!</em></div>
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I don't know many stay at home mummies in my area with lots of children or who love craft as much as I do or who love to bake and just be at home. But I do through my blog. I love what I have created here and it's become a huge part of my life. I blog everyday because I love it. No one makes me do it, it's a love of blogging and sharing. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/4214143258/" title="mummy + her camera by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="mummy + her camera" height="604" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4020/4214143258_8431c6ce86_o.jpg" width="453" /></a></div>
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<em>I am always taking photos!</em></div>
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About 2 years ago I started working with brands and now bring in an income that makes a real difference in our household. And I love it. I never imagined that I could be doing this. When Keira was born I sold Avon, I sold Tupperware, I set up my retro mummy store selling fabric. All the while running my blog on the side and never imagining that I would be working through my blog in a few years time. <br />
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And these days I'm so busy with just raising a family and running a household that I can't answer every email or business request that comes in. And boy do I get a lot of requests. I need to flick it over to someone else who is more savvy and more assertive than I am. And I don't have the time to do every request that comes in. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8pCT1UomJgTbLcCBsUBpkoEeKKXiSAp6Gkj8x2URSj5OlL5aHhD9FUHYfyHYogLAAYhLrUUdCQQmxjPGOnr0SELtY3CcCRbHfXofhU_KxhWAfZm_iXHAKDu7Pucwn3EQU-e7VdQl_wTE/s1600/family+pic+high+res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8pCT1UomJgTbLcCBsUBpkoEeKKXiSAp6Gkj8x2URSj5OlL5aHhD9FUHYfyHYogLAAYhLrUUdCQQmxjPGOnr0SELtY3CcCRbHfXofhU_KxhWAfZm_iXHAKDu7Pucwn3EQU-e7VdQl_wTE/s640/family+pic+high+res.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<em>a mummy of 4</em> </div>
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But gosh I've had some amazing opportunities come my way. I've been on the Today Show (sadly I didn't get to meet Karl), I've been in magazines and newspapers, I've had a makeover and film crew follow me around Westfield for the day with the gorgeous Donny Galella and worked with some really amazing big brands. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/5505318827/" title="behind the scenes by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="behind the scenes " height="480" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5255/5505318827_982d26b5a8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And I have to say thank you to YOU my lovely readers, some of you are old timers and some of you have just found me. Some of you have met me (aren't you lucky) and some of you live on the other side of the world. Whoever you are and wherever you live, the only reason I get to make this announcement is because you keep coming back to read this blog and enjoy it. So, thank you. And that's why you are the first to hear this exciting news which has been kept under wraps.</div>
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I first met Lorraine of <a href="http://theremarkablesgroup.com.au/">The Remarkables</a> when Emerson was about 3 weeks old and I was lucky just to get out of the house with some lip gloss and deodorant on that day and make it to our meeting on time. I was so impresed with Lorraine's business and how it could help me going forward and also I just fell in love with Lorraine. She's one smart lady. And so I said yes! And she then said 'OK, well wait I still need to tell you a few more details'.......I was just a little bit too excited. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMgbfi5IuRjWI40HXUn-hK_zF0azoYJpbtn_jYaIvObrNBMU2E6BS1gSGdXGq00l_lANnionaXrGgnh_mi9aCytSAEXc1aLfcKlif6kw2rM9HX6niB_2hLdveUdxShit7OvuH7uEqhnSc/s1600/seed_corrie_018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMgbfi5IuRjWI40HXUn-hK_zF0azoYJpbtn_jYaIvObrNBMU2E6BS1gSGdXGq00l_lANnionaXrGgnh_mi9aCytSAEXc1aLfcKlif6kw2rM9HX6niB_2hLdveUdxShit7OvuH7uEqhnSc/s640/seed_corrie_018.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<em>I'm a mummy of 5!</em> <em>And I wish I looked this great every day!</em></div>
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Like so many of you, my number one priority in life is my family. And I'm so happy that I now have someone like Lorraine who will help me with the business side of things and let me do what I love to do. Raise a family, do my craft, bake some cookies, take photos and blog about it. Life is good. And I pinch myself. </div>
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I'm so excited to announce this to you today and also so excited to be joining a group of amazing bloggers in Australia. You can find all the Remarkables <a href="http://theremarkablesgroup.com.au/remarkables/">here</a>. And my only worry about joining the Remarkables? I hope I don't get photographed standing next to another Remarkable like Hair Romance or Styling You - you know those bloggers who blog about beauty and hair and look immaculate. I still have to remember just to check my shoulder for Emerson's throw up or call out to my girls and ask who has taken the lipgloss from <strike>mummy's handbag</strike> the nappy bag. <br />
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And if you're reading this and have always wanted to work with me, well you just speak to <a href="http://theremarkablesgroup.com.au/about/">Lorraine</a>! </div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-55760743475174729792012-10-01T17:04:00.004+10:002012-10-09T17:48:41.757+11:00Twinings Assam Bold<div style="text-align: justify;">
<em>Sponsored by <a href="http://www.nuffnang.com.au/">Nuffnang</a></em><br />
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Last week I held a little morning tea at my house for <a href="http://www.twinings.com.au/">Twinings</a> so that I could taste their latest tea, Assam Bold. And I think that there are a few essential ingredients for hosting a good morning (or afternoon) tea. A clean and tidy house. Check. This involved removing all clutter from the top of my dining table, piano and any other dumping grounds in the house. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8021116686/" title="modelling the tea box by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="modelling the tea box" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8170/8021116686_d51d69cba9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Sweet treats. I sent retro daddy up to our nearest patisserie for some goodies - little petit fours and macarons. Mmmmmm so good. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8021120974/" title="petit fours from the patisserie by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="petit fours from the patisserie" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8040/8021120974_e006fe4f08_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And I made some lemonade scones. I had never made them before and they turned out a little flat so next time I'm going to make them smaller and thicker and kiss them good luck before the go in the oven. But they tasted great and if you don't like rubbing butter into flour then you will LOVE the recipe because it's not messy. I also made some smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwiches on super soft white bread. Again so good. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8021122286/" title="smoked salmon sandwiches, macarons, scones with the works by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="smoked salmon sandwiches, macarons, scones with the works" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8175/8021122286_e1edd0e960_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now you'll also need to get out your china. I love mixing things around, floral plates with my wedding china and I love having a little assortment of plates. A bit of expensive Pip studio with a vintage yellow plate that cost me $5 at a garage sale a few years ago. And a brand new white teapot purchased that morning when I realised I didn't have one. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8018333885/" title="China mix n match by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="China mix n match" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8439/8018333885_03577519c8_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Now you'll also need some guests. I invited my lovely neighbour Penny over who I always wave to and text and facebook but never get to really chat to. And two of my lovely friends Antonette and Belinda who I still call my kindy mums as our little ones started school together. I might have changed schools but I love that we're all still friends. We had 12 children in total but thankfully I had retro daddy on the job in the childcare department.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8021109015/" title="first day of the holidays by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="first day of the holidays " height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8174/8021109015_b7ff756bf7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And the last thing you need for a good morning or afternoon tea is some tea. And thank you to the lovely people at Twinings I'm now the envy of many with a lovely wooden tea box. It's so lovely to look at and feel and fits lots of tea bags. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8021117992/" title="loving my tea box by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="loving my tea box" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8320/8021117992_f2387858b7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The only teas I drink are fruit teas and the only brand I drink is Twinings (and no they didn't ask me to say that) but I find it's the best peppermint tea around. I always need black tea on hand though for Grandma Betty. The biggest tea lover I know. I lose count of how many cups a day I make when she's visiting. Retro daddy likes to try new flavours and actually thinks he is taking this box to work. I don't think so.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8021110169/" title="a cup of tea by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="a cup of tea" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8031/8021110169_18f2fdea43_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And so why was I sent this lovely box? To taste Twining's newest tea, Assam Bold. And the good news was that all of my guests were tea lovers. Assam Bold is Twining's strongest tea ever and you can read more about Twining's tea strengths <a href="http://www.twinings.com.au/range/black-tea/">here</a>. The Assam Bold is great if you need a pick me up and love your tea strong. And while it's recommended you leave the tea bag in for at least 3-5 minutes if you don't like your tea too strong just leave it in for a bit less. My guests enjoyed the tea and agreed it's strong but not bitter! The strongest tea they've tasted. And you can still add your milk or sugar to it as well. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8018330075/" title="upload by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="upload" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8435/8018330075_2622cfdfae_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<strong>If you'd like to win a beautiful wooden box like mine with Assam Bold just tell me your favourite tea flavour and why. I'll pick a winner at the end of the week. </strong> And in the meantime be sure to check out the Twinings website <a href="http://www.twinings.com.au/">here</a> as there is loads of info on their teas, picking the right one for you and you can even buy your own wooden tea chest <a href="http://www.twinings.com.au/campaigns/gift-shop/">here</a> in their gift shop.<br />
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Competition is open to my Australian readers only and full T&C are <a href="http://blog.nuffnang.com.au/twinings-assum-bold-tcs/">here</a>.</div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com171tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-58977379214779194302012-10-01T07:24:00.000+10:002012-10-09T17:49:05.351+11:00cinnamon choc chip cookies<div style="text-align: justify;">
think about it - a lovely buttery cookie with a hint of cinnamon and delicious choc chips throughout. It's my kind of cookie. I broke my strict 1200 calorie a day diet (it's killing me, seriously!) to do a spot of baking on Saturday. I sent retro daddy to wheel &barrow for some new mixing bowls and a spatula (beware of putting your nice spatulas in your thermomix) and I got baking. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8034459187/" title="New mixing bowls and spatula by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="New mixing bowls and spatula" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8456/8034459187_6450573a4d_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a>And the result was a delicious batch of cookies that lasted about 24 hours in our house!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8035191561/" title="Cinnamon choc chip cookies by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Cinnamon choc chip cookies" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8451/8035191561_a6c8211093_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<strong>What you'll need</strong><br />
2 egg yolks<br />
1tsp vanilla<br />
2Tbsp water<br />
150g unsalted butter, room temperature<br />
100g icing sugar (or regular sugar if you have a Thermomix)<br />
300g flour sifted<br />
1/2tsp baking powder<br />
1-2tsp ground cinnamon<br />
150g choc chips<br />
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<strong>Thermomix directions</strong><br />
Place sugar in TM bowl and process for 15-18 seconds on speed 9. Add in softened butter and process for 20 seconds on speed 4. Scrape down sides of bowl and process a little longer if needed. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8035185780/" title="Mmmmm butter and sugar by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Mmmmm butter and sugar" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8314/8035185780_a388352494_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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In a separate bowl mix egg yolks, water and vanilla with a fork. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8035184694/" title="Egg yolks and vanilla by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Egg yolks and vanilla" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8034/8035184694_ee389970d6_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Remove measuring cup from lid of your Thermomix and process on speed 4 while pouring in egg mixture through the top. Scrape down sides of bowl. Now tip in sifted flour, baking powder and cinnamon and process on speed 4 for 15-20 seconds. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8035186734/" title="Cinnamon cookie dough!!!! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Cinnamon cookie dough!!!!" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8317/8035186734_f095fd4468_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Now I like to do my choc chips the old school way so tip out your cookie mixture into a big bowl. I usually remove my blade and get all the cookie dough from the bottom. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8035187276/" title="Choc chips by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Choc chips" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8174/8035187276_be2c972279_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Now fold in those yummy choc chips. I love to dig in my hands and get them all throughout the mixture. And taste the cookie dough too. More than once. **Now divide the mixture into 2 equal portions and roll into a log. Wrap in plastic and roll again to keep it round. Pop in the fridge for at least 1 hour.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8035187520/" title="Logs of dough by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Logs of dough" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8176/8035187520_589bedae72_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Preheat oven to 160 (325 degrees) and slice cookie dough into 1 cm pieces. I like to use a serrated knife for this one. Place on lined baking trays and bake around 15 minutes when your oven is at the right temperature. Mine took about 20 minutes but who knows what temperature my old oven is really working at.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8034946615/" title="Cinnamon choc chip cookies by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Cinnamon choc chip cookies" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8032/8034946615_ae3fc336b5_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Cool on tray a few minutes then transfer to a cooling rack and enjoy. Thank me later. </div>
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<strong>No Thermomix? </strong></div>
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let's go old school. In a small bowl combine the egg yolks, vanilla and water. Sift icing sugar into a large bowl. Cream butter into the mixture (Kitchen Aid, beaters or good old wooden spoon will do). Gradually add in your egg yolk mixture and combine. Add in sifted flour, cinnamon and baking powder and combine. Fold in the choc chips and follow instructions from ** above. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8035190940/" title="Hot out of the oven.... Recipe tmrw by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Hot out of the oven.... Recipe tmrw" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8042/8035190940_ed343636e1_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-48034909782598879112012-09-29T08:28:00.001+10:002012-10-02T16:30:30.275+10:00the after shots of my Masters mini makeover<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Sponsored by <a href="http://www.nuffnang.com.au/">Nuffnang</a></em></span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vjZwJiwgVqE?list=UUsK3ccf60l0jd3mSlp97BGw&hl=en_US" width="560"></iframe><br /></div>
