MakingMotherhoodFun

What you need to know as a Casual Teacher

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Tue, 13 Mar 2018 12:48:00 +0000

I have been a Primary School teacher for over 13 years, which means I have been going to many, many, many, different schools as a classroom teacher, an RFF (which means taking up to 4 or more different classes a day) teacher, and a librarian. I have had some amazing experiences, some hilarious ones, and some not so pleasant ones (with students and teachers). Still I love my job and I will continue to do it. I wrote this post to help you consider how to prepare for working in classrooms. I have also written some advice specifically for NSW teachers, though it could also help in other areas of Australia, though as I don't know how it works with certificates etc in other states, it could still be similar.

At the start of each new year, since I don't have a permanent class to prepare for I only really have to prepare for myself and my supplies. If you are a new teacher these are some of the things could help you prepare for the year ahead of you.

SUPPLIES

It is really important to have your own stationary supplies. Most teachers don't mind you borrowing things here and there, but some do, they really do! In your pencil case you should have:

Pens
Scissors
Glue stick
Ruler
Lead Pencils - I sometimes have a couple as some students borrow from you if there isn't any in the classroom.
Post it Notes
White Board Marker(s) - this may seem strange, but I have been to schools where I can't find a working white board marker. If you have one that works, you will never be stuck.
Eraser
Stamps and stickers - some teachers are ok with you borrowing theirs, some aren't but its good to have your own.
Paper Clips

I do believe it's important to have these on you. Some teachers are ok with you using their stuff, but some items may require you searching through their desk which for me, feels a bit weird, especially if someone walks in on you!

It's also good to have a whistle on hand. You never know when you will be doing sport, or sometimes the whistle can be helpful for crowd control in the classroom!!

LESSON RESOURCES

As I have been teaching for so long, I have folders and folders of resources. If you see something that interests you that another teacher has, don't be shy, ask for a copy. I've never met a teacher that has said no! I am always more than happy to share my resources too. I've been known to take pictures of particular art work that I really like, with permission of course.

If you are new to casual teaching, you will need to have a go-to folder of things that will help you get through the day. I would recommend you join Pinterest, TeachersPayTeachers, StudyLadder (Australians), The Busy Teacher, to name but a few. Non-Australian lessons (or lesson ideas) can easily be adapted to Australian Curriculum.

I would highly suggest you find some colouring pages, and fill-in activity sheets, which are readily available on the internet. You can also get books dedicated to fill-in lessons or activities. You never know how quick a class can complete a task if you have not had them before. If you don't have work to give children, you can lose them very quickly and the class can fall into chaos. If you don't have work to give them these activities are good fall backs:

Read a book
Finish unfinished work - avoid art work unless you know what the art work is and if it won't disrupt other students.
Peer tutor other students who are still finishing - be careful with this too, it can backfire quickly
Write a story - then illustrate it.
Draw - most kids love to draw and I find this a great way to keep kids occupied.
Create a find-a-word for your spelling words - you can get the kids to rule up the grid too, which takes time. I now have my own grid that can be photocopied, but if you have a rowdy class having them rule it up themselves is helpful!
Dictionary Meanings for spelling words
Sentences for spelling words - this may already be done during literacy, but its good for Kindergarten or Year 1 to help practise their words.
Sports is always a good filler for the end of the day or middle of the day depending on weather, and behaviour. It can also be used for a reward.
Art
Games like charades, heads down thumbs up, spelling bee or buzz, silent ball etc

Basically, what you must always know is you must have work with you every school you go to, even if they say the teacher has left you work. Never fall into the trap of not bringing work. I have been in that position a couple of times and you learn you never want to be there again.

Many of my lesson ideas are found on the internet conducted via the SMART Board, or interactive white board, which is fun and interactive for students. However, there will be times where the internet is not behaving or the SMARTBoard isn't functioning properly. So it is always good to bring sheet work with you. Don't rely solely on the internet working.

In a situation where you don't take work with you, or you forget your folder. Here are some tips to help you get through the day and ways to ask other teachers for suggestions, without giving away that you didn't bring anything to offer!!!

1. Make sure you get to the school as early as possible, but not too early! If they say 8:30, try to get there by 8:15am. Time goes very quickly when teachers are explaining the program for the day or if you are trying to make sense of notes left for you. If nothing is left, you really need extra time to plan something for the day.

2. See if there is a timetable on the wall near the teacher's desk to see what is planned for the day. If there is a timetable, you can then go about asking questions, or finding books.

3. Even if their is no timetable, ask a teacher from the same grade what they usually do on that day. Say you want to keep to the timetable as much as possible due to the changes of a different teacher. They will usually help you with text book information or lesson plans without a question of what you do or don't have with you. Keep in mind its best to ask a teacher these questions if you are early to the school. Teacher's time is very precious and they may not want to spend too much time explaining work to you.

4. Most classes run on Literacy, Numeracy, then something like HSIE, Science and Technology, CAPA etc.

5. If you have Early Stage 1 or Stage 1, you can start the morning with talking about the day, date, weather, alphabet, phonics, counting, colours etc. If you incorporate music and songs, your morning circle can go for about 20mins and it is entirely educational. I have shared some resources on my blog before, but I'm happy to share some morning circle songs and ideas that I use via the SMART Board using YouTube. Most students love this and its a great in helping them feel comfortable with you.

6. If you have Kindergarten or Year 1, they will usually start the day with a sentence about the weather, or a book you read. This is a good starting point for the day. You can also use sight words in sentences or practise verbally putting them in sentences. Choosing a book that can run through as your theme for the day can help too. Other grades will more than likely have spelling and activities, and if they don't you can create some for them! When they groan, tell them if they work hard, you will do something fun with them in the afternoon - this more often than not works.

7. Handwriting - most classrooms have a handwriting textbook or work book. You can do the next available page. I have many teachers who know I am taking their class ask me to do handwriting. I am not sure what it is that teachers don't like about it? If they don't have a text book or workbook per say, then choose a non-fiction text (preferably related to a topic they are doing) and write a couple of sentences down and have them copy them neatly in their books.

8. Maths should be easy to pick up on what they are or have been doing. If its Early Stage 1 or Stage 1, and the teacher has resources use them. You could give students two die and ask them to roll it 10 times and each time they need to write a number sentence for the numbers and write what the numbers total. You can also sing number songs to start or end your lesson via Youtube. For example, 5 Little Ducks, 5 speckled Frogs, 5 Cheeky Monkeys etc. There are heaps of options on YouTube.

9. If you have an older class for maths, check their text books. You can also put up a bunch of mentals on the board to challenge them. You can play some math games for times tables, or use some internet resources to keep them interested. For Stage 2 and 3 classes for english you can get them to right a creative story, or a recount from their weekend, or a recent excursion etc. You could organise a debate for Stage 3 classes, which could take up a full morning session and even into the afternoon, but I wouldn't recommend it take up the whole day.

10. For the afternoon session, I find doing art helpful or going out side for sport. Most kids love getting out of the classroom for sport. If you can prepare a go-to drama activity or game your students will love you! I have found over the years that kids love to do drama, but many teachers don't incorporate it, for various reasons.

TEACHING IN NSW
So there are some common tips, which I really hope will help you out with lessons. In terms of getting yourself ready to be employed in a NSW school and you are new to teaching or returning after a break. Here are some things to consider:

1. Make sure you can access your e-mail.
Accessing your department e-mail just makes life easier. You can call EDConnect on 1300 32 32 32 and select option 5 for IT support and they will help you set it up or reactivate it. If you need to reactivate there is a chance you will need to provide your Working With Children form. Your WWC is essential to employment and is obtained via Service NSW and you will need to pay a fee.

2. You will also need to make sure your bank details are up to date and this is so much easier to sort out via your e-mail login, which is why I suggest you set that up first. You can access ESS via your login and set up your details and if you are have any concerns or need help with payroll queries, you can do that through your login. I can't stress enough the benefits of having your login.

3. Make sure you have your mandatory certificates.
Not having a WWC document will stop you from employment, but if you do have this, there are other things that can stop a school for allowing you to teach. If you don't have your mandatory certificates, you can't work. Its that simple. You have to have:

WHS - valid for life
Anaphylaxis E-Training - this is an online course and needs to be updated every 2 years and it will take you about 2 hours to complete.
e-Emergency Care e-Learning - online course updated every 3 years and will take you about 2 hours to complete, but you don't necessarily have to complete it in 2 hours straight.
Approval to Teach in NSW Schools from the DoE - I am not sure how it works for current teachers, but I got this letter when I graduated and back then, I couldn't work unless I had it and showed it at each school I went to. So whatever you equivalent is, keep a copy with you always. This will also have your ID number on it which you will need when you organise your e-mail and set up your payroll information.
You may also need to show your NESA approval or at least provide your number. I am new to this as I am a pre 2004 teacher and only being transferred to this new system this year.
You will need to provide your payroll number, you can't get paid unless you provide this!

All these courses are now easily accessible via your login via the E-Safety System page or Health and Safety Shortcut, again the login is your best friend. Once upon a time, you could easily get by without a login, I did for a while. Then I started working more regularly at a school and the principal told me I had to have the login or he wouldn't hire me again!! So I got the login and I have never looked back. Have a copy of these certificates in your folder of work and present these to each new school you go to. It looks so good for you, that you have ALL your certificates with you ready to be copied. The reality is, if you don't have ALL certificates, you can'y teach. However, that all being said, you can now easily access your certificates via the E-Safety System and should you forget them, they can be printed. But that takes time away for you preparing yourself for your day ahead.

So there is some starting points for your to consider. Getting your certificates sounds like a lot, but thankfully you don't have to do them every year. There is a cost involved with your WWC which last 5 years, and you have to pay a NESA fee every year. But once these logistical things are sorted you are ready to teach and earn the $$.

I am more than happy to help with any questions, leave them in the comments. Any important information I have missed, please let me know in the comments. I have taught in Special Education and I have also taught in some schools where students have some major behaviour challenges. So I am more than happy to offer suggestions on behaviour management and resources. If I can't, then maybe others who are reading the comments can.

If you would really like me to do a post on resources, I can do that too. Good luck with the new year and I hope you really enjoy yourselves. Teaching can most definitely be challenging, however, if you are organised, it can really help you along the way.

Healthy Vegan Raw Snickers Bar Slice Dairy Free

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Fri, 22 Sep 2017 15:37:00 +0000

This is seriously my new favourite slice. I decided not too long ago that I had to cut back on the dairy. I knew my body was not happy with it in my system. So I went straight to Pinterest to collect some recipes. I am looking forward to trying vegan cheese amongst other things. But I had to give this Raw Snickers Bar slice a go. I love a sweet something after lunch and/or dinner. This sounded like a good option. Thanks to A Sunshine Mission, I pretty much made the exact recipe but didn't have cashews so I used walnuts instead and I was very happy with the results. I only had regular milk chocolate chips on hand. So I melted these with a bit of coconut oil and lightly smeared it across the top of the slice. Its a bit of a cheat and not dairy free, but naturally, you can use a vegan or dairy free chocolate.

Click above link for full recipe.

Finds List for September 2017, better late than never!!

