MamaMoontime

MamaMoontime has MOVED.

2013-02-06T21:19:00.002+10:00

After months of work and waiting, MamaMoontime has finally moved.

The new website is www.parentingfuneveryday.com

All of the good stuff on this blog is now ordered and organised on the new site, and is just waiting for you to come and explore.

Be one step ahead and join the Parenting Fun Everyday email list to receive a monthly newsletter filled with exclusive crafty how-to's, recipes, articles AND be gifted a FREE Weekly Meal Planner PRINTABLE, to help you organise your family and bring another dose of happiness to mealtimes. (It is very cute too!)

I look forward to seeing you at Parenting Fun Everyday Amber

Problogger Conference 2012

2012-10-09T19:38:00.001+10:00

Hello, my friends.
Yes, well, it's taking slightly longer than I had planned, isn't it?
I'm learning this year that although I have goals and dates in mind for things to come to fruition, sometimes life throws you a curve ball or two to remind you who is in charge!

But I figure, as long as I keep doing the work, meeting all the deadlines and responsibilities that I am in charge of, and spend time, at least a little everyday, I'll reach these goals soon enough. Funnily enough, earlier this year I did have a tarot reading (I hadn't done this for years) and my cards ALL spoke of how change and good stuff was coming.... in early 2013! Now, I'm beginning to think the cards might have been right. Not for lack of trying on my part though. I'm one stubborn bull. But this year for me is all about letting go and trusting the process.

So, this week, I'm off to Melbourne for the Problogger conference. I'm really, really excited for what things might come of this little trip, and hope to share some of what I learn with you too.
(I also am able to spend two nights with my best friend in the world, and her family! Yay!!)
I'm looking forward to networking with a whole lot of other writers, bloggers, journalists and the like out there. Sometimes, writing is a lonely life and it is such fun to meet like-minded people in the flesh.

And the good news on the blog front is that my developer is finalising the transfer of data as we speak. This is the final step, then the new and improved blog (including an exciting new, broader direction that will hopefully help more people) will be live. I truly can't wait. It's been a long time coming to get back onto my blog on a daily basis. Oh, the things I have in store!

The book too, is nearly there with a publication date of early January. The handwritten songs are back, the photos are all completed, the patterns are being finalised. And the book cover design is almost underway. This is one big mountain to climb, but I can almost see the top.

So, the question is, what have you been up to in 2012? Having adventures? Travelling? Reaching for your goals too? I'd love to know.

See you soon. Very soon.

Amber

Hello again!

2012-08-27T12:02:00.000+10:00

Hello, my long lost readers and friends
An update for you all.
The blog redesign is all completed and is currently with the developer.
I'm hoping to hear back this week with some kind of timeline.
But it shouldn't be much longer.
To be honest, I've put blogging on hold to make the job of moving this blog to its new wordpress site easier for the developer, but in hindsight, if I'd had any clue it would take this long, I wouldn't have stopped. I miss you all, and am desperate to get blogging again.
All I can say is that this enforced holiday from blogging has got my creative spark firing on all cylinders again! Nothing like an impromptu holiday to allow you to rebuild your energy and creative spirit.

So, fingers crossed. It won't be long now.

I can't wait to be in touch with you all again real soon.

Amber

Erwin the Elf's Grand World Adventure 2011-2012

2012-07-20T18:48:00.001+10:00

(My son Ned as Erwin set off last year)

Regular readers might remember back in November last year a little story about Erwin the Elf and his journey to visit a whole bunch of lovely people who had volunteered to help my little niece, Annabel.

You see, in May last year, Annabel was diagnosed with leukaemia. And so, with the help of a whole bunch of MamaMoontime readers, we decided to do something really special to bring her, and her family, a whole lot of extra joy last Christmas. You can read the whole story here: Advent for Annabel.

Erwin the Elf began his journey in November last year, and since then has travelled north and south, east and west, to the country and the city, near the sea, and by the river. Sometimes he had such a lovely time visiting that he stayed with the families and children for a few weeks, attending school and daycare, and going out to dinner. He has been treated like a king actually!

In my distorted vision back in November, I truly thought he would arrive at Annabel's house in Sydney by Christmas 2012. But I underestimated the love and care and attention that he would receive from my wonderful MamaMoontime readers, and so it is that he is still travelling.

Today, I heard from Kate, on the other side of the country. Her email brought a smile to my face.

"It’s an amazing and wonderful thing you have done – you’ve brought joy to so many children with Erwin on his way to Annabel. Finn and Pippa were so excited to spend time with him and read all about his adventures."

But it wasn't me. It was YOU! I am so grateful to everyone, those 30 families who put their hand up to the call out on day one. YOU have already made Annabel's (and her family) day once. When Erwin finally arrives at their Sydney home, you'll made their day twice. THANK YOU!! From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU.

So, right now, Erwin is hopefully in Sydney with Vanessa and her family, and soon to jet off for his next-to-last destination- Croatia to Suzana and her family. Then, it's home, home, home he goes.

I am so looking forward to hearing the reactions of Annabel and her siblings. I'll keep you posted!!

'Run for your lives' Red Cross USA 5 kilometre fun run.

2012-07-15T19:47:00.001+10:00

Yay! It's Sunday.
I do love Sundays, a long lie-in in the colder weather and time for an extra cup of tea before getting up to do my thing. Today was an exceptionally fabulous Sunday. I finished the final edit of my book!
This afternoon I printed it, all 125, 000 words, and tomorrow I'll read it on paper before it goes back to the Editor for a final proof read. It has taken a long, long time to get here but I think it's been worth it. This has been the biggest adventure of my life, other than having my two babies of course.

So this afternoon I congratulated myself with a long leisurely walk into town, and bought the Sunday papers. I love Sunday papers. I'm a bit of a skim reader but I always find things that grab my attention.

Today's feature was all about running. Now, I've had times where I've run daily- even times where I've run daily UP the biggest hills in my old home town. (I know, really... what was I thinking?)
But lately, the very idea of running just sends chills to my bones. No. I didn't think I could ever DO THAT AGAIN. Agggghhhhh!

But there was a rundown of some of the grand running events around the world, and one caught my eye.

Can you imagine running for your life? Like, literally running for your life? With a pack of zombies chasing you while you scale obstacles and dodge their spooky arms reaching out to grab your flag lifelines? Now, that sounds like my kind of fun!

(Yes, I do love a good horror movie, and to be scared witless! I LOVE it!)

