Tag Archives: fun

Jun 14 2017
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Mummies reviews

What’s new from NERF? 

My son Hudson has always wanted NERF guns. Since he is only 4, I wasn’t sure he could be trusted to not shoot his little sister, me or the dog. 

We were both extremely happy to discover the new NERF NITRO range of launchable vehicles. These little foam stunt vehicles can be shot out of the launcher onto ramps and smash through barrells. You can buy different sets, cars and customise as you please. 

My favourite part is that the launcher can only be used when pressed on the ground (or solid surface) this prevents any little people from using launching them unexpectedly while walking around. 

The cars are soft and perfect for indoor play. We have spent many afternoons setting up stunt tracks and jumps. Both Hudson and Scarlett love them, and they are fantastic entertainment in this winter weather when no one can play outside. 

Check them out…….The NERF NITRO range is reasonably priced with car refills starting from $9.99 and packs starting from$19.99. You can pick them up from all good toy stores (also Kmart, Toys R’ Us, Myer, Toy World and Big W)

Hudson playing with his NERF Longshot Smash from Hasbro. 

Rachelle xx 

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May 19 2017
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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

 

 

 

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Apr 19 2017
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Mummies reviews

The perfect Bluetooth speaker is here….

My kids love music and watching movies on our tablets and phones. I have been on the hunt for a decent Bluetooth speaker for awhile now, after purchasing one that was terrible quality, with no battery life that eventually broke after just a couple of uses I discovered the Mini LifeJacket III  from Altec Lansing.

This little speaker is fantastic and so durable (very important with little sticky hands around). We have used it a lot;  out on our deck, at the park, the lake and when we have gone on picnics.  The 16 hour battery life is fantastic and it will hold up against the elements. The Mini LifeJacket III is even buoyant so if you are doing a spot of fishing  or hanging out at the kiddie pool and it gets dropped in the water it will float.   The sound quality is really good and if your phone rings the speaker will still work so you don’t miss any calls.

You can pick up one of these beauties at Ananconda,  The Good Guys or Target.

Check us out having a picnic at the Redwood Forest in Warburton (Melbourne, AU). We took our Mini LifeJacket III with us and had some tunes pumping while we relaxed in the forest. Such great place to visit with kids, have a walk and a picnic. Perfect!!! 

Rachelle xx

 

 

 

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Mar 27 2017
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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 

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Jan 03 2017
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Mummies Finds, Mummies reviews, Mummies tales

Quick getaway for the family 

After a busy year we wanted to get away for a night with the kids so they could enjoy Christmas in the city. We took the opportunity to stay at Holiday Inn (Flinders Street). 

This let us experience all the Christmas action that Melbourne had to offer, we had a small break and we didn’t have to deal with screaming tired kids on the drive home in the car. Holiday Inn is so close to everything that as soon as Scarlett rubbed her eyes and Hudson complained of being tired we were back in our room within 10 mintues. 

We went to Crown Casino, walked up to Bourke Street and caught a tram to Docklands (it’s in the free tram zone). Kids stay and eat for free so that is a real bonus. Plus, when we arrived ay our room there were little entertainment packs for the kids that included colouring books, stickers, crayons and brochures. These were a fantastic distraction at dinner.  The staff were really accomodating and our room was made up with a porta cot and trundle bed. 

We stayed in a suite so once the kids went to sleep my husband and I ordered room service (including delicious cocktails) and watched a movie. 

I was never sure about just going to the city for a night or two with kids but we all really enjoyed it.  All the family rooms on level four have been renovated and look amazing. It’s  the second time we have stayed at Holiday Inn and if you’re looking for somewhere family friendly and close to everything give them a call. Hudson and Scarlett are already asking to go back. 

Perfect for a school holiday getaway.

Rachelle xx 

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Nov 17 2015
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Mummies recipes

Party penguins

The hit of any party and super simple.

🐧INGREDIENTS

16 large pitted black olives
16 small pitted black olives
1/2 a block of Cream Cheese
2 peeled carrots
16 toothpicks
One piece of marinated capsicum or 2 spring onions ( cut to make little scarves)

🐧INSTRUCTIONS

Cut a slit from top to bottom, lengthwise, into the side of each large olive. 
Insert about 1/2 teaspoon of cream cheese into each olive.
Slice the carrot into 16 1/2cm slices. Cut a small triangle out of each carrot slice to form feet.
Save the cut out piece for the beak. Cut a small slit into small olive and press into centre of small olive. 
Set a big olive, large hole side down, onto a carrot slice.
Then, set a small olive onto the large olive, adjusting so that the beak, cream cheese chest and carrot feet line up. Secure with a toothpick.
Slice capsicum or spring onion into strips and tie as little scarves.

