ksayerphotography

Check out my new home!

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 04:46:00 +0000

I'm now blogging at Southern In Law, hope to see you there soon!

Sony a65 Review - EQ Village Markets

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 00:15:00 +0000

This review was originally posted at my new blog, Southern In Law - check it out for daily posts, delicious recipes and lots of fun.

Source

It's time for another Saturday Spotlight (where has the week gone?!) and this weeks is a little different from usual. You see, my friends at Sony Australia sent me their SLT-a65 to have a play with and review for you all.

All pictures in this review were taken on the a65 and are straight off the camera (except for the watermark)

I'm currently considering a new camera in the near future and as my current camera is a Sony of course I began looking at Sonys. I've had my current a300 for four years now and haven't had a single issue - touch wood. That's excellent for a camera that gets used so much so of course I would consider a camera that would give me the same loving.

Sony do not currently make DSLRs like my current camera and have instead moved onto the DSLTs. I actually just wrote an article for HubPages on What is a DSLT camera? but I'll give you a quick outline!

DSLT stands for Digital Single Lens Translucent - meaning it has a fixed translucent mirror inside the camera allowing the majority of light coming in through the lens to hit the sensor and deflecting a small amount of light onto the AF sensor.

The main difference you'll notice straight away with a DSLT is that it seems more digitalised than the standard DSLR cameras. A DSLT camera requires an electronic viewfinder instead of the standardised optical viewfinder. The issue I had with the electronic viewfinder was that it doesn't have the same brightness or clarity of an optical viewfinder and it doesn't correctly show the image you're capturing.

While the camera has a different functionality of DSLRs the images it captures are crisp and clear thanks to the 24.3 mega pixels - that's more than double my little baby.

I found that the DSLT-a65 would be great as a start up camera as it has 7 scene functions that will automatically set the camera to shoot in different scenarios - night time, macro, portrait, sports etc. Though for someone using the camera on manual I found it was trickier to set than what I'm used to - on both my Sony and other DSLR cameras I have used.

I loved that it had HD video recording as my current camera doesn't have any video recording and that's a function I'm really looking to have on any new camera I buy.

I'm ~~kind of sort of~~ addicted to my zoom lens, so I would have loved to try this camera with the zoom lens to really get a feel for how it works, but regardless I was still impressed with the quality of the images and I'd really consider buying one as a second camera (if only I had the budget to have "a second camera") as it would be really simple for my family to use as well.

What about the price? I know, that's what you're likely thinking if you're in the market for a new camera - the a65 with the standard lens kit is priced at $1, 299.00 (Sony's price). It's quite a reasonable price for a camera that produces such high quality images and this is because the DSLTs are cheaper to manufacture.

Would I buy it yes, I would as a second camera. Currently I don't have the budget for a second camera because... you see... weddings are almighty expensive - as are visas.

The HD video and the quality of the images are definitely the two main factors in why I would purchase the camera - both are excellent.

On the other hand, the electronic viewfinder and the horrrrribleeeee digital beep instead of the regular shutter sound made me cringe. It sounds ridiculous, but as someone who can spend hours upon hours with their camera to their eye it's things like this that really get on your nerves. The first time I took a photo and heard the beep, I was taken aback - where was the shutter sound?!?! this is not right?!?!. I'm sure over time you would get used to both factors - it's just different from what I'm used to.

If there were such things as birthday fairies, I'd definitely make a request for the a65 (If you are out there, birthday fairy - remember mine is the 12th of August!) and when the camera gets picked up this week they may have to use force to remove it from my clutches.

If you're interested in finding out more about the DSLT cameras, check out my hub.

Kristy received this camera on loan from Sony for the purpose of this review. I received nothing for my review of this camera and the opinions are entirely my own.

This review was originally posted at my new blog, Southern In Law - check it out for daily posts, delicious recipes and lots of fun.

Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Sat, 30 Jun 2012 21:59:00 +0000

Hey there, I wanted to let you know about the giveaway I'm holding at my new blog, Southern In Law!

You can win one of seven prize packs from Wellaby's - containing one of every product in their Australian range! All you've got to do to enter is leave a comment on the post - but you've got to be in it to win it!

They might be gluten free - but gluten eaters love them too!

