A little Space like Home

10 Days 10 Oranges

2013-06-19T15:45:00.000+10:00

Remember when I told you about the Go Orange Challenge?

Well my 10 Days are up. But believe me when I say I've got a bag of Oranges waiting to be juiced as we speak, so this will be more than a 10 gig for our family.

On my quest to be healthy I joined the Go Orange Challenge. I was gifted a small box of oranges and set on my challenge.

I do like oranges but for some reason it has been awhile since I'd had one. But I am definitely trying to embrace fruit a lot more now and with my new juicer in hand fruit juice is definitely a new favourite also.

Here's a sneak peak at my 10 Days of Oranges:

We've all been enjoying freshly squeezed orange juice and whilst we are a busy family and probably don't have the time to do it everyday, it will be lovely to continue this new found tradition on lazy weekends.

Cake Recipe was courtesy of Julie Goodwin ~ Gather.

Do you love a good orange?

For more inspiration check out the Instagram hashtag #GoOrange

Cheers

Mandy

A Little Living Room Make Over

2013-06-18T08:19:00.002+10:00

Navy Throw || Aura Cross Cushion || Adairs Cushion Selection

I've got a brown leather lounge which I do love, but an outdated lounge / dining room full of dark pine furniture.

I've decided it's time to put a bit of spark into our home.

I've always been really conservative worried about things dating. This is because my husband is frugal and when you buy something you are stuck with it. So it's important to pick for the long term!

Anyway, above are the new additions to our living space.

I adore the navy in the blanket and it really blends well with the orange.

Apparently texture is in, so I was stoked when I found the orange chevron cushion, it's got a knit feel to it.

Thing is now I'm busting to make over the Office / 2nd Living Room.

I'd really like a new lounge in there, the one we have is outdated and no one likes to sleep on the sofa bed because it's so worn out it does no one any justice.

So below is my 'wish list' to add some more spark to our lives, this time in the Office / 2nd Living Room.

Adairs Throw || Yellow & White Lattice Cushion

Black & White Cushion || Arrow Cushion

Armchair || Sofa Bed

What do you think?

Mandy

20/52

2013-06-15T08:12:00.001+10:00

~ A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2013 ~
My Two Handsome Boys Oh and Lulu, my lovable, but crazy girl

The Most Romantic Spots in Australia

2013-06-14T07:27:00.000+10:00

This weekend hubby and I are lucky enough to be getting a leave pass. We're heading into the big smoke although, these places look far more appealing.

Sponsored [Guest] Post

Australia's vast landscape is dotted with wild forests, serene beaches and sweeping plains, making pretty much anywhere a perfect setting for the ultimate romantic date. But there are some particular spots that will truly take your (and your date’s) breath away.

Whether you're holding hands along the shoreline in Byron Bay or swilling wine in the Barossa Valley, you're bound to find a romantic spot that's right for your lifestyle and budget. From getaways to day trips, here are some of the best places to be in love Down Under.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is easily one of the most laid-back places in the country. If you're into pristine beaches, quiet cafes serving organic food and plenty of sunshine, this has to be your ultimate destination. If you prefer something a little bit more active, like kayaking, hiking or canoeing, Byron has plenty to offer. Although a day trip to Byron is definitely a fun date idea, it's probably a place you want to spend time exploring, so save it for a romantic getaway.

[source]

Kakadu National Park

If you love getting up close and personal with nature, you'll be blown away by the natural wonder of the Northern Territory's Kakadu National Park. Thanks to its World Heritage status, the park is pristine and unspoilt. Spend an afternoon hiking through the many walking trails and exploring the native flora and fauna. There's simply no other place in the country with the same variety of wildlife on offer.

[source]

Barossa Valley

South Australia is one of the world's greatest wine destinations, with Barossa Valley being the pinnacle of the state's wine regions. Home to some of the world's most famous wineries – including Penfolds and Wolf Blass, the Barossa Valley is the ultimate romantic destination for even the most novice wine lover.