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Enjoy!🐧🐧🐧🐧🐧

Rachelle xx

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Nov 14 2015
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Mummies reviews

No stress cake baking

I have never been much of a baker. I do love cooking, but because I don’t eat a lot of cake or biscuits. I have never felt the need to bother with baking. 

That was, until I had children. Kids love cake, they get excited about cake and pretty cakes make them very happy. I wanted to bake my sons first birthday cake, but after shopping around, trying to work out what shape to make and looking at the cost of all the decorations. It simply worked out to be cheaper and less stressful to order a cake for his party.

A couple of weeks ago I discovered Cake 2 the Rescue. An online store where you can order a cake kit and make a beautiful cake for any occasion. I wanted to give one a go.

Upon receiving my kit I was extremely impressed that I had everything perfectly proportioned to make an amazing cake. There was no need to buy food colouring or fondant in bulk. I only had to provide eggs and butter (which I already had in my fridge). The attention to detail is fantastic. The kit includes comprehensive instructions, stencils, fondant, candles, a cake board and even a little rolling pin.

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One afternoon last week while the kids were asleep I baked my cake. Once it was cooled, I cut the shape using the stencil and using the detailed instructions, I started to decorate.  My three year old woke up halfway through. In a normal baking situation I would just stop so he wouldn’t stress me out while I was trying to concentrate. However, because Cake 2 the Rescue is so easy, he was able to help me roll the fondant and we had a lot of fun making our Rudolph creation together.

I was very happy with the end result. I will definitely recommend Cake 2 the Rescue to all my friends and I’m sure I will be ordering more of these kits in the future. They are so much fun and really good value.  There are cakes for every occasion, so you’re covered for every event.

If you would like to win a Cake 2 the Rescue kit, head over to my Instagram @themummycode and follow the instructions under the pic of Rudolph. You can also follow @cake2therescue on Instagram too.

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Rachelle xx

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Apr 17 2015
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Mummies tales

50 things we love

We were asked by the lovely Mumma Plus Three (@mummaplusthree) to share 50 things we love. Since there are two of us we did 25 each. It’s a great opportunity to get to know us, see if you can relate. Feel free to let us know what you love too.

Ange’s Loves:
1.The sound of cicadas when Summer begins
2. An “original” chocolate or strawberry BigM
3. Holidays by the ocean
4. Gossip Girl- I could watch it a million times and never tire of it
5. Christian Louboutin’s. I don’t own any yet but they’re on my bucket list
6. When nick nacks have a designated place
7. My ironing lady
8. Sundays. It’s the only day that the whole family is together
9. A tan. I know they’re not healthy but ohhhh they make you feel good
10. Handmade gifts from my kids
11. The colour yellow. It always makes me happy
12. Birkin bags
13. A french cream vanilla slice
14. The pure silence when going for a swim
15. A glass of ice cold Veuve Clicquot
16. Decorating. Whether it be for a party, bedroom, house or whatever.
17. A good ol’ comedy or romantic comedy
18. P.S I Love you. I love this movie so much that we used one of the songs for our “first dance” at our Wedding. It gets me every time
19. Christmas lights. I’ll drive past the same lights maybe 6 times throughout December
20. The smell of a real Christmas Tree.
21. My family
22. Will Ferrell. Hilarious!
23. Chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate
24. Fresh bed sheets
25. Ryan Gosling and Ryan Reynolds. Their good looks are almost too much to handle

Rachelle’s Loves:
1. My family and friends
2. My dog – Chula who is a Pug x Jack russell (Jug)
3. Spring – sunshine, flowers and knowing winter is behind us
4. Japanese food and anything Japanese in general – Hello Kitty, Astro boy, sushi, origami. I love it all
5. Game of thrones 
6. Shopping – online or old school. I don’t mind as long as it’s not food shopping. I can’t go past a good sale 
7. High heels and handbags
8. Sleeping – I appreciate it more now I have children
9. That feeling when my house is clean and washing done – only lasts about 30 minutes but it’s bliss
10. Going out for a delicious dinner
11. Just because presents or gestures, no matter how small. Shows someone is thinking of you
12. People that RSVP – the date is there for a reason people. Just say yes or no!
13. Coffee, coffee, coffee
14. Going for a walk in the sunshine
15. Having something organised for me, I get sick of organising everyone else
16. Slurpees – raspberry or cola. I don’t mind
17. Lollies (candy) – gummy bears, sour worms, cola bottles, party mix. That’s what dreams are made of.
18. Dancing with my two year old – so much fun. Can’t wait for my daughter to join in
19. Diamonds – Marilyn was right, they’re a girls best friend
20. Beautiful hotel rooms – fluffy pillows, avoiding the overpriced mini bar, room service….divine! 
21. A glass of wine with some amazing cheese
22. Lists – the only way I stay organised
23. Clean sheets – but I hate the job of changing them
24. People who say what they think. Don’t beat around the bush, just tell me. Oh and don’t do mysterious Facebook status updates, I don’t care
25. The beach – the sound of the waves makes me instantly relaxed