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OK, so you might remember from <a href="http://www.retromummy.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/win-500-masters-gift-card-to-renovate.html">this</a> post that I was making over 2 areas of my house. The back porch/patio and the nursery. Now it's very important when you do some work around the house to be in the right frame of mind - I parked myself on the step with a coffee and mag as project manager. An essential job. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8024978309/" title="What I'm doing by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="What I'm doing" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8317/8024978309_2d9306041b_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Meanwhile retro daddy put everything together for me.......with his own little helper. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8024975922/" title="Putting it altogether by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Putting it altogether" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8317/8024975922_73ce3fbb2e_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Now just to refresh your memories, here is our back porch/patio area which is in need of a little attention with some furniture. All I want to do is be able to sit outside and watch little people play, have a cup of coffee or do some work on my laptop. At the moment I just sit on a step and it's not very comfy. </div>
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Ordering from the <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/">Masters</a> website is super easy. And registering and making a wish list made it super easy when I wanted to finalise my order and keep everything under budget. You also have 3 options for collecting your goodies. Collect, Post or Delivery. I chose to have all of my goodies delivered by truck which cost $75 but meant I didn't have to lug furniture or a big carpet roll home with me. I also didn't have to ask retro daddy to pull out seats from the van which he doesn't enjoy. And best of all I didn't need to leave the house to order all of my outdoor furniture. Normally that would require taking retro daddy with me which also means taking all the kids with me. And I don't need to tell you that taking kids furniture shopping is a nightmare. You already know that.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8024975398/" title="Doing our outdoor area today! Before - the clutter zone! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Doing our outdoor area today! Before - the clutter zone!" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8451/8024975398_b1f6518a04_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Now the outdoor setting I chose is the <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900040189/del-terra-sussex-timber-setting-5pk">Del Terra Sussex timber setting</a> and we just love it. For $179 you get a good sized table and 4 chairs. It fits the brief perfectly and it actually came all assembled and just required a few little adjustments before putting it into place. I also picked up the <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900026972/med-pino-lantern-cream">lantern </a>at Masters to add a little more of a beachy Hamptons feel to the space. And at $19 it didn't break the bank.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8024979019/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Almost done! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Almost done!" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8177/8024979019_ab7a037571_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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The outdoor cushions also add a little Hamptons feel to the space and by keeping it all dark navy it will withstand any spills from my little ones - there are plenty of spills and messes in this house. The wall hanging was $24 and suits the space perfectly. There are lots of different designs to choose from and over 40 outdoor wall art products on the website. <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/">Masters</a> are always adding new products to their website and <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900034015/capital-city-metal-wall-art-147-x-82cm">this</a> is a new one that I would have loved. And I added a <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900040187/del-terra-highland-bench-natural">bench </a>to the back patio too as I wanted some extra seating. And considering that I didn't see it in person I'm very impressed with the quality of it. The bench came in at $178 and was worth every cent. Co-ordinating your children's outfits to the cushions is totally optional, by the way. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8024978094/" title="Another new spot to sit by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Another new spot to sit" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8037/8024978094_27340721a3_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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The total cost for creating our outdoor area was just under $600 including delivery with most of the budget going on the outdoor setting and bench seat. But you can spend more than $600 just on furniture. I also threw in a lovely white tub for ice and drinks which looks so much nicer than a great big esky. 2 pots for plants and a few citronella candles for the windowsill and dinners outside (minus the kids). </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8024977578/" title="I have a place to sit now! Not the step by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="I have a place to sit now! Not the step" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8452/8024977578_df9be7e171_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Now let me take you upstairs, just turn left at the top of the stairs and it's the second room on the left. Here we have the nursery. Here is the before shot - remember no styling went on. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8033963333/" title="before nursery by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="before nursery" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8029/8033963333_a175901d27_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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No one had slept in this room since we moved in. What a difference a few things make. The rug is a huge change covering up most of the green and was the most expensive purchase for this room but I knew would make the biggest difference. And at $129 <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900034697/dante-520w-shag-rug-white-cream-235-x-160cm">here,</a> I'm thinking about a couple more for the rest of the house. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8033930594/" title="after by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="after" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8034/8033930594_f4a5119d2f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The curtains are blockout curtains which are great if you have little people as the sunlight doesn't come in and wake them up. You need to buy 2 as each pack contains just 1 curtain but at $44.97 you can cover the windows for a bit less than $100. I kept these neutral because this room could be used by any of the other kids later on but you can get some really gorgeous blinds on the website like <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900003961/stripe-roller-blind-pink-180-x-210cm">this one</a> which would be perfect for little one's rooms. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8033928288/" title="P1011097 by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1011097" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8450/8033928288_815e210ffb_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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the <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/100009408/walls-by-me-decals-pastel-alphabet-large">decal</a> was cheap and cheerful and gives the room a fun and playful feel.....it also breaks up the pink as I'm a huge fan of pink but there is a little boy in this room. Can you spot him in the picture?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8033925475/" title="P1011107 by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1011107" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8459/8033925475_c089938123_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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the little light was also another bargain at $20 and I've got it up high at the moment just while elodie is so little. To finish the room I also raided other rooms and the playroom for vintage books, some toys, quilts and blankets to accessorise. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8025884627/" title="New curtains and rug by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="New curtains and rug" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8032/8025884627_3c09432e76_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8027824332/" title="Elodie has a bed! Minus the bedrail of course by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Elodie has a bed! Minus the bedrail of course" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8036/8027824332_bec83e634e_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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and then there are the amazing lights that retro daddy needs an electrician to install. I did marry an accountant not a handyman and he really tried to get the light up in the nursery, he really tried. But I was hearing the swear words from upstairs and it turns out we need longer wires so we're calling in the professionals to install both lights for us. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8024980773/" title="Making over the nursery thanks to Masters by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Making over the nursery thanks to Masters" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8312/8024980773_76cdb92c2e_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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We love our 2 new makeovers and I love that I didn't need to leave the house to purchase what I needed. Everything was delivered quickly, left at my back door as I requested, arrived safely and saved me a big trip out to the shops. Decorating with new furniture and furnishings is a quick way to makeover an area of your house and it doesn't have to cost a fortune. And no paintbrushes or hard labour was required which keeps your other half happy. I found that Masters had really great prices on everything and a really great range of products. I'll be back. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8025880495/" title="Rug to hide the green! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Rug to hide the green!" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8173/8025880495_38b12c272a_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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Thank you Masters........................and now to announce the winner of my giveaway. Nuffnang chose the lovely Christine of Monkey & Bee who chose a few things for her outdoor area. A<a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/100467783/red-centre-hood-gas-bbq-4-burner"> BBQ</a>, the same <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900040189/del-terra-sussex-timber-setting-5pk">outdoor setting</a> that I chose (great choice), cute <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900016162/resource-wrought-iron-bird-feeder">bird feeder</a>, <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900028407/poppy-wall-art">poppy wall art</a> and $5 leftover to use for bird seed for the feeder. Well done Christine and I hope you'll share your own before and after pics for us all to see. <br />
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Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-14169260414904654472012-09-28T07:56:00.000+10:002012-10-02T16:30:51.252+10:00baking solves everythingI have never been as busy as I've been the past 11 weeks! A new baby throws any sort of routine out the window and you find yourself in a constant cycle of feeding, changing, settling and then running around like a crazy woman trying to feed other little ones, make a drink, grab a snack, jump in the car, find someone's shoe, brush someone else's hair, write a quick email.........it goes on. You know what I mean. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8028915337/" title="Everyone gets a job by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Everyone gets a job" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8037/8028915337_45a0a1db83.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Thankfully my little guy is starting to sleep for longer stretches at night and I no longer find myself up to watch the start of Good morning america every single morning. We now just watch it a few mornings. And I'm starting to feel like my old self again. Yesterday I plonked emerson in his daddy's arms and did some baking with the little ones. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8029606326/" title="My littlest baker!!!! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="My littlest baker!!!!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8170/8029606326_7d504e1347.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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They love getting in the kitchen and I feel so bad that I haven't had a lot of time to do baking. Plus I'm trying to get the kilos off and I just can't say no to baked goodies. But yesterday we did some <a href="http://www.taste.com.au/recipes/6036/lemonade+scones">lemonade scones</a>.... I skipped the cream. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8028910468/" title="For daddy! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="For daddy!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8179/8028910468_e084811031.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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and some cookies. I used old faithful, my one cup cookie recipe, using muesli instead of oats for a nice bit of variety (and to finish off the bag). Elodie took on quality control and as I went to grab something from the other side of the kitchen she tested out a cookie and put it back on the tray before the oven.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8028914069/" title="Cookies too! Elodie decided to taste one and put it back! Cheeky by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Cookies too! Elodie decided to taste one and put it back! Cheeky" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8169/8028914069_aafe1d2214.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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This is my one cup cookie recipe and it never fails me. Just 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of oats, 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of desiccated coconut and about 175g of melted butter. Combine all of the ingredients, roll into little balls, flatten on a baking tray and bake in a nice hot oven (my oven is crazy old so I do 400 degrees for everything now) until golden. Cool on the tray and enjoy! If your mixture is too dry add a little juice, too wet then add a few more oats. It's that easy. Play around with chocolate and nuts too.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8028913181/" title="Muesli cookies! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Muesli cookies!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8313/8028913181_9f2a0ebd62.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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And to finish off a pretty perfect afternoon I came home from the newsagent with some special treats. Just grabbing some time to myself with a cup of coffee and a pile of magazines is heaven. Totally underrated. And will you check out the savings on that gorgeous book - it's a beautiful book too.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8028908848/" title="I love a trip to the newsagent! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="I love a trip to the newsagent!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8320/8028908848_e3988549fc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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oh but then got it better when I read from Mrs Woog that Country Road opened an online outlet store! 1 new summer dress and a top came to less than $50 and will be at my house soon. What a day.</div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-88670830584009856652012-09-26T20:16:00.002+10:002012-10-02T16:31:05.520+10:00What's in your nappy bag? <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Sponsored by <a href="http://www.nuffnang.com.au/">Nuffnang<o:p></o:p></a></em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes that is the question I’m asking today! Or if you’re like
me it’s ‘what is NOT in your nappy bag’. My nappy bag is always overflowing but
I tell myself I am a mother of 5 and that is why it’s so full. Nothing to do
with the fact that there is clutter galore at the bottom of it. Oh no. But I do
love my nappy bag – it’s Oroton and retro daddy bought it for me when I had
elodie. And I’m a little bit precious about it.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8022242492/" title="upload by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="upload" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8453/8022242492_c0ba9266ff_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<span style="mso-fareast-language: EN-AU; mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a name='more'></a></span></span><br />
<span style="mso-fareast-language: EN-AU; mso-no-proof: yes;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><v:stroke joinstyle="miter"><v:formulas><v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"><v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"><v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"><v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"><v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"><v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"><v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"><v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"><v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"><v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:formulas></v:stroke></span></v:shapetype></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are nappies for elodie and emerson, baby wipes, my wallet,
mobile, a few little toys to keep elodie entertained, muesli bars and one of my
favourite nappy bag items – a muslin cloth. Perfect for covering up when I am feeding,
wiping up baby vomit off my shoulder, using as a makeshift change mat and more.