So go on, enter! :)

Til the cows come home

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 09:38:00 +0000

While I was in the US, we stayed in Mississippi with Jesse's grandmother,

she lives on what I suppose you could call a cattle farm.

I did what any photographer would do...

got on the back of a four wheeler and rode out into the cows to take photos of them up close.

Good gluten free bread?

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Sun, 17 Jun 2012 00:59:00 +0000

It is possible for store-bought gluten free bread to taste amazing.

Check out my latest review at my new blog, Southern In Law to find out more!

Follow the leader

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 21:30:00 +0000

Just a quick photo I took in Osyka, Mississippi.

Be sure to follow me over at my new blog Southern In-Law.
I'm posting daily and sharing a whole lot of fun - from wedding things, to new opportunities to delicious recipes!

How I met my Fiance

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 01:47:00 +0000

You may have been curious as to how I met my fiance, living 10, 000 miles apart.

If so - check out my latest post on my new blog, Southern In Law.

I've written the story of how we met.

www.southerninlaw.blogspot.com

Introducing: my new blog!

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Sun, 10 Jun 2012 08:20:00 +0000

That's right, I have decided to make a new blog!

Don't worry I'm still keeping ksayerphotography, it's just going to be focused on my photography.

Southern In-Law is my new adventure - it's going to be more of a "life" blog where I plan on posting about everything and anything that happens.

From visas to baking to random links - you name it!

Ksayerphotography will still be updated with new recipes, posts, products reviews etc so keep an eye out!

But follow Southern In-Law for more regular posting and lots of fun!

Discount Sessions

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Wed, 06 Jun 2012 21:48:00 +0000

Hey there!

I thought I'd share with you an offer I have on my Facebook page.

All you have to do is "like" ksayerphotography on Facebook and you could receive $25 off your photo session.

If you haven't already, check out my last post on the Kisatchie National Forest

it's gorgeous and it turns out it's more than just a place for picnics! ;]

Kisatchie National Forest - Louisiana USA

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 05:47:00 +0000

Your ears are filled with the sound of birds chirping,

your lungs are filled with the clean air with the scent of pine,

there's nothing but trees around you.

That's what it was like when we walked into the Kisatchie National Forest, off Camp Claiborne in Forest Hill LA.

There were trees as far as the eye could see and my photos don't do it justice to how gorgeous it was.

We were in the forest in the late afternoon and there wasn't a sound but birds chirping.

In total, the Kisatchie National Forest covers over 600, 000 acres across seven different Louisiana parishes.

It's filled with gorgeous longleaf pine forests with camping facilities and 400 miles of trails for hiking and ATV riding.

In different areas you can also go swimming, boating and fishing.

As it turns out, it's also a good place to propose to someone,

just ask my fiance ;]

Jesse told me that morning that after we went for lunch with his Mom and her husband we'd be going "somewhere pretty" so that I could take photos before I left the next day.

Once we got back after lunch we were soon in the car again, on the way to the forest.

But my camera wasn't the only thing in the back pack!

Before I knew it, Jesse was down on one knee asking me to marry him.

Of course I said yes! :)

So tell me ladies,

If you've been proposed to, where was it?

If not, what would your dream proposal be?

Are you all for a big song and dance?

Or, like me, do you prefer something more intimate?

Any men out there who have/are planning to propose to their lady?

All ears

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 04:51:00 +0000

So I'm back in the country.

I'm still feeling a little bit under the weather, but I think I've managed to find my brain again after the jet lag!

I had the best time in Louisiana with my wonderful fiance (yes, I'm still giggling when I say that)

and his family.

SAY WHAT?

Yes, if you didn't read my last post, while I was away I got engaged!

My lovely fiance asked me to marry him in the middle of the Kisatchie National Forest

and I couldn't help but say yes! ;)

Of course I took pictures of the forest, too! (expect to see some soon!)

While I was away I took a tonne of pictures,

so many so that I don't know which to post first!

We stayed in Mississippi and we rode through their cattle pastures on a four wheeler,

we visited the state capitol building and saw Baton Rouge from the 27th floor observation deck,

we visited Bennett's Bay which is a bayou fit for the movies,

we went to the Alexandria Zoo,

we explored the Kisatchie National Forest

and took a tonne of happy snaps along the way.

So tell me,

is there anything you'd like to see or hear about?!

