Rugrat!

September 25, 2012, 9:42 pm

≫ Next: s e l l i n g LV s p e e d y 35 // Updates

$

0

0

source 

source

So more nursery shopping was done the other day and finally the rug dilemma was solved.
After wandering through the market hall to pick up a few things Cottonsocks and I dipped into the bargain corner section to have a quick look.
I'd kind of/not really/really not really chosen the black and white/green trim rug I've previously blogged about.
My resolution was to paint the green bit... but then I decided it just wasn't going to work at all.
A lady was looking at the above rug and it immediately caught my eye.
It was the only one in the bargain corner and I was sure she was going to take it so I just forgot about it.
We went to the checkout and CS paid for her goodies then the lady came to the check out and DIDN'T HAVE THE RUG.
We went back to the bargain corner and it was still there, after a quick check to see what was "wrong" with it (tiny black mark on the side) I had my mind set like jelly.
I'm now going to base nursery items around the rug, it's kind of tied all my ideas together AND given me "highlight" colours - grey, mustard, navy.

Yipyipyippppiiieeeee I'm so excited to start putting things together now!!!
Just need the cot to be delivered!!!!!

:) :) :)

source 1 + 2

---

s e l l i n g LV s p e e d y 35 // Updates

September 26, 2012, 11:51 pm

≫ Next: 8 Weeks To Go Gnocchi From My Love

≪ Previous: Rugrat!

$

0

0

LV Speedy 35 Damier Ebene 

Purchased from LV Chadstone

Small mark on padlock as seen in photo

Small white mark on the bottom of the bag as seen in photo

Original receipt + Dust Bag + Padlock/Key

DM via Twitter for further details 

or 

Email blithelyunaware@hotmail.com

In amazing news my girl Mez is PREGNANT!!!
Peep the beautiful photo shoot she did the other day here.
She looks AMAZING!!!
3>

I'm SO excited that we are pregnant together it's the bomb dot com.

OH

And today is my LAST DAY AT WORK!!!
Hello maternity leave!!!!
Time to start nesting

^_^ ^_^ ^_^

8 Weeks To Go Gnocchi From My Love

September 30, 2012, 8:45 pm

≫ Next: Telling my boo white lies

≪ Previous: s e l l i n g LV s p e e d y 35 // Updates

$

0

0

Hamish, bless his heart, cooked the most amazing lamb neck braise with home made gnocchi and chard on the weekend.
It took the poor man 5 hours to cook.
I died and went to heaven, this is literally the best meal he has cooked this year.
Here is a gnocchi recipe reflective of the method he used.
I've always boiled the potatoes and the gnocchi has always, always been gluggy... it appears baking the potatoes is the way to go, IF ONLY SOMEONE HAD OF TOLD ME THIS YEARS AGO.

What did you get up to on the weekend?!
Anyone 'round these parts watching Sons Of Anarchy? 
HOW DISTURBING has this season been so far! 
:( :( :(

That's all I have for today, tootles!

♥

Telling my boo white lies

October 2, 2012, 8:06 pm

≫ Next: Magic Garden

≪ Previous: 8 Weeks To Go Gnocchi From My Love

$

0

0

This is more a virtual reminder list for myself than anything.
I'm totally, totally addicted to everything bebe at Seed.
The quality of the clothing is fantastic, they have beautiful prints and colours.
I'm in love!



P.S I literall want 8290338210 of those dummies, they are HILARIOUS!

source

The other night Hamish told me he believed in the whole if you eat carrots you will be able to see in the dark thing. 
He used to eat all his carrots then go running into the back garden and open his eyes REALLY WIDE and call out to his mum I CAN SEE! I CAN SEE IN THE DARK!!! 

Oh the innocence!

Do you think it's ok to tell white lies?
What white lies were you told as a kid?

Magic Garden

October 4, 2012, 3:44 pm

≫ Next: Slappin' On Paint

≪ Previous: Telling my boo white lies

$

0

0

Those beautiful green tiles in the kitchen have been doing my head in since day dot.
Yesterday I decided I couldn't stand having the Morning Fresh and Chux on display anymore so went on a nesting spree and put everything into baskets under the sink.

I was left with these green nightmare tiles.
Then I had an idea, maybe, just maybe, some plants would make the tiles look slightly better.

I'm still not convinced it's worked entirely but it's a start, ripping out the tiles is an option but I honestly can't be bothered for now.