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Fri, 22 Sep 2017 12:50:00 +0000

I have not blogged for an awfully long time. So much has happened in my life since my last post. I had a surprise pregnancy in 2016. A beautiful blond hair, blue eyed, baby boy blessed our lives. It was a little scary in the beginning as I went into labour a week early and he was born under a GA (general anaesthetic), as I was taking Clexane to help with a DVT. I had to have a c-section, as all my boys were born that way for various reasons. My first born, my only daughter, was born naturally. He was born with Surfactant Deficiency and spent the first 2 weeks of his life in the Stage 3 NICU fighting for his life. Thankfully he pulled through, his delicate body finally created its own surfactant and within 6 days after that he was home with us. I am not sure if its possible to love a baby too much, but our baby Adam is the sunshine in our home and brings so much joy and happiness into our lives. He was a miracle baby from conception to birth. He turned 1 just last week and he is in the "stepping" stage of his development. He has no interest at this point in his young life to take those extra steps to consider him a walker. Personally, I am super content with that. I am yet to baby proof the house for the walking stage, so I am in no rush to "encourage" him walk. His brothers and sister on the other hand want him to walk so badly. I keep reminding them, that once he starts walking, he will be in their bedrooms pulling things out of cupboards and making a mess. But they just don't get it!!

While I have been away from my blogging, I have still been building up my Pinterest boards and 'favouriting' items on my Etsy, and Instagram accounts. So I will be back to sharing more of my Finds Lists. If you have something you would like me to add to my next list, send me an e-mail makingmotherhoodfun(at)gmail(dot)com. I love to share handmade and small Australian businesses but I am open to worldwide submissions too. Be sure to check out the Finds Directory to the right on the side bar. I plan to Vlog my Finds Lists in the near future. If you are a small business and would be interested in this, please email me for further information, this is a free advertising opportunity.

Finds List September 2017

Fashion
I am a little obsessed with Bohemian Traders' Summer Season. Check out the links and you will see why.

Navy Ofeliah Blouse - Bohemian Traders

White Dandy Gypsy Top - Bohemian Traders

White Over-sized Deep V Tee - Bohemian Traders

Peak Front Maxi Dress in Black - Whitehaven Emporium

Shoes
My most favourite shoes to date on Pinterest would have to be Cydwoq. I love this brand. I have never tried them on and when you see the price you might understand why. I am worried though, that when I finally get a chance to try them on, they may not fit my foot. Imagine that! I have a board on Pinterest dedicated only to shoes, appropriately titled, Just Shoes.

Boil Sandals - Cydwoq

Vapour - S - Cydwoq

Beauty

Ambient Lighting Powder - Hour Glass - Mecca

Shimmer Shot Illuminating Wand - Mecca Max

Life's Basics Konjac Sponge - Green Clay - Nourished Life

Body

Boho Hippie Bracelet - Bead Stone Skin

Watermelon Tourmaline Silver necklace - Erine Elizabeth

Sunny Skies - Earrings - Erine Elizabeth

Home

Landscape N.5 - Hand Woven Wall Tapestry - JujuJust

Baby/Kid

Wise Elk Wooden Stacking Tower - The Creative Toy Shop

Grim's Wooden Gems Coloured - The Creative Toy Shop

Grim's Spirelli - The Creative Toy Shop

Butterfly Wings Costume - Special Celebration Events

Caramel Cross Over Leather Sandals - Little Leather Shop

Fun Stuff

Vinyl Butterfly Sticker Waterproof - Trot Blossom

Temporary Tattoos - MissyMinzy

Zentangle Pineapple Sticker - CreativeeMinds

Bachelor Recap Season 4 Episodes 1-7

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 08:37:00 +0000

Dear massive and extensive national, possibly worldly fan base. My sincerest apologies for not being more regular with my blogging. Basically my body decided to ovulate at an irregular moment and now I have a little human growing inside me which will be due to be cut out via c-section late September. I have had many a post written and re-written in my brain but the motivation to sit down at a computer, until now, has been barely there. This will be baby number 5 for us, and while we thought producing 4 babies was a good enough effort and contribution to the Australian population, we figured what harm could one more Wilson do? Don't think too hard on that. Pregnancies are not fun for me. Each pregnancy provides risk of a DVT to my body. I grow happy, but massive babies, and to add to it all, this time around, I have gestational diabetes and I am 7 years older than my last pregnancy. I really should muster up the energy to blog my thoughts about that! I am exhausted to say the least. Raising two teenagers, and growing a baby I don't highly recommend, but somewhere along the way, with prayer, hard work and determination it somehow all works out. Anyway, now you know why my recaps are delayed and you are probably thinking, "Did I notice or care", I will proceed with my thoughts of the Bachie season to date.

Recap in a nutshell episodes 1-7

So we all know the gentle and sweet saying about girls that they are made up of 'sugar and spice and all things nice' right? Well let me apply this to this seasons gaggle of Bachiettes. Well, I might leave the sugar to the side since sugar is not a girl's best friend and lets touch on the spice. The lion's den is made up of a number of interesting characters.The ones to remember most would be Keira, or we can call her a range of nicknames like Scary Spice, Not happy Jan, and Queen Keira, to name but a few and I really should limit myself.

She is going to bring the most entertainment, and not in the best of ways. She is blond, mildly attractive, (not ugly, but not a glamour either) and has a sporty body. Well, her body is quite good, I will give her that. But her personality is split, to put it bluntly. However, in saying that she doesn't seem too shy in hiding just how cool banana split it is. She calls it like it is,but has no tact. None, zippo, zilch, not even to save her own life. Which is not overly endearing, but makes for the best TV. So naturally she is a reality TV producer's dream. Her most favourite quirk would have to be licking her front teeth like ALL the FREAKIN time! Like she has peanut butter cemented there for life. As a viewer, this is annoying but don't just take my word for it, see how the peeps on Twitter deal with it!
Queen Keira's most popular quotes to date must be, "I'm not happy","I'm annoyed", "I hate group dates", again to name but a few and I have limited myself on purpose. Episode after episode I watch her and wonder, can I find something about her that makes me want her to win? The answer is absolutely not. Actually speaking of Absolutely, she kind of reminds me of....

Minus the ciggie, but if Queen Keira does not hold back on saying what she wants, whens she wants. Last night's episode totally revealed this side of her. She was immensely ticked off about the intruders entering the house and she let it out on Kiki ( I will talk about her soon). If you recall my recaps from last year, which of course you do as you are my number one fan, you will remember that I desperately hoped for an Suburgatory-style cat fight. Let me refresh your memory.

Scary Spice could just about attack any girl in the Lion's Den and I could totally see this prediction finally come to fruition {happy claps}. She has made it clear she is not on set for the ladies. Although she does claim it's for Richie, but seriously I really don't even think she is staking a claim on him either. I think the real reason why she is on this show is a "Trump-Style" campaign to be the next Bachelorette. One has to ask the question though, how many men would line up to take her on? No seriously...

Enough about Queen Keira, although she provides so much material I could write a thesis on all the different aspect her character brings to the table.

The other girls in the line up to capture Richie's hear include:

Alex

Aka Baby Spice, is young, slim, totally into Richie and has a son. She is a sweet lass, but bless her heart. She is so out of her depth in this show. She has fallen hard and fast and I predict an emotional roller coaster until her exit. She comes across quite needy and I am not sure that Richie can deal with that. She scored the white rose, which means she can take Richie away each cocktail party for secluded alone time. She stresses each evening on whether to use and if she uses it how it will seem to the other ladies. Bless her heart, she cares too much in a show that require so little caring, from anyone.

Nikki

Megan was my favourite to win but she volunteered to leave in last nights episode. I pinned Nikki( Too Honest Spice) as the other Bachiette in the final two. Now, I think she might take him home, so to speak. She is a very attractive woman, when she is less dolled up (just saying coz I can). She is model of maturity in Lion's Den and comes across as a very down to earth, genuine girl. The kind that might get a gig on a breakfast radio show post show.

Kiki

Aka Posh Spice (though we could say Posh Bogan Spice) has done some modelling, and if you haven't picked up on that by now, then you aren't watching the same show. For some reason its totes important we know this information because it totally defines who she is and why she is on the show I guess. From the first couple of episodes I didn't think she was in it for Richie, but last weeks episode changed my mind a little.
Kiki is not afraid to talk, not quite Queen Keira style, which is why they clash. Queen Keira thinks Kiki ( I have named her Stationery for what I feel are obvious reasons) is a bogan and a peasant. To be honest with you though, I got the impression that Richie at some point has requested a certain percentage of his ideal women to possess a bit of boagnism because they all come across like bogans. Don't get me wrong, that is not a completely bad thing. Essentially, if you are raised in Australia you can't dodge the bogan bullet and its not sexist. It's in us all and we can't hide it, well you can if you think about it too much, but if you have an alcoholic bevvy in your hand your bogan will come out, it just will!!

Rachel

I am only really mentioning Rachel because I didn't actually remember her until last nights episode. She scored a single date but the thing that ruined it all for me, was the Channel 10 promo. They show her backflipping off a pirate ship into water. It was impressive on the promo and made me think there is more to her than just being a bogan! But watching it again during the episode, it just was so deflated. She was a bogan who can backflip instead of a cool chick who can backflip. Its the same feeling you get when you peek at your christmas present before its Christmas. It was a cool surprise, then it became the present you didn't ask for but you have to look surprised. It just ruined it for me. Though she did get a rose. I have to ask though, when will Richie have a single date and not give a rose? Maybe that will be when he has a single with Queen Keira! Can you imagine her reaction if he didn't give her a rose?

Keira doesn't even have to be Wicker, she will cast a spell on Richie and everyone in the house, even Oshie wouldn't be spared!!

Noni

Aka Bacon Spice, is not going to win this gig by any stretch of the imagination but I had to mention her because she has a cool nickname! She loves bacon and she would be considered to be the 'curvy' girl in the house which totally makes me happy to see. The Bachelor definitely lacks diversity in shape, size, and ethnicity. I am definitely not the only one who sees it. Noni seems nice and she is a swimwear designer (sounds familiar to a lass in last season) so I guess we need to watch out for the launch of her new swimwear line coming our way this Summer ! (charity plug over)

So there are some other girls from the original group still holding on with white knuckles. But last nights episode brought three new ladies to the table, which came as a shock to the original Bachiettes. But I do have to ask, yet again, if they saw last season, did they not remember there were "intruders" in that season? It's all part of the show. I so can't wait for a Bachiette to be so into the show she plays it like survivor because she knows how it works. Nothing will be a surprise and she will explain to the other girls that Bachie really doesn't come up with the ideas for the dates himself, he just has to say he does. Say wha?

Before I go, let me chat about Richie for a moment. Now he was not a favourite of mine in the Bachelorette. I found him too agreeable and everything seemed to be "cool bananas" which we all know in life it's not. I found him boring, but still a handsome sort with a good sick pack, sorry six pack and an "as you wish" Wesley look-a-like from The Princess Bride, which scored him bonus cookie points.

I am still yet to understand though, what a rope specialist does and how that can earn one a good income, but I am open to learning. I might suggest my son consider doing it at Uni. All that aside, this season means we have to watch him week after, week, after boring week. The man's personality is limited to say the least. He is a nice guy, but oh so limited and I feel the girl that accepts his final rose will need to be willing to balance him out or equal him.

So far the shows are best watched with Twitter in hand, it's true, it makes the show more impressive. I also worry for the entertainment value of the show when Keira either doesn't get a rose, or she walks off because she is "Not Happy" with how the girls are behaving or if Richie doesn't do something he should have like kissed her already. Me thinks though that maybe Richie feels a little uneasy (or we could use the word intimidated, either works) around Keira. I can't quite pin point why he would feel this way but maybe its a bit like Keira is like...