I also keep hand sanitiser in my bag and love that this post is about Dettol
hand sanitiser because it’s something I started using when I had the twins and
was spending all my days changing nappies and making up bottles. Think about it
– 2 newborns and 1 me meant I was feeding and changing all day long.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8022269026/" title="What's in your nappy bag? by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="What's in your nappy bag?" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8322/8022269026_4079a12448_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now I use it because I’m still changing nappies and feeding
babies. And I’m dealing with poo-plosions from emerson so I like to know that my
hands are nice and clean afterwards. I keep a pump pack on the change table at
home for after nappy changes or as I’m walking past and am about to feed
emerson as I never know where my hands have been. And it’s handy to clean your
hands just after you’ve changed a nappy and you don’t need soap or water so
it’s super handy. It’s great to know you’ve got clean hands before you leave
the change table as I could be getting out a snack or making up some food in
the kitchen so knowing my hands are clean before I leave the room is important
to me – because I rush around all day doing 50 million things at once! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And I don’t want to say that I’m obsessive about it, but I do think hygiene around babies and little ones is very important. When I have a newborn I have been known to ask guests to use it before they hold Emerson again because I don’t know where hands have been. And little miss elodie gets sick easily so I don’t take any chances.</span> </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8022243418/" title="Dettol! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Dettol!" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8176/8022243418_b0a67d9c91_z.jpg" width="612" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dettol hand sanitiser comes in 2 sizes – a 200ml pump pack
and a little 50ml pack for your nappy bag and hand bag. I’ve loved
having the little 50ml pack in my bag while we’ve been on holidays and on
the road. Especially when we have been stopping off at new places and I’ve been
changing nappies in the car and making up baby bottles too. Having something on
hand to clean my hands in between is a lifesaver. And the latest -
Cucumber and Melon - has added moisturiser so your hands won’t dry out. A nice
little benefit, don’t you think? My hands always seem dry since we don’t have a
dishwasher and I don’t use gloves so anything that helps keep them soft is a bonus.
Since I won’t be getting a dishwasher anytime soon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And now for something fun – I’ve shown you mine so it’s time
you show me yours! Just get on twitter (I’m on there as retromummy) to share a
pic of the contents of your nappy bag with the hash tag #Dettolnappybag and
you’re in the running to win $200 from babyshopdirect for the top 3 twitter
#Dettolnappybag photos. Nice. And there are 40 samples to giveaway
to selected #Dettolnappybag twitter photos too. So get your phone or camera out,
get snapping and share your pic! And let me know so I can go and check out your
photos! Can’t wait…..</span><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-18883056524671634802012-09-25T22:46:00.000+10:002012-09-25T22:49:02.260+10:00headshots by Seed Photography <div style="text-align: justify;">
A few things about me. I do not lead a glamorous life. I prefer to take pictures of my children. I avoid being in front of the camera. And the last time I had a headshot taken it was done by retro daddy a few years ago with a quilt hanging over a door behind me. Very professional looking. With a quick bit of makeup and lipgloss. Fancy. But recently I've been asked for my head shots by a few magazines. And I kept thinking to myself I wish I had some nice up to date photos to send. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIoeaToP3t2A20YTv6IS06C6Rh2sysERoIL5QM3OmHj6JAciVoge7gJ-_vxMRqN6qvjMUdPURLYTL0Be5WHJimfcGyW_iEu9IJ4gW6TvpHcbrN7YuVzGWHt_7OixGu1NPRUSjRJDPIW8/s1600/seed_corrie_021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIoeaToP3t2A20YTv6IS06C6Rh2sysERoIL5QM3OmHj6JAciVoge7gJ-_vxMRqN6qvjMUdPURLYTL0Be5WHJimfcGyW_iEu9IJ4gW6TvpHcbrN7YuVzGWHt_7OixGu1NPRUSjRJDPIW8/s640/seed_corrie_021.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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And I was asked just one too many times and decided I had to get them done. Professional and up to date. So I emailed the lovely Nicole at <a href="http://www.seedphotography.com.au/">Seed Photography</a> who kindly did a newborn session of Elodie and knew I'd be in safe hands. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_-b_CzifckAN2KBq1uUBxfCGfjVJW4DBFCAV51QDpCsDj8JQ-LkY0VrxI5TuEBoZOSJggcbGxu8H4RvwWeZ31P16VgvLxt1wWxJfOvWYWDbI6twy_v2uJNjh_WmGyRDl2U0WHVQZNeeI/s1600/seed_corrie_009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_-b_CzifckAN2KBq1uUBxfCGfjVJW4DBFCAV51QDpCsDj8JQ-LkY0VrxI5TuEBoZOSJggcbGxu8H4RvwWeZ31P16VgvLxt1wWxJfOvWYWDbI6twy_v2uJNjh_WmGyRDl2U0WHVQZNeeI/s640/seed_corrie_009.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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My hair was done on Saturday and I asked a lovely school mum <a href="http://memorablemakeup.com.au/about.php">Nicky</a> who is a makeup artist if she'd do my makeup. I told Nicky I wouldn't mind her 4 kids in the background since it was school holidays and really it was just like being at home. Nice to see other kids do the same things as mine. Drive their mum crazy in the school holidays! Thanks <a href="http://memorablemakeup.com.au/about.php">Nicky</a> for the gorgeous makeup and I loved my false eyelashes. I plan on using your services a bit more often for special occasions because I loved it! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDXrjE8Q-5oGROSm13eV1wnbYz_L4b6lK5IscLYGAqVRIKmIeixdGoaYLp-7zpW329jxcREyg88isaUObbi7wD7F0QEkQVq0oUjDlfUzrWKC9lF_Yxw6tc9dow28I5hyphenhyphenvMPkmiQ6PLN30/s1600/seed_corrie_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDXrjE8Q-5oGROSm13eV1wnbYz_L4b6lK5IscLYGAqVRIKmIeixdGoaYLp-7zpW329jxcREyg88isaUObbi7wD7F0QEkQVq0oUjDlfUzrWKC9lF_Yxw6tc9dow28I5hyphenhyphenvMPkmiQ6PLN30/s640/seed_corrie_001.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<em>this is my posey pose photo which makes me laugh! I'm so not a poser! </em></div>