Like those cows, my ears are open to suggestioms! ;P

I'm back, with news!

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Wed, 30 May 2012 00:57:00 +0000

and there's a pretty little ring on my finger!

Just a quick post now that I'm back in Australia from my two week trip to Lousiana.

Yes, if you have me on facebook, you may have seen the news that while I was away I got engaged!

I also took hundreds and hundreds of pictures and have lots of stories to share, so be expecting some blog posts!

So tell me,

While I was gone - did anything exciting happen to you?

The Plush Life

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Sat, 12 May 2012 22:41:00 +0000

Some of you mightn't know, but I don't just take photos or bake.

I have a crazy obsession with crafting.

I design and hand sew little plush friends like the owlet above,

I also just started knitting and I paint, scrapbook, collage and am constantly looking for new crafts.

If I see something crafty, I'm automatically thinking about how I could do it myself

(and then before you know it, I'm ducking out to the shops to get supplies)

I've thought about selling my little friends,

but so far they just live with my friends and family.

I love designing new ones justto suit a particular person or occaison

(I even made my sister a white blood cell to round up all of her crazy ones when she was in hospital)

I posted a couple a longggggg time ago,

so as you can imagine, now I have quite the collection!

...

But, aside from my plush filled crafting room, I've been packing my bags!

I'm about to head over to Louisiana, USA - with camera in tow of course!

and with a new fish eye/wide angle lens!!

So I won't be blogging for the next two or so weeks, but when I get back I'm sure I'll have lots to share!

So tell me,

Do you have a special hobby (or obsession)?

or are you craft crazy like me?!

Anyone with any new crafting ideas is welcome to share, I'm all ears!!

Why I Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Mon, 07 May 2012 21:42:00 +0000

click image to see full size

to connect.

to share.

to learn.

to listen.

to explore.

to discover.

to develop.

to tell.

to dream.

to dare.

to release.

to find myself.

This blog started as an outlet, to give me something to do while going through some tough times.

It soon developed my hobby of photography into my passion.

This little blog has allowed me to connect with lots of amazing people and led me to have some brilliant experiences.

I don't have a million followers or a hundred comments on every single post with hits increasing every minute

but you know what, I don't care - because that's not why I blog.
The few comments and readers I do get, however, I am ever grateful for!

I want this blog to grow with me and I want to take it in whatever direction I may go in.

That's why ksayerphotography is a mix match of blogs put into me, it's a little bit chaotic and a whole lot of Kristy.

But you, dear reader, I am most thankful for - and you are incredibly important!

So tell me, what would YOU like to see around here?
and why do you blog/read blogs?

Leave a comment, make it anonymous if you like or send me an email - I'm always happy to make a new friend!

Taking a back seat

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:53:00 +0000

Knock knock.

Who's there?

No seriously, is anyone still reading out there?!

I haven't been doing much on the blogging front lately and I apologize!

I'm just about to head off to Louisiana, USA in less than two weeks time so hopefully I'll have lots of interesting things to share.

Once I'm back home I'll definitely be whipping up some new recipes to share with you all as well, any suggestions?

I'm currently loving working on portraits and petography (is that not the cutest term?) so hopefully I'll be able to share some of that with you too!

Mother's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 23:17:00 +0000

There is no one in the world quite like your Mum.

They're there for you no matter what, they pick you up when you're down -

dust you off, fix you up and put you back on your feet.

My Mum is my best friend.

I'm one of the lucky daughters who can have both a mother/daughter relationship and a best friend relationship with their Mum - and I couldn't ask for anything better.

Sunday, May 13 is Mother's Day - the day where you really should spoil your mum, grandma or whatever special lady in your life.

Sure, I believe they should be spoiled every day - but we're all human and we often get lost in our own little worlds and forget to show our appreciation for the ones we love.

And what better way to spoil your Mum (or whoever!) than with a gorgeous box of chocolates?!

Butler's Chocolate Selection is perfectly wrapped for Mother's Day and tied with a pretty pink ribbon.

Once your Mum opens the box, she'll find their luxury Irish chocolate truffles and pralines

with flavours like walnut ganache, chocolate flake, crispy praline and raspberry sorbet.

You can buy the chocolates online or from a number of stockists around the country - just see their facebook page to find out your closest store!

So tell me,

What's the best thing about your Mum?

and what's your favourite chocolate flavour?

Kristy received Butler's Chocolates courtesy of www.kingstonfoods.com.a

If you'd like a review of your products, send an email to ksayerphotography@gmail.com

Nutritious and Delicious

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 22:30:00 +0000

There's nothing more delicious than breakfast, in my opinion.

It's my favourite meal the day and is what gets me energised for my day.

I'm also a fan of supporting local businesses, so when I received a package from Kuranda I knew it was going to be good.

Kuranda started out of a cottage kitchen in the Atherton tablelands of far north Queensland.

First they began selling their health bars into the local farmers market and they soon became popular with the locals.

While holidaying in Cairns, Maria Peronace stumbled across the health bars and fell in love - so much so that she acquired Kuranda Fine Foods and the Aussie Snax Brands.

Maria continued making the bars true to their original recipe and launched the bars across the country in 2006. Today, Aussie Health Snax also exports to Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong.

All of the products are made by hand, just like they originally were!

All of the Kuranda products are;
- Gluten Free
- Wheat Free
- Dairy Free
- Low GI

The Spiced Apple with Quinoa Muesli has no added sugar and high in omega 3.

It's a mix of rice flakes, puffed brown rice and puffed quinoa mixed with flaxseed, diced apple, cinnamon, pepitas and sunflower seeds.

It's the perfect muesli to give you energy for whatever your day has in store for you and is an ideal balance of protein and carbohydrates.

The Banana and Date with Amaranth Muesli is high in protein and fibre and contains no added sugar.

It's a delicious mix of banana, dates, whole almonds, sunflower seeds, pepitas, puffed rice, rice flakes and amaranth.

This muesli is a delicious way to easily get more fibre into your diet.

The Berry Blend with Amaranth Muesli is rich in antioxidants and high in fibre.

It's a mix of cranberries, whole almonds, sunflower seeds, pepitas, puffed rice, rice flakes and amaranth.

The Tropical Blend with Quinoa Muesli is rich in Iron and Calcium.

It's a blend of tropical dried pineapple, coconut, dried apricots, apple, pepitas, sunflower seeds, rice flakes and puffed brown rice and quinoa.

Kuranda Muesli is available at their online store as well as a number of stockists across the country.

So tell me,

What's your favourite breakfast cereal?

and Do you have a favourite local company/small business?

Kristy received Kuranda Muesli courtesy of www.kingstonfoods.com.au and www.aussiehealthsnax.com.au

If you'd like a review of your products, send an email to ksayerphotography@gmail.com

Taking a moment

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 08:55:00 +0000

To step back.

To appreciate.

To admire.

To absorb.

To enjoy.

Sometimes that's just what you need in this busy world,

whether it be nature, the world around you or your loved ones.

What's one thing you've taken a moment to absorb lately?

I was lucky enough to have this beautiful view which made me realise,

I am more than blessed to live in such a beautiful city.

Ready for the weekend - Gluten Free Goodies!

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 04:54:00 +0000

It's Wednesday again!

Are you anything like me and SO ready for the weekend to be here?

Don't worry, there's only 2 days left!

Being Gluten Free can mean you miss out on lots of fun and delicious foods, especially when it comes to social gatherings - but I've got you covered!

All the products in this ost can be found at specialty stores and health food shops around Australia and are also available internationally as they're imported from the US! (find out more at Real Food Distributors)

Chips and dips or cheese and crackers always make an appearance at get-togethers, so why not have some options that will suit everyone - even gluten free guests!

Boulder Sea Salt and Cracked Pepper Chips were voted America's #1 Potato Chip by Rachel Ray

They're crunchy and golden with kick of pepper and are;

gluten free

trans-fat free

cholesterol free

and all natural

R.W Garcia's Organic Blue Maize Tortilla Chips are made for salsa and guacamole, but are also delicious straight out of the bag.

They're gluten free and trans-fat free and have a full corn flavour.

They're also all natural and made the old fashioned way with nothing but blue corn, water, oil and salt.

They're super crunchy and the perfect thickness for dipping - they won't break away into your salsa!

Mary's Gone Crackers are the perfect cracker for whole grain lovers like me!

They're jam packed full of flavour and nutrition with quinoa, brown rice, flaxseed and sesame seeds.

They're also gluten free and contain no added fat.

Not a savoury fan? How about sweets!

These Chocolate Chip Cookies from Mary's Gone Crackers are a great GF option!

They're:

- organic and non-GMO
- vegan
- gluten, wheat, dairy and egg free

- Kosher friendly
- low GI
- free of transfat and hydrogenated oils

and a good sweet treat to keep on hand!

So tell me

Sweet or Savoury, what's YOUR preference?

and what's your fail-safe party food when you're asked to bring something?

Kristy received these products courtesy of www.realfooddistributors.com.au
If youd like a review of your products, send an email to ksayerphotography@gmail.com

Tea break!

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 21:39:00 +0000

I don't know about where you are, but lately, Sydney has had some wet and rainy days.

Cold and dreary days are the worst, in my opinion - I spend the day constantly looking for warmth.

Whether it's the clothes I'm wearing, what I'm eating or what I'm drinking.

Tea is one of my best friends on cold dreary days, it warms you from the inside out!

So this package of Organic India Tulsi Tea came just at the right time!

In India, Tulsi (also known as Holy Basil) is widely known for it's health benefits and medicinal value.

It is one of the principle herbs of the ancient traditional holistic health system, Ayurveda and is known as "The Queen of Herbs"

Tulsi is rich in antioxidants and is renowned for it's restorative powers.

Modern scientific research has found that the herb has been seen to;

- relieve stress

- enhance stamina

- support immunity

- act as a natural immuno-modulator

- relieve inflamation

- lower cholesterol

- eliminate toxins

- improve digestion

- promote a healthy metabolism

as well as a number of other benefits

Organic India has a wide range of different teas, all including the sacred Tulsi herb so you can enjoy it's benefits no matter what your tea tastes might be!

The original variety of Tulsi Tea is a blend of three varieties of Tulsi.

Vana Tulsi has hints of lemon and citrus, Krishna Tulsi is slightly spicy and Rama Tulsi brings a calm depth to the mix.

It is gluten free, caffeine free and abundant in antioxidants.

Personally, my favourite type of tea is green tea, so I was very interested to try it blended with tulsi.

The plain green tea contains the original three variety Tulsi blend plus organic green tea.

It gives you a natural energy boost with only half the caffeine of regular green tea.

The Pomegranate Green Tea contains the same ingredients as the plain green tea with the addition of organic hibiscus, elderberries and pomegranate.

It's tart and tangy with a burst of pomegranate flavour and full of antioxidants.

This cooling a refreshing blend would be perfect for iced tea!

Licorice Spice has a subtle sweetness with a touch of cinnamon, ginger and lemon.

The Lemon Ginger is perfect for days when you're feeling a bit off colour with it's mix of organic ginger and lemongrass comvined with the original tulsi blend - it's also fantastic for digestion!

The soothing Peppermint Tea is refreshing and restorative and the perfect tea to relax with at the end of a long day.

If you're a chai fan, Organic India have you covered too!

The Red Chai Masala is a caffeine free blend of Tulsi and Roobois with the classic chai spices of cinnamon, ginger, cardamon, chicory, black pepper, mace, cloves and nutmeg.

Add a dash of milk and you have a delicious warming tea with a nutty sweet-yet-spicy flavour.

The India Breakfast Tea has a deep and spicy flavour that is perfect for black tea lovers but is also great with a dash of milk.

It is a blend of Assam (known for it's body and malty flavour), Ayerpadi (a special black tea leaf known for it's deep complex flavour) and the original three variety tulsi blend.

The Jasmine blend is a relaxing floral mix of Tulsi, Chamomile and Jasmine with a subtle sweetness from aniseed.

The Honey Chamomile is an excellent restorative tea made with a blend of tulsi, chamomile and aniseed.

The feminine Sweet Rose tea is a blend of rose petals, tulsi, chamomile and lemon myrtle with a touch of stevia for sweetness - it is the ultimate tea party tea!

Organic India teas are available around the world, you can buy online on their site, at different online retailers and in a number of health food stores and retailers around the country.

So tell me - how do you like your tea?

Kristy received Organic India Teas courtesy of www.kingstonfoods.com.au

If you'd like a review of your products, send an email to ksayerphotography@gmail.com

The BEST Brownie Recipe - goodbye Betty Crocker!