Maybe she creeps him out? Whatever the delay in his affection towards her, I worry she might explode quite literally if he doesn't make a move soon!! (notice how the lady in this gif has blond hair too)

The Bachiettes need to consider a lock down plan or a safe zone should this occur. They might need to get Oshie involved because Oshie is the good samaritan in all this. He has the math skillz, them word skillz, commercial promotion skillz, the lean down to my shoulder Richie if you need it skillz. I am not sure if he can dance but I am thinking he must be able to shake it with some boogie skillz, and don't forget the vegan skillz coz he loves the earth. He got all dem skillz. Osher is the package!

Raising a Daughter has its Challenges!

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Fri, 05 Feb 2016 04:08:00 +0000

Raising a daughter was nothing like I thought it would be. When we found out our first born was a girl I was over the moon excited. A girl was just the best news. She was a gorgeous baby with big blue eyes and red angelic lips. Everyone wanted to hold her and cuddle her. I recall the first outing hubby and I took without her though. She was about 5 months old and we were invited to an engagement party. Free food and entertainment, we scored!! Claire was left with my mum and she screamed non stop! My mum called me an hour after we left and reluctantly asked me to come back. That was really the beginning of our hardships mixed with joys.

As I said, Claire was a such a gorgeous baby and we would get so many complements on her big blue eyes and how well she developed from a baby into a toddler. She crawled for about a week then realised it wasn't so fun and so decided to walk. She was walking just at the end of nine months. Which was amazing and fun for about a week. Having a baby who is walking around at 10 months isn't what its cracked up to be and when you aren't prepared it's even harder!!

I remember at about 12-15 months I was recording Claire's words in my journal ( I don't think blogs existed back then, or at least I had never heard of them). I was filling up the pages fast. At her 18 month update appointment, the nurse asked me what kind of words Claire was saying. I listed some and she looked at me like I was joking. I bet she was thinking, " Oh no, one of these parents who think their kid is saying these things when they aren't". I wasn't bragging, Claire was my first and I thought it was "normal". But now the nurse was giving me that look, so I asked if that was normal or was she behind? The nurse looked at Claire and said, " How are you Claire?" Now I can't remember exactly what Claire said, I do have it written down in my journal, which is somewhere. But the look of shock and surprise on the nurse's face was priceless when she answered her. I wasn't lying, she really could talk your socks off and express herself very well, even at that age. I felt like saying, "Told you"! But again, I wasn't bragging it just was what it was.

Now, I could say all this is amazing stuff continued on, however, as Claire grew up life got more challenging for me. Leaving her at preschool was an event! It was so heart breaking because she would run to the gate and scream like she was being chased by a murderer! It took about 6 weeks for her to chill out when I left and a couple months before she just walked in and didn't run back out again. I would often call when I got home (about 30mins later) and the teacher would say she was fine and one wouldn't know it was the same girl who had put the performance on earlier. That was how it seemed to work for Claire, put the performance on for mum and see what it took to make her crack. She was a smart little girl. She was keen to argue and question our rules, a lot! Like a real lot! Putting her in time out was a horrendous experience. Disciplining her was a challenge and I had to get really creative. I would always tell myself it will get better when she gets older, but it just got harder, and harder, and heart breaking. She did very well in her school work and she excelled in creative writing, but home life was not all hearts and roses. I went through periods where I didn't like being in the same room as her because of the challenges she put me through. As I had more children, she would go through moments of joy and helpfulness to the complete opposite.

My mum encouraged us to take her to a child psychologist when she was about 10. I was in denial a bit because I justified her behaviour as a creative mind, when really she was manipulating and over powering. How did things get to here? Counselling worked for a little while, but then things fell back into challenge zone again.

Things came to an over powering peak when she was 12. She hated the first high school she attended. She refused to get out of bed, and she hated me. I was to blame for everything and if anything went wrong in her life, I was blamed even if I wasn't in the room or near her when it happened. It was emotionally and physically exhausting. She was no longer a child and I couldn't physically pick her up and move her to her room, or hold onto the door. She was becoming physically stronger than me and the psychological manipulation was harsh and hard to keep up with her. I was told by a counsellor, you have to be several steps ahead, which I could potentially do if I didn't have 3 other children to tend to. Motherhood at that time was hard. Really hard. We decided to changed her schools, hoping this would help her enjoy school. She was actively involved in choosing the new school and her cousin attended and they were in the same year, so we thought this would work out well. But at this new school she met a friend who was toxic. Well, I should say this toxic friend sort her out. Claire was well accepted at this new school and climbed the social ladder rather quickly. This girl was keen to hang with Claire on top of this social hierarchy. This girl was a nice natured girl to anyones face, but had a taste for adventures with no boundaries nor respect for adults, even her mother. Though we did what I figured most parents did. Have all the sleep overs at our house. Have the girl and the other friends at our house so I could monitor things as much as possible. But I can't monitor them at school, or places they would lie to me about going. Claire's behaviour got worse. So we decided to have Claire see another counsellor and things got better for a couple of months, but then Claire was a victim of cyber bullying at the hands of this "so-called" friend. This cyber bullying was not just a run of the mill situation. We had to get police involvement along with the school and the toxic friend was suspended. All this drama turned things south again. She still somehow thought it was a social requirement to remain friends with this girl. Even though she had done this horrible thing (amongst other things).The toxic friend also couldn't leave Claire alone, not necessarily to continue to be nasty but because of this stupid social hierarchy thing! Something had to be done, so we got her to see another psychologist (the one she saw before had moved on to a different clinic). This psychologist was amazing. She had Claire really understand accountability. It was hard on me because I wondered what was wrong with me and my relationship with my daughter, that she couldn't learn those things from me? How did things get this bad? Thankfully, Claire cut herself from this toxic friend and has learnt strategies on self worth and knowing how to determine good qualities in friends and people in general. The psychologist also helped her see that I am out to help her not hinder. That while she has treated me badly in the past, I won't hold it against her and that Claire is first and foremost my daughter, whom I love and will love forever.

While all these challenges were taking place I had plenty of mums telling me how raising teen girls is so hard. Though most told me that life gets better around 15 or 16 onwards. For me personally, I couldn't see that potential. I always thought life with Claire would be challenging, for the rest of my life, even if she moved away from home when she got older!!

However, the past 12 months I am happy report have been great. The past 6 months though have been the best. In fact, today was a day I never thought would happen. Claire and her friends spent the day with me. We didn't do anything amazing, I had to go to Costco so they came a long. We chatted and laughed about silly things. It was a girls day out, and it felt so nice. I'm sure this sounds cheesy, but Claire took a photo of us and captioned, "Out with the Squad". Two years ago, that just wouldn't have taken place. I would have been told off for sitting near her and her friends and mocked for trying to be in the photo! She would have demanded things instead of asking then we would embarrass ourselves by arguing because I wouldn't be treated like that. I may not have even got into Costco, I might have left because I couldn't cope with her nasty attitude. Anyway, it seems it is not like that anymore. It seems that we really are progressing forward. We do actually enjoy each other's company and share personal space. It's a really nice feeling, and I like it and I want to hold onto that forever.

Currently Crushing on Fashion Finds World Edition #3

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Wed, 23 Dec 2015 01:19:00 +0000

The following crushes are not sponsored. I share what takes my eye. I hope you find something new to crush on too.

I have crushed on these shoes by Noa Levy Aran, of Israel, who owns the Etsy store, ABRAMEY. Gorgeously designed and handmade, she also sells statements necklaces. Crushing on:

Greek Sandals black leather

Leather Grey Boots

THE LEATHER STORE - has to be one of my all time favourites. Handmade leather hand bags by Becki Simms of Bristol England UK. I favourited this store on Etsy years ago and still love what she makes. I will keep my crushing list to a minimum, but i could easily list her whole store!! You will see why!! Crushing on:

Leather handbag Tote in vintage brown

Red Leather Handbag tote

Bucket Tote Bag

MIMIIMADEIT has some very comfy looking styles. The owner, Arta of Rig Latvia, created this line of clothing after having two children and realising her body had changed. Currently crushing on:

Linen Tunic

Linen Pants

Linen Dress

I am very much taken by the deigns at A PIECE OF PIE by Sarah Murray of the South Coast, NSW Australia.. They are very unique and she creates clothing from up cycled materials, which when you are talking tea towels could be unsuccessful, but she manages to do it well. Currently crushing on:

Upcycled Vintage Mexican Table Cloth dress

Upcycled linen Tea Towel blouse

Vintage Tea towel tunic

On another note, if you need socks for the special guy or dude in your life, then KEMBE CLOTHING could be the answer. Apparently there is a hashtag if you want to share your #sockswag! Why not?! Currently crushing on:

Marina Bay

Como

Tribeca

Jewellery is a very competitive craft to be part of. So many people can make jewellery, but it really comes down to what can you do well that no body else or very few people can do, which is easier said than done. That being said, I do have some favourites I would like to share with you. Well, I kind of have lots, but I will start small!!!

If you have some cash to spare, you might like this ring from PEBBLE AND POLISH of NYC, USA.

Antique 2.50 Carat Old European cut Diamond

Loving the colour and texture of these earrings from ARTNSOULJEWELS, Minnesota USA.

Mixed metal Earrings

These cute wooden stud earrings made by JUNEDESIGNCO in Devonport Tasmania, Australia.

Wooden Butterfly Earrings

The whimsical filigree designs of FEDERIKAS, are unmistakably fascinating and eye catching.

Dragonfly necklace with ruby red jewel

I hope you have liked what I have put together this week. I will continue to share my Finds into 2016. If you would like your work to be share, contact me.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND ENJOY YOUR TIME OFF AND NEW YEARS CELEBRATIONS.

Bacon Okonomiyaki Sushi - It's a Thing!

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 22:38:00 +0000

So I totally love Okonomiyaki with a bit of a passion. The combination of Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise and the Okonomi sauce is just a perfect marriage made in heaven. So I got to thinking. I love bacon, I love avocado I love these two sauces so how can I expand on this? I first made a salad and this was just perfection. But it got me to thinking, about sushi. This could totally work with sushi...so I made it.

The best advice I can offer is to make the bacon just before assembly. I can't imagine this being as delicious if the bacon sat for a while and became chewier, but each to their own right? This is too easy to make.

Ingredients
cooked rice with sushi seasoning mixed through
nori seaweed sheets
cooked bacon - mine was from Costco the American style strip bacon
avocado skin removed and sliced
wild rocket
Kewpie Mayonaise*
Okonomi sauce*

*You should be able to get Kewpie mayo in Coles or Woolies in the asian food isle. As for Okonomi Sauce, if its not at either of these supermarkets your local asian supermarket should stock it. Its is a Japanese product and its in a plastic bottle with orange lid and usually in a plastic bag.

Assembly
Set up you nori sheet as you normally would. Add the sliced avocado, then the bacon, then wild rocket*, followed by the mayo and sauce. There is no set rule, but this is how I did it.

*I strongly implore you use wild rocket or rocket. It has a lovely flavour and just adds so much more than plain lettuce.

This is super tasty on its own but if you're like me and like to mix your wasabi with your soy sauce, then I recommend you do this:)

Happy for you to pass this on, but please link back to me to show credit. This really needs to become #athing!

CURRENTLY CRUSHING ON NEW AUSSIE CRAFT FINDS #2

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 03:30:00 +0000

Unfortunately my timing is not always on point. I was hoping to have my Craft Finds post up and running at the beginning of Dec, but so many dramas to deal with, which happens when you have lots of kids and that is another post for another time!! Shopping local is really important, but even more so is shopping from small businesses. As I sell craft of my own, I love to support other crafters and artists whenever possible. These businesses, unless stated, I have not purchased from them but like what is sold. So here is a list of my current crushes,.