If this sounds like you too, then maybe you'd like to check out the website. Run for your lives! The next event is August 4th in Washington state, USA. But I have a feeling it won't be long until it hits our shores too. Perhaps I'd better start training? Want to join me?

Relaunch coming soon!

2012-07-04T23:04:00.004+10:00

Hello MamaMoontimers! I know things have been very very quiet on the blog front, but don't worry- I am still working away, in fact, so busy that I am having real trouble finishing all the other things I need to do in a day, let alone making it here.

MamaMoontime is also moving to a new location, (and a new name) and I'm saving up lots of good stuff for the relaunch.

But in less than 10 weeks, I'll be back with a new website/blog, a new book, an updated and fabulous webinar series, AND daily postings on the blog!! I can't wait. I have so so so much to share. See you soon! I'm coming back.

I really can't wait to be back here daily, and sharing good stuff. And it's not only my stuff I'll be sharing either.

If you have an idea or make groovy things that parents all around the world would like and find useful, then you need to let me know. My new website has an opportunity for YOU to submit your ideas, a place to showcase your talents, your business, your work, your words. If you are thinking this might be something you'd like to do, then send me an email. amber.greene@hotmail.com

I do look forward to building our wonderful creative community further, and sharing helpful tips, crafty tutorials, and all kinds of inspiration to fire up your creative spark!

See you very soon!!

Amber

The Error of Parenting Expectation (and how to overcome it).

2012-06-19T20:56:00.003+10:00

The most important thing I have learned about children is that they come to this world and life with their own agenda. We are the vessel through which they pass but the journey is theirs alone.

Image via Pinterest.

http://pinterest.com/pin/276338127106020872/

When things are going well, we parents are happy to greet the applause. We readily accept the kudos that comes when our child is top of the class, the fastest runner in the grade, or the sweetest child on the block. Parenting is a funny thing. It brings out the competitive side in many of us and when our children do well, we revel in their glory, as though we too have won. We are convinced that our parenting is the thing that has made all the difference. No one is immune. I remember being chuffed when my son spoke early or shared his toys happily or chose an apple over an iceblock. We want to believe we play a big role in preparing our child for their shining star moment. Some of the time we do.

But I also know something else. I’m a parent of a child with a disability and despite my best intentions and parenting support, there are few wins. When raising a child who is different or disabled, there are no guarantees. There is no set path. There is no right way. They walk alone along a path that is theirs to navigate and we hover behind, picking up the pieces and mending fences as we go. They lead us. They take us to places and events and people that we would never have met ordinarily. They become our greatest teachers if we can overcome the feeling that we did something wrong. And as they grow and develop, we begin to see their true purpose, their unfolding destiny and how they might fit in this unusual world.

Teachers too, know different. Teachers get to know lots of children through their classes each year and many have the privilege to teach the siblings of a previous student. Having close relationships with different children from the same family group is a wonderful way to highlight the fact that every child has their own journey. Often, siblings have been born from the same genetic pool, and to a high degree share the same home life, food consumption, parental boundaries, rules and consequences, learning opportunities, play and leisure time activities and bedtimes. Yet all teachers know that one sibling can be COMPLETELY DIFFERENT to another. For all the lack of similarities in their personalities and temperaments, they may as well have come from different families. The contrast can be that stark.

It never failed to amaze me how one child in a family could be top of the class academically, and another one be right at the bottom. Or one child be super sporty and agile, whilst the other sibling was a book worm. Sometimes one sibling could be the sweetest angel, while another displayed behaviours more commonly found in prison inmates.

The more children I have taught, the stronger my belief that every child is here for their own journey. One that WE don’t choose.

When children are good and kind and friendly and helpful, living a normal life and behaving well, parenting is easy. Truly. Parents don’t know how good they have it until they don’t have it so good anymore.

But some of us don’t have this life. Parenting is a struggle. Raising our child is a struggle. Every little thing that most parents take for granted, we cannot take for granted. This is what it is like to be the parent of a child who is born with a challenge. Our children miss out on play dates, and sleepovers, and birthday parties. They don’t dance on stage at end-of-year ballet concerts, or join the class on excursions. And when they miss out, we miss out too. On friendships, and social events and just being part of the crowd. Our children’s difficulties become our difficulties, and our world shrinks a little. We stand on the left when everyone else seems to be standing on the right.

There are varying shades of challenges too. Some children are born with severe disability that requires the constant presence of a full time carer. Other children are born with physical challenges that can be somewhat overcome, such as cochlear implants for a child born with hearing loss, or a blind child learning to read braille and live a full life. Some children are born with heart defects or cerebral palsy, and other things that may well limit their life span.

For other families, they begin life with their healthy newborn with no insight or preparation for the trauma to come. Autism is often not diagnosed until the child’s second birthday. Aspergers Syndrome might only become obvious with the beginning of socialising in a school-based situation. Anorexia and depression commonly appear in the early teens. Disease, illness and disability can strike at any time.

But no matter when a parenting challenge begins or the severity of a diagnosis, it is something that rocks the foundations of what it means to be a parent.

We all come to this world of parenting with expectation.

We believe we’ll be great parents.
We believe our children will be healthy.
We trust that they will have friends
We trust that they will go to school at 5 years old.
We prepare for really good report cards.
We imagine that they will sing or perform in the school play
We expect them to graduate, with a closing ceremony.

But for some of us, this will never happen. The challenge for parents when faced with the road less travelled is how to manage the transition from expectation to an acceptance of the real life they now have.

Letting go of our parenting expectations is actually the healthiest thing we can do. Instead, we need to believe we will do the best we can do in every individual moment and challenge we face, and do better when we know better. Instead of setting ourselves up for a fall (I’ll never smack my child, I’ll never yell at my child, I’ll breastfeed until he is 2 years old), everyone who comes to parenting can hold on tightly to this mantra, ”I’ll do my best, and when I know better, I’ll do better”. It’s a prescription for happiness, and possibly a prevention for parenting-induced depression.

With disability or difficulty especially, we need to let go of the guilt that we did something to bring this on. We need to let go of the need to appear that we are managing, and coping, and being strong. The reality is, at times, parenting can really suck. Parenting is not fair, and good parents don’t always get an easy ride. Sometimes so-called ‘bad’ parents are given angels and good, thoughtful caring parents seem to lump the difficulties. It is ok to be angry and upset and to voice that feeling to our friends and our families and our counsellors. (Never in front of the children if possible, but if that happens, let it go). It is ok to feel duped sometimes. It is ok to wave a finger at an invisible God once in a while. It is ok to scream into a pillow. We just need to be sure to get back up again and keep walking that squiggly hump-filled path.

We do our best, seeking support and assistance and help from our family and friends, and as many agencies, groups, health bodies and hospitals as we can. And when we have done our best, we can rest.

A week ago, I was talking to the parents of a 25 year old girl with anorexia. For over 8 years, they’ve been taking her to every kind of therapy, counselling, program and hospital in-patient wards to try to help with little success. I asked them how they managed in daily life, having travelled a similar path with my daughter and her Aspergers. The father commented, “We had to make a decision that her illness could consume the four of us, or her alone. After all this time and effort and energy, we’ve made the difficult decision to step back and care for ourselves too.” But it was the mother’s comments that brought home to me the hard road those of us with these difficulties face. ”If I had known that parenting would be like this, I don’t know if I would have done it. It’s definitely not the kind of parenting that I hoped for, or expected, and it has not been the rosy picture that I was given.”

For some of us, parenting is not the joyful journey we hoped for. But two things can help.

1. Seeing and finding the gifts of their journey and the individual path they have taken.
2. Letting go of our pre-planned expectations.

If we can do this, and find meaning in the story we share, then we have won too.

Fun Things to Do with Kids in Hawaii: Children's Discovery Centre

2012-06-12T23:38:00.001+10:00

Fifteen minutes west of Waikiki (towards the airport) is a place of childhood dreams.

Just a little way along the Ala Moana Blvd beyond the Ala Moana shopping centre, and the Ward Complex, hides this colourful building. Honestly, you'd never know it was there if you weren't looking. Yet inside lie treasures beyond your wildest imagination.

Your children will LOVE this place. I guarantee it.

The Hawaii Children's Discovery Centre.

Come look and see!

There are three, yes, three! levels of fun.

The first floor is all about good health. Giant teeth to be brushed, the insides of a juicy mouth to climb inside, doctor's surgery, and a dentist too. And that's not all.

But my son was much too excited about the potential of trucks and cars to bother about this area much at all.

We were on a bigger mission.

We passed the Court of Law (complete with lectern and hammer), the Post Office with mail box, letter writing facilities, scales and ready-to-post letters just needing a stamp, and also the Police Station.

There were trains to push, miniature cars to drive on a car-shaped bonnet road, blocks to build, and a farm yard complete with animal costumes, and a farm house too.

Just around the corner, was the Corner Shop.

Oh, look. Someone had driven there!

Shopping carts stood ready for customers to collect their goods and make their way to the checkout.

There were frozen foods, dairy products kept in the fridge...

Even a deli, with cling wrapped packed 'sausages' and 'meats'.

You could even weigh your own vegetables, just to be sure of what you were buying of course.

And next to the store, was the Fire Station.

Quick! Dingalingaling.

I can hear the sirens wailing.

Oh good. There's a fireman getting his gear on now.

The Fire crew had their own mascot dog who was happy to tag along on the journeys.

And when firemen are tired from all their work, they simply pop upstairs above the store for a little nap!

Beside the Fire Station was the local mechanic.

He was in the business of training apprentices, it seems and Ned was more than happy to oblige.

He filled the oil, and changed the spark plugs and added window washer too.

He learned how to change tyres...

by following 'Work Orders' located at the back of the mechanic shop.

He also learned how to replace the muffler.

Bright kid, that one.

But it wasn't all fun and games for the boys.

Along the way, we found a castle and turret, leading into the most delightful story book area

with the biggest story chair you've ever seen, and a warm and toasty fire too.

There was a 'stage' for performances and most importantly, chairs for mama's and papa's so they could watch their budding actors up in lights. The dressing rooms were filled with costumes too.

But if you really wanted to be a star of the screen, and not the stage,

you can read the news, or the weather and be seen by...

the people watching from the other room!

When all this fun was done, it was time to head on up.

The dockyards were booming with busy, industrious workers keen to finish their shifts.

Oh, there's so much to do by the Aloha Tower.

We have to lift the cargo by forklift to the scales, then use the pulleys to load the cargo onto the ship.

It's tough work!

The captain prepares to steer the ship...

and the crew move the forklift out of the way.

Ding dong...

It's time to go.

Flags are out, and we'll set sail...

When our work at the docks was done, there were bubbles to blow..

and pineapples to collect from the fields.

(Hawaii is famous for its pineapples, of course)

Then it was time to take an airplane trip to a whole raft of new lands.

Ever the explorer are we.

(Just a note: If you are really lucky like me, you too might bump into this guy. He's hard to miss with his broad accent and funny quips. He and his little boy are Discovery Centre regulars and he made me laugh out loud by playing along with both his boy and Ned, and whomever else cared to join in. His commentary at the Dockyards and on the airplane made the whole place come alive for Ned and me too. Keep an eye out.

If you spot him, let him know he is famous!)

The plane landed at this farmhouse, way up high on the third floor.

Ned picked vegetables for dinner, and a posy of flowers for his mama.

Just around the corner, we visited corners of Japan, Korea, America.. even under the sea.

But of course, once all this exploring was done, it was back to work for Ned.

Fire fighting is a tough job, and someone's got to do it.

If you are heading to Hawaii anytime soon, bookmark this page and be sure to head on out.

Entry is $10 per person, and is probably the best value $20 (for both of us) I've ever spent.

Be sure to take your own snacks or lunch.

Hawaii Children's Discovery Centre

http://www.discoverycenterhawaii.org/

111 Ohe Street, Honolulu. The Hawaii Children's Discovery Center is located across from the Kakaako Waterfront Park in downtown Honolulu on the island of Oahu.

OPEN

Tuesday through Friday.....9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday......10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

ADMISSION

General Admission ..........................$10.00

Kama'aina & Military (w/ I.D)............$8.00

Senior Citizens (62+ w/ I.D.)............$6.00

Children under 1 ..............................Free

HCDC Members ................................Free

Here's a hot tip for you!

Admission to the Discovery Center is FREE with the Go Oahu Card, a multi-attraction pass that offers admission to over 25 of the best attractions, activities and tours for one low price.

Aloha!

and Mahalo.

Amber Greene's Toy Suggestions on Shop 4 Kids Magazine, Australia

2012-06-08T18:35:00.001+10:00

A few weeks ago, I was asked to contribute to a Toy Feature for the newest issue of Shop 4 Kids.

The issue is out now!

I have given my suggestions for toys that spark children's creativity (of course!) but also toys and books that can help children to develop problem solving skills, independence, patience, work in a team, find balance in life, learn to relax, increase their sense of fun and work together in community building. Toys are clever things, aren't they?

Of course, to read the whole article and see my suggestions, you'll either have to have the bionic sight of Superman to read them here, or pop down to your local store or online to buy a copy.

Shop 4 Kids

You can follow them on Twitter @Shop4Kids

Or Like on Facebook www.facebook.com/Shop4KidsMag

MamaMoontime is in Hawaii.

2012-06-03T16:32:00.002+10:00

Hello, Moontimers.

How are you today?

Hopefully, you are as well rested and relaxed as me. You see, I'm currently in Hawaii on holiday (vacation) with my husband and son, and day by day, we have been letting go and chilling out...

This holiday is the first one we've had since our honeymoon in March 2008. Since then, my husband has been working away on the other side of the country for weeks at a time and I've been playing the role of single mum to our two, so it has been delightful to just spend some quality family time together.

Yesterday, we stood on Pipeline beach on the North Shore of Oahu. (Bucket list item ticked off!) Last night, we watched fireworks on Waikiki Beach. (Watching these was the moment I realised we were actually IN Hawaii- we almost didn't make it due to our intended airline going bust back in March but thanks to Student Travel and some clever renegotiating, we are here now. Big thank you's to Mon for her help. We are here. Woo hooo!)

We've shopped at Ala Moana Shopping centre, danced the hula, and watched on Memorial Day as hundreds of lanterns were sent out by the loved ones of those who have passed away at the Lantern Festival.

It's been a delight!

But next week, I am back to work with renewed energy and can't wait to start sharing, crafting and creating with you on a more regular basis again.

Thank you all for allowing me the time and space to get some big jobs done, hanging in there with me at MamaMoontime while I have had other big responsibilities to consider and complete. The BIG change is a'coming (with the help of a few key people including my favourite graphic designer Bec and my new developer Nicki), and I'm hoping that my big plans are going to help, support, encourage and inspire you all in a whole lot of different ways. Thank you so much. You, my readers, allow me to reach for my dreams and make them real.

See you later this week!!

DIY Satin Flower Brooch or Hair Pin by Dionne Coburn

2012-05-29T06:00:00.000+10:00

A week ago, my friends and I celebrated another Crafternoon.

This time, it was Dionne's first time to host.

She led us on a journey to make Satin Flower Brooches or Hair Pins.

Here is the DIY tutorial, just for YOU!

Satin Flower Brooch or Hair Pin Tutorial

Firstly, you need to cut out some circles in all different sizes from your favourite satin, lace or voile (or any pretty fabric you love) offcuts in all kinds of colours.

(Old clothes, and op shop finds are good sources of material for this task)

Dionne cut circles in 9cm, 7.5cm, 6cm, 4.5cm and 3cm diameters approximately.

You'll also need one tealight candle per person, matches to light the candle and a selection of hair clips or brooch backs too.

Dionne also cut green leaf shapes from satin too, for those who wanted to add a bit of greenery to their work.

The first step is to lay out your design by picking colours and laying one circle onto another until you have your desired colour blend and shape.

To make the flower, light the candle and place it on a plate.

Gently scald (burn) the very tip or edges of your chosen circular piece of fabric, all the way around.

WARNING: BE VERY CAREFUL IN THIS TASK so you don't burn yourself or others.**

Also, this part of the task must be done in a WELL-VENTILATED area to avoid inhaling any fumes.

Some fabrics sizzle more quickly than others.

Our aim is just to lightly seal the edges so that the material begins to curl upward.

If your fabric loses its round shape, choose another piece and begin again.

When your circles have all been sizzled, you can reassemble the design and add a few colour-matched beads or buttons. Thread a needle and stitch the flower together, coming up through the back and threading through the beads to hold the entire flower together in place.

Here are some colour blends to inspire you.

**MamaMoontime or Amber Greene takes no responsibility for any injuries or burns that may occur from this activity. The activity is undertaken entirely at your own risk. Please be careful if you do decide to make one of these lovely brooches.

Don't you just love it?

I can just see myself sitting down making a whole colour family of these for my hair and clothing.

You too?

Pet Sculpture from photo

2012-05-26T06:00:00.000+10:00

A few weeks ago, Ned and I went to the market and Ned saw a 10-week old black labrador puppy sitting in a cage waiting to be bought. He wanted that puppy so desperately.

But right now, we are renting while we wait for our house to sell so we can't have a dog here.

Everyday, Ned got on the phone to his Dad, asking him to please build him a 'cave' for his new pet, so that we could have this dog one day. The 'cave/cage' was to be in preparation.

Well, Daddy came home and did one better.

He took out some of the photos of our old dogs, Bolt and Shire.

(We rehoused them a few years ago to a couple with bigger acreage and no young children. Funnily, in the Aussie way, they renamed the dogs Bob and Sheila!)

Then, Daddy spent a few days in his shed sculpting Ned his very own dog instead.

We asked Ned what he'd like to call his new animal and Ned came up with 'Pet'.

So now 'Pet' sits on our front step and guards the door. He's quite a lovely dog actually- no barking, no mess, yet he still provides a doggy presence- especially at night in the shadows!

"Fire Up Your Creative Spark!" Workshops with Amber

2012-05-24T22:15:00.003+10:00

I spent last weekend in Melbourne with a bunch of about 75 women (over Saturday and Sunday) helping them to "fire up their creative spark!" I was invited down by a lovely lady who had seen my work on the blog and wanted her childcare staff to learn some of these skills themselves.

Wow! Did we have some fun!

We felted, stitched, sewed, rolled, spun, stuffed, tied, plaited, twisted, knitted and looped ALL WEEKEND. By the end of it, I was one worn-out but very happy mama indeed.

The best bit is that I've had some fabulous feedback that these ladies are now super inspired and desperate to get creating with the little children they look after every single day.

I am so chuffed to hear this!

Just imagine the impact that each of these women can now have upon hundreds, and possibly thousands, of families. Not just the children either. I'm sure there will be a few others (mamas, papas, grandmamas) who will join the chain reaction.

BIG thank you's to all the teachers I worked with in Melbourne. You were fab.

And big thanks to M. who invited me, and her parents who took good care of me too.

I just LOVE my creativity work.

It is what inspires me to get up and out of bed everyday.

Honestly, I am LIVING my dream.

If you had asked me in 1998 (when I first made my creative plan as I travelled around Australia) what I'd like to be doing in 2012, writing, crafting and travelling for work would have been your answer!!

It's a dream come true.

(What's your dream? Are you living it yet? Are you on the way? Tell me about it!)

PS: If you would like some Creative Professional Development (either in childcare, education, for your parent group, playgroup or corporate- helping your team to 'fire up their creative spark!), just ask!

But be quick. The diary for 2012 is filling up. Email me at amber.greene@hotmail.com for details.

Wooden Playstand Toys for Imaginative Play, and Handmade fairy wings made by Dave and Sharon Denning

2012-05-20T06:00:00.000+10:00

Today, I'd like to introduce you to a local business run by my friend, Sharon and her husband Dave.

Sharon and Dave make delightful timber playstands for children, often seen in Waldorf kindergartens. Children can use playstands in all kinds of play- to make cubbies, shop windows, boats, trains, cars, walls. I've seen children set up shops complete with a drive-thru. Sharon also makes hand crafted fairy wings and tutu's.

Have a read and see what they get up to.

What was the impetus behind starting your own business, Sharon?

My husband handcrafted a beautiful pair of play-stands and a canopy for our children. Our friends and our local Steiner school liked them so much and we found ourselves receiving orders for them!

We now handmake beautiful timber playstands and arches/canopies.Play stands are a fundamental feature in many Steiner/Waldorf play environments. Indoor or outdoor, they are often draped in silks and muslin or cotton play cloths and are commonly used by children to create endless imaginative play spaces from kitchens, ships, and cubby houses, to shops and theatres. Playstands encourage your children to play freely and creatively.Teachers use them for a multitude of uses in schools particularly for puppet shows and seasonal displays.

Our products are made from sustainable solid timber and finished with high quality waterbased finish which is non toxic and VOC-free. We go to the extreme to source products that are natural, sustainable, non-toxic and VOC free also. You can rest assured that our playstands are high quality, as well as totally safe for your children.

I also create exquisite handcrafted fairy wings and dragon wings for children and adults. I have always adored the mystery, magic, and beauty of fairies, dragonflies, and dragons. In order to transform into a fairy, dragon, or dragonfly one must possess ‘real’ wings. Upon searching I discovered this was not something that was easily bought. So, I set about making them.

Each pair of wings is custom-made to your desired shape and colour, handpainted with permanent watercolour paints, and hand embellished with high quality crystals, flowers, and feathers. All fabrics and ribbons are hand dyed and can be colour matched to wedding themes or dress fabrics. As the wings are individually handcrafted at least 4 weeks notice is generally required and possibly longer if a number of wings are required in the order. Wings are approximately $85 pair.

I hand make magical tutu’s for little girls from the finest quality diamond tulle. A large range of colours is available in any length from short and fluffy, to long and flowy. Tutus start at $40. Each pair of wings are a one of a kind piece of wearable artwork. Lovingly hand crafted and hand painted they are sturdy enough for hours of playful fluttering and can be hung on the wall for admiration as an exquisite decoration when not being worn.

How has being parents shaped/changed the way you approach your business?

Our business is very much a hobby business that has evolved in the past 2 years. I have always enjoyed craft but I didn’t realise how much I relied on tinkering away on all sorts of projects as my method of relaxation until our first child came along 5 years ago. He was a very demanding baby and I had no time for tinkering, and I soon found myself longing to be busy in craft projects.

Becoming a mother made me realise that craftwork makes me feel good, and is very important to my sense of achievement, so its something I just have to find time for. And now with two children under 5 we certainly don’t spend as much time as we would like creating, but we have found ways to squeeze it in whenever we can.

Has being a parent been a positive thing for your business? How have you overcome struggles?

I don’t think we ever overcame the lack of time issue, particularly during each babies first year. There were grabs of time here and there but never long enough to really get your mind into something. I found what helped most was to acknowledge and accept that our parenting style choice, and the fact that our gorgeous babes were very demanding. They were what mattered most at the moment and it would get easier in time. So while it wasn’t the right time for bigger craft projects during their first few years, we knew that little by little, our time would come again soon. And it has!

Now we plan the week ahead and take it in turns to have some time each week where we get to work on our projects, while the other looks after the kids.

Having kids means you can do lots of other fun craft projects all the time. Our kids have a craft room full of boxes, cardboard rolls and bits and pieces, where we all regularly join in and make all sorts of creations.

What pieces of advice would you suggest to other parents thinking about embarking on a new venture?

Make sure it’s something you love doing
If your babies are demanding like mine were – don’t be too ambitious during their first year, it could lead to disappointment, but use this time instead for thinking, planning and pondering for the future!

Where can we buy your Playstands, fairy wings and magical tutu's?

So far we have been selling our playstands, wings and tutu's in our local area from Lismore to Tweed heads. We are happy to sell them outside this area if the buyer is happy to have them couriered.

To order or make an enquiry, please send us an email at sheerflight@iinet.com.au

Thank you, Sharon and Dave.

You make the world of play a happy place!

The Joys of Crafting by Christina Lane.

2012-05-18T06:00:00.000+10:00

Contemplations on the joy and challenges of a crafting life

By Friday's Guest, Christina Lane.

Why do this? “This” being days spent creating small nature scenes from tiny bits of fleece, felt and yarn. It can be painful at times, too, stabbed by the barbed needles and all too often requires resisting fatigue to work through the night. Why indeed become so immersed, enmeshed, inspired, overwhelmed and at the end even inconsolable. Why indeed?

At first it was driven by wonderment and experimentation – a desire to communicate, create and to share the beauty and inspiration given by Nature. The workmanship is exacting and detailed. Creating these pieces takes time and intense focus. It requires not only concentration, and observation but also periods of being a hermit, so that I have dubbed my work room “the cave”.

Before commencing a project I spend some time researching, photographing, sketching, watching, musing, refining and even more time seeking the right materials. Not only is this process a labour of love but it has become a mission not to replicate but rather to inspire creativity as well as to encourage others to explore, investigate and learn. The intention is that these small scenes help to create awareness that we are not owners but custodians of this planet with a duty to leave for our children and grandchildren a planet that has not been despoiled but nurtured, respected and protected.

The first naturescapes resulted from a request to create seasonal table centrepieces. Since, my versions have evolved and no longer the quintessential Steiner style playmat .

Steiner play mats, constructed from natural fibres with very simple detail, are marvelous tools for encouraging creative play and stimulating a child’s imagination. The ones that I make, although honouring the intention for creativity and imagination, primarily seek to educate. They are not only a visual experience but also as a tactile one. These small scenes are designed to reveal aspects that lead to curiosity, questions, learning and understanding as well as leading to a greater awareness of our personal responsibility for environmental care and protection.