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I went straight from makeup to <a href="http://www.seedphotography.com.au/">Nicole's studio</a> - this was a northern beaches team effort with hair, makeup and photos all done on the beaches. I love that. <a href="http://www.seedphotography.com.au/">Nicole of Seed Photography</a> is so lovely and any nerves I had went away as soon as I got there. She taught me how to look to avoid the double chin and she has a wonderful light and airy studio with so much natural light coming in. And my little guy Emerson makes the perfect prop, don't you think?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhgMC06xvHdvnQL4AfwC7XM8NeP2GR1jdhSQEFtYj-xGhYXUAIN5zgH1vYRqlnaqF49G8co1yJGDTQ3fZoCHSAjZGhWWIC6uf_y8QPusRqAc1XHprVVrTKJGNh8TNACVWr9Se1sKihUQ/s1600/seed_corrie_014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhgMC06xvHdvnQL4AfwC7XM8NeP2GR1jdhSQEFtYj-xGhYXUAIN5zgH1vYRqlnaqF49G8co1yJGDTQ3fZoCHSAjZGhWWIC6uf_y8QPusRqAc1XHprVVrTKJGNh8TNACVWr9Se1sKihUQ/s640/seed_corrie_014.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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I can't begin to thank Nicole for these gorgeous photos. I'm so self conscious about my weight at the moment and watching what I eat but I look at these photos and don't see any of the bad things I think about my shape. I just see me. I almost want to get back in the car, drive over to her house and give her a big hug and a kiss to say thank you. I have some beautiful photos that just capture my life at the moment and make it look beautiful. And I wish all my mummy friends had this opportunity.................................</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8023023968/" title="headshot by Seed Photography by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="headshot by Seed Photography" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8173/8023023968_3207c5b3f0_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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So thank you Nicole. You are so kind to take these for me and did the most perfect job. Now when someone asks for a head shot of me I'll have this lovely collection to chose from. Thank you. And to all my lovely readers you know where to go when you need a lovely photo taken............just go and see <a href="http://www.seedphotography.com.au/">Nicole</a>. </div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-59151918606528957672012-09-24T05:46:00.003+10:002012-10-02T16:32:02.260+10:00Win a hug-a-bub<div style="text-align: justify;">
With 5 babies under my belt, I feel pretty confident telling you what you need and don't need when you have a baby. There are so many 'nice to have' things now in the baby shops and you can spend an absolute fortune on what you think are the essentials. But one of the best things that has happened since I had my first baby Keira is that there are lots more baby carriers on the market. And I can't live without a few to make life easier. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/7606474690/" title="hug a bub by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="hug a bub" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8022/7606474690_5d87de5b99_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I discovered the <a href="http://www.hugabub.com/">hug-a-bub</a> when I had Elodie - I needed a sling that was great for a newborn, that would fit me comfortably (I'm only 5ft and found some slings were swimming on me) and that wasn't bulky so that I could get on with my day to day jobs at home. I did all my research (oh did I do my research) and the hug-a-bub was the solution. I bought one, watched the dvd how to put it on and was hoooked. Here I am in November 2010 with Elodie.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/5170305604/" title="loving my new sling by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="loving my new sling" height="640" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4111/5170305604_29606f34fb_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The hug-a-bub is soft and stretchy and you wrap it around yourself and tie it. So whether you're smaller or larger than average you won't have any problems wearing it. There are even larger sizes (which I didn't know) if you or your partner are extra 'huggable'. A newborn sits snuggly on your chest with their little head tucked under one of the wide straps. This makes it nice and comfy and safe. I've always been a bit wary of wearing a sling across me and not seeing baby's face. It's also really comfy to wear and I've never had a sore back or shoulders carrying a baby around on me.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/7723362712/" title="hug a bub by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="hug a bub" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8427/7723362712_fd46665c50_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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As soon as my babies have got into the hug-a-bub they're asleep. And I get my hands free and can get stuck into making lunch, putting a load of washing on or out, vacuuming or just doing my jobs. It's also been great for school pick ups and outings......here was Emerson's first lunch at sushi train. He slept right through it and I got to eat my lunch. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/7763871010/" title="me and the kids by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="me and the kids" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8445/7763871010_eb112a4d2e_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Sadly I lent out my <a href="http://www.hugabub.com/">hug-a-bub</a> after Elodie and didn't get it back so the lovely people at Hug a Bub sent me a new one and a lovely reader, Rosita, also sent me hers so I'm lucky enough to have one for the home and one in the car! <strong>Competition now closed! Thank you everyone for entering</strong><br />
Thank you to the lovely people at hug-a-bub! </div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com97tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-23543388634165079292012-09-23T22:16:00.000+10:002012-10-02T16:32:17.175+10:00capture the cover October is a busy and exciting month for retro mummy but it also means I have lots of things to finish up in the next week or so! One of the things I've been meaning to mention is a pretty cool competition that could see one of your photos on the cover of your local yellow pages next year. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/5003739256/" title="we love manly by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="we love manly" height="480" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4085/5003739256_86d9a5ff10_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Not only could your picture be on the cover but there are some great prizes going to winning entries too. A new DSLR anyone? iPad? cash? The idea behind Capture the Cover is letting amateur photographers like you and me share photos of where they live and be on the cover of your local Yellow Pages.