Romantic Flair Original

Simple colourful lunch that you will enjoy eating and very healthy for you!

2012-02-02T14:53:00.003+11:00

Healthy eating…..? What is that some may ask, and lets face it we all seem to fall into the trap of eating food that is not good for us, and less that is good.

Every year in the beginning I start with full intention of eating healthy and I am quite good till my busy season towards the end of the year. When I get so busy my routine goes all over the place, and I start falling into the trap of having comfort food to keep me going.

Does this happen to you?

Today I thought I share with you one of my simple salad that anyone can make in literary a couple of minutes, and you can use it as a base for other salads which I will share with you in the future.

Basic Salad

mixed green salad
added some baby spinage leaves
3 gourmet tomatoes cut into quarters or halves
sprinkle of shredded cabbage

Today I decided to add

lentils
small pieces of camembert cheese
drizzled with extra virgin oil and red balsamic vinegar
cracked pepper

The combination of these yummy flavours is exquisite. Gourmet salad in 2 minutes???
I have to say I also find it easier to keep this up in summer, as I love my hot food, in winter I tend to have more homemade soups for lunch than salads.

What healthy eating do you recommend?

Feel free to check our specials or enter some of our giveaways at present.

Better Homes & Gardens Live Show 10 Double Passes to giveaway....

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February = Valentine Day = telling someone you love them = or may be spread the LOVE = I am, by offering FREE SHIPPING for the month of February read on…….

2012-01-31T22:07:00.000+11:00

February Special......Free Shipping all over Australia on all orders $150.00 and over!

This is how it works:
Do your purchases as normal, if you pay via Pay Pal, you will be refunded the difference, if you opt to pay with internet banking, Invoice will be amended and you will pay the balance.
P.S. this offer cannot be used with any other offer or vouchers that I might have or will be offering.
Well let’s go shopping…..
Feel free to check our specials or enter some of our giveaways at present.

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Berries, Strawberries, Mangoes…stock up your antioxidants…in your freezer and use them as you need them….

2012-01-30T19:45:00.000+11:00

Summer, and a visit to your green grocer, will tell you that summer fruits at the moment are low in price, and if you go the markets, you can also buy them in trays or boxes, which you will get them even cheaper.

Some might say, if I buy a lot I end up throwing them away!

Just a few hints for you:

Lately I stocked up on my berries, you all know how expensive they can be
I bought a whole box…took it home
Washed them in their little boxes
Let them drain to
and straight into in the freezer

I do the same with:

Strawberries (you can cut the leaves on top if you wish), again wash drain and place in freezer in their own little punnets

Mangoes

Freeze them skin and all as you buy them
when you need to use them take them out of the Freezer, let them thaw, they will not be the same as you bought firm, but it becomes a pulp, which you can mix with cereals, yoghurts, ice-cream, create deserts, such as cheesecakes, muffins etc..

All the above are great to create delicious shakes:

throw frozen fruit in a jug
ice
milk
crush and mix altogether with a mixer, and enjoy a scrumptious healthy drink

Enjoy and save!

If you have any lovely hints and ideas to share love to hear them!

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‘Giveaway’ ~~ Better Homes and Gardens going LIVE from the “24th - 26th February 2012” at the Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton

2012-01-29T19:57:00.002+11:00

Yes that’s right…you read right Better Homes and Gardens is coming LIVE from the “24th - 26th February 2012” at the Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton.

Better Homes and Gardens Magazine was always one of my favourite magazine. As some of you know, I am very creative myself, but I have always loved going through the monthly issue and be inspired by other craft like minded people.

The TV show followed, and I am sure most of you are inspired by the step by step guide that all the lovely presenters, endeavour to entice us with their great projects, for our garden, home or some scrumptious dishes to tantalize our senses!

Well now they have even one better. You now have the opportunity, to meet some of the TV experts in real life.

This fabulous LIVE event brings to life the pages of Australia’s favourite magazine, providing home makers, DIY enthusiasts, keen gardeners and aspiring cooks with inspiring new ideas for their home and garden.
Don’t miss live stage shows from your favourite TV presenters, inspiring ideas, workshops and products for you to try and sensational shopping from over 250 exhibitors. Plus, with plenty of entertainment for the children, this is an unbeatable day out for the whole family!

All your favourite Better Homes and Gardens TV experts will be there and you can see them LIVE! Graham Ross, Tara Dennis, 'Fast' Ed, Karen Martini, Jason Hodges, Rob Palmer and Johanna Griggs will take to the stage to share their creative and original ideas to help you make yours a better home and garden! Click here to view the stage timetables.