You can take a day trip up from Adelaide, or its surrounds, and enjoy a tour through any of the local wineries, as well as tastings, wine-and-cheese pairing classes, and hearty meals. South Australia is also known for its many cultural festivals, so make sure you check your local listings for information on upcoming events.

If these romantic destinations sound like something you'd enjoy, and you're looking for someone to share them with, why not check out eHarmony AU? Click here to find out how you can meet other singles who share your interests, attitudes and beliefs. Singles in South Australia – don't miss out on the opportunity to meet that special someone to take on a winery tour!

Making Words from Wire

2013-06-13T10:41:00.001+10:00

A friend had a piece of wire moulded into a word. I was totally in love with it.

It was plain and simple, no fancy add ons.

And it got me thinking, as I do, surely I could do that.

So off I went and headed down to the hardware store.

I bought me some wire, I went for something a little thicker. It was under $10

I wanted to spray paint it and that also meant buying some primer.

Both were under $30.

And away I went.

It wasn't as simple as I thought.

But to be honest, nothing ever is with me. I've learnt this!

I was initially thinking of making the word 'dream' for my daughters room, but I couldn't get the R just right.

After a bit of experimenting I went with 'love'

And it's just perfect.

I've placed it up on one of my little photo ledges next to my bed. It's becoming a mixed match combination of love. Pictures of my babies at six months old, words, artwork, lots of precious stuff.

Do you like to have a crack at things or prefer to just buy it and be done with it?

Cheers

Mandy

Wordless Wednesday :: Brotherly Love

2013-06-12T07:29:00.001+10:00

Sometimes I just like to capture life and feelings as is, right at that moment. Especially when I capture this!

Linking up with My Little Drummer Boys for Wordless Wednesday

Cheers

Mandy

Someone Once told me to Smile

2013-06-11T07:24:00.001+10:00

When I was younger (say late teens, early 20's) I used to hate having my photo taken.

I know, your amazed right!

It's been quite an evolution for me to step from behind the camera and in front of it.

But I really value the importance of it.

I value photos and the importance of capturing moments and creating memories that we can refer back to.

I first started stepping in front of the camera a little more when I had children.

I wanted them to be able to look back on those first few years of their life and see a mother who loved them dearly.

Thing is, there was a defining moment for me that is very vivid in my mind. Well before my kids came along.

Comments that really rang bells in my mind and gave me something to think about.

Back when I hated having my photo taken, my friends would pull out their camera before a night out and would start getting snap happy. I would duck and hide to avoid being in a photo. But often I'd still be in it. But due to my antics, I'd look awful.

It wasn't till my then boyfriend, said to me, 'Smile, one day these photos will represent who you are and people will look at these and think you're pretty miserable, because, you look pretty miserable.'

Alarm Bells!!!!!!

I don't think I'm a miserable person. I don't want people to think that of me. And truth be known I'm only friends with a couple of people from that era. So the thing is, all they have to remember me by is those photos.

I did change my ways, I did start to smile, I did start to embrace the camera. I do have some lovely photos from that time of my life.

And since then I have loads of gorgeous photos, some without me in them and plenty with me in it, of family, of friends. I'm creating some beautiful memories, because I've been fortunate enough to have had some beautiful moments in my life.

And sometimes a beautiful moment can be simple, it can be just a moment of time together, rather than a special occasion.

Do you embrace the camera? If not, I hope I've given you something to think about, because someone will cherish those photos, even if it's not you.

I'm linking up with Jess for IBOT

Cheers

Mandy

Go Orange in June

2013-06-10T09:41:00.001+10:00

10 Oranges, 10 Days and an abundance of Healthy Benefits

Who knew Oranges are good for your heart?

They contain nutrients such as folate, potassium, fibre and antioxidants.

This is perfect as I work on reducing my Cholesterol and increasing my fibre intake.

I'm taking up the challenge, 10 Oranges, 10 Days.

I'll facebook and instagram my efforts over the next 10 days.

If you want to join in simply tag your photos #GoOrange and reap the benefits.