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/6591090089/" title="shelley beach, manly by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="shelley beach, manly" height="480" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6591090089_a75fc13a6c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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These are my all time favourite photos of the northern beaches. And you can find more information on the website <a href="http://pinterest.com/yellowpagesaus/capture-the-cover-inspiration/">here</a>, <a href="http://pinterest.com/yellowpagesaus/capture-the-cover-inspiration/">pinterest</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/yellowpagesaustralia/app_267755496633712">facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/yellowpages_au/">twitter</a>. So get snapping and hurry as there isn't much time left (Sydney entries close on the 5th October) and some cities have already closed. </div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-35419625513615613072012-09-22T15:50:00.000+10:002012-10-02T16:32:35.363+10:00when the hairdresser comes to youI found myself in a bit of a pickle (don't you love that saying) this week when I realised that I had my hair appointment all muddled up and it wouldn't be before my head shots were being taken on Tuesday. Help! I needed to find a hairdresser who could turn my hair from 10 week regrowth to something fabulous. And I'm very picky about who does my hair so I was a little reluctant to try someone new. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8011176897/" title="Foils at home!!!! I'm having my hair done at home! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Foils at home!!!! I'm having my hair done at home!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8461/8011176897_e400c2f128.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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But I remembered the lovely <a href="http://www.carnabyhair.com.au/index.html">Leanne</a> I had met at mumpreneurs recently. She's a lovely northern beaches lady who owned a toni & guy salon up here but sold up to get more of her life back. So I got in touch with her and she came over this morning. Having your hair done at home is great - the kids are running around everywhere, I could be near my little guy emerson and retro daddy was on hand too. And you end up with gorgeous hair from the comfort of home. Oh and she brings everything - the chair, the sink, the products. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8011178028/" title="Ta da! New hair thanks to @carnabyhair and I didn't have to leave home! Perfect! by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Ta da! New hair thanks to @carnabyhair and I didn't have to leave home! Perfect!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8455/8011178028_24e1822733.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I still haven't worked out how to drop 7 kilos before my headshots are taken but at least my hair is sorted. Leanne gets the tick of approval from me! </div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-28119012980042747572012-09-21T01:04:00.001+10:002012-10-02T16:32:52.146+10:00goodbye noosa<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today we head home. Sniff sniff. It's been the most wonderful holiday with plenty of relaxing, swimming (well not me, the little ones), shopping (oh the shopping), eating (the diet went right out the window and starts again saturday) and just all being together as one big happy family. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8006308798/" title="Sunset by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Sunset" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8305/8006308798_e4af47766d_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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OK, well it hasn't all been happy families. We've had some laughs but it hasn't been easy, there have been some over-excited and tired little people to deal with each day. I'm just keeping it real for all of you out there but overall we had a great time. I have lots of photos and stories to share when we get home but till then one of my favourite photos of the trip is of my girls this afternoon as we waited for daddy to do a bit of shopping. I know. One very rare moment. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8006303543/" title="My girls by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="My girls" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8170/8006303543_9c4232b43a_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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I had already managed to squeeze in a bit of last minute shopping with a tiny bracelet for myself from my <a href="http://signatureonhastings.com/">new favourite shop</a>......so now I can look at it and remember our first family holiday to Queensland. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/8006307122/" title="Last little shopping treat for myself:) by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="Last little shopping treat for myself:)" height="612" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8042/8006307122_4b8cc53c9e_z.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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And as well as falling in love with Noosa.....well I went and fell in love with Instagram. In fact I didn't take my big camera out at all - just my iPhone. So if you're not on it you need to get on it! So good. </div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6194820812018241104.post-72883485209485920852012-09-18T05:29:00.000+10:002012-09-26T10:00:56.943+10:00win a $500 Masters gift card to renovate<div style="text-align: justify;">
<em>Sponsored by <a href="http://www.nuffnang.com.au/">Nuffnang</a></em><br />
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I am so excited about working with <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/masters/home.jsp">Masters</a> because my house is in serious need of some TLC. I love our new house BUT living with 1970's decor in every room does get to you. Especially as I'm spending so much time at home with a newborn. But warmer weather has arrived in Sydney so it's a great time to get inspired for a bit of spring cleaning and making a start on the renovating and decorating. And this sponsored post opportunity was just the kick up the you know what to get us motivated. I was very kindly given $1000 in Masters gift cards for this makeover and keep reading to find out how YOU can win a $500 gift card from <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/masters/home.jsp">Masters </a>to renovate part of your house. </div>