Kelaoke - making jewellery can be easy to some, but making something unique can be hard. I love these necklaces and woven wall hangings at Kelaoke. She is Aussie and sells via Etsy and her items are truly one of a kind and her love of her craft truly shows in her detailed pieces. New items are added, but check out her Instagram page for all her designs. I am currently crushing on the..

Reversible polymer clay necklace

Weaving with Polymer clay Beads

JoeyDesign - something a little different. This girl is a very talented illustrator who sells her designs via cute stickers, cards, softies, and has recently add her own Boho paintings. She designed some very cute stickers for my daughters 11th birthday party. I have loved this shop ever since. Currently crushing on..

Pastel unicorns and gemstones

Reclaimed Timber Mandala Artwork

Alfie and Olive - this talented young girl happens to be my niece. She makes vintage style baby bonnets in stylish modern fabric. She is currently located in Bristol UK, but posts internationally. Currently crushing on the William Morris Cotton print with denim.

Pepper Ink - vintage inspired and custom made temporary tattoos are very popular at the moment. Pepper ink is an Australian company with some amazing designs suitable for tweens onwards. Currently crushing on:

Vintage Butterflies

Floral Woodland Creatures

Speaking of temporary tattoos, in a different style I love the colour and vibrancy of the temp tattoos from MissyMinzy. You can also find cute wall art, greeting cards, and brooches. Currently crushing on :

Flamingo Dance Wall Art Print

Jellicious Land Temp Tattoos

Louise De Masi - I fell in love with Louise's work some time ago now, but love what her talents can produce. I particularly like her Australia fauna, but there is also now birds of UK and USA in her Etsy store. Currently crushing on :

Galah print of water colour painting

Rose Original water colour painting.

How cute are the vintage style shower caps from Pure Heaven Naturals ? I also like the floral body butter for the lips, hands and heels. Pure Heaven Naturals are locally hand crafted in small batches.

I am also selling some cute stuff too! My button is just to the right of the post with the crochet flower.

Looking forward to sharing more finds with you in 2016. If you would like me to share an item or two from your independent business, contact me. I will not only mention you in a FINDS post, but you will be listed in the directory, which is located via the tab at the top of the blog. Currently there is not charge for submissions. I welcome businesses all over the world.

Currently Crushing on STYLE FINDS - AUSSIE STYLE #1

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 11:06:00 +0000

I love finding new places to window shop, or screen-shop since I do a lot of it online these days. I often stumble across websites that I wonder if other people know about them. So I thought I might compile a list of sites that I have recently found and share them on. Today;s list features Australian businesses. I thoroughly believe in shopping local as much as possible. I do shop overseas, especially handmade items. But when and wherever possible I love to support small Australian businesses. Unless stated, I haven't purchased from these stores, I just like browsing their sites and hoping one day I will get back and purchase something.

MisterZimi - an Australian business that sells gorgeous clothes for women. Has a bit of a boho vibe with bright colours and patterns. Not for big ladies, as in 16+. Sizes range from 6-14, although they do sell shoes. Prices range from $95 to $180. My current crush is on the Santorini Tina Dress.

Bohemian Traders - as the name suggests, a modern bohemian fashion line, that is reasonably price in terms of the upper middle end of the fashion budget. Though they do have great sales, but be quick!! I personally have not yet purchased from here, I have been a bit slow on the up take with their sales, but I plan to in the future. They offer international postage and I am personally in love with the current Vintage Embroidered Shell Top, as shown below but in all the colours!!

Bohemian traders also offer accessories and gift certificates.

Little Tienda - again another bohemian style fashion brand but from a Mexican perspective. Sizes range from 8-16 (please refer to their size guide). They stock clothes, shoes, and handbags. I'm crushing on the Señora Las Flores dress.

Blue Bungalow - love the look of this Aussie shop. I came across in on Instagram. Variety of garments, footwear, and accessories and with affordable prices. Many under $100. Sizes range from 10 to 16, which is a bonus for the likes of me!! There is a lot to see on this site. Other than clothes, they also stock a range of accessories, lipsticks, and candles. International postage is available. I am crushing on the Ink Border Blue Dress and the Pearl Ankle Strap Sandal.

Ankoa - another bohemian style clothing line, but the patterns are slightly unique and different to the others I have listed. Another Aussie business that offers International postage that offers clothing, bags, and jewellery. Currently crushing on...

Viola Pintuck Blouse Pink and Blue Floral

Mathilde Dress Red Poppy

Boom Shankar - I am a little reluctant to share this site because i love it so much!! I was shopping the other day and lady in front of me was wearing a gorgeous and comfortable looking summer dress. I enquired where you scored it from. She told me and said that 6 other people that day asked her the same thing. She told me that it is the best website and always uses. Thanks random lady, I am totally converted!!! Sizes range from 8-16 and some items are cotton stretch for comfort and sales are amazing. Currently crushing on heaps of things, but I am narrowing it down to...

Daisy Dress - filigree blue

Daisy Dress - afri blue

Pipe Dress - suess yellow

Maxi Skirt Geo

I will be listing many more fashion sites for all members of the family, craft, homewares, make up and more. Hope you find something new, interesting, and your reliable place to shop. If you have your own business, anywhere in the world that ships worldwide, get in touch i would love to hear from you and discover your treasures.

A Smoothie A Day Keeps....

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Tue, 01 Dec 2015 04:51:00 +0000

You feeling really good throughout the day I must say! I have always enjoyed smoothies but traditionally for me, smoothies contained yoghurt or milk. I never thought of a smoothie just being made of fruit before. Over the past year and a bit I have realised my body doesn't appreciate dairy. So I have had to adjust to taking dairy out of my diet, which has been hard because while I can easily give up milk and yogurt, ice cream has been a big challenge. I do like chocolate but I can take it or leave it most of the time!!

I have embraced the almond milk, and will endeavour to make my own one of these days! I still consume cheese, but no where near as regularly as I once did. I will have it once a month if that and then I will be cranky with myself afterwards as I my body cramps up and responds to its presence in my system.

I have embraced the smoothies though and dairy free homemade ice creams, which I will also share with you.

1/4 cup Blueberries
Two small white peaches skin on chopped
2 mint leaves
1/3 of a small pineapple skin removed and chopped
Add about 1/2 to 1 cup of ice cubes
Add water to taste preference

Blend up in blender on pulse then liquify or puree if you have that function.

Watermelon - about 1 to 2 cups chopped
1/3 of a small pineapple skin removed and chopped
4 strawberries
table spoon of chia seeds
2 mint leaves
ice cubes and water
Blend it up baby!!

Watermelon, about 1 to 2 cups chopped
1/3 of a small pineapple skin removed and chopped
4 strawberries
2 mint leaves
ice cubes and water
Blend it good, blend it real good!!

1/2 a small pineapple skin removed and chopped
2 mint leaves
1cm to 1.5cm nib of fresh ginger
1 tbs chia seeds
ice cubes and water
Blend it all up and refresh yourself!

1/2 small pineapple skin removed and chopped
1/2 large banana
2 mint leaves
4 strawberries
ice cubes and water
Blend it and blend it and blend it!

1 small very ripe pineapple skin removed and chopped
2 very ripe pears
ice cubes and water
Blend it and blend it!!

So I went food shopping without a list....on a Saturday morning....

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Sat, 21 Nov 2015 03:04:00 +0000

Yeah, I woke up this morning thinking I really should get some groceries since my kids are like starving and not been fed since 8pm the night before! We are actually out of milk and bread so I thought, "I'll just pop down to the shops and grab a couple of things". Now how many of us say this with all the right intentions of doing just that? Why is it that it never actually ends up that way?

I woke up around 7:30am, by the annoying dog next door who was barking. Craparama, seriously its flammin' Saturday morning! A real opportunity to sleep in and a canine (that doesn't belong to me) not even a child, is waking me from a sleep-in day? It was at this point I should have realised that my day may not be shaping up to be....

No sir-ree! Now that I was awake, I figured I really should get down to the shops and get the "couple" of things I needed before people swarm in the hundreds to do the same thing. Great idea and how clever of me, until I decide to just see what is happening on Instagram...

Then as if time was on fast forward, 30 mins flew by me without even a pinch on the bum to remind me of what I was supposed to be doing. I had to get my priorities right. If I didn't leave to the shops soon, getting a park was going to be insane let alone lining up at the registers. But before I get out of bed I get a notification on Facebook. I will just quickly see what that is.....

Craparama I did it again, almost a stinkin' hour has been spent on funny Ellen Show clips, food recipes, funny animals, Humans of New York fraction stories, and other amazing things that only true Facebook embracers totally get and understand. It is now 9am. If I don't haul a' to the shops now, there is no point in going at all. Should I shower...

I managed to get there as the parking spots were filling up but scored me a mighty fine park. Now it's at this point that I, basically in vain, remind myself I really only need to get bread and milk. However, I thankfully remember that I need to get dessert for a dinner we are attending the following evening. Should I right this down?

Naa, I'll remember that!! Note to self, your memory is Luna Park spelt backwards! You rarely remember things that happened only moments ago. Do not kid yourself, you will NOT remember what you need to get and as soon as you hit that grocery store you will get caught in the sale items at the front of the store and purchase at least 10 items before you actually recall why you went there in the first place!

Has anyone seen that Percy Jackson movie where they go to the casino and eat lotus flowers or something like that and they eventually realise that they have been in the casino for about 5 days or so? Well, I feel like that a bit when I am in the grocery store without a list. I have to be like...

to myself and get my act together and get on with finding the bread, the milk, the desert and oh look what's on special.....

Ok, these are a great special, and a must have. Now let me get back to what I am here for. Then my phone buzzes. "Mum, I totes need bobby pins, can you like get me some?" Ok, now I have to add this to my brain? Let's see, dessert done with the donuts, that were on special, I am so awesome!! I have to get milk, bread, and bobby pins. I walk down the breakfast cereal isle. I just remember we are out of cereal so I add that to the trolley. Don't forget the bread and milk. Then I remember that we need fruit so the boys will have something for 'crunch and sip' at school on Monday. So I head back to the fruit section and pick up some. Everything looks so bright and colourful here. I really should grab a couple more things. Then I see the meat. Do I need meat? Was I here to get meat? Hang on a minute....

I truly am, but I know I didn't come to the shops for nothing. I really did have a purpose. What was it again? That's right milk, bread, and.....then I my phone buzzes, its another text. "Mum, are you like there, did you get my msg..." What message is she talking about? I hate getting random messages from my daughter. Then my phone rings.

Daughter: Hey Mum, do you like ever read my texts?

Me: I think I do?

Daughter: I totes need bobby pins

Me: Yes, I know I will get them but leave me alone or I will forget them!

So that's what I almost forgot. The stinkin' bobby pins. DO NOT FORGET THE BOBBY PINS, OR THE WRATH WILL FOLLOW! I head toward the milk, which annoyingly is on the complete other side of the store. As I am trolleying there, I notice the discount shelf of the cold food that are "Quick Sale" I should totally check it out! I pick up some heavily discounted 'fancy' milk (which is anything that is not standard store brand milk) and some yoghurt. Score! Now I realise I am adding more than I wanted into the my trolley and I really need to solidify my game plan. Get that milk and then the bread and get out of there, now, now, now! I surprise myself and do exactly that, but because of my distractions of discounts and specials the check out lines are building up. I manage to scope a shorter line down the other end of the store. I am third in line which was better than the others and I get the chance to catch up on important world news by reading the front pages of the 'gossip' magazines. I am now second in line. I am almost about to start adding my items to the conveyer belt when I remember something....