Want to find out more about this challenge or oranges in general, simply visit Aussie Oranges Facebook Page.

I'll let you know how I go in 10 days time.

If you join in, don't forget to tell me how you go.

Cheers

Mandy

*I was sent a box of oranges for the purpose of this promotion, however am hoping that they'll become a regular part of my diet as I continue on my wellbeing journey.

19/52

2013-06-08T14:48:00.001+10:00

~ A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2013 ~
It's a long weekend here for us. It means a slow morning and chocolate milkshakes

When did your life truly begin?

2013-06-06T13:38:00.001+10:00

We are born into this world, completely innocent.

Our only influence is our DNA

And then we grow, we learn, we are influenced.

Some people talk about their first day at school, their first teacher, or the first boy/girl they had a crush on.

I don't remember any of that.

Sometimes I wonder why.

At the age of six we moved house.

I don't recall my life before this time.

I don't recall my old bedroom, the lounge I would sit on, or the table I would eat my meals at.

I don't recall a thing.

At times I'm fooled for a moment, but then I admit that my so called memory is really just imagination captivated by a photo.

Essentially, my life began when I was six years old.

I remember vaguely moving to my new home, making new friends.

I remember starting at a new school.

When did your life begin?

Mandy

Lenard Chicken ~ Bring Something to the Table

2013-06-05T07:17:00.000+10:00

We make a habit of sitting down at the dining table to eat our dinner.

It's important.

It's our time as a family where we sit and enjoy our meal together, we discuss what happened during the day and spend a little time together just being a family.

I honestly believe as the kids continue to grow and life continues to be busy, this will become even more important.

* December 2011 *

We love to share our home with our friends.

And as it seems it's rubbed off on the kids and they often beg us to invite people round for dinner.

I love brainstorming and preparing a lovely meal.

I love setting the table.

The anticipation from the children as they eagerly wait for our friends to arrive.

And then of course we all love the time spent with our friends when they're here.

I'd be happy to hand over the clean up, but it's always worth it!

-x-

Lenards Chicken currently have a competition running where you can go in the draw to win a holiday a year for 10 years.

Hello people, this is like a dream come true for me. We have no holiday booked this year, as we try to be responsible financially and it's bloody well killing me slowly! Everyone deserves a good holiday. So yes people I have entered!

Competition is open until 9 June, so there's not much time left.

I don't really want you to enter, because quite frankly I want to win, but go on, if you really want to!

You can thank me later, or better still, if you win, you can take me on a holiday, I'd really appreciate that ;)

Do you like to gather around the table?

Mandy

* I found out about this competition when the lovely people at Lenards sent me a gift voucher to visit their store. I stocked up on some yummy Chicken Burgers, Garlic Mignon's and Chicken Breasts. I wasn't asked to blog about this competition, but like I said, who doesn't love a holiday, better still when it's free.

5 Things :: I Regret

2013-06-04T07:33:00.001+10:00

I don't like to live with regret. I truly believe that all of life's experiences lead you to the person you are today.

But that said it is unavoidable to regret nothing.

5 Things I Regret ~

I regretted dying my hair black. If you don't have black hair, do not dye it black. It is just stupid. I reckon I spent almost a year with crapping regrowth, which just made me look like a bogan. End. Of. Story.

I regret under age drinking. There really was no need and more often than not left me feeling embarrassed.

I regret my poor money management in my late teens / early 20's. There are no excuses for not saving any money and prioritising my night life over my future. There is definitely room for both.

I regret all the birthdays I wallowed in self pity because everyone was too busy with their own lives to make me feel special. Fact is, every single birthday I celebrate is a privilege, that right there is enough.

Finally, I regret an early relationship that I was in, I was not in love, I was just in love with the idea of love, turns out being with someone you don't love is not great, it's pretty depressing really.

But despite all my regrets, I survived, I've learnt a lot of lessons along the way.

And funnily enough now that I'm a parent, it's a chance to make wrongs right. I want to influence my children to not live with the same regrets.