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Now I decided to split my renovating budget between two areas. First up to create a little entertaining area outside. Here is our back porch/patio area. The before shot. Bo-ring. Because we are on a corner block people get a bit confused as to which entrance to use and often this is the first impression. And it's not very attractive, more of a dumping area. What I really want is somewhere to sit and watch the kids play or have people over for a cup of coffee. That way if we're sitting outside we don't need to stare at our hideous green carpet. It would be nice to have enough seating that we can have dinner out there too.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/7918994344/" title="before by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="before" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8032/7918994344_465ce27a8e_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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My idea for this space is a <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900040189/del-terra-sussex-timber-setting-5pk">small table with chairs</a> and a <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900040187/del-terra-highland-bench-natural">bench seat</a> to sit on with a couple of <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900040235/del-terra-mary-valentine-cushion-navy-41-x-41cm">cushions</a> (yep, you can get outdoor cushions from Masters) and watch the kids. I love the natural wood of the setting and at a great price at $150. And if there were less people in our family I would totally buy this little yellow set. Talk about a pop of color. This<a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/100460987/del-terra-bistro-3-piece-set-yellow"> set</a> is coming soon to the Masters website and is such a cute retro setting. Very retro mummy!</div>
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I'd also like to see the old light taken down and freshened up with a new light fitting. At the moment it's just a big home for cobwebs. <br />
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Industrial looking lights are very popular right now. And you can pay a fortune for them (I know, because I had to buy 3 for my kitchen and searched high and low for the best price I could get). And so I'm loving <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900040155/outdoor-wall-lantern-stainless-steel">this</a> light from Masters which suits my Hamptons style perfectly. And at under $70 it's a great price. I'll probably get one for my front entrance too.<br />
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Now the <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/">Masters</a> website is super easy to use. To find this light, I just went to lighting then on the left hand side, a few more options appear to narrow it down to outdoor then wall and ta da I found what I wanted. Or just pop what you're looking for into the search bar on the top right hand side and go from there. </div>
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O.K so that's the outdoors sorted! But I'm lucky enough to have enough money to make over 2 areas of my house. So next up had to be the nursery, home to Elodie and Emerson. A very 70's room that has hardly been touched since we moved in. That's because no one is sleeping in it. And I didn't put anything away to make it look tidier. This is my honest to goodness 'before' shot. No styling has gone on here. </div>
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Bare walls, old curtains, old blind, old light fitting and that green carpet. No escaping the green carpet in this house. It's going to be so lovely to decorate this room and put my babies in it! And let it be used as a bedroom. <br />
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I feel a bit sorry for babies number 4 and 5 because this photo below was the twin's nursery in our old house. No renovating or decorating required. Everything was done for us and it was a fresh and pretty room for 2 babies. Do you love the clothes piled up in the baby bath - ahhh fun times having baby twins in the house. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65748352@N00/4118198203/" title="the nursery by retro mummy, on Flickr"><img alt="the nursery" height="640" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2519/4118198203_c1cfd40dab_z.jpg" width="479" /></a></div>
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Now retro daddy doesn't want to paint during his holidays so I've gone for just the decorating option with this room. And Masters have lots of great things to help you decorate! From floor coverings and curtains to lights and wall decals. Everything is sorted. My vision for this room is something neutral and fun with a touch of vintage. I'm thinking <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/masters/search/masters_search_results.jsp?bmForm=search&bmFormID=jBKbhgO&bmUID=jBKbhgP&bmIsForm=true&bmPrevTemplate=%2Fmasters%2Fsearch%2Fmasters_search_results.jsp&bmText=searchInput&searchInput=&bmEditable=searchterm&bmHidden=searchterm&searchterm=curtains&bmFields=bmFormID%2CbmHidden%2CbmIsForm%2CbmUID%2CbmForm%2CbmEditable%2CbmPrevTemplate%2CbmText&bmHash=0e5f2a9896a678f75f6de228aa0e1f791ebc9760">new curtains</a>, a big <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900034697/dante-520w-shag-rug-white-cream-235-x-160cm">cream rug</a> to cover the green carpet and a really fun and playful light fitting like this one. And if you're after lighting for your little one's bedrooms then there is a whole section <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/lighting-fans/indoor-lighting/kids-lighting/t/">here</a> just for kids lighting. <br />
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and I'd love some wall decals. I also plan to hunt around the linen cupoard for some neutral sheet sets and bedding. I'm sure I'm not the only one who has things hiding in cupboards they've forgotten about. <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;">Oh and I’m totally in love with this </span><a href="http://www.masters.com.au/product/900022628/beatrice-light-wood-table-lamp"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="color: blue;">simple lamp</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"> that is neutral, simple and a great price. It’s all about stretching the dollar in this house now that we are a family of 7.This is great for a nursery and has a retro feel about it which I love.<o:p></o:p></span>
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Now lucky for me, all of my goodies have arrived from <a href="http://www.masters.com.au/">Masters</a> and are hidden away in the garage waiting for retro daddy. He'll be putting furniture together, hanging things, changing light fittings and making over our 2 areas. I'm excited. Him, not so much. But next week I'll be back with my after photos showing you what I've done!</div>
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<strong>And now it's your chance. To be in the running to win the $500 Masters gift card for your house you need to tell me what area you would makeover and why. Let me now what Masters products you would have to buy? What is your vision? Feel free to share a picture of the space - surely no one has carpet worse than mine. </strong><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><strong>I know how hard it can be to find
money in the family budget to decorate so I wish you all good luck……..<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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Competition is open to Australian residents only and full T&C are <a href="http://blog.nuffnang.com.au/tcs-masters-giftcard-giveaway/">here</a>. </div>
Corriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15742167397662346566noreply@blogger.com134