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 23:32:00 +0000

I have tried SO many brownie recipes to try and find the perfect brownie recipe for my sister.

She's a boxed brownie fan and it seemed like nothing as going to steer her from Betty Crocker.

You see, she's the Goldilocks of brownies.

These ones are too cakey

Those ones aren't dense enough

They just aren't the same

But you know what? these brownies are jusssssssssssssssssssst right!

I finally came up with the best brownie recipe and Betty Crocker got the boot!

These brownies are super simple to make and only require a mixing bowl.

It's a small batch recipe, making 16 small or 9 large brownies so feel free to double it!

The Best Brownie Recipe

also known as the only brownie recipe you'll ever need

makes 16 small/9 large brownies

115g butter, melted

1C brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 eggs

1/2C flour

1/3C cocoa powder
1/4 tsp baking powder

Preheat oven to 180*C/350*F

Grease and line 9x9'' brownie tin.

Combine melted butter, brown sugar and vanilla in a mixing bowl.

Once butter mixture is cooled slightly, add eggs and stir until mixed through

Mix in flour, cocoa powder and baking powder until well combined.

Pour into tin and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer removes clean.

This brownie recipe is super simple to adapt,

I added Reese Peanut Butter Chips but you can add nuts/chocolate/chopped candy bars or whatever you fancy!

They're delicious on their own or with a creamy chocolate frosting on top - it's up to you!

So tell me - your dream brownie, what's it like?

Chewy? Fudgy? Cake-like? Nut filled? Super rich?
Pin It

Lunchbox Legends

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 21:34:00 +0000

In Primary School, there was always competition as to whose mum or dad packed them the best lunch.

Homemade cakes and cookies scored you some respect points, Tiny Teddies were envied but Mamee Noodles were always the things my peers were bargaining for.

"I'll swap you my tiny teddies for your mamee noodles!"

"No way!"

"Puhhhleaaaasseeeee, I never get those!"

So of course, when I was sent a box of products from Mamee, I was immediately taken back to Primary School.

Fast forward all these years (eep) and Mamee Noodles are still around - as well as some other products!

and Mamee Noodles also Amber Compliant for sale in school canteens under the Australian Government's Healthy Canteen Strategy.

Mamee Noodles come in both Chicken and BBQ flavours

which come in Multipacks available from Coles, Woolworths, IGA, Franklins, Big W, Target and many other stores around the country.

Their individual 25g packs are a perfect lunchbox treat or on the go snack.

These Rice Sticks are a part of Mamee's GF Range.

They come in both Vegetable and Cheese flavours and are available from Coles, Woolworths and selected IGA, Foodland and Foodworks stores.

They're crisp and crunchy with flavours that kids love (even the vegetable flavour!) and like the Mamee noodles, the 20g portion packs are a perfect treat to stow away in any kid's lunchbox.

Mamee also have some crisp and crunchy snacks for bigger kids and adults.

Both the Rice Chips and Corn Kiks are part of the gluten free range and are packed full of flavour.

The Rice Chips are very much like Pringles and come in both BBQ and Sour Cream and Chive Flavours.

They're perfect to put out when you have friends over or for an occasional snack.

The Corn Kiks have a savoury cheese flavour with an almost BBQ-like tang.

They're crunchy and moreish and disappear when put out at BBQs.

Both products are available at Coles and selected IGA, Foodland and Foodworks stores.

So tell me,

When you were younger, what was the sought after lunchbox treat at your school?

and What was your favourite lunchbox treat to have?

Recipe: Soft Instant Oatmeal Cookies

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:39:00 +0000

There's nothing quite like a freshly baked cookie, warm from the oven.

Some people like them crisp and crunchy, some love a chewy cookie and others prefer a softer cookie.

I was lucky enough to be sent some instant oatmeal packs from Nature's Path, as well as the other cereals, and I knew just what I was going to do with some of them!

Make cookies, of course!

The Nature's Path Oatmeal comes in 3 flavours,

Original which is simply pure oats with a pinch of sea salt

Apple Cinnamon which contains chunks of dried apple and a hint of cinnamon

Maple Nut which has crunchy hazelnuts and a delicious maple flavour.