I'm sure I'll say 'trust me, I've been there' or 'you'll be grateful in years to come' but they'll probably only hear 'blah blah blah'

I know we all have our own journeys to go on, but surely that's our job to kick the stones out of the way and help them at the folk in the road.

Do you live with regrets?

Mandy

Disney On Ice presents Princesses & Heroes

2013-06-03T12:28:00.000+10:00

Sponsored Post

It's that time of the year again!

My kids adore Disney on Ice, I'm not sure if it's for the love of Characters, or the dream of one day being able to Ice Skate like that or perhaps both.

This year, will be no exception when Disney On Ice presents Princesses & Heroes, featuring eight princesses and their devoted Princes, your childs favourite is sure to be seen.

A few weeks ago we were lucky enough to have the opportunity to meet Snow White and Dopey in person.

It really did make me smile when I saw his face light up with excitement. Snow White was ever so sweet as you'd expect a Princess to be!

Have a look at him, making the most of his one on one time with her.

Thinking about coming along but want to know more?

Visit the website for full information: www.disneyonice.com.au

GIVEAWAY

For your chance to win tickets for your family enter via the rafflecopter below.

T&C
Only open to residents of Australia
Must be available for Sunday 7th July, 5pm (Melbourne)
Not transferable for cash
Prize includes 4 passes for your family
Giveaway closes 17th June at Midnight
Winner will be notified and have five days to make contact before another winner will be drawn.

Good luck

Mandy
a Rafflecopter giveaway

18/52

2013-06-01T10:55:00.000+10:00

~ A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2013 ~

Today I got the camera out simply to capture them, as they are on this day. Someone tell Zander footy's been cancelled!

GIVEAWAY :: Peter Pan on DVD & Blu-Ray

2013-05-30T11:06:00.000+10:00

It's approximately a month now until the school holidays.

When I reflect on the July school holidays last year it truly was not amongst my best parenting days. The kids were restless and I tried to shut it down rather than look for ways to stimulate their needy minds.

This year I'm going to try a different approach.

Given it's typically cold and miserable, yes that's what I think about you Winter, it's the perfect time for a movie day.

With the release of Peter Pan to DVD & Blu-ray 5th June why not sit back with the kids and enjoy the timeless classic that it is. I mean who didn't want to fly away with Wendy, John and Michael?

The latest release not only provides you with the movie, perfect for the whole family it also includes a short film 'Growing up with Nine Old Men'.

We've already had a sneak peak and it's fair to say it's been a huge hit in our home. In fact the kids had a couple of little friends over for a in-house beany bag movie night. It was a fun way to make it even more exciting.

A GIVE AWAY

Today I've got 3 copies of Peter Pan to giveaway.

Simply fill in the Rafflecopter Draw to enter.

Open to Australian Residents Only.

Good luck

Mandy

a Rafflecopter giveaway

We get back what we put in!

2013-05-29T17:33:00.000+10:00

[source]

I've been thinking a lot this year about well being.

About the fact that I rarely feel 100% and I've started asking myself why?

Reality is I know the answers.

I remember watching an episode of The Biggest Loser where they showed the younger contestants what they will look like when they are older if they continue on the same path.

That was a defining moment for me.

I'm not getting any younger. I've had niggling pains that I've finally stopped ignoring and started acknowledging.

What if I was one of those young heart attack statistics? How would I feel then? How would my family feel?

So I've been making changes. It's a slow process.

And a massive learning curve.

I won't deny I'm pretty uneducated when it comes to healthy eating and looking after myself. Sure I regularly eat meat and three veg, but it's so much more than that.

I have digestion issues.

I am always tired.

My skin has seen it's darkest days.

And my weight has increased.

And I don't want to find out what will happen if I continue on this path.

What am I doing moving forward?

I've checked in with my local GP.

I'm currently experimenting with new recipes.

I'm planning. This. is. key.

Planning out my week, making sure I have the ingredients I need to make meals that are good for me. Avoiding the 'hectic rush'.

