Category Archives: Mummies tales

Aug 30 2017
4 Comments
Mummies tales

Just relax! 

I’ve read so many articles lately about women’s mental loads. There are always a lot of comments underneath saying ‘that’s life’, ‘your generation just wants it all’, ‘ suck it up’ etc etc. I have to say I agree with these articles 100% and don’t give one crap about the comments. 

My husband often says I have a short fuse (which yes, sometimes I may). However, I wonder if he knows that sometimes he is the reason, our family is the reason. My head is so full of everything for everyone else that sometimes the small stuff will really push my buttons. I’m not really angry about him being late home from work or the fact we run out of milk. I’m angry because I’m the one who has to remember everything.  

I work, keep track of everyone’s schedule, meal plan, cook, clean, worry about everything and organise just so our weeks run somewhat smooth. These are just normal weeks, if we’re going away or doing something extra. I’m the one doing most of the leg work. Packing bags, ironing, making lists, he pretty much just turns up on time and orders a cocktail….does he think we are organised by magic?? 

Don’t even get me started on birthdays and Christmas. His name goes on the card, he shares in all the thanks but he hasn’t thought of anyone’s birthday (other than mine) in about 10 years. He is surprised and happy when people open their gifts as it is a genuine suprise. He has no idea what we got them 😂

I get that some men are different but mine has mental load of his work and that’s about it.  While my head is exploding with finer details of our lives.  My husband would have no idea what food allergies our friends kids have, knows nothing about NAPLAN or what a kinder enrolment form looks like?? I’m literally writing this blog and cooking dinner while he plays the Playstation. He then tells me to ‘relax’ or ‘don’t stress’….ummmm mate I would be as chilled out as Snoop Dogg if if only had to worry about myself and my work? 
So….men next time you tell your partner she has a short fuse. Maybe think, share some of that load, show some interest, help a little. You will be thanked! 

Rachelle xx 

Advertisements
Aug 27 2017
Leave a comment
Mummies reviews, Mummies tales, Mummies tips

Protect your beds

As a mother of two little ones and wife to a husband who sweats profusely I know all too well about mattress protectors.  At first,  I wasn’t sure if it is a worthwhile investment, however they are really worth their weight in gold. We purchased a really good mattress a couple of years ago and I quickly realised that I didn’t want it to be stained or ruined because of my husbands sweating.  Since having children there is definitely a need for  mattress and pillow protectors. Both of my kids used to spit up a lot as babies, without a mattress protector our cot mattress would have been ruined.  As they have got older, the protector ontheir beds is handy for any ‘accidents’,  spills or times when they are unwell.

I have tried a few different mattress protectors. The super cheap plastic ones that you can hear crinkling around under the sheets (they also make you extra sweaty..YUK!). Cheap toweling protectors that are bad quality and only last a couple of washes and finally Protect-A Bed, these ones actually work.

Here’s a fun fact……. After 5 years, up to half the weight of an unprotected mattress, or a mattress with a poor quality protector, is made up of your own bodily fluids, skin cells, bacteria and mould?  Gross, not a great thought to help you get to sleep. Plus, if you a spending money on a quality mattress it is worth spending the money to protect it so it lasts.

Protect-A Bed have a huge range for all of your needs. There are mattress protectors in different styles and materials. Their Tencel® products are recognised by the Eczema Association Australasia, so they are perfect for anyone with sensitive skin.   A quality mattress protector can also help to alleviate the symptoms and triggers of Asthma.  You can also purchase pillow protectors and linen protectors. Linen protectors are wonderful for children that are learning to go nappy free at night. No need to change the entire sheet, simply remove the protector and your little one (and you) can go straight back to sleep.

The protectors come in all sizes from bassinet protectors all the way to super king. You can even get ones with extra depth for if you have a pillow top mattress. I think these make a fantastic gift, especially for expecting parents.

Everyone needs to be given at least one of these as a baby shower gift. You get so many wraps, toys and clothes, but a mattress protector is really practical and I’m 100% sure any new parent will thank you in the middle of the night post poop explosion or projectile vomit

Don’t waste your time and money on cheaper alternatives like I did,  buy Protect-A-Bed and rest easy knowing you aren’t laying in a pool of old sweat, skin cells and dust mites.