I planted herbs in the grey planter boxes and the succulents have stayed in their little black containers.
There were no small planter boxes at Bunnings for the succulents and I wanted to break up the grey so settled for wrapping twine around the boxes.

Some Tips

1. I realised later that there are 2 smooth edges on the succulent boxes and 2 indented edges. If you face the smooth edge out it looks better.

2. I used normal twine from Bunnings ($5 for 100 mts) and just stuck the end down with cello tape, (face the cello tape side to the back) then started wrapping. It was fiddly at first especially with my numb fingers but it didn't take long to do at all.

3. Use Dynamo fertiliser in the blue and white bag to top up the planter boxes, that's what one of the nursery ladies recommended to me.

4. Ask the nursery people if it's ok to plant your herbs together. So, if you want to plant basil with mint ask first, some herbs don't go together and some herbs 'take over'.

What designing-disguising ideas do you have/have you executed?
Any tips for growing herbs in doors?
Do you guys think I should re do the grouting in black?!

Slappin' On Paint

October 8, 2012, 4:47 pm

≫ Next: Phoenix In The Hizzzoussseeeeee

≪ Previous: Magic Garden

$

0

0

Over the weekend I...

Painted the pantry door
TO MATCH MY NEW SHELLAC!!!!!
In a colour Hamish didn't like at first, but now he LOOOooOOOoooVES it.
I got the paint man at Bunnings to mix up the colour I chose while Hamish was in another section so he didn't know haahahahahahahahaahahaa

I drank alcohol free beer, while painting the door.
Look, a tradie might not drink alcohol free beer but it's the best I can do at this stage.
It doesn't taste bad at all, pregnant ladies take note - it's in the soft drink/cordial aisle at the supermarket.

I made little fruit and cheese platters like this.
I'm addicted to oranges at the moment, gimmiegimmiegimmiegimmie ORANGES!!!!!!!!
I have one a day, DELICIOUS!!!!
When I eat them I like to do this:

And, of course on the weekend we did this.... snoozing.
What a cutie!!!
But this wasn't before she destroyed herself at the beach looking like this:

Now, we have a TILE SOLUTION!!!!
We're getting them done by a TILE MAN!!!
Praise little baby jeebus and the heavens above!!!!

So I'm going to get them done did in a subway tile fashion a lá this:

source

Yayayayaayayayaaaaaaa

I hope they look AMAZING when they are done

The red light on our Nespresso milk frother flashes intermittently.... any ideas why?

Give me more DIY ideas!! 

What can I paint around the house next?!?!

Phoenix In The Hizzzoussseeeeee

October 10, 2012, 5:08 pm

≫ Next: Baby, it's a shower!!!!

≪ Previous: Slappin' On Paint

$

0

0

Last night Hamish and I had an impromptu date.
As per usual he wanted to go to I Love Pho 264, (264 Victoria St Richmond).
We go allllLLLlllll the time so I wanted to try something different, our homie Hung's new restaurant Phoenix Phuong Hoang.
Hung's parents run the very, very successful I Love Pho.
Let me put it this way, David Chang (Momofuku) had 2 bowls there, THEN THREE because it was so bomb dot com.

"Chang’s other adventures in Australian eating led him to Pho Chu The on Victoria Street, Richmond, for “one of the best bowls of pho I have ever had”. Never one to do things by half-measures, he had two bowls on his first visit and three when he came back for a second round. “We don’t have anything like that in New York.”" - Gourmet Traveller June 2010

Find the original article here.

The Pho Chu The there now is NOT the place Chang went to, it's now called I Love Pho 264, don't be fooled, MANY have!!!

Ok, ok, ok enough of I Love Pho and onto PHOENIX PHUONG HOANG!!!!

Hung had a BIG name to live up to by opening a restaurant on the (Phoenix?! haahaha) wings of I Love Pho 264, he as succeeded and then some.

He said things are still being tweaked here and there but what he's got going on is fantastic.

Deeeeeelicious, fresh, thoughtful Vietnamese that's not expensive and not trying to be something it isn't.

As Hung said "I want to serve the same food you can get in Vietnam"

We ate....

1. Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings - I LOVE CHICKEN WINGS!!!! Gimmiegimmiegimmie!!!

2. PHO!!!!! Baahaahahahaa Hamish had to have his Pho, this was a I think it was hot and spicy but I can't remember the exact name. Either way it was much stronger tasting than the usual I Love Pho, pho. Fragrant as all out, delicate yet robust it was just perfection.