Educating myself. I've found a handful of great resources online that I can feed off. Plus I've started asking questions. I'm not the first person to want to live healthy. I have a plenitude of friends who I can turn to for advice and direction and I'm not afraid to ask.

I'm focusing on what I put in and I believe I'm already starting to see the results. It's about ensuring this is not a fad but a fully fledged plea to make the changes to live a long and healthy life.

Next step...... the children!

Mandy.

Getting 'me time' with an active baby in tow

2013-05-27T09:34:00.003+10:00

Once your little one is on the move, it means you have a trusty shadow accompanying you with everything you do. So how do you look after yourself and get some ‘me time’ with your little one in tow?

At this stage, your little one will hopefully have settled into a solid sleep routine, so you will be able to spend a little more time attending to your needs while they are sleeping. But when they are awake, you need to find ways that allow you to get things done that works for both of you and that usually means doing it together.

Fitness: Your little one is probably keen to get out and about. This can include crawling through the local sandpit at the park, or toddling along when you go for a walk. So pop on your exercise gear when you head out and let them have a play.

You can make sandcastles together or gently encourage them with their walking. Once they’ve had enough, pop them in the stroller and do a couple of brisk laps round the park yourself. You can also use bub for some gentle weights if you like!

Make-up tips: A full length mirror is the magical answer to getting your make-up on in peace. In the morning, once your little one has been fed and clothed in the morning it is your turn! Simply pop them in a stroller place them in front of the full length mirror. Your bub will enjoy looking at their reflection in the mirror and you can usually do your make-up in relative peace and quiet.

Coffee dates: The days of a long leisurely coffee date with girlfriends will be on hold for a while. However, it is still possible to catch up with friends for a little while if you plan your outing carefully. Make sure you plan your catch up for when bub has had a nap and is refreshed.

Choose a location where children are welcome, or preferably somewhere with a safe play space. Bring your own supply of little snacks to ensure bub is fed. If your friend is child free then it is best to let them know in advance that it is unlikely you can stay for more than an hour.

If they have a favourite book or toy that you know will keep your little one occupied, bring that along with you as well. This can buy you some valuable extra minutes at the end of a coffee date.

Food shopping trips: Lots of parents prefer to order their shopping online rather than battle shops with an active baby in tow. However, sometimes it is simply unavoidable. The key to a successful outing is to be organised. Make a list so you know exactly what you need and time your visits for when the shops are going to be quiet. This will usually mean early or mid morning or afternoon

You should head to the shops once bub has had a nap and is fed and watered. They are far less likely to start demanding things if their tummy is full.

Let your little one ‘help’ you. This means letting them help pop the apples you’ve chosen in the bag or engaging them in conversation as you choose the products you want to place in the trolley. For instance: “which of these oranges looks better to you?" or “What colour shampoo shall I get, the blue or the red?”

Clothes shopping trips: For most parents this is an activity they’d rather do solo. But occasionally you’ll simply have to bring your little one along with you while you purchase yourself some new clothes.

Apart from making sure bub has a full tummy and is well rested, you need to bring distractions with you. It might be a loved toy or book. Alternatively, you might have favourite songs on your phone they love listening to. Pop some earphones on bub and keep them occupied that way.

It’s best to keep bub in a stroller and to choose stores with large changing rooms. Make sure you keep them strapped in, and under your watchful gaze at all times. They’re usually very interested in the mirrors and watching you as you try to do rapid changes of clothing!

With anything involving bringing bub with you remember to be flexible. It’s important to accept that even with the best will in the world sometimes things won’t work out. Your bub may decide to have a meltdown, or you simply can’t get through your ‘to do’ list. Tomorrow is a new day.

-x-

Huggies Australia are currently running their Squirmy Baby Competition

To enter and be in the running for some awesome prizes simply submit your squirmy baby video here.

Getting in soon, promotion closes on the 14th June 2013

Little Person Big Heart

2013-05-24T11:45:00.000+10:00

Every single day my Lulu goes into her room and crosses off the day that is on her calendar.

Every. Single. Day.