The individual sachets make for a quick and easy hot breakfast

and the 50g portions are the perfect amount for a filling meal.

Just pop them in a bowl in the microwave with 1/2-2/3C of water, stir and cook for 75 seconds or so.

To make them extra creamy, cook them in a mix of milk and water, adding a dash of milk at the end.

They're the perfect base for whatever toppings you desire, or eaten on their own!

But, back to the cookies!

These cookies are the ultimate quick and easy soft oatmeal cookie that are the perfect base for any addition you want to make.

I went the traditional route and added raisins to half of my batch, however, they work perfectly with choc chips, nuts, dried fruits or just about any other mix ins you'd find in a cookie!

Soft and Simple Instant Oatmeal Cookie Recipe

makes 1 dozen large cookies

or 2 dozen smaller cookies

1C plain flour

1C instant oats

1C brown sugar

2 tbsp boiling water

1 tsp bicarb soda/baking soda

120g butter, chopped

1 tbsp maple syrup

Preheat oven to 180*C. Line 2-4 baking trays with baking paper (depending on cookie size)

In a bowl, combine flour, oats and brown sugar.

Dissolve bicarb soda in boiling water and set aside.

In a small saucepan, stir butter and maple syrup over a medium heat until butter melts.

Take off the heat and stir in baking soda mixture, pour into dry ingredients and stir until well combined.

Roll heaped tablespoons (for large cookies) or heaped teaspoons (for small cookies) of the dough into balls, place 1 1/2 inches apart on the lined trays.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden, set aside on trays to cool completely.

And there you have it, a batch of delicious fresh from the oven cookies!

Try not to eat them all in one go ;)

So tell me,

What's your ultimate cookie like?

and what are your favourite mix ins?

Kristy received Nature's Path products courtesy of Kadac Health Foods (www.kadac.com.au)
If you'd like a review of your products, send an email to ksayerphotography@gmail.com

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Naturally delicious breakfasts!

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 03:54:00 +0000

If you've read my blog before, chances are, you know breakfast is my favourite meal of the day

and if you haven't - well, now you do!

If I could have it for every meal I probably would and if I ever had to choose my final meal, you can be sure it'd be breakfast related.

When the weather is warmer, I love cold cereal - so this package from Nature's Path arrived just at the right time.

Nature's Path cereals are all USDA certified organic, meaning they don't contain any artificial preservatives, additives, GMOs or synthetic pesticides - so you know exactly what's going into your breakfast bowl.

Not only that, they taste delicious!

The Heritage Flakes are a blend of wheat, barley, quinoa and spelt which is lightly sweetened with honey and evaporated cane juice.
While this GF-er couldn't try the cereal, my taste testers would impressed with it's crunch and delicious flavour - it's a perfect multigrain cereal for eating alone or topping with whatever takes your fancy!

The Millet Rice flakes are wheat free and made from whole oat, brown rice, and millet flours and naturally sweetened with fruit juice.
According to my taste testers, this cereal has just the right amount of sweetness and got extra points for not going soggy in your milk - because who likes soggy cereal?!

Corn Flakes always remind me of being a kid and these Corn Flakes from Nature's Path didn't disappoint on the flavour front!
They're both wheat free and contain only traces of gluten - however they didn't cause any problems for me, and later in the year they will both be gluten free!

The Fruit Juice Sweetened Corn Flakes are made of pure cornmeal, lightly sweetened with concentrated fruit juice while the Honey'd Corn Flakes are sweetened with organic honey and evaporated cane juice.
Both are delicious on their own, used in baking or cooking or topped with whatever your heart desires! For me, it's got to be sliced banana!

The Spelt Flakes are naturally sweetened with fruit juice and are made of Spelt - an ancient whole grain related to wheat.
My taste testers were impressed with it's delicately sweet flavour and superb crunch.

Crispy Rice are crunchy nuggets made of brown rice flour, delicately sweetened with molasses and evaporated cane juice.
This cereal was one of my favourite, thanks to it's crunch and delicious flavour.

The Mesa Sunrise Flakes are a wheat free mix of corn, flaxseed and amaranth which is blended into golden cereal flakes and sweetened with evaporated cane juice.
They're crunchy and delicious and definitely one of my favourites!