For tickets and more info visit bhglive.com.au
“Better Homes & Garden has this “SPECIAL OFFER”
Purchase a double ticket (admits 2) for just $20 – that’s 50% off the door price! To take advantage of this offer, simply click here and enter the code BHGLIVE18. But hurry, offer ends at 5pm 10 February.

Love your home? Love your garden? You’ll love Better Homes and Gardens LIVE!

Better Homes and Gardens LIVE will be launching in Melbourne this February from 24-26 at the Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton. This 3 day event will host 4 stages, with live demonstrations from the Better Homes and Gardens TV experts, plus there’ll be over 300 companies exhibiting at the event, and to launch the event, I was lucky enough to be offered……10 double passes (a total of 20 complimentary tickets) for my Melbourne-based readers to attend the event. If you are based in another state, and you want to enter the competition, perhaps you have some relatives, to give them …please feel free to enter.

Please leave a comment below and tell us why you want to win a double pass for this amazing event?

This giveaway ends on the 14th February 2012 ~~ 23.55Hrs

The winner will be drawn by random org

Please make sure you leave an email address to be contacted if your name is drawn

If winners do not claim their prize by 16th February the prize will be re drawn

Thank to all of you that stopped by to enter the giveaway. I appreciate your comments and good luck in the draw, while you are here you can join our Newsletter, follow us on Facebook , Twitter , RSS, Google + and leave a comment that you are and you will receive an extra draw entry.

Disclosure: I received 10 Double passes from Better Homes and Gardens LIVE I was not paid to write this review or to blog it.. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely my own. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider or party in question.

Linking up with ...

The London Mansion by “Teamson” one left in stock!

2011-12-20T10:58:00.001+11:00

Just thought I let you know, that I managed to get one London Mansion back in stock...sorry for those who missed out here is one more last chance, as these will be out of stock till early April...

The London Mansion

A Dollhouse suited for Barbie and Bratz Dolls, but also can be used for any other dolls

Doll houses come with 14 pieces of furniture. Windows and Shutters are fixed, and doors open. They are ideal for for Barbie and Bratz Dolls, but are also great for all sorts of dolls.

They are finished off with great illustrations on both the outside and inside. Dolls not included.

Material is MDF……Paint used is non toxic.
Over 1.2 metres tall!

Supplied flat packed and complete with wheels.
Approx Measurements:
London Mansion(84.76 x 34.93 x 127.00cm)

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Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Lucky Winner of one of “Jessi Lynn” works of art print from the “little paint shop” is…

2011-11-23T00:34:00.001+11:00

I am sure the lucky winner is going to love Jessi Lynn’s print of one of her original artworks of your choice,

The lucky winner is No 7 Wendy Hatton

The winner has 7 days to reply to the winning email or I will redraw, please free to email me at romanticflairoriginal@hotmail.com

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Other Exciting Giveaways happening...check them out!

Giveaway Handmade Christmas Baubles are a treasured Christmas gift

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Christmas is 39 days away…and you might say where has Mrs Claus disappeared?

2011-11-16T20:13:00.001+11:00

No Mrs Claus has not disappeared of the face of the earth. I am still around, I am just under the pump.

2 weeks today we will be officially in our new home and my studio.
So guessed it…yes we have been packing, organizing,trades people and panicking trying to finish our new place in time.
No it is not going to be finished completely, but we shall have a roof over our heads.
My studio is almost set up as in shelving, we will making a big shift this weekend with boxes, and hopefully by early next week we will have the our wooden floor in the house finished, so perhaps we can start moving the furniture…….

So yes that is where I have been. On top of that I have been the perfect Mrs Claus, keeping up with all the orders coming in and trying not to disappoint anybody..
So I do miss terribly not being as much active on my Blog, but I am finding it impossible to get here…but don’t worry I will be back soon!

I am still taking orders for Personalized items but there will an approx. wait of 3 weeks.

Make sure you check my On Line Gift Shop for the great range of gifts, that I always endeavour to spoil you with…
Ho Ho Ho…..

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Giveaway by Artist Jessi Lynn
Giveaway Handmade Christmas Baubles are a treasured Christmas gift

Other Exciting Giveaways happening...check them out!
Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Victoria - Melbourne has free shipping today..keep on reading!