It is at this point I feel like.....

And then....

But then I'm like....

I am "MUM" I own this errand! I will get this sorted. I load my more than three items onto the conveyor belt. Purchase my items that were supposed to cost less than $20 but ended up being over $100, because you know how it is right? I load them in the trolley and I pick up some bobby pins at Big W on my way out of the shopping centre. I own this mum job, and I will endeavour to write a list next time....endeavour.... no promises because I might forget to write a list, or might not be able to find a pen that works or a spare piece of paper. Whatever happens, I am mum and I will work it out!!!

PS. I am totally showing my age. I always forget (yes I know) I can use the notes app on my phone...I'll get there one day!

Halloween Pinterest Fail! Nailed it!

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Wed, 04 Nov 2015 11:42:00 +0000

So I saw this awesome venus fly trap on Pinterest for Halloween .......

I so wanted to recreate it, and it looked simple enough. The site explained the method and materials very clearly. I can so do this, I told myself. Though, I wouldn't be able to find the pumpkin head very easily. So I decided I would paper mache something up. As I layered upon layered gluey newspaper strips onto a halloween lantern from the Hot Dollar shop I was starting to think, why have I chosen such a silly way to do this project? It must have been the fogging brain taking over as the flu crept upon me. I soldiered on, and created this.....

No stem, no pot plant base. It does look scary but for all the wrong reasons. I had to prop the mouth open with something otherwise the mouth would close and it would look like nothing at all. One day I will make something awesome for Halloween...one day!!!

Lovin' Halloween Decorations 2015

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Wed, 04 Nov 2015 11:31:00 +0000

Halloween is over for yet another year. I am so happy Aussie's are starting to really embrace the art of Halloween and trick-o-treating. It really is a lot of fun to have an excuse to dress up and walk around your neighbourhood and get to know people while asking for candy/lollies!! Here is what my house looked like this year.

The paint was purchased because it was "glow in the dark" though it didn't really deliver a good glow, well not as I was hoping it would. I think if I had charged it with a torch directly onto each letter, it could have given a better affect. Most people loved the giant spider. The garbage bag at the front is supposed to be a body bag. From a certain angle, it was close to looking like it should. Not sure if anyone picked up on it, they were too nice and didn't ask!!

The glow in the dark paint not having an affect at night time:(

I painted the skeletons in the glow in the dark paint too. The eyes show the paint slightly working. The teeth have been doused in glow stick fluid! I got annoyed that things weren't glowing, so resorted to the glow stick fluid to say something glowed!!!

It started to rain a little so Charlie came under the porch to greet the evening trick or treaters. The best compliment of the night was a young couple who sat their baby on the seat so they could get some pictures, and I didn't charge them!!;p

This is our foyer entrance table decorations.

This was my attempt at a venus fly trap. I saw something on Pinterest that looked awesomer than this. I had such high hopes, but I ran out of time as I got the flu and ran out of patience. Maybe next year! So I guess this is my #PinterestFail. The cockroaches are fake! Come back in the middle of summer and they won't be!!!

What did you do this Halloween?

The Bachelorette Australia Finale Recap

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Mon, 26 Oct 2015 06:04:00 +0000

Apologies for this late post. I had better things to do this weekend. I was on my time out. Not that I have been a bad mother and needed time to reflect on my behaviour, but as most mothers know we do need time out to reflect on why we chose to be mothers! It was a great weekend that really recharged my batteries that should last until the next mummy meltdown!!

Episode 10

It is finale time and BachieQueen has bought her Bachies to NZ to consume fosh and chops and all the L&P their hearts desires!! It was RobotMikey's turn to meet the her siblings first. BachieQueen's sister took the over protective sister roll and she did a good job. She was not taking any nonsense from RobotMikey. What were her first impression of RobotMikey....

I instantly liked her! Though by the end of their one to one chitty chat she seemed to have softened up towards him. Still first impressions are lasting.

Then it was Sasha's turn to meet the family, and while they tried hard to drill him, it was clear that they know he is BachieQueen's fav and they had to try hard not to let us know that, but didn't do the best of jobs. BachieQueen's sister tried to press Sasha to use the 'L' word but Sasha kept to his guns and expressed that he didn't want to use the word just to get her attention, which I thought was sweet.

Final Dates

BachieQueen took RobotMikey white water rafting and then they chitty chatted in a hot water spring....

Though BachieQueen did keep emphasising to the viewers how important it was for the fellas to express their true feelings. While it seemed to me that RobotMikey was not really completely in love with her or overly interested for that matter, he still dropped the 'L' bomb and because I totes read minds, I could see BachieQueen be like....

But she is nice and wouldn't actually say that, though we know she only has eyes for Sasha and this part of the show 'has' to be done.

BachieQueen takes Sasha on a yacht so they can cuddle and pash a lot. Then they sat on the pasha couch and talked about feelings and then Sasha dropped the 'L' bomb! BachieQueen's response to Sasha was way better than the other guys....

...and it was more obvious than it has ever been before who she was going to choose!

Who Does BachieQueen Choose?

Now if RobotMikey could show emotions, he would be like....

But I don't call him RobotMikey for kicks. When BachieQueen revealed the bad news that she just wanted to be friends and not lovers, because it was her and not him he was all like....

Good Luck to you RobotMikey, all jokes aside I do hope you find your lady C3PO one day!

I predicted this ending from Episode 1. Sasha and BachieQueen seem like a very compatible couple and I do wish them all the best. There was no marriage proposal, nor any ring or jewellery of any kind to speak of. Perhaps Channel 10 blew the budget on the first class tickets to NZ?! Whatever the case, like I prophesied back in my episode 8 recap...

I am so awesome at this!! ;p

Missed a Recap?

Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 9
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 8
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 7

Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 6
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 5
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episodes 3 and 4
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 2
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 1

The Bachelorette Australia Ep 9 Recap and BachietteTreat

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 06:15:00 +0000

Episode 9

And then there were 3 Bachies standing and one of them has already stolen BachieQueen's heart and the other two are along for the ride and potential modelling contracts. BachieQueen takes each Bachie on a one to one date this episode and at the end of this episode, a Bachie will be departing back into singledom.

Sasha's Date

I really felt for Sasha on this date because he has a fear of heights and BachieQueen is well aware of this. Geared with this knowledge she decides the coolest date would be to totes go skydiving! No doubt Sasha's first impression was....

But he held it together like a trooper or like a love sick puppy dog, because he decided to go up in the plane that has a transparent roller door, which would make any hypsiphobic hurl at the sight of it. Personally, I have a crippling fear of heights. The very thought of skydiving and falling from an aeroplane makes me feel ill. Though that being said, if my husband decided to take me skydiving when we were dating, I probably would have skydived like Sasha did, anything for love right?

Once on the ground BachieQueen realises she could get Sasha to do just about anything in the name of love! She also realisies that this date means they can totes get through any challenges that life could throw at them IF they were to be together. This makes BachieQueen so excited, she starts to get queasy and light headed! The doctor is called in to monitor her but all she be thinking...

BachieQueen manages to get her heart rate down and back to normal beating mode. The thrill of the skydiving and the presence of her BachieKing were too much for her body to take!!! Things are looking good for the couple until they sit down on the pashing couch and BachieQueen says she is concerned that Sasha may not like her after the show is over because she doesn't have nice things! Sasha and us are like...

Is she saying....?

But Sasha patches it all up with his reassurance that stuff like that doesn't bother him and he's like....

And she melts for him all over again. Sash is the Man!! #TeamSasha

Richie

So I want to go all cray cray on the Princess Bride gifs again, but we'll see how we go. We might need to mix it up a little due to the nature of the date. BachieQueen takes Richie to the snow and in true Aussie form, there isn't much snow to get excited about, though its enough to get Richie thinking its like the movies and its all #CoolBananas! He is from Perth! After some snowball fighting, with what snow they could find, it was time to get serious. BachieQueen was on a mission. She had to hear just how serious Richie was about her, and by serious I mean, the "L" word. Was he falling in love with her, or was he trying to fall in love with her? She asked him but we at home, were like...

Yeah, so words came out of his mouth but I can't quite remember what he was saying exactly and I am concerned he wasn't really sure either, which is a bit disheartening. Poor Richie....

Whatever you mean by what you were saying it means, it made us all feel like you were perhaps going home this episode...

Yes Richie it does!

Michael

If you have been reading my recaps (thanks by the way), you will know I am not a fan of RobotMikey. I can't really put my finger on it, its just seems like....

BachieQueen takes him whale watching. On the way, they are cuddling and he tells her that his mum proposed to his dad and I am all like....

BachieQueen dodges the comment but he tells her again and she has to respond and says something quaint. But its totally....

The highlights of the date go to the whales and then the aquarium room at the dinner date, that was pretty cool. But as for RobotMikey and his conversational skills....

Rose Ceremony

There are no numbers to collate or to speak of at this rose ceremony. And Osher is.....

What else can he do? BachieQueen took over and while she handed her second rose to RobotMikey she shed a tear for Richie. I was so hoping for RobotMikey not to get a rose, but alas, it was Richie. No Rose for you Richie there will be no Princess Bride ending for this show and I too shed a tear because there will be no more....

It's all good though because I am #teamSasha and always was!!!

My prediction for tomorrow night, well, I think I have already made it clear. RobotMikey has better things to do....

BachietteTreat

All natural orange slushy which consists of oranges, water and ice. It was so noice!!

Missed a Recap?
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 8
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 7

Tis the Season to be Spooky! Halloween 2015

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 12:00:00 +0000

Tis that time of year again that I get all excited and bring out the Halloween decorations. It has been a long time coming that Australians embrace the fun of Halloween. I have been embracing Halloween now for about 7 years, but I started seriously decorating my house about 2 years ago. Last year's decorations looked a little like this.

You might be able to see just slightly on the right hand side of this picture something glowing in the background. This was my attempt at a packing tape ghost. These are quite easy to make and not costly, but not as easy in my opinion to set up for its best affect. A bit more planning was needed from my end, and a place to hang them up would have been helpful. Our front yard at the time was under construction as well, so I really couldn't set anything up, like this.

You can kind of see on either side of the window some masks which I had glowing mini torches in, to give them their spooky look. I purchased the masks from the Hot Dollar store and purchased the mini torches online in bulk. The bats and hands are cut out from black cardboard and stuck on the window. You can get free templates online. The bobbled string is actually knitting wool.

These are solar lights and I scored them from Bunnings on clearance for about $2 a box. They look good and I am using them again this year.

We have two skeletons and both were purchased from Costco. This year, the skeletons were more expensive so I didn't bother getting another, though I do think two skeletons will work just fine this year. To get the glow in the dark liquid affect like this, I just used a liquid glow stick. The chunkier one is best as it's easy to pop the cap and pour on. Be careful when you do this. As you can see the affect is amazing but you need to reapply throughout the night as the glow doesn't last very long.

I picked up these pumpkins from Big W last year for $30. I try not to spend too much on my decorations. If I do spend, it has to be on something that can be reused year after year. This decoration has an adaptor so it inflates and lights up.

This year, I have a few other tricks up my sleeve. We are attempting a paper mache sculpture which we hope will be fun. I will post pics soon. I also made a rather large purchase that I am hoping will have a great affect. I am also attempting a mini haunted house.

The best thing about celebrating Halloween like this in Australia, is not too many houses do. The neighbourhood families love that they know they can send their kids to my house and check out the decorations and get a treat. It also encourages the other neighbours to get into the spirit of family fun and have treats ready for the kids as they come around. We had so many families with children come by our house last year and cars would drive by just to see the decorations. It was a lot of fun and that is why I will keep doing it!