 

Rachelle xx

 

 

 

 

 

Aug 20 2017
Leave a comment
Mummies reviews, Mummies tales, Mummies tips

Catch a gift for dad this father’s day

Can you believe that Father’s Day is only 2 weeks away! Have you got your presents sorted for all the special men in your life? Don’t stress if you haven’t, Catch.com.au   has everything you need and there is still time for postage.  While you’re there you can probably pick up a little treat for yourself and the kids ( I know I always do).

If you’re stuck for ideas Catch.com.au even has a gift guide for dad.  There are so many options. Tools, personalised gifts, socks, jocks, car cleaning products, games, active wear and men’s accessories.  There is something for every price range and some really amazing brands.  Here are some of my picks for a happy fathers day.

 

Catch pizza - Copy

Pizza oven – $229

Catch Nixon - Copy

Nixon watch $69.99

Why bother with the stress and hustle and bustle of going to the shops to buying father’s day gifts when you can have them delivered to your door. Plus, if you join Club Catch you can get free shipping and access to exclusive sales. Club Catch is $69.00 per year, but you can trial for 30 days for free to see if you like it.

I also find the Catch.com.au is perfect for Christmas and birthdays. There are always toy sales and lot’s of little stocking stuffers. I have just joined Club Catch and I’m sure there will be a few orders arriving in the next few months for all the upcoming birthdays and Christmas.

Collaboration sourced via Shopping Links
Rachelle xx

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jul 27 2017
Leave a comment
Mummies tales

Is connected the new confused? 

Forget trying to think of answers to any questions or finding out information in books. These days we have a wealth of information literally at our fingertips. This is so amazing, yet every single day when I scroll through my social media I am hit with a heap of artcles telling me what I should and shouldn’t be doing as a parent. 

Are we all expected to raise children that are perfect all the time? They must have manners, be spirited but not cheeky,  have created 6 apps by the age of 7 and be a natural at any sport they attempt.  

All while the parents never yell. Play with them,  but not too much, they must know how to be bored.  Praise them, but not use the phrase ‘good girl or ‘good boy’, this could shame another child or be taken the wrong way? Show them affection, but don’t kiss them on the lips. Someone on the internet might think that’s gross! Both parents are expected to work, but also be available for all school/kinder functions and acivities (that always seem to be held during business hours)…..Oh and don’t forget you must feed them only organic food, be a plastic free household and don’t even think about giving them refined suger (that stuff is pure evil). 

I’ll admit, I read the articles and I do think about them.  So many questions have swirled around in my head. Should I control cry or not?  Is breast really best? How do I restrict screen time? What are all the milestones again? Why are they such picky eaters? Do humidifiers work? Am I a good mum? 

I’ve decided screw it, half of these articles are simply click bait……..No one is perfect and being a parent is overwhelming enough without all these extra ‘guidelines’. 

The truth is every child is different and parenting styles are different. We are all just doing our best to raise happy, healthy, well balanced children.  Sure, read the articles. Be open to new things, but take it with a grain of salt. Don’t let anyone make you feel guilty, especially if you’re a new parent. Do what works for you, your baby and family.  I do 😀 

Rachelle xx 

Tagged , , , , , ,
Jul 05 2017
1 Comment
Mummies tales

Don’t be the sour Sally 

I have to get something off my chest. We attend a lot of events for kids, mostly little kids. Little kids are loud, excited and often very messy. Recently, we saw Despicable Me 3, both of my children sat through the whole movie. At one point Hudson cheered and clapped, some sour Sally told him to be quiet??? They also decided to shhh a number of other excited children….. Really? It’s hardly the drama of the year and it was a 2pm session at the movies.  

Last night we attended Disney on Ice, it was magical and full of excited kids. I purchased two little light up wands that swirl fake snow in them. The audience was full of children singing and dancing with light up swords and wands. Yet, the older lady sitting in front of me advised that the noise of my excited children and their wands was annoying her.  She wanted them to stop? Again…..It’s an event for children not the matinee at André Rieu. 