2011-11-03T10:01:00.001+11:00

Normally Randomly drawn every Wednesday night and shouted on Face Book Page, followed by a blog post Thursday morning…... Okay for today Thursday November 3rd 2011.. Drum Roll

Spend $90.00 and over Today on My On Line Gift Shop and shipping is free (regular mail ~~ extra to register or for express post)! This is for Thursday November 3rd 2011 only. Simply enter"FABKNOV3" in comment box on checkout and Invoice will be amended. P.S. this does not apply to items already on Special or with any other offers or vouchers! Check out our specials offers on Facebook, Wednesday night, followed by blog post every Thursday morning.

And the lucky number drawn by random org. is No.1 which is Victoria….

Victoria..…..,this is great opportunity for you to save on shipping costs.

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Giveaway by Artist Jessi Lynn
Other Exciting Giveaways happening...check them out!
Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Back In stock ~~ The London Mansion one of Teamson’s Designs is landing in Melbourne in the next 10 days

2011-11-02T21:10:00.000+11:00

“The London Mansion” is docking in Melbourne on the 13th November…..the long awaited Dollhouse for Barbies and Bratz Dolls is finally going to be back in stock. A lot of people have been waiting eagerly for this stock to arrive, so here is your chance, place an order or purchase, as stock is limited. We can work around you and organize a Layby for Christmas if you wish…

The London MansionA Dollhouse suited for Barbie and Bratz Dolls, but also can be used for any other dolls
Doll houses come with 14 pieces of furniture. Windows and Shutters are fixed, and doors open. They are ideal for for Barbie and Bratz Dolls, but are also great for all sorts of dolls.
They are finished off with great illustrations on both the outside and inside. Dolls not included.
Material is MDF……Paint used is non toxic.
Over 1.2 metres tall!
Supplied flat packed and complete with wheels.
Approx. Measurements:
London Mansion(84.76 x 34.93 x 127.00cm)

Sign up for our free newsletter
Giveaway by Artist Jessi Lynn
Other Exciting Giveaways happening...check them out!
Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Have you checked out “Jessi Lynn” works of art at the “little paint shop”. Review & Giveaway….

2011-10-31T23:00:00.001+11:00

humour

Artist “Jessi Lynn” from “the little paint shop”, approached me a few weeks ago, and asked me if I would be interested to review one of her prints of her original Art Work.
I think she had a thorough look through my Blog and she liked my appreciation of handmade and artistic creations. Well being an artist myself, I could not help but press her link that she gave me and went through her quaint shop on Etsy.
As I went through her creations one by one, I could see that she has a great love for animals, nature, and also has a sense of humour.

funny

She is humoured by animals doing funny things and enjoys painting pictures that tell a story. She loves painting in natural watercolours. I love the simplicity of her work, at the same time capturing gorgeous moments. She also does "custom pet portraits" and illustrations for books. Jessi lives in Southern California near the LA Zoo and frequently find excuses to spend time outdoors sketching and painting other peoples pets.

gorgeous

I asked my daughter, who at the moment is looking into having her own place, and I asked her which one she preferred out of her drawings, as I had in mind of giving her a surprise gift. I thought she would have gone for one of the owls, as at one stage she was collecting owls Salt & Pepper shakers, but she opted for “Three Pink Flamingos”. I love the flow less images of the Flamingos. Jessi was very prompt in sending it, and I was thrilled to receive it and now I cannot wait to give it to my daughter as part of her Christmas gift from us. It was very well packaged and it did not take long to get to Australia from the US.

flow less flamingos

Jessi Lynn and myself had a little chat just to get to know her a bit more, and she had this to say about herself…..

What is the funniest animal story you've heard?
It would probably be the time my friend, who played the Gorilla from the American Tourister commercials for years, was asked by a zoo (which will remain un-named) to come pose as a gorilla in their empty cage for three days while investors toured the facility. His suit is so anatomically correct its hard to tell him apart from the real thing.
What was your first pet?
A fish named Jaws, then a turtle named Einstein.
What do you love about animals the most?
I love animals because I find so much beauty when I look at them. I also blown away at how loyal some pets can be even when it means they put themselves in harms way to save their masters.
What pet do you wish you always had?
Since I was little I've always wanted a monkey, but since I recently found out I'm allergic to animal dander : ( I will enjoy painting them for now.

~~~~~~

It's that time of year again and Christmas shopping has already begun. Have you considered giving the unique and memorable gift of a custom pet portrait this year?

Jessi is kind enough to offer my readers and followers, a free print of one of her original artworks of your choice, to one of the lucky person who comments on my blog. The winner will be drawn by random org.

This giveaway ends on the 21st November 2011 ~~ 23.55Hrs

It is open to all around the globe!

What do you have to do to be eligible to win this gorgeous print of her Original Artwork? Simply…..

Go to her shop on Etsy “the little paint shop” and tell us what you like about her paintings, and which you would like to win.

Thank to all of you that stopped by to enter the giveaway . I appreciate your comments and good luck in the draw, while you are here you can join our Newsletter, follow us on Facebook , Twitter , RSS, Google + and leave a comment that you are and you will receive an extra draw entry.

Thank you Jessi for offering me to review one of your prints of your original artwork.

Disclosure: I received a Three Pink Flamingos print from the little paint shop” for review. I was not paid to write this review or to blog it. The opinions are based only on my experiences with the products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely my own. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider or party in question.

“a free print of one of her original artworks of your choice”

One of my favourites