Crispy Rice and the Mesa Sunrise Flakes currently not certified gluten free, but they caused no problems for me and will be certified GF by the end of the year!

Nature's Path also have an awesome range for kids (and kids at heart!)
Koala Crisp are chocolate flavoured puffed rice (100x better than Coco Pops!) and contain nothing artificial.
This was a delicious cereal, perfect for anyone and great for using in recipes!

Gorilla Munch is another one of my favourites, if you loved Corn Pops - this cereal is for you!
They're crunchy cornmeal spheres lightly sweetened with evaporated cane juice which are not only fun to eat, but delicious too!

Both cereals are free from wheat, egg, milk, corn and soy - and like the other cereals, will be certified GF by the end of the year!

Nature's Path Cereals are available at selected Health Food shops around the country, so keep your eye out for them!
You won't be disappointed! :)

So tell me,
are you a cereal fan?
or do you have another breakfast favourite?

Kristy received Nature's Path products courtesy of Kadac Health Foods (www.kadac.com.au)
If you'd like a review of your products, send an email to ksayerphotography@gmail.com

A super speed dinner solution!

noreply@blogger.com (Kristy Sayer @ Southern In Law) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 08:53:00 +0000

I think everyone regularly has the problem where you're stuck for what you are going to have for dinner.

You don't have much time or your fridge and pantry are looking pretty bare..

I thought I'd share a delicious recipe with you that might fix that problem for you,

or maybe even inspire your dinner one night this week!

This pasta dish is quick, easy and can use up whatever you have in your fridge.

This dish was inspired by some products sent to me from Global Organics

Global Organics products are sourced worldwide to give you quality organic food in your kitchen for your every day use.

Their tomato range includes;

tomato paste - perfect for adding a rich tomato flavour to dishes

pesto rosso - a delicious addition to sandwiches, pasta dishes, vegetables or whatever you fancy

tomato passata - a super easy base for pasta dishes or use in casseroles, as a pizza sauce etcetc.

Global organics also have the only Organic Black Beans on the market.

They're perfect for adding to mexican or latino style dishes and are packed full of fibre and antioxidants.

Global Organics traditional Italian style pestos are incredible - the basil pesto comes in two varieties, vegan pesto verde and basil pesto siciliano with the addition of delicious italian cheeses.

They're perfect for stirring through freshly cooked pasta for a simple meal.

The pesto siciliano is most definitely my favourite and something I'll be sure to keep in my pantry.

Global Organics mustards come in both a wholegrain mustard and a strong dijon mustard

which make the perfect addition to sandwiches or served alongside roasted meat or vegetables.

Olive paste or tapenade, as it's also known, is perfect for serving as a tangy spread for fresh bread and vegetables or used as an addition to cheese plates or to give your meals a burst of flavour

Global Organics Maple Syrup is delicious.

It's pure maple syrup, unlike the artificial Maple "flavoured" syrup you can find, so it has a delicious full flavour that's perfect for topping pancakes, ice cream or using in desserts.

It's even great with savoury dishes, try roasting carrots or vegetables in some maple syrup for a change!

But back to the pasta, you want the recipe - right?!

Well here it is! Remember, you can easily adapt it to suit whatever you have on hand at the time!

Super Simple Southwestern Black Bean Pasta

1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 1/2 - 2C tomato passata

1 tbsp olive oil

1 clove of garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely diced

Optional: any vegetables you might have in your fridge - carrots, celery, capsicum etc.

1 1/2 tsp cumin

1 tsp dried oregano
Mexican chili powder, to taste
Salt and pepper, to taste
250g pasta, cooked al dente and drained (this can be increased/decreased to suit how many you're serving)
Grated cheese/coriander/shallots to top

In a medium saucepan, saute onion over a medium high heat until soft.

Add garlic and spices and saute for a further minute.

Stir in the tomato passata, gently stir through black beans.

Add pasta to the pan and toss through the sauce.

Add your desired toppings and enjoy! Simple as that.

Now, can you get any easier than that?!

The Global Organics range is available at a number of stockists around the country, to find the closest to you check here!

So tell me,

on rushed nights what's your go-to meal?

Kristy received Global Organics products courtesy of www.globalorganics.com.au

If you'd like a review of your products, send an email to ksayerphotography@gmail.com

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