I am the first to admit my kids aren’t always angels, but I’m not going to stop them having fun. If they were kicking seats, carrying on or having tantrums I would remove them.  If you don’t like the sound of happy children and can’t handle some light up wands flashing behind you, I’m guessing you’re at the wrong event. Don’t be the sour Sally people. Join in the fun, let kids be little and enjoy themselves ❤❤❤ 
Rachelle xx 


Jul 02 2017
3 Comments
Mummies tales

C-section – what really happens

When I was pregnant with Hudson and found out I was having a c-section I heard all sorts of horror stories. I also Googled (don’t do it). There were tales of staples, huge scars, excutiating pain, infections and awful recoveries. It was very hard to find anything that sounded like a standard straight forward story. I have since had two c-section’s  (one emergency and one elective) and I wanted to share what happened to hopefully put some people’s mind at ease and share something positive to cut through all the negative horror stories.

Firstly, I want to say that I complely understand that everyone has different birth stories, this is my experience only. I am not speaking on behalf of anyone else.

The process of c-section for me was just fine. Here is my experience:

▫ As with any operation the nerves kick in just before you go in. I felt so much better once I saw my Ob/Gyn, the familiar face really helped calm my nerves.

image

Waiting to go in for my c-section with Hudson 

▫The spinal block – this worried me. In reality this is over super quick and both of my anesthetists were great and talked me through the whole process.

▫ Catheter – I have never had an operation before and the thought of a catheter really worried me. I didn’t even notice it. It’s inserted after the spinal and they take it out the next day. You are so happy to have your baby you really pay no attention to the catheter.

▫It’s quick – from the spinal to meeting your little one is a really quick process (probably 15 minutes).  Before you know it you will be stitched up and in recovery. For me, the whole process took about 45 minutes both times.

image

image

▫ Stitches and scar – Both times I had internal stitches and one large stitch closing the wound. No staples. I paid special attention to the wound care and now my scar is minimal. It’s very low (just above my pubic bone). I can still wear a bikini if I want to and it’s really no big deal. Contrary to some Google stories, my scar is horizontal, not vertical and is not across my whole stomach. My stitch was removed before I left the hospital.

▫Pain management – the hospital I was at were amazing with pain management. Pain meds were given before I felt pain and I left the hospital taking only Voltaren and Panadol. Ensure you ask for pain meds, there is no need to be a hero. Take them before you are in pain.  It makes recovery a lot easier.

image

Me and Scarlett – one day old

▫ Bleeding – you bleed after any birth and c-sections are no different. From what I hear it’s not as heavy as after a vaginal birth but yes, you still require the surfboard maxi pads.

▫ Driving – with my doctors approval I was able to drive two weeks after both my c-sections. I read a lot of information about not driving for 6 weeks, this wasn’t the case for me.

▫ Breastfeeding – I had no trouble with milk supply or breastfeeding. The c-section didn’t affect this for me.

▫ Physical activity – I was up and walking the next day. I was restricted with certain activities for 6 weeks (vacuuming etc) but hey, who wants to vacuum anyway. I was able to go for walks as soon as I got home and could commence normal exercise after my 6 week check up.

Overall, I had two positive experiences. I’m not saying that this is the case for everyone. In a world of negative stories, it’s sometimes nice to hear everything is going to be ok. I now have two beautiful healthy babies and that’s what really counts.

image

image

Rachelle xx 

Tagged , , , , , , , , ,
May 31 2017
Leave a comment
Mummies reviews, Mummies tales

Hypoxi does it work?  Let me tell you….

I have been going to Hypoxi 2-3 times each week for 3 months now. 

Before I share my final results I want to go back to my 1st Hypoxi session. I felt nervous and quite skeptical. How on earth is laying in a suit that feels like bubble wrap popping all over my body and cycling (not too fast) going to help change my body?  Was this a cult? Is this some sort of pyramid scheme? Are these ladies brainwashing me? I had been told my whole life you cannot spot reduce fat or lose weight in specific areas. 

Anyway, I wanted to give it a go.  Everyone kept telling me ‘you’re not big, why would you go there’.  The truth is, I wanted to see if it works, I wanted to be able to give a true account and go by my own experience. Hypoxi approched me to try it out for 3 months, I was told I could be skeptical and share my true feelings. I now completely understand why I was never given any points to mention, they really let the results speak for themselves. 

I have been going to the Wantirna studio, it’s super busy there, but I was always in and out pretty quick. The girls at the studio made me feel very welcome and are really lovely. I’m actually going to miss seeing them and chatting each week (especially Bianca and Belinda, I saw them the most).  I think this is important as if you’re going to go somewhere a few times a week you want the staff to be welcoming and friendly. 