Do you celebrate Halloween?

The Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 8 HomeTown Visits

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 10:45:00 +0000

Episode 8

BachieQueen gets to meet the families of her Bachies and potential future husband in this episode and I do believe she is feeling a little like this....

Alex

We all know SirAlex is not born in Australia because he speaks British. So I had a hunch that mummy and daddy wouldn't be making an appearance. But my mind does wonder is mummy like....

SirAlex meets up with BachieQueen on Avoca Beach and they have a warm, but not so passionate greeting. It is clear that SirAlex isn't given many opportunities to steal a pash. As their conversation grows, SirAlex reveals that his sister is flying in from NZ to meet her, which takes BachieQueen by surprise. Quickly my mind races on what his sister could look like. My comical heart is hoping for this...

or even....

But neither come true. His sister seems pleasant and while we are given the impression she is going to drill BachieQueen with her British interrogation skills she is actually quite nice. Which is a bit of a shame really, because we all know he has totally been #FriendZoned.

Micheal

Excuse me....

Now that I have that out of the way, though I could do it again at any moment! Michael lives in Brisbane and he takes BachieQueen to play some soccer, because that is what he does, he has no other job, no he doesn't, why would we question him? He then informs BachieQueen that his parents live in the opposite building to where he actually lives. He is all like.....

While we are tempted to find out just how amazingly wonderful his apartment really is, we are totally bummed to find out we aren't going to his place, we are going to his parents. Why would he do that we must ask? Well, I am guessing his apartment doesn't have views of BrisVegas because it seemed awfully important that BachieQueen saw BrisVegas at night and not just in the daylight. He could also be a cat man!

Mikey's parents are super lovely. His dad is full of personality and I am starting to like him more than Mikey. Why does Mikey come across so disgenuine? Is there still hope for Mikey? At the end of the date, as he says his good bye to BachieQueen, Mikey shows her the palm of his hand, which he has written in high school black pen, ' I heart Sam'. Excuse me...

Maybe there isn't any hope for him after all.

Richie

Richie greets Bachie Queen with a big hug and those who are weak, think that maybe these two are going to be married by the end of the season. Those who are strong will stick to the winning team, #teamSasha. Richie shows BachieQueen around Perth, because she has never been before. Note to self, how to score a free trip to a city you have never been to!! (though I am married, so that really can't work for me, but share the knowledge selflessly to others)

Then Richie takes BachieQueen home to meet the family and friends. I think this is the only date where friends out number family and I am a little puzzled as to why this is so. I was kind of hoping for his friends at least to be like this..

Unfortunately they don't look nor sound anything like them and I am disheartened. The friends do a lot of the talking and asking how genuine BachieQueen's feelings and her intentions are. Like she is going to spill her beans and tell them she is going to ask Richie to marry her or something? Way to represent! BachieQueen manages to survive the night and Richie goes in for the pash, but she no let him but he manages a little kiss. She is saving her love lips for the lucky last Bachie!!

Sasha

This is where the goods are at! You can so tell that Sasha and BachieQueen are a match pre made in heaven and it took this show to bring them together. Their warm embrace was enough to seal the deal and there is no doubt in my mind Bachie Queen is like....

However, Channel 10 have been working overtime to convince us all that Sasha's family, his mum particularly are not supportive of this relationship. From the promos alone, the impression I got about his mum was like...

But as per normal, her comments were cut, pasted, and cropped for affect and it turns out his mum is quite noice and accepting of BachieQueen. So it seems thumbs up all around and this is truly meant to be. It seems only fair at this point that we call the show off and let BachieQueen and Sasha be together and we can only hope for this...

Rose Ceremony

Sadly, back to the reality of the show where BachieQueen must choose another Bachie to go home so she can be with the last of her Bachies another two episodes. We all know its going to be the Bachie that has been #FriendZoned, which was sealed on the date with no kiss. Ta Ta #Sir Alex, no rose for you!

PS. No BachietteTreat this evening.

Missed a Recap?
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 7

The Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 7

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 03:02:00 +0000

Episode 7

This is the most gripping of the episodes thus far, no seriously it is! Tonight we find out who is going to be taking BachieQueen home to their hometowns so she can be verbally grilled by family and friends but before we get to that exciting stuff we find out there is going to be one last single date. All the boys are desperately praying for that spot. I can't quite work out everyone's thoughts but Soccer Mikey's was just a little louder than the others...

Unfortunately, he let himself down. Perhaps the guilts are getting to him about not revealing his true profession? Sasha was the one who scored this date, yay #teamsasha ( I am a little sad)! The rest were kind hearted and congratulated him. Though no doubt, in their minds a different story is told...

Before we get to the single date, where we will find out if their feelings are still burning with passion as we hope they are. There is a group date to be had.

Group Date

The fellas are informed they must make the dinner for their BachieQueen. Each Bachie puts their dibs on the course they want to make. As obliging as Richie is...

..he had to google what canapés were, he's from Perth right?

I am very confident, that when BachieQueen organised this soirée she didn't care too much if the boys understood what a canapé was or if they knew any foreign language to better describe chicken or any meal for that matter. All she was really hoping for was...

It seems that whoever cooked what, BachieQueen was just happy they did and equally surprised that men actually possess the talents to be able to cook in the first place! Was it not too many episodes ago BachieQueen that you admitted to be a bad cook and burnt the cheese toastie?

The dinner party seemed to be going fine until we notice Dave the Plumber recluse. No one is paying him attention, poor little boo boo! Seriously Dave, you are becoming a wet blanket and we kinda don't want you on the show anymore. You don't have fun hanging out with kids, you don't pash on camera, and if you aren't centre of attention at a dinner party you act like a shy child on their first day of school! Boo hoo, have a cry and get over it!

But Dave was not the only wet blanket in the room. They decide to play a dinner party game, which isn't really a game but it will do. BachieQueen picks a card with a statement written on it about one of the Bachies and she has to guess who it belongs to. Kind of how #BacheloretteAU do on their Instagram page with the Bachie's belongings and baby photos, so we know who helped them out with this one!! All seems fun and moving smoothly until Disgeunine Mikey pulls the mood down and claims his worst fear is to not finding his true love...

Yes, that is pretty much the effect you have on me, almost every single show Mikey!

Single Date

Sasha and BachieQueen have to paint an overly large (me thinks this decision was later regretted) blank canvas for a charity auction. Sasha enjoys art, so she seemed it fitting to chose him to go on this date, and also the fact that she pretty much is head over heels for him and can't wait to pash him all day!!

The painting was, well I think we can say the painting wasn't the most important event of the date. They just wanted to be with each other and so the painting can best be described as...

Rose Ceremony

David the douche international model was the first David to be dumped. Then there were two Davids. Davey the childish man was second to go. The Davids were looking worried, could Dave the Plumber represent and bring home the engagement ring? Nup! David is not a good name to have on this show, even strength in numbers can't hold you together! Davids are now extinct in the House of Bachies. Farewell Dave the Plumber, we hope you find the strength to deal with your feels and emotions and find a lady who can deal with them too!

#BachietteTreat

Tonight's treat was more dinnerish. I made taco bread by hand and while it isn't very time consuming, I started it later than I should have so dinner was right as Bachelorette started. This is pork fillet tacos with guacamole, homemade salsa or pica di gallo, and lettuce n cabbage. So delicious!

Missed a Recap?

The Princess Bride themed Bachelorette Australia Episode 6 Recap and BachietteTreat

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Fri, 09 Oct 2015 03:35:00 +0000

Episode 6

Well good on ya producers for breaking the somewhat boring rut this show had fallen into. The single date this week was with 'Princess Bride' look-a-like, Richie so my gifs are all from 'The Princess Bride' movie. Yes, I am clever! As for the date itself, BachieQueen and Richie sat in makeup for, I am just speculating, a fair few hours so they would look like they were 50 years older. My hat goes off to the makeup artists who did a sterling job on both BachieQueen and Richie.

They headed down to the Neutral Bay bowlers club (or whatever it was in Neutral Bay!!) for that all important stereotypical game of Bingo that all senior lads and lassies play and a boogie!!

Later on, when the lights go down and their makeup is removed, the two settle down for alone time and I can almost hear Richie's thoughts....

Maybe BachieQueen heard it too because they have a pash and she gives him a rose. Maybe the end of the show will go a little like this....

Group Date

The Bachies went down to hang with the carnies at the carnival!! The guys have to prove, once again how manly and strong they are to hold BachieQueen's attention. So let me get this straight. If you are a strong man you are in, if you are ladyman you are out? Doesn't seem fair to me? Poor Sasha lost out on one of the games and all I thought about that was...

#teamSasha

The activities continue and the guy who wins out in the end for the alone time is, Dave the Plumber. After his tantie yesterday, this was no doubt a pleasant relief for him. Since The Bachelor, where Heather was #FriendZoned many people are wondering who will have that same fate this season? I have to wonder about Dave. This alone time was not sealed with a pash, on camera at least. Instead they got to 'hug it out'! Though he does come to his own defence and say he would rather do it in private. Well toot toot for you, but seriously, we are all in this too! We need to see how you kiss her and ~~judge~~ work out how compatible you are. It's a science this show and physical touch is all part of it. Sheesh, where did they get this guy from? As we are sticking to the 'Princess Bride' theme this is what I have to say about that ending...

BOOOOO!!

Rose Ceremony

It gets a bit heated, well at least BachieQueen attempts to make it that way, during the cocktail party when BachieQueen takes Davey away for a chitty chat. It would seem Davey acted like his true self during the Carnival group date and ruffled BachieQueen's feathers in a not so good way. The problem is, BachieQueen is worried the serious side to Davey's personality is not genuine or won't last long enough for him to make mature decisions. Basically...

So Davey was sent home and there was dramatically no rose ceremony, like that hasn't been done before!!

BachietteTreat

To honour the mixed bag of nutty nutters these Bachies are I decided to munch on some raw macadamia nuts this evening. Just keeping it real!!

Missed a Recap?

Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 5
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episodes 3 and 4
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 2
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 1

The Bachelor Australia Season 3 Finale Recap

Recap The Bachelorette Australia Episode 5 and BachietteTreat

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Thu, 08 Oct 2015 06:43:00 +0000

Episode 5

Well Channel10 have been working over time with drilling us with advertisements about how this week its going to be a "Double Date Disaster". So much effort was put into this campaign, that unfortunately for them, my expectations were high. Am I disappointed? All I can say is..

Not only am I disappointed you Channel10, but this date was really, more than anything else...

Davey and Tony were sent on the date to prove their compatibility with BachieQueen. Tony was keen on proving that because he is older, his maturity levels are higher because he knows what he wants, but unfortunately he has no idea what a soulmate is. Quite frankly Tony,

Better get back to the drawing board Tones and fine tune your soul mate definition and quick response skills! All this being said, even though Davey scored the rose it wasn't like he was the better person on the date. Even though he knew what a soul mate was, he still acts like he is playing on a game show rather than winning the heart of BachieQueen and I can't help but think this about Davey each time I see him...

In my last post I thought Davey would make the final two but I am starting to think he won't make it another rose ceremony. No argument he is a fun guy to be around but BachieQueen would have to be prepared to 'mother' him a couple years to wring out the child in him. It seems like Davey's dad's advice is fading in Davey's memory.