~~~

Find more great giveaways by checking out the

Hosted by Three Lil Princesses

~~~

Giveaway Handmade Christmas Baubles are a treasured Christmas gift

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Great decorations at a great price by Tivoli Gardens on Etsy

2011-10-28T11:22:00.001+11:00

Great decorations at a great price by Tivoli Gardens on Etsy:

'via Blog this'

I have made it on a treasury list on etsy...

Ornaments Wooden Snowflake...

grahtoestu...

$23.97 AUD
Beach Mini Christmas Ornam...

SeashellCo...

$24.93 AUD
Reindeer Christmas Decorat...

RhondasOri...

$5.75 AUD
Christmas Decoration Needl...

feltmeupde...

$37.07 AUD
Angel - Personalized Chr...

boobiloo

$26.84 AUD
Vintage - Robin Christmas ...

RoseAndWat...

$8.49 AUD
Wooden Christmas Tree

dachcrafts

$38.61 AUD
Candy Cane Ornaments, Acor...

Fairyfolk

$28.76 AUD
Robin Christmas Tree Decor...

LuckyDrago...

$6.18 AUD
Personalized Christmas Aus...

romanticflai...

$16.00 AUD
Felt Christmas Ornament - ...

PineHillFo...

$9.59 AUD
ONE Peacock Christmas Deco...

lezardo

$11.59 AUD
Christmas Tree Ornament - ...

Dragonpop

$14.37 AUD
Bear Christmas Ornament Ha...

scrapstosc...

$7.67 AUD
Fabric toadstools Christma...

kirstyelso...

$21.62 AUD
Glass Christmas ornament w...

TivoliGard...

$9.59 A

Halloween Special Trick or treat ~ Halloween is creeping up so I thought I will treat YOU so your kids can Trick and Treat and have fun.......

2011-10-24T22:13:00.001+11:00

I think some of you would like this special!

Trick or treat ~~~ Halloween is creeping up so I thought I will treat YOU so your kids can Trick and Treat and have fun.......

All witches and wizard puppets in store have 15% off....okay so now are you going to Trick & treat, of course you are....there is not that many in stock, so I think you better start treating!

Who can tell me how Halloween came about ?

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Other Exciting Giveaways happening...check them out!

$30 voucher to spend in the Puppet section check it out at Mumma's Mini Mes
Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

You might also like:

Northern Territory done it again...free shipping....

2011-10-20T07:00:00.000+11:00

And the winning State for Free Shipping today ...keep on reading!

Normally Randomly drawn every Wednesday night and shouted on Face Book Page, followed by a blog post Thursday morning…..today lucky state for 20th October 2011..

Drum Roll:

Spend $90.00 and over on THURSDAY on My On Line Gift Shop and shipping is free (regular mail ~~ extra to register or for express post)! This is for Thursday Oct 20th 2011 only. Simply enter"FABKOCT20th" in comment box on checkout and Invoice will be amended. P.S. this does not apply to itemsalready on Special or with any other offers or vouchers! Check out our specials offers on Facebook, Wednesday night, followed by blog post every Thursday morning.

And the lucky number drawn by random org. is No.6 which is Northern Territory ….Take advantage of this offer as it might not come up again for a while!

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Other Exciting Giveaways happening...check them out!

$30 voucher to spend in the Puppet section check it out at Mumma's Mini Mes
$30 voucher to spend in the musical section check it our at Stuffwiththing

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Where Have I been? You definitely know if you around my studio that Christmas is not that far away!

2011-10-17T23:51:00.000+11:00

I have been slack on blogging lately, this is not by choice, but there is only 24hrs in the day……!

With the lead up to Christmas, my work as in producing takes over. I am itchy and dying to come and write a post, but unfortunately my days are full…I have spend all day today packing orders that have just been finished, I thought I would have finished by early afternoon,..but it took me all day to get through them.

I just thought I give you an insight of one of the process that my baubles go through. At the end of last week, Thursday and Friday were spent…cleaning greenware, getting the first stage of the baubles to go in their first firing. Each Bauble goes in a kiln 3 times, then I have to put them together, pack them and set them off to you. So there is quite a fair bit of time involved.

Here you see Baubles and Baubles, one of the boxes, has been painted with the light green for the ones with the light green background.

These have been painted ready for the earthy red backgrounds.

And these ones which you can hardly see, are the ones for the mauve backgrounds, which they go darker when they are fired.

I do not think you have seen so many Baubles at one go, but I thought I just give you an insight of how busy I get at this time of the year.

For those who are thinking of placing your orders for your Personalized Christmas Baubles, do not leave it any longer. I process my orders first come first served.

Have a look at some of my customers requested.

Here you will find all the different designs under different categories, I am sure there is a design for each and every one of you.