It's a Calendar I picked up in the bargin rack back in January for $2.

This morning she came out to the breakfast table and said "Mum I have to read you these words, they are so important" and with that she read this to me ~

Off the back of having just watched the morning news, hearing stories of such hate and terror, as she read these words to me I fought back the tears.

Despite some of the horrible things happening in our world it comforts me to know that there is a bright future ahead of us. Little people who believe every one is equal, who believe everyone is important and who believe it's important to share this message give us all hope.

Lulu was so moved by these words and their importance that shes taken her calendar today to school to share this message with her class. Even though it's not her turn for show and tell she believes her teacher will understand it's importance.

I feel pretty bloody lucky to have such a compassionate little person in my life with such a beautiful big heart.

Mandy

A Celebrity Friend

2013-05-23T12:04:00.000+10:00

Listening to Babymac on my way to work this morning and she got me thinking.

Whilst she talked about what Celebrities you'd pay to email, I started to wonder and ask you, Have you ever thought you could be friends with a celebrity?

I'm talking, forget they're famous and it's probably not going to happen, but who do you think you'd get on with, two peas in a pod, all that.

Here are 3 Celebrities I'd love to hang out ~

[source]

Tori Spelling

I was not really ever a fan of Tori on 90210 but these days she is rocking on a whole other level. She has a website http://torispelling.com/ and is right onto twitter, instagram and pinterest. We'd be able to hang out and talk for hours on that alone.

Tori believes in being creative in everything she does and given my mind is constantly ticking over with ideas, I could imagine us hanging out, kids running wild around the backyard whilst we are up to our elbows in craft supplies and tools. I'm sure we'd have a hoot of a time.

[source]

Bethany Frankel

I don't ordinarily watch the housewives of whatever, but I have stumbled across Bethany a few times. I may have caught a random one or two episodes of Bethany Ever After and have seen her on Ellen as well.

I don't mind her. I have no doubt she'd be good value and a lot of fun.

Plus, she's very business savvy and that is a trait in someone that is appealing. When you have your own desires to success it's always good to align yourself with like minded people.

[source]

Gwyneth Paltrow

There's just something about Gwyneth. Maybe the fact that she stepped away from her acting career to spend time with her family. I admire this as I sit in my corporate chair and wish I was at home with my family.

Maybe it's her ability to move from one success to another with her website. Maybe it's her good will. Whatever it is all those strengths that I do admire makes me think that whilst we are worlds apart, maybe we have a few things in common.

Maybe just maybe if we hung out, no strings attached we'd be friends.

Go on, now it's your turn, who do you reckon you could be friends with?

Cheers

Mandy

5 Things :: That Scare Me

2013-05-22T09:52:00.000+10:00

[source]

I wish I could say I'm scared of nothing, but that would be a lie.

5 Things that Scare Me ~

Loneliness scares the absolute crap out of me. I like a bit of time to myself, but I like it to be a conscious choice. It's one of the reasons I had three children. I wanted to create an environment where if we had no one else at least we had each other. There's always something happening in a family of five!

I break out into a cold sweat when I see a big spider. Perhaps even when I see a medium one. I'm always worried they're going to get me. On one occasion Rod lost a huntsman in my car. I told him he had to find it and kill it or I'd never be able to drive the car again. Fair to say the frugal side of him managed to find it.

There's the obvious one, death. And I'm talking about anyone in my family. I couldn't bare to imagine what it would be like to lose one of my family members. And it scares the crap out of me to imagine my children growing up without me. Unfortunately many families are dealt these cards. Selfishly I'll say hopefully that's never me.

I'm scared of failure. When I commit to something I like to see it through, because I can't handle the thought of not succeeding. And sometimes I wonder if I don't take on challenges in life that I should because I'm afraid of failing. And deep down that's failure in itself isn't it. :(

Finally I'm scared of being surrounded by people I don't know. I push myself through this one, as scared as it makes me feel, because deep down I know it won't kill me. However, my poor husband often gets dragged along to social occasions, my someone that is there if I need, so I'm not left feeling like a scotty no friends. I hate being introverted. Once I know all those people in the room I'm OK. But until then I could almost vomit at the thought!