I am 165cm tall and normally weigh between 52 and 56kg (depending on the time of the month, if I am super hungry or bloaty). I had lost all of my pregnancy weight but still felt I could tone up a little and work on my skin elasticity. Hypoxi helped with this. I wasn’t expecting to see huge amounts of cm’s coming off as I’m not a big person. Even in my 1st session I was advised that I may not see huge losses.  I still was curious to see how it would affect my body. 

As I mentioned I went 2-3 times a week and immediately noticed my legs looking a little more toned, not bulky. Just toned.  I also noticed everything was less wiggly puffy and jiggly (#winning).  Most of all I enjoyed the time out. I could relax, watch trashy tv or do a spot of online shopping without distraction or any little people climbing on me. All while working out.

Fast forward 3 months and I have had my final measurements and lost 21.5 cms off my lower body……hooo rah.  My skin feels tighter,  everything is more toned and less, wobbly.  My clothes fit better and this is all without changing my diet. 

If you’re thinking of trying Hypoxi, have some excess baby weight to shift or would like to tone up. Do it, they offer a free no commitment trial so you can try before you sign up. I can definitely say it’s worth a shot.  I was skeptical too and now I think I want to sign up for some more sessions. 

Rachelle xx

Feeling trim and toned since Hypoxi

The studio

Workout while Keeping up with the Kardashians or catching up on emails. 

This is the suit that feels like bubble wrap. It’s actually relaxing and some women fall asleep. 

Lay down machine 

Stand up machine 

Stats 

Lay down machines and magazines to keep you occupied

May 19 2017
Leave a comment
Mummies reviews, Mummies tales

Looking for childcare?

When it came time for me to return to work, I toured a lot of childcare centres. To be honest I didn’t fall in love with any of them. Staff were always lovely but the centres were often quite old and run down.

Now there is a new wave of childcare centres on the scene and they are amazing. Hudson, Scarlett and I recently had a wonderful time checking out the Guardian Early Learning Group centre at 101 Collins Street Melbourne. There are 38 of these centres in Victoria and many more Australia wide, if you are considering childcare it’s definitely worth checking them out.

The centre we went to is located at 101 Collins Street, right in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. perfect for working parents.  I was expecting a small centre with not a lot of light and no outdoor areas. However, the centre is huge (it spans over two levels), really bright and there are two large indoor/outdoor areas for the kids to play.

In addition to the indoor outdoor areas I learnt about the amazing ways they get the children out and about. There is a special 8 seater stroller that is used for trips to the park, art gallieries and walks around the CBD. They have super cute little rain suits so the kids can really enjoy their time out and not even Melbourne weather will stop them.

Scarlett’s highlight was meeting the pet fish and the kids even got to hold the pet bird that lives at the centre.

Hudson loved the indoor/outdoor area and even made a friend while he was playing outside.

I loved the open plan feel, light bright presentation of the centre. However, my absolute highlight was the open kitchen area. Children can sit and watch the chef prepare their nutritional meals and everyone is welcome at the centre for breakfast. This would definitely help with time management in the mornings as mum, dad and any siblings are welcome to eat with the little ones.  Parents only have to worry about getting dressed and hopping on the train or in the car. A nutritional breakfast is waiting at childcare (including coffee).  I often drop the kids off in a frenzy and end up eating something in the car or skipping breakfast all together.

There is an open door policy and parents are welcome to visit their children at anytime (perfect for breastfeeding mummas), the director told me some parents take their kids out to lunch. I would love to be able to have lunch dates with Hudson and Scarlett on work days. or simply pop in and say hello, I think they would love it and I would have way less mummy guilt about having to leave them while I work.

There is a fully funded kinder program and the fees are really reasonable. If you would like more information feel free to contact one of the Guardian centres or check out their website 

Rachelle xx

 

 

 

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , ,
Apr 07 2017
Leave a comment
Mummies tales

Hypoxi update 

I’m just over one month into my Hypoxi journey. A lot of people have been asking me about results and if it’s working. 