Do not leave it too late as Mrs.Claus, this year might have to close shop in November, as she will be in the middle of house and studio shifting.

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Other Exciting Giveaways happening...check them out!

$30 voucher to spend in the musical section check it our at Stuff withthing

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Ah wellllllllllllll Northern Territory???????????

2011-10-13T07:00:00.000+11:00

And the winning State for Free Shipping today ...keep on reading!

Normally Randomly drawn every Wednesday night and shouted on Face Book Page, followed by a blog post Thursday morning…..today lucky state for 13th October 2011..

Drum Roll:

Spend $90.00 and over on THURSDAY on My On Line Gift Shop and shipping is free (regular mail ~~ extra to register or for express post)! This is for Thursday Oct 13th 2011 only. Simply enter"FABKOCT13th" in comment box on checkout and Invoice will be amended. P.S. this does not apply to itemsalready on Special or with any other offers or vouchers! Check out our specials offers on Facebook, Wednesday night, followed by blog post every Thursday morning.

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Last week I exhibited at the "Elmore Field show" ......

2011-10-12T22:30:00.000+11:00

For those perhaps that follow me, know that I stayed in Bendigo, as I was exhibiting at the Elmore Field Show. I look forward to this show, which I have been doing for the last 4 years now. Although it sis a full on week, by the time I drive all the way set up and a 3 day full on show, I end up exhausted by Thursday.

In the meantime, at night I enjoy looking around Bendigo, with the charms of a lovely city, Lake Weeroona in the middle of the city, surrounded with lush and gorgeous Parks.

In my relaxing time I snapped a few shots around the lake which I thoroughly enjoyed walking around.

Very peaceful and serene……………..

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Other

$30 voucher to spend in the Educational section check it out atMumma’s Mini Mes
$30 voucher to spend in the musical section check it our at Stuff withthing

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

I am linking up with My Little Drummer Boys this week….

Wordless Wednesday although I have said a fair bit ……..

Funky Australiana fun and loveable Personalized Christmas Baubles……

2011-10-11T07:00:00.000+11:00

Funky Australiana fun and loveable Personalized Christmas Baubles……

Fun…….

Fun……

Fun………

If you would like to have some of these gorgeous baubles you can find them here. They are great to take or send as Keepsakes or as souvenirs overseas !

Check out all the different designs in store

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Other

$30 voucher to spend in the Educational section check it out at Mumma’s Mini Mes
$30 voucher to spend in the musical section check it our at Stuffwiththing

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

As seen on the Handmade & Gift Guide 2011~~ Romantic Flair Original

2011-10-10T09:21:00.000+11:00

Lately the Handmade & Gift Magazine has been launched...Our On Line Store and some of our personalized products were featured, as you know we offer an array of gorgeous gifts and personalized gifts that will make your special occasion and Christmas a memorable one.......

Product No 5

Product No 4

You can have a look at the rest of the guide to see the awesome products offered by others as well....This Gift guide was organized by the lovely Alison from "Mums who Make"

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Other Exciting Giveaways happening...check them out!

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

And the winning State for Free Shipping today ...keep on reading!

2011-10-06T07:00:00.000+11:00

Normally Randomly drawn every Wednesday night and shouted on Face Book Page, followed by a blog post Thursday morning…..today lucky state for 6th October 2011..

Drum Roll:

Spend $90.00 and over on THURSDAY on My On Line Gift Shop and shipping is free (regular mail ~~ extra to register or for express post)! This is for Thursday Oct 6th 2011 only. Simply enter"FABKOCT6th" in comment box on checkout and Invoice will be amended. P.S. this does not apply to itemsalready on Special or with any other offers or vouchers! Check out our specials offers on Facebook, Wednesday night, followed by blog post every Thursday morning.

And the lucky number drawn by random org. is No.4 which is Western Australia ….Take advantage of this offer as it might not come up again for a while!

Sign up for our free newsletter!

Other Exciting Giveaways happening...check them out!

$30 voucher to spend in the Educational section check it out at Mumma's Mini Mes

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Magnetic sets for kids are a great way to improve imagination, motor skills, language…..

2011-09-30T07:00:00.000+10:00

What do you offer your kids…to improve the following skills?

Motor skills
language, vocabulary development
imaginative skills
manipulative skills
co-ordination skills
dress up skills

You can improve and challenge your kids to develop the above different ways of play.

Today I am going to talk about Magnetic Sets available in my store that are fabulous in developing these skills.

The following are are great fun, and the kids can let their imagination loose and have an awesome time, making different funny faces.

They come in the these four designs:

These are great for:
encouraging creativity
encouraging freedom of expressing themselves
having lots of fun
one to one activity

A couple of other wooden products that I have in store are these Magnetic Dress Up sets, it is great to see sets for boys as well.

They both are;

Ideal for

ideal first experience for a child to have a go at dressing up skills
great for manipulative skills
sorting
dressing up skills
great pretend play

Great gift idea or a small group activity.

Which one do you like best and why? Check them out here.

Thank you Mumma's Mini Mes for reviewing one of our product that we stock....

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Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

The winning state for this week is Queensland….Random org. has been quite fair of late each week a different state came up lately…

2011-09-29T09:57:00.000+10:00

Normally Randomly drawn every Wednesday night and shouted on Face Book Page, followed by a blog post Thursday morning…..today lucky state for 30th September 2011..

Drum Roll:

Spend $90.00 and over on THURSDAY on My On Line Gift Shop and shipping is free (regular mail ~~ extra to register or for express post)! This is for Thursday Sept 30th 2011 only. Simply enter"FABKSEP30th" in comment box on checkout and Invoice will be amended. P.S. this does not apply to items already on Special or with any other offers or vouchers! Check out our specials offers on Facebook, Wednesday night, followed byblog post every Thursday morning.

And the lucky number drawn by random org. is No.7 which is Queensland …. Take advantage of this offer as it might not come up again for a while!

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Other Exciting Giveaways happening...check them out!

$30 voucher to spend in the Doll House Furniture section check it out at Stuff With Thing

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Memories, Keepsakes…creating a family tree which you reveal every Christmas to place on your Christmas Tree. Special Moments you celebrated in your life, Special people or pets in your life that passed away, embracing, reminiscing………

2011-09-28T07:00:00.000+10:00

This can be a special moment and a special evening for you and your family to celebrate every year at Christmas Time. These mementos of Special Moments you celebrated , Special people or pets in your life that passed away, embracing, reminiscing………Treasuring!

You do not appreciate these Keepsakes, when you originally get them, although I know most of you do, but year after year a Family history will start evolving on your tree.
Memories of loved ones….

Kids are always ….popular

Loveable pets……

Special Mementos or memorial’s

Finally they are gift boxed and on your way for you to treasure…..

Please be aware, that Mrs Claus do not have anyone to help here…so do not place your orders too late as you will miss out!

What keepsakes would you like to create?

Thank you Kym from Mumma's Mini Mes for reviewing my product

Thank to all of you that stopped by to enter the giveaway . I appreciate your comments and good luck in the draw, while you are here you can join our Newsletter, follow us on Facebook ,Twitter , RSS, Google + and leave a comment that you are and you will receive an extra draw entry.
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Giveaway by Artist Jessi Lynn

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

How does Music benefits young children?

2011-09-27T11:20:00.000+10:00

I am not a musician by any means. I always loved to learn how to play the piano, but that has never became a reality so far. Going down memory lane, I always remembered as a child singing certain songs over and over again that I really loved. Sound of music is one of my favourites and still is. I used to make up my own words to a tune that I really liked.

As toddlers, I remember very vividly, we used to play with our mums pots and pans and bang and make our own music with whatever makes a noise, I do not know how much mum appreciated that, but I think it encourages us to explore the beat, rhythm and sound, after all I think that is what music is all about.

Somehow personally, music can give me a sense of:

freedom
expressing myself, I might be feeling sad and I can relate to a song or tune to what I am feeling inside, or if you feel on top of the world….happy songs
playing instruments…you will find you can explore the rhythm, beat, and different levels of sound.

Working with pre-schoolers I have always made sure that I created a corner, where they can freely have access to musical instruments. We also had sessions of listening to stories with musical interludes, where we sang and danced around the room, with a choice if they want to use musical instruments.

I am a very firm believer as you well know of puppets, and I have written quite a few posts just to mention: Puppets and Special kids…… Children, Teenagers and Puppets.
I believe Puppets and Music go hand in hand together.

They both:

stimulate the brain

Research shows that kids who are actively involved in music (who play it or sing it regularly):

do better in reading and math when they start school
are better able to focus and control their bodies
play better with others and have higher self-esteem

encourages
expressing emotions
developing motor skills

I have done some research and came through some interesting articles which I am going to highlight, just to show you how music is encouraged by all different professions.

Introducing music to children at a very young age…by Christine Moore

“Important to note is the adult singer may be singing alone for quite some time until the child or children have learnt the words to the song.
As long as the singer sings with enthusiasm, the child does not care if the notes are too sharp or flat. The child is not judging whether the song is in tune or not.
Children grasp onto familiarity. They will learn favourites and often will want to hear the same song again and again.
Children like repetition, so some song choices which work with young children are the songs with repeated lyrics.
Actions and hand movements work well when singing with young children
When singing with a group of children, instead of waiting for them to stop talking, just start singing
Props, like puppets or felt stories, along with a song is a great way to introduce singing experiences with children.
Play music throughout daily routines, such as while driving in the car, before naptime or while playing. “

Music All Around article wrote and reviewed by D'Arcy Lyness, PhD

“Here are some ways to give kids opportunities to be musical:

Sing or listen to music in the car, while you're doing chores, and while your child is playing. Keep a basket of musical instruments where kids can get them. Consider buying a kid-friendly CD player your child can operate and keep in his or her room.

Make sure your child's preschool offers chances to sing and play simple instruments, to move to music, and to create music. Ask the teacher what songs they regularly sing so that you can sing them at home.

Enrol your child in a preschool music class. If you don't know where to begin, ask the music department at your local college for suggestions.

For a special treat, take your child to live musical performances, especially ones designed for pre-schoolers. Museums, libraries, and bookstores often host performances by children's-music artists. Outdoor concerts are also a good bet for pre-schoolers because they can dance and move around without disturbing anyone.”

Music therapy is a therapeutic intervention for children with disabilities.

“All children can be helped to learn to enjoy and to become involved in music to some extent.

Music therapy can be of inestimable value for children who have difficulties in hearing, seeing, moving, thinking or responding.
A single instrument can possess qualities of sound and tone irresistible enough to reach a child in a direct, uncomplicated manner.
Children who experience severe obstacles in forming relationships with other children, adults and their environment can achieve security and joy in making music.
By means of therapeutic music, we can assist these children to come to maturity in many ways. "Music confers non-musical benefits that have particular consequences for children with special needs.

Therapeutic Characteristics of Music

Music captivates and maintains attention

Music stimulates and utilizes many parts of the brain

Music is easily adapted to, and can be reflective of, a person's abilities

Music structures time in a way that we can understand ("that's the last verse - my exercise session is almost over!")

Music provides a meaningful, enjoyable context for repetition

Music provides a social context -- it sets up a safe, structured setting for verbal and nonverbal communication

Music is an effective memory aid

Music supports and encourages movement

Music taps into memories and emotions

Music and the silences within it provide nonverbal, immediate feedback

Music is success-oriented - people of all ability levels can participate”

keep reading very interesting article……
Another interesting article FROM HEARTBEAT TO STEADY BEAT - MUSIC AND THE UNBORN
This article is very fascinating article how music relates with the unborn child.

I hope you found this very interesting and useful post….After reading these article you will see the importance of introducing music in a very young age! What other musical instruments would you like to see in my store? Which one is your favorite? You will find a selection of instruments in store here.