What are you scared of? Or do you live a fearless existence?

Mandy

Live your Life on Purpose

2013-05-21T08:39:00.001+10:00

Purpose.

I wonder what that word means to me, almost every day.

Why are we here, getting up, routines, what is our purpose?

What is it we set out to achieve?

Is it about self satisfaction?

Is it about our contribution to others?

Often, I have no bloody idea.

Getting up each and everyday, setting out to achieve what I have to and hoping like hell I might even find a minute or two to achieve a little something more.

I feel like I'm standing at a folk in the road, unsure of what direction to take, hovering.

Filled with self doubt I want someone to come through, sweep me up and make the decisions for me.

But then I'm reminded, I'm all grown up now.

[source]

Do you go out and grab it, live your life on purpose? Or do you trust that the path you are following is your destiny and is that enough?

Mandy

No Fail Apple Tea Cake

2013-05-20T12:40:00.000+10:00

A few weeks ago I had a crack at Apple Muffins and they were so bland the whole family refused to eat them and I don't blame them.

So I headed to Facebook and ask the lovely group of readers there for their hot tips.

Nutmeg and Cinnamon was the conclusive answer.

So I decided to tackle another apple cake with the last of our apple haul from the orchid and I found the worlds easiest and most delicious apple cake.

Seriously, a recipe where most households will have all the ingredients, you whack it all in and mix it up and chuck it in the oven.

Recipe can be found here.

Go on, you can thank me later!

Cheers

Mandy.

17/52

2013-05-18T07:09:00.001+10:00

~ A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2013 ~

On location in Canberra (Photo courtesy of Daniela Ferry) At the War Memorial, in the Bunker At the War Memorial, Educational Centre

Easy Mushroom Soup

2013-05-17T09:22:00.002+10:00

I've always been a huge fan of mushroom soup, it's a stand out for me. I recommend you give it a go.

Ingredients

25g butter
1 brown onion diced
1 leek, diced
500g button mushrooms, diced
2 cups of chicken stock
1 cup of cream

Melt butter in a pan, add the onions, leek and the mushrooms, cook until brown but not over done.

Place in a pot with the chicken stock and simmer for 20 minutes.

Blend to a smooth consistency, then stir in the cream.

* As usual I just use my Soup & Co which means I do the browning, put all the ingredients (minus the cream) in the Soup & Co and 25 minutes later it beeps to tell me it's read. Just add cream.

Enjoy

Mandy.

5 Things :: I Love

2013-05-16T09:40:00.000+10:00

I wonder if this is a purposeless post, because if you follow this blog you probably already know what I love.

Now removing the bloody obvious, my family, today I'm talking about 5 things that I love.

5 Things I Love ~

I absolutely adore my camera and the ability to take photos with it. The creative outlet that it allows me is beyond words. I've always taken photos, and have a decent stash of albums from my teenage years.

I love my home. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to build a new home, but in the face of reality I'll forever be grateful for the home I'm in right now. Our first home, a place where we bought our new babies to nurture. It fills my heart with happiness and provides a safe haven when the world gets to hard.

I love to travel. I love the lead up to a getaway, the anticipation. I love the nothingness of a destination, you know, no housework, no day to day grind. I even love the feeling when you get home and reflect through photos. Every destination whether down the road or across the sea offers something worth experiencing.

Following on from this I will admit I love the beach. I've not always been a lover though. It's something I've fallen in love with since I've had children. Now I can't think of anything better than heading down the beach with my family to just hang out and enjoy it's beauty.

Finally I love to entertain. I mean if you love your home what better way to enjoy it than by filling it with family and friends. Sitting out the back in summer whilst the kids play, preparing an array of food to share. The smiles and laughter that usually follow.

I'm a simply girl.

What things do you truly love?

Mandy

* 5 Things :: I love, is the first in a series of posts about me.