Group Date

As BachieQueen wants to be a mother in the near future, she has put her remaining Bachies to the test by having them host a kid's party. Each Bachie has to create a party game that will win the thumbs up from 30 kids and whoever wins over BachieQueen will score dinner time with her. Richie doesn't hesitate and is on top of this straight away...

Richie did a great job and really enjoyed himself and seems to have the kids eating out of his hand. Most of the guys work out what will make the kids happy and do a reasonable job at it, but poor Dave the Plumber struggles. Something in his brain tells him to create a game where he is the shark and the kids have to run to different posts and try not to be eaten/caught by him..

Poor Dave the Plumber had no clue and as a result the kiddies didn't like his game and in true kiddie fashion Dave the Plumber chucked a tantie and walked off!!

My money was on Richie for the dinner date with BachieQueen. However, I'm not really sure how, but Micheal (the pro soccer player) won BachieQueen's heart and scored the single date. This is how I felt about Micheal on this episode..

BachieQueen made him dinner of ham and cheese toasties which she happened to burn. I don't want to sound like a broken record, but I will! Michael is #disgenuine. He is too agreeable, and trying too hard to be a 'nice' guy that it just reeks of, for lack of a better word, 'disgenuuity".

I'm not saying he is a bad guy, I am just saying he knows he is on "TV" and he is playing, pro soccer style, up to the cameras. Anyway, BachieQueen pashes Micheal and gives him a rose and I'm all like...

The man wears a lady cardigan for crying out loud!!! My daughter has one that looks the same!!

Rose Ceremony

So Davey and Micheal are safe this round, but I am all like. I can't do my math and have no idea what is going to happen and I'm all like..

Then a familiar voice calms my troubled mind....

Osher in da house! Whoop whoop!! With #Osher, my Captian Obvious, my host with the most and all his divine mathematical knowledge which he so selflessly and generously shares week after week. I know all will be well when he shares that it's one Bachie who will be departing this fine evening. All is well in the world again and its time to say farewell to Kayne but I feel he is like..

BachietteTreat

I don't usually eat dairy, but when I do, it has to be worth it. Tonight I inhaled one of of these and they are my new favourite, Streets Magnum needs to take notes!

Bachelorette Australia Recap Episodes 3 and 4
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 2
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 1

The Bachelor Australia Season 3 Finale Recap

The Bachelorette Australia Ep 3 & 4

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Mon, 05 Oct 2015 01:38:00 +0000

Episode 3

If you are on #teamsasha then you would be happy with the single date in this episode. Though it was corny and set up for the two to have more intimate first date moments than is usually expected. The outcome, regardless of how delayed it was, was achieved. No doubt both Sash and BachieQueen are happy, well at least they seem to be at that point in the show. Though for us viewers, it does seem like Sasha has it in the bag. I am wondering though, Sasha was whispering something to BachieQueen when she was pinning the rose to his shirt. Does anyone know or are amazing lip readers and can tell me what he was whispering? It was a little weird and awkward, but I am curious to know what it was regardless of how mawkish it was!! I still can't work out who else in this bag of mixed nuts could work with BachieQueen as well as Sasha does. A concern I do hold for Sasha, is he has to keep his cool while BachieQueen spends time and pashes the other suitors. Will he keep it together or will he find it difficult and let the jealousy get the better of him?

While there was no kiss to steam up the screens on the single date, Sasha managed to get over the first date jitters and at the cocktail party was whisked away by BachieQueen to a private area of the mansion. It was certain that a kiss was to follow, however poor Sasha was struggling to find his moment. It was at this point that was I truly worried for him. Was he a good kisser? Why would he delay his pash, was his kisses of the past like this...

or like this perhaps?

Thankfully, Sash managed to ask for permission which it was granted and the kiss was nothing like the above possibilities, though there was a moment there where it could have been like the second one!!! ;)

The only other suitor I am considering a good runner up at this point in the game is Sandragon's little bro Davey. Though he hasn't really been able to be himself since he messed things up in Episode 1. He is trying a little too hard at this point in the show, and I hope he manages to shed this awkward skin he has created to protect himself and reveal the 'real' Davey, and not act like a d-i-c-k like his father told him not to!!

Hang on though, don't let me forget there is one more that could sweep BachieQueen off her feet..

Rose Ceremony

Luckily I couldn't tell if BachieQueen's hair was shorter this episode, but none the less it became awfully clear that OwlMan has fallen too deeply too quickly and BachieQueen being the nice girl that she is released him back into the world to meet up with his Owl friends.

Episode 4

Single date this week goes to #SirAlex. I am not quite sure what it is, but SirAlex seems to act and dress a little above his age bracket. Maybe he really thinks that the maturity card will win BachieQueen's heart. Well it kind of worked because BachieQueen keeps referring to him as being totes mature. Those grandpa jumpers are working their charm! However this is all that comes to mind for now...

Despite what I think though, BachieQueen gives #SirAlex a rose and he lives another week to share more of his grandpa wardrobe!!

Group Date

Those that scored the group date get to play dodge ball at #FlipOut. This is a good way to bring out the competitive male ego for sure! It quickly becomes real when Richie and Davey are chosen as team captains and Richie choose his, let's just call it like it is shall we? The dorks. While Davey chooses his preferred mates and considers his team, the 'Not Dorks' and pretty much should smash 'The Dorks'!! It is at this point however that Will gets to reveal is oddly manly physique which is out of proportion to the rest of his overall and bandana clad body. Someone along the way has encouraged Will to work out so that Bachie Queen will add that onto the list of his endearing qualities so he can remain in the BachieMansion one more rose ceremony. I do have to add here though that Will is all sorts of oddness but in an endearing way. I am not sure there are many men out there who can sport not just a pair of denim overalls, a cardigan, and a bandanna in the one outfit and be serious. Who wears bandanas like that these days?

Oh, ok then!

As it worked out "The Dorks" happened to win the dodge ball game and scored alone time in a Turkish Bath, which was unfortunately completely full of awkwardness. This mini group date really should have been a single with Richie, which eventually was towards the end, but we had to watch men applying special mud on each other and Bachie Queen exfoliating Will with an oven mitt to get there!!

Cocktail Party

The unofficial theme for this party became who could give BachieQueen the dopest present? Since they have known each other for like ages and ages in teenage years, they are now up to gift giving in order to win her affections. That being said, I'm not biased or anything, Sasha's gift however cheesy it may seem was the nicest of the evening, compared to the others.

Enter our favourite non-bachie, like ever, who informs the Bachies that 2 dudes will be going home tonight..

There are no prizes for the most obvious picks tonight. Will who smiles like he is the Joker with no make up was sent home and a nice looking fella with blond hair leaves too! My hat goes off to Will, while he is not BachieQueen's cup of red wine, we got to know him and discover that while he is an oddball, he is a nice guy. The other guy who left, I have no idea who he is and what he stands for so good on you Will!

PS. How many men do you know who drink tea at male gatherings??

PPS. No Bachiette Treat this week, I was camping when the shows aired and I have just watched them on TenPlay.

Missed a Recap?

Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 2
Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 1
The Bachelor Australia Season 3 Finale Recap

The Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 2 #BachietteTreat

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Thu, 24 Sep 2015 13:19:00 +0000

Episode 2

What a golden episode this was! Wow, where do I start? Well I should really start at the end because this is where all the juicy bits happened, but incase you didn't see it at all, I will give you a run down on what lead up to an 'intense'{said in a ladyman voice} evening.

Single Date

Dave the plumber scored the single date. Bachie Frost likes him coz he's a good "aussie bloke" and he is but he kind of reminds me of..

but he doesn't have a mullet {sad face}. BachieQueen loves how he says all the "genuine Aussie type bloke" stuff like referring to Bachie Queen as a 'bird', wha? All jokes aside, he does seem like a noice guy and he does come across like he is being himself, which is refreshing. In years to come we can only hope for this...

As for the date, they went to the SCG, which is totally a 'bloke's paradise', right? They are taken there in a black helicopter, because that is a 'blokie' colour, right? They meet a cricketer and play cricket, because that is a 'blokes' game, right? I am getting the hint that Channel 10 has done some research and discovered all the stereotypical things 'blokes' like and tried to squeeze it into a single date. Anyway, the night ends with BachieFrost giving David the plumber a rose. I'm still not convinced he is the one, #teamsasha all the way!

Group Date

Davey, Alex, and Will are left behind on the group date. The other bachies head to a river and are told they must jump of a cliff to prove their manliness to BachieFrost. This is where I can't crack any jokes. I am completely afraid of heights and jumping from heights totally cripples me with fear. However, they all do it, except for OwlMan, he can't bring himself to jump and for his bravery of admitting he couldn't he scored some alone time with BachieFrost. I was happy for OwlMan up until he went a little creepy and started expressing how he went a little crazy when his ex-girlfriend dumped him and how much he has totally fallen for BachieFrost, it was a little like...

If BachieFrost's hair looks uneven next week, we should be very concerned, v-e-r-y- c-o-n-c-e-r-n-e-d!

Cocktail Party

I should have mentioned that ModelDavid was a little miffed by the group date because he too was scared of heights and had never worn a scuba suit before. He tried new things for BachieFrost, but did she notice? No, she was too taken with OwlMan's bravery. Naturally, this hurt his feelings and he started questioning himself...

Poor ModelDavid had a hard time working this out. He thought by jumping off the cliff he was the man BachieFrost would want, but he didn't score the alone time. So he went a little weird and started causing trouble, thinking it would score him points. He found his inner confidence that was telling him...

This gave him the strength he needed. However, it came out all wrong to the viewers and the other 'blokes'. He broke the #brocode and cut in on Micheal the Soccer dude's time and made things completely awkward, kind of like when Sandragon interrupted alone time between BachieWood and Sarah. That was a moment that should never be repeated! Eventually he got some alone time with BachieFrost, and the first thing he did was tell her how much 'gangsta' was in him and gave her some baseball cap or something. Now DavidtheModel, I know you try to act gangsta and all but this is all I see..

Then he proceeds to tell BachieFrost to be weary of Micheal the Pro soccer dude because he thinks he is a playa, not just a player (haha that was mine!) which did not go down well with BachieFrost. So she is all like, "what do you think I need in a man"? This is where ModelDavid just crashed and burned in model style. He claimed that BachieFrost needed a good "baby daddy" and someone who looks good in clothes. Ahem...

It is at this point that I think, this douche is so going home tonight! Cut to the rose ceremony and as we all picked it, ModelDavid did not get a rose. However, this douche is not going home without having the last word. He proceeds to tell BachieQueen some dribble about how he thinks she has miss-judged him and says some not so clazzy things. What is this douche's problem? Nobody is impressed with this outburst, not even Oshie who looks like he wants to drop kick him out of the Bachie Mansion. What is wrong with this guy? It is almost like he has taken his inner gangsta a little too seriously. He be like..

but we be like...

Anyway, one David down, two more to go! When I think about DavidtheModel, all I see now is..

and finally....

Let's hope he works it out and realises there really, really, really, has to be more to life.

#BachietteTreat tonight is Caramel and Chocolate Crepe Cake with banana and strawberry.

Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 1

The Bachelor Australia Season 3 Finale Recap

The Bachelorette Australia Recap Episode 1

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Thu, 24 Sep 2015 01:42:00 +0000

Episode 1

I'm feeling like there is a bit of de ja vu with this whole show. First of all, the Bachelorette is Sam, same as The Bachelor. They are back at the Bachie Mansion, do we call it Bachie Prison now? Or Man Prison? The Bachelors themselves resemble the Bachie Girls and did I see a promo of Sam and her Bachie Guy walking down a row of grape vines in a vineyard, recycled {cough}. To be fair there are some things that are kind of same same but different. The Bachie Guys sip from green goblets instead of red or red fringed goblets. Unless you are Dave the plumber, who drinks his beer from a glass vase.