3. Deep Fried Quail (Like Hung said, fry something and people will love it) you can't go wrong with quail - it's one of Hamish's favourites.

4. Vietnamese Coleslaw which we ate heaped onto the prawn crackers to make VIETNAMESE TACOS (one of Hung's friends made that up haahahhaaa) it was SO good. Finally a good Vietnamese Coleslaw on Victoria St that's light, has good chicken in it, fresh with the perfect amount of crunch.

We also had salt and pepper squid (don't ask, I was still hungry haahahahaa) which was SO FRESH, so fresh and not rubbery at all.

Hamish in his PHO TRANCE where his concentration on eating causes him to cease communication for a period of time.

We will be back, I have no doubt about that, we only eat at 1 Pho place in Melbourne and haven't ever had a Vietnamese place so this is it for us.
We've found our happy place!!!

I asked Hung to do Wu tang hands and he did!!!
Haahaahahahahaaa
Thank you SO much Hung for opening Phoenix, it was a LONG battle I remember talking about it with you at least a year ago now.
The rest of the restaurants on Victoria St better look out - you guys have got it in the bag!

Get your booties to Phoenix Phuong Hoang 349 - 351 Victoria St, Richmond.

What's your favourite, most favourite Vietnamese dish to order when you're out?
Have you had the mind blowing Pho at I Love Pho?
TELL ME YOUR VIETNAMESE FOOD STORIES!!!!

Baby, it's a shower!!!!

October 14, 2012, 6:25 pm

≫ Next: Babyland Essentials

≪ Previous: Phoenix In The Hizzzoussseeeeee

$

0

0

34 week bump at my baby shower yesterday!

My nails look funny in that photo, like they are chipping, they aren't!!!

Yesterday was my a-m-a-z-i-n-g baby shower

After a stormy, freezing cole week we were blessed with the most sunny gorgeous day which meant cottonsock's and my vision of having the baby shower outdoors/indoors was totally pulled off.

I didn't have time to take photos, to be honest, but here are a few.

1. It takes a mountain of MAC makeup....

2. This was how the front garden greeted me when I got home, my jaw was on the ground.

3. Drink Me tags on glass bottles of pink lemonade.

4. A table in the garden, including a picture of mum and I (this also almost made me cry).

5. Another table with Alice in Wonderland cards

6. Fooooood!!!!

7. Prawn brioche rolls

8. Mini Caprese bruschetta 

I'd love to say a HUGE thank you to R, K and K for setting things up - you guys are seriously the bomb dot com. 

I literally had tears in my eyes when I pulled up outside the house.

Hamish, what can I say, thank you SO much for the amazing catering you did.

Sorry I was telling you how to plate (it didn't seem to phase you) I totally forgot you were a chef and know how to plate FAR better than I.

Your food was sensational, I couldn't have asked for anything better.

Shellie, I could kill you for tricking me about the tags, in fact I could kill you AND R!!! Hahahahahaaaa Thank you so much for once again coming through with the printed goods!!!

I'll be doing more posts on the shower, including some recipes, waiting for more photos to pop up!!!!

^_^ ^_^ ^_^

---

Babyland Essentials

October 17, 2012, 11:15 pm

≫ Next: RETNA: Welcome to Miami (bienvenido a Miami)

≪ Previous: Baby, it's a shower!!!!

$

0

0

An apology in advance to my gorgeous readers who aren't having a baby at the moment - you're going to find this post totally boring.
:/ :/ :/

To the mamma's to be I give you this, a list of essentials.

Today I spent all day at Baby Bunting and Target buying final bits and bobs - all I have left to get are boob pads.
I've got to be honest, I spent a small fortune.
Thank GOD I had my handwritten list with me, I crossed stuff off and didn't buy anything I didn't need.

So I thought an 'essentials' list would be good thing to have on the old blog, if you're going shopping print it off!!!
Get rid of the stuff you don't need, add things you do.
I only put the brands down to give you an idea but do whatever works for you!!

Let me know if there is anything I've missed!!!!

Babyland Essentials!

1 X Baby Monitor - AngelCare video movement/sound [] 
This is one of the best monitors you can get, you might find you don't need the video.

1 X Thermometer - Braun Paediatric Thermoscan
[]
There are MUCH cheaper options but I chose this because it's accurate and super resilient. We use these at work and drop them ALL THE TIME and they survive. I highly, highly recommend this product.