I try to depict, in a simplified microcosm, a more complex macrocosm whose many layers and connections sustain the relationships that need to coexist to enable the web of life to function effectively. Only hints are given, such as in this latest commission for an Australian Bush scene. Here, as in every piece, there is water. In this instance there is a billabong and a stream. Water is the vital element needed for life, what happens if we pollute it? There is also a hollow log- why? Who lives here? A story begins to unfold, layer by layer enabling understanding and awareness to grow.

Suzanne Down encapsulates so beautifully reason so many of us craft. Her explanation is that “When we show our children something special that is warmed by our imagination and love they will see it with wonder and love for the rest of their lives”. This is why I create, each piece is born from wonder and love in the hope that it will generate these feelings in others.

Thank you, Christina.

Pan-fried chicken breast with pesto and brie recipe

2012-05-16T10:10:00.002+10:00

Last week, we visited the Brunswick Heads pub for dinner. The pub is one of Australia's best kept secrets. (Shhh, I won't tell if you won't!)

It's a historic place but more than that, it's got to be one of the best grub feeds you'll ever have while enjoying the view of the Bruns river, listening to top local bands, near the pine trees filled with singing lorikeets.

My choice that night was something called 'Pan fried chicken breast with pesto, brie and avocado'. (Sadly, I had to have it sans-avocado due to an intolerance.) Oh my! Rapture. Don't you just love it when a dish turns out to be way better than you ever could have imagined?

So, I decided to try and recreate it at home. My neighbour is head chef at the pub, but he wouldn't give me any secrets so it was a bit of kitchen alchemy to try to get it right. I didn't quite hit it, but it was still pretty good! So here is my recipe, just for you.

Pan-fried chicken breast with pesto and brie: (To feed 4)

1. Make your pesto. Pop one big bunch of fresh basil, 1/2 cup olive oil, 250 grams shredded parmesan cheese, 100 grams pine nuts, 1/4 cup melted butter, 2 large cloves of garlic and a dash of salt and pepper into your food processor/thermomix. Process on high for 15 seconds or until you have a thick but slightly runny pesto paste. Set aside.

2. Slice a 125 gram block of brie (the best you can afford) into very, very thin slivers. Place on a china plate at room temperature so it begins to soften.

3. Slice four chicken breasts in halves (or thirds) horizontally. Place a fry pan on the stove with a dash of butter on high heat. Pop your chicken breast onto the pan and let it sizzle until cooked through. Be sure to turn it over at least once. Cook all your chicken breast. Place the chicken breast into an oven proof pan, cover the chicken with brie slices and pop into the oven on moderate heat until the brie melts.

4. Warm your pesto in a saucepan.

5. When the chicken is ready, serve it on a plate with pesto sauce smothered over. Serve with salad and scalloped potatoes.

This dish is divine, and gooey. Perfect for weekend decadence.

Happy eating.

Choosing child-friendly movies. A ratings guide to help.

2012-05-14T23:58:00.000+10:00

Have you ever let your children watch a movie or television show, only to realise too late that the content was far beyond what you had imagined it might be?
Have you ever let your children watch something in good faith and been shocked at types of play that appears directly after watching it?
Have you ever been seduced by a sweet sounding children's film only to discover it filled with innuendo and adult humour?

If you have, then you might like this site:
Movie Reviews on "Raising Children Network"

There's a comprehensive list of films and each one is rated under a 'key' system.

In a nutshell, the key gives you:

information on suitable age to watch the film (red means "definitely not for this age', orange means 'watch with parental guidance only' and green means 'suitable')
Gun symbol contains violence and scary scenes
Face symbol contains frightening scenes
Quote symbol contains inappropriate language
Exclaimation symbol contains disturbing, upsetting or confusing scenes
Heart symbol contains sexual references or sexual scenes
Eyeball symbol contains distressing or upsetting scenes
Cigarette symbol is drug or alcohol references

And from the little I've seen, the reviews are matter-of-fact, not subjective. That is the most helpful thing of all.

Now, if we could only have something similar for our children's television programs. A little bit more comprehensive than a G, or PG, or M. That doesn't tell us much at all.

I'm just hoping that more parents take notice and take the advice.

Holding kids back from a movie (or television show) may be painful in the short term but really, parenting is about the long haul, isn't it. A child won't be devastated or destroyed from missing out on a movie or show, but may be damaged or negatively influenced by a movie in the short term. (Think: acting out inappropriate behaviours, aggression, violence, and sharing unsavoury language.)

Young children IMITATE and will probably not know the difference between "contained" or "restrained" methods of self defence or martial arts, and full-on kicking and punching, re: Kung Fu Panda. They just kick, and sometimes they actually hurt their friends. If a child has a natural tendency towards being outwardly physical or aggressive, viewing this kind of thing gives them a token of 'permission' and more fodder for their imagination too. These children especially don't need it.

It is a vicious cycle too, because children who haven't watched a show are also influenced by the child who 'plays out' this type of thing, because the vision on the screen is super powerful, mesmerising and magnetic. Children who have watched films (and television) beyond their age or coping ability become obsessed with it, and are so FULL of what they have seen, they often lose the ability to imagine or play anything else.

When children are given "licensed clothing" in this same vein, (for example, Ben 10 or Kung Fu Panda t-shirts) it is yet another CUE for this kind of play to occur. The children have no means to escape it, and in my experience, are compelled to play it out. Some would say it is healthy to play it out. (I'm one of those.) But in reality, 'playing it out' often occurs near or with other little children. I'm not sure this is healthy. My topmost concern then is for the children who are on the receiving end, as well as the loss of 'childhood' it takes with it.

The responsibility to be mindful about our children's viewing habits and choices must be shared among us all.

The easiest way to start is to take a step back and remember they are just little children, sponges for experiences of life. By being mindful of our screen choices, we take back the power to gently direct children towards healthy, productive, helpful and enjoyable screen time.

What do you think?

Have you taken note of a film review for your children and decided not to go because of it?

5 simple tips for taking amazing photos of your kids

2012-05-11T06:00:00.000+10:00

My Five Top Simple Tips for Capturing Kids

By Friday's Guest, Rachel Easley.

I like to regularly ignite the creative flame that's within me but as a busy working mum of two lively boys, that hasn't always been an easy thing to do. When there is always something going on, someone to be fed or bathed, or homework to be completed, it's hard to find the time to reclaim the Creative You!

I have always had a passion for photography and I am now pursuing my dream and ...and just a disclaimer: I definitely don't "know it all" about photography...I'm still learning more every time I pull my camera out...so I'm just sharing the good stuff that I've learned that people might ask about.

My Five Top Simple Tips for Capturing Kids

1. Turn off the flash.
Lighting is the key in taking good pictures. If you look for beautiful light, you are almost certain to end up with beautiful pictures. Adding a flash often leads to disaster. Flashes distort what could be beautiful. There will be the occasional times you must use one...at night (if you don't have a high-enough ISO) or sometimes to use as a fill-flash. But as a general rule, turn off that flash!
In the early morning or evening when the sun is low in the sky there is gorgeous light to be found. If it's too hot outside, you don't need to invest in expensive lighting equipment if you want to get good indoor shots. You just need to know where to look for the light. Almost every home has got some good lighting somewhere if you just look for it.

2. Composition. Get creative with it.
Get down on the ground. Look down at your child from high above (try standing on a stool or chair). Get closer than you have ever done before. Do you really want that table, chair etc in the background?
The closer we get, the more we are able to see. Try getting so close you only capture half of the face. Get close-up and take pictures of toes, fingers, just a smile. You'll be so happy with the results.

3. Catch emotion....and relationships
I always ask children to laugh instead of smile. If you ask them to smile they will most definitely give you a cheesy smile, and I'm not a huge fan of the cheese-ball smiles although sometimes this can be just
as fun. Remember, subjects don’t always have to be smiling......or looking at the camera...

4. Capture the little things.
I think it's important for to remember to capture little things about my children even if it doesn't
make a great perfectly posed photograph. The way they would cross their legs whilst they were busily playing, that little curl at the back of their neck, the resting of their head on the table whilst they are completing their homework. These are the photographs I will want to look back on in the future.

5.Always have a camera ready.
My big camera is too big to carry around all the time, but I ALWAYS have a point-and-shoot or at least my mobile phone in my handbag that I can pull out when I need to capture any special moment. I love how photography makes it possible to freeze a moment in time as I have the worst memory and I just
love being able to soak in all these childhood moments as much as I able to. You might too.

Good luck in searching for that special light. It's worth the hunt.

Thank you, Rachel. Great tips for everyone!

To see more of Rachel's delightful photography or to arrange a photoshoot for your family, contact Rachel via email at rbound@hotmail.com or LIKE her facebook page, Rachel Easley Photography

Parenting Tip: Mindful choice

2012-05-07T21:54:00.001+10:00

Trimmed and Tailed via Sini via www.smittenkitchen.com

Last night, I was preparing beans when it struck me that I don't really know why I trim and tail the ends of beans. I just do it because I saw my mum do it. I wonder if there is any real reason other than decorative? Does anyone know?

Of course, my mind began to wander and think about all those other things I do in life because I've seen someone do it and I PRESUME/ASSUME that because I've seen it done this way, it must be the right way...... Or not?

Which brings me to this week's Parenting tip.

How often do we do things a particular way with OUR children because that is the way it was done/shown to us?

Of course, lots of things are just fine and dandy to be copied mindlessly. If we've had parents sing us lullabies each night before bed, or who had a special way of tucking us in with a cute little saying or who fed us delicious warm curries all through the winter time, to reflect that in our own lives with our little ones can be divine. This kind of thing makes me feel all warm and cozy and cared for. You too?

But what if the things we carry on aren't necessarily "best practice"? Just for example, I wonder if some parents smack their children BECAUSE it was the only discipline tool they learned? I wonder if some modern parents feed their children white bread, coco pops and meals from jars simply BECAUSE that is what they were fed? I wonder if some parents clean their houses with chemicals BECAUSE that is what they saw and were taught to do?

I think it can be very difficult to change those kinds of ingrained habits, especially if one doesn't have any other kinds of role models in their life who do things differently. If I don't have some other tricks in my discipline tool box, I'll resort to smacking. If I don't read magazines or the paper or watch Masterchef, how will I learn about the importance of preparing healthy food. If I've always cleaned with bleach and disinfectant, how will I know that cleaning vinegar and clove oil will do just as well with far less consequences? We all do what feels comfortable or familiar for us, even when we know in our guts that something isn't quite right.

So, I suppose, in thinking about the topping and tailing of green beans, I learned this.

In every circumstance, if one is not sure of the origin of a particular habit or practice, the best response is to ASK questions. Ask those in the know. Ask those who taught you. Find out why something was done a particular way. AND ask around for alternatives.

There is never only one way to do something, and just because someone does something one way, it doesn't make it right.

If your gut response to a particular practice or action or deed is unease or uncertainty or just a slight nagging feeling, listen. You might just be ready to take a slightly different path.

And remember, just because we did it (or they did it) one way for a while, doesn't mean we always have to do it this way. It may have been that way once, but life is all about change and flux and growth and mindful learning, so if you want to change it, do so.

Remember, we are all models for the next generation. Choose wisely, not blindly.

Don't lose me. Make sure you have some way of keeping in touch.

2012-05-04T16:43:00.002+10:00

Hello, my MamaMoontime friends

Remember a little while ago, I told you that MamaMoontime is getting ready for a new adventure?
The seeds have been sown and MamaMoontime will soon be on the move....

Don't miss out on coming along on this big journey. There will be even more crafty tips, art activities, cooking with children, and inspiration for life.... AND opportunities for YOU to join in.... AND more practical stuff to help smooth the bumps we all have in our daily lives with young children.

I hope you'll keep in touch. I'll try to make it a little easier for you.

To make sure you are one of the first to see my new website and for regular MamaMoontime updates, crafty goodness, and funky groovy things I find, simply Click LIKE on the MamaMoontime Facebook page just here on the left.

Yep. Just click LIKE. That's it. Thank you.

Or you can become a friend in my MamaMoontime address book so you don't miss out. (My goodness, if you like MamaMoontime now, just wait to see what is in in store!)

I promise I won't spam you, or sell your details, or even share your details with anyone. But I will send you monthly newsletters filled with exclusive crafts, child-friendly organisation tips, snacks and healthy recipe ideas, inspiration and more. Good stuff for good people.

All you have to do is enter your email address here. You are all set to come with me on this big new adventure!!

Felt "Sweet Peapod Baby" by Cath Penwarn How-to Tutorial

2012-05-03T06:00:00.000+10:00

A Felt "Sweet Peapod Baby" doll by Catherine Penwarn.

The first thing to do when making the sweet peapod baby is to take a small bead or a felt ball and cover it with a 6cm square piece of tricot/flesh coloured knit. Cath's tip is to ensure the fabric threads run vertically over the head (as opposed to on the horizontal plane).

Gather in the tricot material at the base of the head and smooth it out so that one side doesn't show any wrinkles. This will become the front of the baby's face.

Take a piece of thread and fold it in half.

Wrap the loop around the ball, thread the two loose ends through the loop and pull tight to secure the doll's head.

Wrap the excess thread around the neck again and again, then tie off firmly.

Cut out two peapod shapes from felt in your colour of choice.

In one piece, cut a small hole opening.

Push the wrinkle free side of the ball through the hole.

Blanket stitch the felt to the cotton knit to secure the face in place.

Use a similar colour of cotton to match the felt.

Add lips using red thread.

And bullion knots for eyes.

Come up through the back, and cut off any loose threads.

Place the second piece of felt behind the face.

Blanket stitch around the entire shape to sew them together.

When you have just a small opening left, fill the peapod with cotton or wool wadding.

Push 2 beads into the peapod shape, in front of the wadding. One sits in the centre piece of the pod, the other in the base part of the pod. These beads will create the illusion of 'peas' inside the peapod when children touch it. Finish sewing up the peapod. Set aside.

To make the peapod itself, you need three pieces of felt, cut in the shape of the pattern like so.

Leaving a gap at either end, pin the base piece to the side piece.

Blanket stitch these pieces together.

This is what it will look like.

Add the other side of the pod to the base and blanket stitch it together.

You'll have some extra felt at one end like this.

Fold over those extra pieces, one on top of the other to make a gnarly leaf shape.

Blanket stitch it into place.

To hang it in the tree like me, stitch a loop of green wool to one tip of the pod.

Your peapod bed is ready.

Simply pop your Sweet Peapod Baby into her home for a joyous nights sleep.

And here is a sneakpeek at Saturday's crafternoon guests.

Aren't they lucky ducks?

Have you organised a crafternoon for your friends yet?

Why not?

It doesn't take very long to set up, and the rewards of gathering monthly with a group of your great mates and a few new faces is so worth the single effort it takes to host one.

Remember, you only host ONE but get to go to SIX!!

If you want more information about setting up your own Crafternoon sessions,

read this Guide To Crafternoon Fun that I wrote.

If not a Crafternoon,

what kind of girly get-together would you host?

Inspiring Quotes

2012-05-02T14:21:00.001+10:00

I'm always inspired by quotes. I'm a quote junkie, especially for quotes related to parenting, goal setting and a meaningful life. Here are some of my current favourites:

Our bodies are our gardens. Our wills are our gardeners

William Shakespeare

The desire for gold is not for gold. It is for the means of freedom and benefit.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

It is well to be up before daybreak for such habits contribute to health, wealth and wisdom

Aristotle

It is not length of life, but depth of life.

RW Emerson

Judge each day not by the harvest,

but by the seeds you plant.

Robert Louis Stevenson

Don't be too timid and squeamish about your actions.

All life is an experiment.

The more experiments you make, the better you do.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

The sun, with all those planets revolving around it and dependent on it,

can still ripen a bunch of grapes as if it had nothing else in the universe to do.

Galileo Galilei

What is your favourite quote of the moment?

Raw Key Lime Pie Recipe

2012-05-01T20:45:00.001+10:00

I have found cake perfection! Raw Key Lime Pie.

I don't need to look any further. You'd better get ready to print this recipe or write it down as once you taste it, you'll be proclaiming this the world's best cake pie too.

On Saturday, my friend Cath hosted her Crafternoon.

(Pop back tomorrow for a very cute tutorial showing how

to make the "sweet peapod baby" that was her Crafternoon creation)

Not only did Cath prepare the most gorgeous of tasks for us, the afternoon tea that awaited us was pure heaven. Veggie frittata, raw chocolate cake with kiwi fruit topping and the cake to stop the nation- Raw key lime pie. Honestly, if all raw food is this good, I'd be an instant convert.

Of course, I can't tease you without giving you the secret recipe, can I?

So here it is, Raw Key Lime Pie with thanks to Cath and the original, as yet unknown, source of this heavenly goodness.

Raw Key Lime Pie

Base:

1 cup macadamia nuts

1 cup desiccated coconut

5 medjool dates

1 tablespoon coconut oil

Blend all ingredients in a food processor/thermomix and press firmly into a pop-out cake tin.

Filling:

3 medium avocados

3/4 cup lime juice (approx 3 limes)

1/3 cup coconut oil

1/2 cup honey

1/3 cup coconut cream

Blend filling ingredients in the food processor/thermomix and spread it onto the base.

Refrigerate for 30 minutes, then serve.

This is so good, and so good for you, you could eat it for breakfast and be quite ok with that.

I just might!

Inventive cakes for children's birthdays: "dirt" cake pops

2012-04-26T14:37:00.001+10:00

Ned wanted a cake with Bob the Builder.

So we made a 'dirt cake' surrounded by a retaining wall!

The Dirt Cake was simply the recipe for Red Velvet Cake Pops but without taking the last step and making them into balls.

We added a retaining wall made of Violet Crumble (honeycomb covered with chocolate) squares and an icing mixture (butter, icing mixture and a drop of water) to stick them all together.

Considering I'm not a builder in any way, shape or form, I don't think we did a bad job at all. Certainly holds back the dirt.

Poor old Bob seems to have sunk into the dirt.

Did Ned love it? You might say he did.

When the candles were blown out, the children (with clean hands) were able to take a handful of "dirt" and make their own cake pop. They then dipped their cake pop into melted chocolate and their choice of sprinkles.

The best bit was eating them!

And the Birth Journey books go to...

2012-04-26T14:21:00.000+10:00

The Print copy of Birth Journeys goes to Friend No. 10!

Cat.

"I absolutely love this book! A must for expecting mothers"

Cat, please send me your postal address to amber.greene@hotmail.com

If you are overseas, let me know your email address instead.

The E-book of Birth Journeys goes to Friend No. 1!

Jo.

"I would love to read about positive birth stories. It would be perfect mental preparation for me!"

Jo, please send me your email address to amber.greene@hotmail.com

Thank you to everyone for entering Leonie's giveaway.

And remember, if you would like to purchase your own copy, simply visit Birth Journeys

Keep an eye out on MamaMoontime. More great giveaways coming soon.