Thank you Marita from Stuffwiththing for kindly reviewing our products.....

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$30 voucher to spend in the Educational section check it out at Mumma's Mini Mes

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Fairy Floss is venturing to Mt Eliza..tomorrow and I will be exhibiting there!

2011-09-24T21:29:00.002+10:00

I will be making my way to exhibit at yet another venue of "Fairy Floss Markets", this time at Mt. Eliza.

Looking forward to meet some lovely people at this part of Victoria, part of the Mornington Peninsula.

These markets cater for handmade and specialized items for kids.

Do you know that tomorrow is the 25th September, which means.... that's right 3 month exactly till Christmas.

So get your thinking caps going...and start organizing Christmas...perhaps you might want to start tomorrow...you will find gorgeous things to start enticing your imagination.

Venue:
The Peninsula School
Wooralla Drive

MT ELIZA


9.00am – 2.00pm

Other

$30 voucher to spend in the Doll House Furniture section check it out at Stuff With Thing

$30.00 Gift Voucher to be able to buy something from the Barefoot range check it out here......

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

The yearly event…"Casey Loves Cloth Nappies Expo" is on tomorrow…!

2011-09-23T14:57:00.000+10:00

The yearly event “Casey loves Cloth Nappies Expo” will be on tomorrow…This is an awesome yearly event, kindly organized by the city of Casey…to encourage the use of cloth nappies and Eco environmental products.

Venue
Cranbourne Public Hall
Cnr Clarendon and High St, Cranbourne
Saturday, September 24 · 9:00am - 3:00pm

There will be a range of products displayed, from nappies, toys, cleaning materials….etc.
I will be exhibiting the lovely range from Barefoot…puppets, and some of my Christmas collection …. Great opportunity to do some of your Christmas Shopping.
See you there!

$30 voucher to spend in the Doll House Furniture section check it out at Stuff With Thing
$30.00 Gift Voucher to be able to buy something from the Barefoot range check it out here......

Take a look at the Specials at present…. Also if you want to check out more specials and you want some great giveaways…check this out!

Romantic Flair Original

Simple colourful lunch that you will enjoy eating and very healthy for you!

February = Valentine Day = telling someone you love them = or may be spread the LOVE = I am, by offering FREE SHIPPING for the month of February read on…….

Berries, Strawberries, Mangoes…stock up your antioxidants…in your freezer and use them as you need them….

‘Giveaway’ ~~ Better Homes and Gardens going LIVE from the “24th - 26th February 2012” at the Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton

The London Mansion by “Teamson” one left in stock!

Lucky Winner of one of “Jessi Lynn” works of art print from the “little paint shop” is…

Christmas is 39 days away…and you might say where has Mrs Claus disappeared?

Victoria - Melbourne has free shipping today..keep on reading!

Back In stock ~~ The London Mansion one of Teamson’s Designs is landing in Melbourne in the next 10 days

Have you checked out “Jessi Lynn” works of art at the “little paint shop”. Review & Giveaway….

Great decorations at a great price by Tivoli Gardens on Etsy

Halloween Special ~~ Trick or treat ~~~ Halloween is creeping up so I thought I will treat YOU so your kids can Trick and Treat and have fun.......

Northern Territory done it again...free shipping....

And the winning State for Free Shipping today ...keep on reading!

Where Have I been? You definitely know if you around my studio that Christmas is not that far away!

Ah wellllllllllllll Northern Territory???????????

And the winning State for Free Shipping today ...keep on reading!

Last week I exhibited at the "Elmore Field show" ......

Funky Australiana fun and loveable Personalized Christmas Baubles……

Funky Australiana fun and loveable Personalized Christmas Baubles……

As seen on the Handmade & Gift Guide 2011~~ Romantic Flair Original

And the winning State for Free Shipping today ...keep on reading!

Magnetic sets for kids are a great way to improve imagination, motor skills, language…..

The winning state for this week is Queensland….Random org. has been quite fair of late each week a different state came up lately…

Memories, Keepsakes…creating a family tree which you reveal every Christmas to place on your Christmas Tree. Special Moments you celebrated in your life, Special people or pets in your life that passed away, embracing, reminiscing………

How does Music benefits young children?

Music All Around article wrote and reviewed by D'Arcy Lyness, PhD

Music therapy is a therapeutic intervention for children with disabilities.

Therapeutic Characteristics of Music

Fairy Floss is venturing to Mt Eliza..tomorrow and I will be exhibiting there!

The yearly event…"Casey Loves Cloth Nappies Expo" is on tomorrow…!

Halloween Special Trick or treat ~ Halloween is creeping up so I thought I will treat YOU so your kids can Trick and Treat and have fun.......