1 X Bath Thermometer - Avent
[]

6 X Bamboo face washers - Bubba Blue
[]
I chose these on recommendation from my sister in law, they are SUPER soft and won't scratch, much better than normal terry towelling which can get quite abrasive.

4 X Bamboo towels - Bubba Blue
[]
Again with the bamboo, seriously touch them at baby bunting - softest things EVER.

3 X Bamboo bassinet/crib sheets - Bubba Blue
[]
Again I chose these because they are so, so, so soft. But you can get normal cotton ones too :) :) :)

2 X bassinent blankets - Little Bamboo
[]
I have Seed ones but the one pictured above is a bamboo one from Baby Bunting.

2 X Mattress Protector - Mothercare pack X 2
[]
I bought these because they are cotton on one side but plastic protected so it won't be as hot/sweaty as a normal plastic one.

1 of each - Baby Wash/Moisturiser/Massage Oil/Shampoo - Gaia
[]
Ok I chose this brand because it's organic, has no nasties in it and is natural. But each to their own, at the end of the day it's what you feel most comfortable with.

1 X Bath Support - Infa Terry Bath Support
[]
My sister in law swears by this bath stand, it holds the baby out of the water so your hands are a little more "free", she said it's really good for washing her little ones hair making life a lOT easier.

1 X Change Table Pad
[]

1 X Pair Nail Clippers
[]

1 X Hair Brush
[]

Baby Wipes (for the car/baby bag/home)- Huggies
[]

Disposable Change Pads - Huggies
[]
These are SO handy because you never know where you will be changing a nappy, it gives you a clean surface that you can throw away - too easy!

Cotton Nappies - Big Softies 12 pack fleecy cotton (Target)
[]
These can be used as vomit rags, to line the bassinet/crib with if your baby vomits, just for a general baby rag. My sister in law was told to get these by the maternal health nurse as they tuck in under the mattress so they aren't a risk to your baby possibly chocking/suffocating themselves with it. 

Nappy Rash Cream - Sudocrem
[]
This stuff is the bomb dot com. I use it on patients and it does the trick toot sweet to prevent and cure nappy rash.

Olive Oil
[]
Because it's what you wash your baby with at the start and the best moisturiser especially for things like cradle cap. 

Cotton Wool
[]
In baby class we were told not to use baby wipes at the very start to just use cotton wool and olive oil to clean baby's bum. The reason being baby wipes can have chemicals that react to your little one's skin when it's still brand new fresh and possibly highly sensitive.


I'm totally exhausted now, it's been a LONG day!!!

♥

RETNA: Welcome to Miami (bienvenido a Miami)

October 18, 2012, 4:29 pm

≫ Next: Baby Bag ARGH!!!

≪ Previous: Babyland Essentials

$

0

0

jcbiv 

edau

bman1986

louisvuitton

I've blogged about the Chanel X RETNA collaboration before, you can find that here.
Well, this morning my Instagram had spatters of RETNA through it via Louis Vuitton.
Yep, he's done did it again and made his mark at the new LV store in Miami.
Above is the LV store facade and below is just some Friday RETNA goodness.

Happy Day Before The Weekend Peeps!

louisvuitton

teenasty24

montana_sevilla

(all images via instagram)

Baby Bag ARGH!!!

October 21, 2012, 10:02 pm

≫ Next: BB Shower//Cheaters Brioche Chicken Sliders

≪ Previous: RETNA: Welcome to Miami (bienvenido a Miami)

$

0

0

After seeing my sister in law in action with her baby bag I made the decision that maybe my LV NF wasn't going to cut it.
Maybe it should just be a me bag....
A baby bag needs compartments Merowyn...

Images via Shopbop

So after some baby bag workshopping with Mez I've just put down my clams for this Marc by Marc Jacobs baby bag from Shopbop - all hail three day shipping!
It's smart and black - my 2 pre requisites 
It has a matching change pad
It has compartments
It is roomy
It has a shoulder and hand strap
It isn't daggy
It will match every man and his dog

Yay!

Find it here

Now, tell me what essentials I need in it and I'll do a 'Baby Bag Essentials' post when it arrives!

BB Shower//Cheaters Brioche Chicken Sliders

October 23, 2012, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: Tummy Time Yo!

≪ Previous: Baby Bag ARGH!!!

$

0

0

These images are from the a-m-a-z-i-n-g Brooke from For The Love Photography. 
She is Cottonsock's cousin who also recently photographed Mez's bump!
Cottonsock's organsed her as a surprise to photograph the shower - I can't thank her enough for doing it, I'm so happy with the photos!!!
THANK YOU SO MUCH DOLL!!!!!! ♥
Click on the link in the sidebar and book Brooke for your wedding, party, anything!!!
She's gorgeous and takes great snaps!!!

So we had these "fake" brioche rolls for the prawn rolls and chicken sliders.
Gwynne Paltrow had these in a Goop newsletter recently.
Hamish changed the recipe a little, here's how we did it.

Fake It Till You Make It Brioche

You Will Need

Rolls (We used mini rolls and small hot dog rolls with the ends cut off then sliced in half to make them bite sized)
Salted Butter (amount depends on the amount of rolls you have, basically enough to brush the outside generously)

Method

Pre heat oven to 200 degrees
Melt the butter in a microwave proof dish
Brush onto the outside of your rolls
Pop rolls into oven buttered side facing out non buttered side facing down
Heat until golden on the outside it will take maybe 4 - 5 mins

Too easy!!!

We filled ours with kewpie prawns and some crazy chicken mix Hamish made, here's how he did it!

Crazy Chicken Mix

You Will Need
Chicken Thighs
1 X Lemon
Thyme
Sea Salt
Oil
Hellman's Mayo (or any whole egg mayo)
Horseradish in a jarrrrrrrr

Smash In Bowl:
Lemon Zest of 1 Lemon/Thyme/Sea Salt flakes/Oil

Preheat oven to 200 degreesCoat chicken thighs in your mix
Brown really nicely in oven proof pan or tray quickly on stove then chuck in oven for 15 mins or so

Shred thighs when cool mix with Hellman's mayonnaise (or any WHOLE EGG mayo) and a teaspoon or so of horseradish.

Y'all can pre make the may/h'radish mix first and add h'radish to taste...

Season then pop into fake brioche with butter lettuce leaves

SO GOOD IN THE HOOD!!!

Are you guys sick of the baby shower pictures yet?

BECAUSE I HAVE MORE TO POST!!!

haaaaaahahahahaahahahahaaaa

Tummy Time Yo!

October 24, 2012, 6:23 pm

≫ Next: Mamma & Baby Internet Shopping Sites

≪ Previous: BB Shower//Cheaters Brioche Chicken Sliders

$

0

0

Ok, I have a confession to make......

I Have A Fear Of Tummy Time Mats

The super bright, garish colours with plastic jingle jangle bits scare the beejeebus out of me.
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for bebe's brain development and bright colours are needed for that but does that have to mean tacky?!

source both images

So the hunt was on for a tummy time mat that would be excellent for bebe's health and not make my eyes bleed.

I was SO excited to find the brand Skip Hop!
Gorgeous, colourful, interactive baby products that don't look tacky - yayayayayayaaaaaa

source

Kourtney Kardashian loves Skip Hop products too, I discovered this on her blog today.
Look at Mason having tummy time fun on his Funky Farmyard Activity Gym!!!!
I FEEL LIKE A COOL MAMMA NOW!!!!

My play mat came from online, for a list of stockists go to the Skip Hop website here.

What have your best toy finds been and where have you found them?

Mamma & Baby Internet Shopping Sites

October 25, 2012, 11:14 pm

≫ Next: Last Bebe Photos I Promise!

≪ Previous: Tummy Time Yo!

$

0

0

I seem to bookmark a LOT of websites to help me with buying things for Boo and myself.
If you're anything like me you forget to bookmark things then spend ages trying to remember, or not remember what they are.

Here is a list of some of my favourites and what I use them for.

Hopefully someone will find this helpful!

Mamma Shopping

Hatch Maternity

www.queenbee.com.au 
For all, ALL your maternity clothes and lingerie. They have next day shipping and easy returns. They stock a brand called NOPPIES their jeans are FABULOUS, I've lived in my pair. The thing that makes them different is they have a band that goes ALL the way over your bump - so comfortable!

www.hatchcollection.com
For designer maternity wear that you can pull off pre/during/post bump. It's a little more $$ but such great quality and classic tailoring. WARNING: Their delivery takes ages!!! Around couple of weeks & it's expensive, Shopbop carries a small selection of the range now w/ 3 day delivery and it's free. Go to their blog for gorgeous pregnancy inspiration. 

www.shopbop.com
This really goes without saying. The holy grail. Maternity spanx, baby bags, scarves to use for covering up while boob feeding. The lot! My SIL told me today to get a few pairs of maternity spanx for postpartum, she said it will hold everything in, helps with bladder control, make you feel more secure when your wearing ridiculously huge maternity pads.


www.asos.com and www.topshop.com
These go without saying really. Cheap, cheerful maternity wear. Depending on if you pay or not free or express delivery. Fashion forward. 


Baby Shopping

Skip Hop @ The Iconic

www.seedheritage.com.au
I'm so obsessed with Seed. I really need to get a grip but seriously they have GREAT gifts for babies/newborns. This where I get my steady supply of bunnies for my girlfriends that are having babies. 

www.yoox.com
For your designer (think Burberry, Dior, Ralph Lauren etc) stuff at a discount. It's still pricey, I guess it's important to remember they grow SO quick!!! They do have gorgeous toys on here though.

www.theiconic.com.au
Low and behold they have Skip Hop here and Cheap Monday for kids.. so many great brands. Quick shipping and AU based. Perfection!

www.lovetodream.com.au
The BEST swaddles. Oraganic and normal. Great swaddle bags at great prices. Quick delivery and AU based.

www.minibots.com.au
Just the coolest, coolest kids stuff. Pricey but super cool, great for gifts! 

www.babytrain.com.au andwww.babybunting.com.au
These sites really speak for themselves, baby supermarket/one stop shoppes! But be careful often you can find things the same cheaper at target, e.g: singlets!!!!

www.target.com.au
They have a large selection of their baby stuff online, including organic/bamboo swaddles, bibs, Bonds suits etc... arrange delivery or in store pickup! Easy!!!

www.bonds.com.au
Look out for their online baby/maternity sales!

Yoox

Would you guys like it if I had a sidebar tab for 'baby/mamma' things that had links to my lists etc?

Hope you've got gorgeous plans for the weekend, I plan on going to Bunnings and eating a sausage hahaahahahahaaa

If you can think of sites to add to this list PLEASE let me know and I will add them!!!!

♥ ♥ ♥

Last Bebe Photos I Promise!

October 28, 2012, 4:08 pm

≫ Next: Hamish's Lemon Curd, hey, hey!

≪ Previous: Mamma & Baby Internet Shopping Sites

$

0

0

1. Hello fake brioche!

2. The Green Rabbit

3. Photo Booth (wish I'd taken photos with Hamish in it)

4.OMG Holly stealing presents!!!!

5. Pom Pom tree

6. Mez's bebe and my bebe getting to know each other

7. Beautiful girls: Mez,(you're totally not having a boy) Holly, K, Cottonsocks

8. We played poker after everyone left

9. Swollen, yet glittery pregnancy legs

10. Presents that Hollydidn't manage to steal

11. Moi trying to figure out what was in a 'dirty' nappy.... the game was rigged, I didn't win

Ok

I'm done with baby shower photos now

Hope they weren't too boring!!!!

^_^ ^_^ ^_^

---

Hamish's Lemon Curd, hey, hey!

November 2, 2012, 12:12 am

≫ Next: Beautiful Days

≪ Previous: Last Bebe Photos I Promise!

$

0

0

Hamish made lemon curd last weekend, something about Jamie Oliver's recipe then he tweaked it... I don't know.
I DO know though that it tastes AMAZING we have this jar sitting in the fridge and I could honestly eat the whole thing but it's even better with crepes.
I'm thinking crepes for breakfast tomorrow morning - hell yes!

Hamish's Lemon Curd

2 eggs + 2 yolks
3/4 cup castor sugar
zest and juice of 2 lemons
"whisk the crap out of it"

100grams butter, cold in small bits.
Add them gradually whilst whisking constantly over a very low heat.
When butter dissolves add more etc, etc.
Cook until it lightly coats your spoon.
Strain into jars.

Badda Boom Badda Bing - DONE!

What's your favourite breakfast food? 
Sweet or Savoury? 
I'm a bit of both kind of girl - who can say no to bacon and maple syrup!?!?!

Here's me on instagram last weekend
AND MY BUMP
Hamish was telling me to make a duck face, I was laughing AT him when I took the photo.
I don't do duck face
I find duck face very controversial, most people I know hate it.... but some people I know do it.... even when they are looking at themselves in the mirror.
Haahahahahaa
Duck, duck, goose.

How do you guys feel about the use of instagram photos in blog posts?
I read on the Vogue forums that people won't read blogs so much if the person only posts instagram photos.
WELL
I am guilty as charged!!!
I've honestly not go the time to be taking blog exclusive photos 24/7.


Ok that's enough rambling for a Friday

The weekend's here!
Giddy Up!!!!

Beautiful Days

November 4, 2012, 6:40 pm

≫ Next: Brrrrrr Chilli Dawg

≪ Previous: Hamish's Lemon Curd, hey, hey!

$

0

0

Mooky + Bump Yesterday

I've got a bit of a full on week coming up.
I'll talk about what's going on later but might not be back until next Monday or so, maybe before... IF YOU'RE LUCKY!!!!
Everything is FINE with the bebe and peachy with Hamish.
No worries at all there.
Just another isssssssueeeeeeeeeeee
Tomorrow is also the anniversary for when my mum died (the timing is uncanny) so naturally my mind is on that.
Looking forward to lunch with my beautiful family tomorrow.

Hope you all have a gorgeous week

♥

Brrrrrr Chilli Dawg

November 12, 2012, 11:04 pm

≫ Next: Baby Breech Blues

≪ Previous: Beautiful Days

$

0

0

First of all thank you everyone for your lovely words re: my last post.
All is ok for now, just setting wheels in motion for future preventative surgery, but nothing I need to worry about at this stage.
Thankfully

Annnnyway... a few weekends ago I decided to start washing Boo's clothing, it made me so happy to see all his tiny things drying on the clothes line.
I was told by my SIL and the midwife at baby school to use a low irritant washing powder, preferably the organic stuff.
So I got this.

Knowing my track record when I was little of getting eczema I want to do everything I can to prevent skin irritants for our little one.
What organic products can you recommend for cleaning around the house?

This same weekend Hamish made these chilli dogs after I had a craving for Phat Brats but we couldn't be bothered driving to Fitzroy. 
They were, massive. 
Huge 
H U G E
I ate half and Hamish ate 1 + 1/2 and then wondered why he fell into a food coma afterwards.

You could easily do mini versions of these for a party or even just use the chilli bit for Sloppy Joes.
Spicy food is meant to induce labour, maybe I should eat these again ahahahahahahaaa
What's your favourite spicy food?

Chilli Dawgs (Recipe Adapted From Martha Stewart - here.)

• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 Carrot finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Coarse salt and ground pepper
• 500 grams ground beef
• 1 can chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup Tapatio Chilli Sauce* Available from Spanish grocers or USA foods online here
• 2 Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce* Available from Spanish grocers or USA foods online
• Sausages
• Rolls
• Spring onions and cheese for garnish

1. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables are softened, 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Add ground beef. Cook, breaking up meat with a wooden spoon, until it is no longer pink, 6 to 8 minutes.
3. Stir tomatoes, Tapatio sauce and chipotle peppers into beef mixture in skillet. Simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally.
4. Season the mixture with more salt and pepper, as desired. Spoon onto sausages in buns. Garnish with cheese and spring onions. Serve immediately.

Baby Breech Blues

November 13, 2012, 9:08 pm

≫ Next: Hospital Bag Essentials

≪ Previous: Brrrrrr Chilli Dawg

$

0

0

I went to see my amazing OB today only to be told (again) that the baby is in breech.
It was confirmed last week with a quick scan in his rooms.
I was hoping that with all the walking around I've been doing he would have turned.
He has other ideas though and wants to stay with his little head up around my lungs.
So I'm seeing my OB again on Monday and if he is still head side up then and hasn't decided to come out au natural I'm going to be booked for a cesarean.
This isn't what I wanted at all, I feel like I'm cheating pregnancy by not having him go out the front door....
To be honest I feel like I've failed at pregnancy.....
I guess at the end of the day if it's best for baby and me that he is delivered this way then that's what's most important.

I still feel like a failure though.

Have any of you had planned/un planned cesareans? 
Give me ideas for inducing labour!!!!
(first one to say HAVE SEX gets a massive roll of my eyes and a laugh ahahahahahaa)

Hospital Bag Essentials

November 15, 2012, 9:50 pm

≫ Next: Flippin Good Times

≪ Previous: Baby Breech Blues

$

0

0

Thank you so much everyone for your kind words about my caesarian. 
You have helped - heaps.
I may have even cried reading some of the comments because they were so sweet.

♥

Hospital day is looming and I've promised various people on Twitter that I'd do a hospital bag post.
Not everything is beautiful, some of it's secret women's business embarrassing but that's pregnancy for you!

So here it is!
Pregnancy bag essentials 101!!!
My quantities are for a 5 day hospital stay so just adjust to your needs.

Hospital Bag Essentials

A Bag! Hahahahahaa I chose the Country Road duffles (we are using 3) because they are colourful and have heaps of room and are easily cleaned. Find them here.

A Dilly Bag! Again from Country Road here because this size will fit everything and I'm a slave to that store haahhaaha. Find similar at Priceline, Target, Kmart your pharmacy, etc, etc.

Dilly Bag Goodies:
Shampoo/Conditioner/Dry Shampoo: You just don't know if you will have the energy to wash your hair so pack it all. I got all these mini ones from Priceline!
Deodorant: Pretty self explanatory again this mini one is from Priceline.
Hair Ties/Hair Pins: Because I always lose them, from Priceline.
Body Wash: Hospital soap is AWFUL I've picked Korres you can buy it from Kit, here.
Moisturiser: Because the constant climate control in hospital will drive your skin nuts, I'm using Korres again.
Facial cleaner/moisturiser: I use Epicure Cosmeceuticals they are amazing. Find them here. 
Make up: ok, let's face it. I've been wearing the stuff everyday, even when I am sick, since I was 15. Things will not change.
Hairdryer
Hairbrush
Nail File 
Tooth brush/ Tooth paste/Floss/Mouthwash

Clothes:
Breast Feeding Friendly Tops: I have bought 3 from Target (cheap, cheerful, doesn't matter if they get vomit on them! here) I am also taking some shirts into hospital with me and lower cut t shirts that I can pop a boob out of.
LOOSE BLACK PANTS: Regardless of if you're having a caesarian or going through the front door make sure they are loose for comfort and black because you will be surfing the crimson tidal wave like it's nobody's business. I bought 3 pairs from Target, they were $12 They are pj bottoms but will look fine with a pair of sneakers if need be around the hospital. Find them here!
Any other clothes you might want, do make sure you pack a cardigan!
Maternity/feeding bras: mine are Bonds. No, they do not give the greatest shape in the world but lord knows they are comfortable and easy to unclip for boob feeding! Find them here.
BLACK UNDERWEAR!! Again because of the crimson tidal wave. This isn't the time for your sexy smalls!
Nighties that have buttons at the front! For boob feeding and it's easier if you have a catheter to wear a nightie! 

Secret Women's Business
Maternity Pads: I am taking 4 packs for 5 days... from what I've heard this is not crazy. The more the merrier!
Boob Feeding Pads: 1 box of Pidgeon's from Chemist Warehouse.
Ural: I probably won't need this as the baby will not be going through the front door. But it's a good idea for ladies post delivery it will ease the sting of your urine. 
Kleenex Flushable Wipes: I'm taking 2 packs. For front door ladies, SO much more gentle than hospital toot paper. For everyone: SO much better to clean the crimson tidal wave with.
Metamucil/Benefibre/Fybogel: Thank you Libby for this tip!!! I hadn't even thought of it but you don't want to be straining to code brown especially font door births! I will take Fybogel as it comes in handy little sachets you just dissolve one in a cup of water. 

Shoesssssssssss
Slippers
Thongs
A day shoe


Chompers
Snacks, savoury and sweet ESPECIALLY front door ladies as you need to keep your energy up. Things you can gobble quickly, lollies, chocolate, nuts, dried fruit, crackers, chippies, pretzels, everything! Anything!!!
CHAMPAGNE!!! For post birth celebrations, you might not end up opening it but take it in case!!

Electronics
Chargers
Batteries
CREDIT FOR INTERNET WIFI!
ipads/ipods
camera
laptop
Whatever tickles your fancy really, just remember chargers and pre paid wifi because not all hospitals have free wifi and usually it's shit haahahahahaa

Also
Plastic bags for dirty clothes!!!
YOUR ANTENATAL CARD!! (Thank you SSG)
Medicare details
Private health insurance details
BLOOD TYPE CARD



If you have anything, ANYTHING to add to the list please let me know.
Hope you all have a beautiful weekend, we're going to be making the most of this one!!