Basically we are introduced to the Bachelors, and those who are going to stay for at least a couple episodes get a back story. This is how I saw things.

Alex is 35 and is a financial consultant. He is fluent in British, which is super thick like jam on scones when he speaks to Bachie Frost, but when he is with the dudes it's like the proper way to spread vegemite on toast! He reminds me of this....

or maybe this....

Sasha is the guy who made a very good first impression on Bachie Frost, she even gave him a first impressions rose. This is when he was like...

I would be very shocked if Sasha didn't make it to the final two.

David is the the international model and how could we forget this important piece of information. He managed to mention it like a million times throughout the whole episode. His impressive line to Bachie Frost, " I was born in Poland, so I have a European passport, that will come in handy for you so we can tour Europe easily" or something along those lines. All I could think was...

I could actually spend most of this post sharing gifs that came to mind for poor David. Like this one...

Anyway, let's move on. The other David is called Dave and he is a plumber and he drinks his beer from glass vases. There must be something manly about this or maybe he is collecting his roses in the vases or something. All jokes aside, he seems like a down to earth guy. His dream date would be a good steak at a pub and good conversation. Need I say more?

There is yet another David, but to avoid confusing the viewers or Bachie Frost, he has been christened Davey. He is a carpenter and I swear his older sister is...

Richie is a Rope Technician Specialist. I don't know, Google it!! Richie is all the way from Perth WA and he has a lot to share...

But I also got this vibe....

Kieran is an Exercise Physiologist. The occupation titles keep getting better! I don't remember much about this guy, but he did get a rose and this is what came to mind....

Let's see where this talent takes him!!

Will is a Musician from Western Australia. He is all like....

He is not going to last more than a couple of episodes, but he makes Bachie Frost laugh. Need I say more?

Micheal is a professional football (soccer) player from Queensland. He has taken timeout from his busy professional career to try and snag himself a lady on a reality TV show. Wha? Is it just me, or does this guy feel a little disgenuine? Why do we need to see a him having a shower, what has that got to do with anything? I'm thinking...

Drew is a Sleep Technician, yes, its a real job...apparently. I'm thinking very generously...

....an owl. That is all you needed Drew to leave an impression on Bachie Frost. Kind of weird but memorable none the less.

So this is about as far as my memory will care to extend as to who is in the running for Bachie Frost's affection. Then my favourite non-bachie shows up and while I used Barbie Ken to depict Osher in The Bachelor Recaps, I am thinking I need to man it up a little to match the testosterone that is gushing through the mansion. Osher is in da house....

Osher generously share's his mathematical talents and informs us, which we would not have known without the passionate duty to share his genius mind, that two gentleman are leaving tonight. The dude that turned up in a happy shirt and super large skateboard goes home and some other guy, I have no idea who he is.

The Bachelor Austral Season 3 Recaps
Recap Finale
Recap Episode 14
Recap Episode 13
Recap Episode 12
Recap Episode 11
Recap Episode 10
Recap Episode 9
Recap Episode 7& 8
Recap Episode 5 &6
Recap Episode 4
Recap Episode 3
Recap Episode 1&2

The Bachelor Australia Season 3 Recap Finale

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 03:58:00 +0000

Episode 15

A very belated recap of the final two seasons. Life has been unkind with sickness and crazy children. I was absent for the majority of this episode airing but my Twitter friends basically said not much happened. I really should have taken their word for it. However I still felt the need to watch it on TenPlay. Here is what I thought about this episode.

Sarah was sent home and I so wish her exit went a little like this...

Episode 16 - FINALE

Many are thinking that Llama, who I feel is a little disgenuine and I am positive has a herd of cats living in her cellar at home, is going to be proposed to. But in my heart of hearts, at the beginning of this episode, I am seriously hoping that he proposes to Snez. She is a classy and attractive woman who openly loves food, what more could a man want? My husband is happy with this!!

We watch Bachie have a thinkie think about his task ahead, when in all honesty I am hoping he will break out into a...

A dancey dance would be so much more entertaining than a thinky think all the time. But I do have to remember that BachieWood has a big task on his hands and we should give him the chance to....

Anyway, each girl is bought home to meet Bachie's family. I really felt as though Snez had a great connection with his dad but then Llama seemed to have a good connection with his sister. The battle was on, Snez made his dad cry versus Llama who made his sister cry.

Bachie takes each of his girls on separate dates (thank goodness, it wasn't a final group date, that would have been awks). He leaves all of us thinking it could be either lady as he pashes both intensely. But only one girl can win, unless he has thoughts of moving overseas and joining the FLDS (think Sister Wives).

Anyway, we are brought back to the Bachie Mansion where there is a tonne of candles burning away in every nook and cranny that a burning candle can be placed. What is with the flamin' (punny) candles in this show? Did a producer find a shipping container of candles on Ebay for .99c and thought they would be funny and bid and accidentally win? I am so over candles, they no longer have a romantic connection for me...

While I fume about this sad reality, I am settled when my favourite non-Bachie shows up...

Osher in da house! Whoop Whoop!! But them my glee turns into sadness, because there is no dirty rose ceremony math to share. What else does he do, if he doesn't talk rose ceremony math?? He says something, but without numbers, it is meaningless to me. When he finally leaves, no doubt to hit the math books in preparation for the next season, I realise that the car that rolls up will be the girl who doesn't get the rose. Please be crazy cat person, please be crazy cat person....and it is!! Yeeehaa!! I am so glad he has made the right choice!! But then I do have a moment of sadness for poor Llama, no doubt she did feel like that ring was meant to be hers. Bachie's break up speech went a little like this I think...

No doubt Llama if she could have her time back she would have been a bit like...

or...

It's ok Llama, as I am pretty sure you are a crazy cat person in your 'real' life you can go home to the comfort of your cellar cats again and be like....

It's all good Llama, you will find a man who will embrace those cats and will let you choose your own ring!!!

Then all sounds fade as Snez arrives and we all know what is going to happen next. Bachie gets out his {let's face it people it was unattractive} #ZAMELS ring and is all like....

So now it's like:
Sam and Snez sitting in a tree
K-I-S-S-I-N-G
First comes love
Then comes marriage
Then comes a(nother) baby sitting in a carriage!!!

Recap Episode 14
Recap Episode 13
Recap Episode 12
Recap Episode 11
Recap Episode 10
Recap Episode 9
Recap Episode 7& 8
Recap Episode 5 & 6
Recap Episode 4
Recap Episode 3
Recap Episode 1& 2

The Bachelor Australia Season 3 Episode 14 Recap and no #BachieTreat

noreply@blogger.com (FoodMuster) — Fri, 11 Sep 2015 13:31:00 +0000

Episode 14

I am still in a bit of shock over last night's episode. I decided to sleep on my thoughts and think about how I should approach this recap. I was raised, like many other children, that if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say it at all. That wisdom lasts until you get your period, or you're pregnant, or you give birth. Lucky for me its not that time of the month and I am not with child, so giving myself a day to ponder my approach really did the trick!

Hometown Visits

H-bomb Heather
We see Straya's hot favourite Heather bring Bachie to QLD. We don't get to see the best of Brisvegas, instead she takes him first to see a mountain while we watch them sip tea and watch pretty scones sit all lined up and pretty by themselves and untouched. Heather shares her family tale with him. This is a very serious point in the show and we love her more for it. Then she takes him down to the farm to meet Warrick. Warrick is a special man, he is not her father but he is a father figure in Heather's life. You can tell when you meet him that he is fully sick hard yakka, he won't beat around the bush (punny) and he will be challenging Bachie for all the right reasons. I like Warrick and he reminds me of..

and....

It is clear to me that Warrick is not accepting Bachie into he circle of trust too quickly. He has to earn it and right he should. #welovewarrick

Llama
Next we are taken to Medusa's, aka Lana's hometown visit. What could be more worrisome than being caught up in a trance by Medusa? Meeting Medusa's mother perhaps?? I wish I could reach into the TV and slap some sense into Bachie! Though like I said in my last recap, since this disgenuine vibe I get from Llama....

I just can't put a paper bag over the vibe and ignore it, can I? I am pretty confident Llama leads a double lifestyle as a cat person. I don't have proof, its just the vibe. So I kinda suspected that we would be seeing something like this at her house...

But we did't {sad face}. Though Llama's mum is very intense and she cuts to the chase and whisks Bachie away to give him the royal interrogation, but not in the cellar!! Llama's mum is mostly concerned about Bachie making her precious daughter move away from her to horrible Melbourne. She basically wanted him to promise her that he would move to Sydney for Llama but he was brave and strong and wouldn't give in to her attempt to place another Medusa spell on him, powers must weaken with age.

Sarah

Well, let me think for a minute....

Then I got this sudden urge to paint my finger nails, which I hardly ever do which is kind of weird. Do you know how fascinating it is to watch your nail polish dry? While that was happening I did hear Sarah say she was worried that Bachie thought she was not interested in having children. She wanted to reassure him it's in her life plan, but after she travels and starts her own business. Interesting she felt the need to mention this. The date had a bit of a Nina vibe.

Snezanna

Our second hot favourite lives in Perth and we finally get to meet her daughter, Eve. She is such a cute girl and you can tell that their mother and daughter bond is very strong and in years to come their relationship will be like this...

Maybe Bachie will be in the picture too who knows? I feel like I have this connection with Snez. Not only are we both totally hot and likeable people, but we both love food and we be like...

and we aren't afraid to talk about it. I must add that I want to be friends with Snez so I can be invited to her place for dinner. Her family know how to put on a real meal, and it wasn't even Christmas! It was almost like this...

Then Snez's brother takes Bachie out for a chitty chat and to play the over protective brother role and be like...

He keeps emphasising to Bachie that he is not just getting engaged to Snez, but he will be a dad to Eve and he will be part of the 'family'. Which freaks Bachie out, because he never thought about it like that before. Now he has to think harder which means we will have more beach thinking scenes, yay {kind of}.

Rose Ceremony

Finally we get a break from all the seriousness of the hometown dates but hang on, there is no laughing and drinking at this cocktail party. Unfortunately the tab was blown last show and it's all serious again and the ladies have their own thinking time in their pretty frocks. Then we heave a sigh of relief as all is good in the world because...

Osher in da house! Whoop Whoop!! But he is all serious too and I am starting to think maybe I should be serious about something...oh look my other hand of nails has completely dried! Then Osher lays down the mathematical language which is super cryptic tonight and I am feeling like ...

Osher isn't just a pretty face with amazing hair, he can teach you important stuff too! Then something weird happens. It's almost like the universe cracks or something. Sarah gets a rose, Snez gets rose, and then we are down to Heather and Llama. Bachie takes a very long time to verbalise his choice. It's almost like the producers want us to think he could change his mind at the last minute if he wanted to....yar as if! Then it happens! Bachie gives the final rose to Llama and the whole of Australia be like....

Maybe it is that time of month after all. #teamheatherforever!!

PS. I didn't have a #BachieTreat tonight, I wasn't feeling so good. I think it was kind of a good idea that I didn't because there was a chance I would have chucked it up when Heather didn't get her rose!!

Recap Episode 13
Recap Episode 12
Recap Episode 11
Recap Episode 10
Recap Episode 9
Recap Episode 7& 8
Recap Episode 5 & 6
Recap Episode 4
Recap Episode 3
Recap Episode 1& 2