Phew….there you have it. 50 facts about Ange and Rachelle (The Mummy Code). Well done if you are still reading this. Let us know your loves!!

The Mummies xx

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Apr 02 2015
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Mummies tips

Easy origami easter bunnies

When looking for Easter activities to do with a toddler I discovered a lot of craft activities that involved glue, scissors, dye or paint. While it’s fun to get messy and enjoy crafts I was looking for an activity that was quick, easy and not messy.

Hudson and I made origami Easter bunnies so we could decorate the house ready for the Easter bunny’s arrival.  He enjoyed decorating the faces, putting them around the house and playing with all the coloured paper

The steps are below:

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1. Take one piece of origami paper (I got mine from a $2 shop)
2. Fold in half
3. Half again and unfold to make crease
4. Fold a small part up at the bottom of the triangle
5. Fold two sides to meet the centre crease (creating ears at the top)

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6. Fold smal section down at the top to create top of bunny head.
7. Fold again at the bottom to make an area for the bunny head to stand up.
8. Draw on the bunny face using a texta.

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Make a few and decorate your home ready for the arrival of the Easter bunny.

Have a wonderful Easter everyone.  Thank you for all your support. 

Rachelle xx

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Mar 16 2015
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Mummies tales

I used to be fun!

On the weekend we were at our local swimming pool at 10am, we had already had an early morning trip to Kmart. My husband was in the pool splashing with Hudson and Scarlett was sitting with me smiling and cooing. I was thinking how much fun it was. I started reminiscing about what used to be fun and how times have changed. I wondered what my friends without children were doing (probably sleeping). The three biggest changes I came up with are:

Out on the town:
A fun Saturday used to involve a sleep in until at least 10am, relaxing brunch (often out), going shopping for a new outfit or shoes before I head out at night to pre drinks then a bar or party.  I would rarely go out at night until after 9pm and never wanted to be early for a party.  After dancing the night away I would head home in the early hours of Sunday morning. 
We then went through a wedding phase where weekends were for hens parties and beautiful weddings. This has dried up now that most of our friends are married.
Fast forward to now. A sleep in is anything after 6am, I still spend Saturday shopping (for food, nappies and formula).  We now go to parties that start at 10am and we are on time or even early to ensure we are home before my two year old turns into a screaming banchee because it’s nap time. I still dance a lot but it’s in my lounge room to Dora or Wiggles and I’m often in my pj’s because apparently 7am is an appropriate time for two year olds to want to dance.
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The mummies – out on the town. Pre kids.
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The wedding phase.

Eating out:
BC (before children) my husband and I would eat out a lot. Every weekend, multiple times. I could tell you about almost every Japanese restaurant in Melbourne and most of the time we knew the staff because we went so often.
Nowadays,  we still go out either as a family or a couple when we get a babysitter.  But, I can pretty much say my best expensive sushi eating days are behind me, we can’t afford $300 dinners. Most of the sushi I eat these days is from foodcourts and pried from a chubby little hand when he looks at me and exclaims ‘no more’.

Exercise:
When I wasn’t living it up on the weekends out at bars or restaurants. I would go to the gym 3-4 times a week. It would clear my head and I enjoyed keeping up with the latest Zumba, spin or boxing classes.
These days, I still exercise. However, it has become a combination of trying to stay fit while occupying my children and not leaving the dog out. Now, instead of trying out the latest work out fad or gear I resemble some sort of one man marching band. Pushing a bike, wearing a child in a sling contraption and wrangling my pug x.  It’s not cute see…
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Having two children in just over two years has flipped my world upside down. Somedays I wonder if my friends without kids still think I’m fun to be around, have I completely changed into just a ‘mum’ now. I look back at the old times and smile. It seems like only yesterday I was tearing up the dancefloor. My friend Jess (who has two under two), reminded me that those memories are so fresh because it really wasn’t long ago. One thing I know for sure is my kids think I’m fun and there will be a lot more happiness in the future. That’s what really matters to me.

Rachelle xx 

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