I am extremely happy to report that yes indeed it is working. I have noticed my skin elasticity has changed and I have lost a total of 15cm of my tummy, hips, thighs and knees (yep, who knew, even my knees were a little bit chubby). I haven’t really changed my diet and still enjoy a glass of wine. 

When I was approached by Hypoxi to try it I was quite skeptical and didn’t have high expectations. I recieved a lot of comments about how Hypoxi doesn’t work, can’t possibly work and is ridiculous. I have discovered that it actually does work.  I was really just looking to tone up and feel comfortable since having my kids. I went into this not expecting much of a loss. 15cm gone is a bonus and I’m very happy with it. My stomach feels much flatter and toned and so do my legs. 

Each week I have been 2 – 3 times and I’m in and out within an hour. Hypoxi is certainly not taking up much of my time and I find it quite relaxing.  Before I had kids I used to go to the gym 5 times a week. I just haven’t had the motivation to return and always made excuses. Since starting Hypoxi I realise I do have time.

I really wanted to make the most of this opportunity. So this week both my husband and I have started working out in the morning before work (hello 5am wake ups).  Once I’m out of bed and going I actually really enjoy it. It gives me energy and helps me make better food choices throughout the day. 

The one thing I have also noticed is that staff at Hypoxi are lovely. They really know their business make you feel comfortable and are happy to help with any questions.

If you’re thinking about it give the Hypoxi free trial a go or phone one of the studios and ask about it.  The studio I go to is super busy and I have seen men and women of all ages, fitness levels and sizes. It’s a very supportive environment and not threatening like some gyms can be.  I just wish I knew about it earlier. Hypoxi is perfect for shifting that post baby weight and wobble. 

I will post again with further results and photos. 

Rachelle xx 

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , ,
Mar 27 2017
Leave a comment
Mummies tales

School Holiday fun 

Looking for a little something to keep the kids occupied this school holidays? 

No one wants to be stuck in the house with cabin fever everyday so why no get out and check out what Melbourne has to offer. I have narrowed down some of my favourites below.  

Diamond Valley Minature trains 

This little gem is open every Sunday from 11am and Wednesday afternoons on school holidays. It’s a park with a minature train track that you can ride on with the kids. 

The track is complete with tunnels and bridges which makes for an exciting ride. At $3 per person per ride it’s not going to break the bank. You can take a picnic lunch here and relax in the shade or let the kids burn some energy in the playground.  I would recommend getting there early as there can be lines. 

Oakridge Wines kids cooking class 

Why not take the lovely drive out to the Yarra Valley and get the kids cooking. 

The cooking class at Oakridge Winery is so much fun. The kids go off and pick herbs, learn about making flour and make a delicious pizza. I watched and assisted as Hudson is younger, but if you have older children you can bring a friend and enjoy lunch in the beautiful restaurant while sampling some of the delightful wines. 

You can contact Oakridge Wines to book for the upcoming holidays. 

Lights by Dreamworks  

The lights by Dreamworks exhibition is at the Rosebud foreshore these Easter holidays. 

It’s a magical wonderland of beautiful lanterns from all the kids favourite Dreamworks movies. Kung fu panda, Madacascar, Puss in boots and How to train your dragon are just some of the amazing movies that are brought to life with huge lanterns. 

There is craft activities, rides, food stalls and your kids may even run into some of their favourites in real life. 

For further information and tickets head to the website.  

Smurfs high tea at the Langham 

This school holidays the Smurfs are taking over The Langham’s high tea. 

Join Papa Smurf and the gang for an afternoon of delicious Smurfy approved treats and school holiday fun. 

Contact The Langham for further information.

NGV 

The National Gallery is always a favourite of mine to take the kids. It’s a great day out that is 100% free. 

The kids area is wonderful and currently has Patrick Pound: The Great Exhibition on display.  It’s an interactive activity trail that takes children on an expedition. 

Holiday Inn – Staycation Melbourne 

Since Melbourne has so much to offer it could be worth staying a night (or two) in the heart of the city. 

At Holiday Inn on Flinders Lane kids stay and eat for free. They have just updated all of their family rooms and they are stunning. 

It’s conveniently located near the free city circle trams, Docklands, Crown Casino and Flinders Street station. Also, the bar has some really good cocktails for mum and dad. 

For further information check out their website. 

Have fun !!

Rachelle xx 

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , ,
← Older posts
%d bloggers like this: