Daisy Chain at the Vine

AN UPDATE FROM DAISY CHAIN

2011-08-20T22:40:00.001+10:00

Due to illness we've been taking a break... our blogs have been very quiet, but we hope to be back up and running come Spring... and thankfully that's just around the corner now! So keep watching this space!

And finally ... our Outdoor Room renovation is coming soon, just in time for you to get the look for summer! All the tricks, tips, hints and colour details will be available soon on this blog so you can recreate your special space in time to enjoy all of those outdoor get togethers with family and friends as the festive season approaches! You can do it on a shoestring! The smallest budget can recreate this look in a heartbeat... watch this space for more details on how!

Daisy Chain

School holiday fun! Let's get baking with Cath's Cookies!

2011-06-06T09:10:00.000+10:00

If you’re looking for something super fun to do this school holidays then you need ‘Cath’s Cookie mixes’. These fantastic dry mixes are the perfect ingredient for the busy family who don’t have time to prepare from scratch, or if you don’t know how to and don’t have time to learn, or if you just want to experience these delectable flavours for fun. This is the perfect school holiday fun to share in the kitchen with the kids and get them involved in the cooking. They'll just love eating the results too!

Cath has a large assortment of product items for you to choose from – you can go absolutely wild planning your next party, girly morning tea, school fundraiser, or organising product for the kids school lunches! What about quickly whipping up some to take to work – your colleagues are going to love you!

We can highly recommend the quality of Cath’s products, as well as the taste! The Smartie mix in particular was a huge hit in our household! We couldn’t get enough of them! The finished product featured in my 365 Project (a photo a day for a year) after we made them for supper one evening! The perfect end to the perfect day, Cath’s Cookies turned out exceptionally well and have a genuine home-made flavour all of their own! I was amazed at just how good they are. I mean, a cookie is a cookie right? Not anymore! These would have to be some of the most delicious cookies I have ever tasted!

I love home made and I’ve always made my own biscuits and cakes for the kids. But I am a huge convert to Cath’s dry mixes because they work so well and the kids love them, so there’s no waste... and the best part – very little mess either! Perfect for sharing with your favourite people, Cath’s cookies are the bomb!

Featured below - the plate of Smartie Cookies we baked at home! Thanks to Cath for allowing us to trial them! Absolutely delicious!

Let's get organised.....

2011-06-04T16:40:00.000+10:00

Forget Me Not Bands

.... where have you been all of my life! Thank you to Elissa Churchward for allowing us to trial this fabulous invention.

As a mum of many I like to be organised... I NEED to be organised... so, preparing for each school starts with preparing the day before, every single time. It means having bags packed, library books to be returned at the ready, notes signed, sporting items and instruments for band good to go.... but sometimes the best laid plans fail... sometimes I’m too tired, I forget, or someone else forgets to gather their bits. Reminders are great, but bits of paper can be lost too! So we just love Elissa’s FORGET ME NOT BANDS.

Each band is labelled with a message to remind you about the important things in life – such as being sorted for the library, ordering tuckshop, or having notes for school signed, and items sport ready etc... included in the new range coming soon Elissa has catered for those easily forgotten dental appointments and shopping reminders (oh Forget Me Not Bands – how I need thee!)

Are you struggling to fit everything into your day, or even just to remember it? I know I am! With eight of my ten children still at home, organising for school, rush hour, it’s all a nightmare...and a bit of a blur, but not when I’m organised. And if I happen to forget to be... Forget Me Not Bands will gently remind me of what I have to do so effectively!

My kids are wearing their bands to bed and utilising them as the reminders they need to survive each day – especially for things like Music and Sport...and those dastardly missing notes we seem to keep disappearing without trying! (thank goodness for the pin board I have installed now!)

So, getting organised can be as easy as 1, 2, 3 or even up to putting 6 bands on your arm if you really need to! Isn’t it great to be reminded when you already have soo soooo much to think about? We think so! We highly recommend them and are huge converts to Forget Me Not! I can’t wait to get more!

WINTER WARMERS bringing warmth to you and your baby

2011-06-02T10:57:00.006+10:00

Product Reviews by The House of Vintner

HEAT BEARS

I’ve come across a real find on Facebook! Heat Bears and you can check them out at your leisure here too

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heat-Bears/209482282402468

Perfect as that winter warmer for baby and you! Warm up the cot or baby’s sleeping area (remember – not too hot!) or use for your toddler, for sick children, or to keep you and baby cozy as you nap on the couch or in your favourite space together!

I interviewed Elly Lubout, the owner of Heat Bears, about her beautiful products and here’s what she told me here -

“I have been making the Bears for about 10 Years and sold them at my work, Landgate, where I worked as a Tea Lady. I had lots of people interested and then I started to make the Wheatbags, first helping out my Daughter who started it.”

So, at first it wasn’t really a business, more of a Hobby, Elly explains.

“Then a close friend saw the Bears for my Grandchildren and wanted one. She asked if I was on Facebook, and of course I said no, so she made up a page and got me started.”

“I am from Holland and came out here 47 years ago, I was 21.”

What about custom orders?

“Yes people can ask for their own, such as made up in a fabric to match something up and it takes me about three hours to make one.”

So what makes your Bears special?

“My Bears are special I think because the are fully lined except the corduroy ones and have lots of lavender in them and I think I get the expressions on right on their faces.”

I have absolutely fallen in love with Elly’s ‘Heat Bears’ and I know you will too!

MYRTLE & TUPPENCE by Tonya McGinley

enquiries@myrtleandtuppence.com.au

www.myrtleandtuppence.com.au

I am sooo inlove with the Myrtle and Tuppence Lemon and Coconut body butter –
I swear I could almost eat it! It feels so utterly good on your skin.
I love the fragrance and the beautiful quality of the butter!

Perfect for moisturising skin on those ‘dry days’ that winter brings with it.

If your skin is feeling parched, like a dry leaf floating on the breeze, then you really
need a Myrtle & Typpence body butter to repair it and return it to health, to leave it
feeling soft and supple – just perfect for every day use, after shower, healing on
chapped skin, smoothing, soothing and utterly irresistible!

Botty Balm for babies is the perfect item for change times. Nappy rash, sore, red skin
is now a thing of the past, wind burn and dryness, gone! I love that it’s in a pump pack
and so easy to use when one hand is holding baby’s legs out of the way!

So user friendly and versatile. Pack it in the nappy bag and go! One application
can make all the difference. Use it at every change to protect baby’s skin!
Love the essentials oils in it and the vitamin E. Your baby will love it too!

And the Myrtle & Tuppence Face Food is divine – unbelievably aromatic and so
hydrating to the skin. It leaves my face feeling soft all over, without that dry wintery
feeling that makes your skin feel itchy and peel and flake off. It has even put more
colour back into my face. I feel like it’s actually doing something, instead of just
sitting on the surface.

It has a nice consistency to it that isn’t too thick or too thin and watery. It doesn’t
feel like silicone, and you don’t need much to apply to your face each morning and
night. I noticed a difference almost immediately! I love the fragrance and look forward
to putting it on each day!

Kate Mather & Gum Tree Lane

www.nutsnstuff.com.au
www.facebook.com/GumTreeLane.net

Kate has a new product range for baby in the winter months. The label is 'Scrub Bubs' and consists of a baby massage for keeping skin and supple and growing pains away, bath oil for warming up your bub and a baby balm for your babies dry skin in winter and an essential oil for settling baby all these beautiful products have Australian indigenous botanicals infused in these gentle products perfect for our Australian Winter.

What we love about them:

They are so aromatic! We love the corporate line available and we especially loved the products Kate sent us to trial! The fragrant oils are the perfect winter warmer for burning in your home, to add that cozy, wood-burning, warmth to your abode (or work space) without the fireplace! Perfect for burning at your cellar door to invite the customers to stay! It provides that ambiance you’re been looking for! You’ll become as addicted as we have.

Along with the baby range Kate has a high end souvenir range that works beautifully for the corporate, tourism and gallery customer as well.

Bennetts Boots are our all-time favourite boots (and winter warmers) at The House of Vintner and we’ve enjoyed promoting them many times. I have several pairs of Bennetts Boots in my wardrobe and I absolutely love them! I can’t find anything comparable in the stores in Brisbane, nothing as comfortable or as stylish since I found Bennetts and I’ll never wear anything else now! Bennetts will take you from Summer to Winter with all of their fresh and funky styles ready for the seasonal changes every time! You’ll never be caught short on something to wear because they’ve thought of everything... I have a hard time choosing a favourite! Bennetts also offer the most amazing customer service I’ve ever experienced when dealing with a company!

So...whether you need to dress up or dress down and keep it fairly casual, Bennetts have a boot for you! Their gorgeous winter range accommodates all tastes and styles, and regardless of the function you're attending, or whether you’re wearing them to work or play, they have a design that will suit your needs. If the nightclub scene is more you, you’ll find the perfect boots to wow them as you ‘walk in the club’! Bennetts Boots will dress up any outfit! Or add that special something you were looking for. Find them at http://www.bennettsboots.com/

Swish Lily www.swishlily.com.au – Have a gorgeous new range of winter woollies and gorgeous items to keep baby snug (and stylish) this winter! From long johns to beanies and cable knits, we love their very cute and cuddly range – sooo utterly gorgeous! It’s really hard to choose to just one... resistance is absolutely useless... so make sure you tell Grandma about these luscious items so she can buy for baby too! Set up your Swish Lily wish list, or organise an online (virtual) baby shower and get your friends to grab you some of these cute items too! You can’t go wrong shopping with Swish Lily! They are one of our favourite online boutiques for little takas!

And.....speaking of Little Takkas.... we are totally thrilled with a new line of nappies and wet ones we recently trialled by ‘Little Takas’ - an Australian company EcoQuest has produced the world's first 90 percent biodegradable disposable nappies - Little Takas. These nappies degrade in 100 days compared to 100 years for regular nappies so now parents can have the convenience and performance of a regular nappy with the environmental tick.

We love how soft they are – unlike some environmentally friendly items these days, Little Takas are soft and comfortable and super absorbent. They work extremely well and we are super impressed with this new brand and the amazing concept. Constantly worried about what I am doing to the environment by using disposable nappies (my first three children were always in cloth!) I am thrilled to have found this product! For those of us who are ‘green conscious’ and time-poor, ‘Little Takas’ takes all the ‘worry’ out of being a mum on the run who survives on disposable nappies and the convenience of them! We love that they actually work too! A comparable brand with anything that is currently on the market, even your most-loved brand, with the added assurance and comfort of knowing baby is taken care of, and so is the world around you! A big thumbs up from us at The HOV! Join the club and visit www.littletakas.com for more details!

Voting begins for the Boys Retreat

2011-05-31T07:47:00.000+10:00

As part of our Home Make over we recently turned the rumpus area into a bedroom for a our little boys aged 8 and 6. They are loving their new area, and you can vote for this room make over here, just click The Retreat, to vote!

Here's a sneak peek!

You can see more details about this creative space and our home make over so far, in the June edition of The Gold Coast Grapevine. Don't miss it!

Frances Carrington – an Australian entrepreneur with Conscience

2011-05-20T09:38:00.000+10:00

The journey that Australian Frances Carrington took to create her fashion label, Eternal Creation is fascinating. She travelled to India to volunteer for a year and has ended up living in Dharamsala since then. She also started her own fashion business called Eternal Creation there over 14 years ago. She now has an Australian husband, Rory and two children, Imogen and Oscar and Eternal Creation currently employs over 70 staff.

After graduating from the East Sydney Institute of Fashion Design in 1994, designer Frances Carrington registered with Australian Volunteers Abroad, hoping to use her skills in a community in Africa. Instead she was sent to India. She was put in charge of the fledgling tailoring department of the Norbulingka Institute in Dharamsala, north India, home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in exile. Her job was to teach newly arrived Tibetan refugees the finer points of tailoring and design. She had overseen the growth of the department from 2 to 15 fulltime staff by the end of that year.

Falling in love with Indian and Tibetan culture, not to mention the fantastic landscape of the Himalayas, she decided that at the end of her tenure she'd find a way to use her skills to continue to benefit the local community in some way. In 1999, armed with a $5,000 loan from her father she started Eternal Creation.
The early days were difficult. Frances started with only 3 tailors, in association with the Gu-Chu-Sum movement of Tibet, an ex-political-prisoners' organisation based in McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala. Gu-Chu-Sum's 200-plus members are all former prisoners of conscience, some of whom have endured terrible privation and torture at the hands of the Chinese authorities. The organisation is dedicated to improving the lives of recently arrived political refugees by providing jobs, training, health care and accommodation.
The small tailoring unit slowly grew, employing several ex-prisoners and battling with fierce monsoons, water shortages and frequent blackouts, often simultaneously! One of the biggest challenges was training people who had previously led a pastoral or nomadic existence, to understand the concept of delivery deadlines and international quality standards.

With the birth of her 2 children, Frances found herself naturally gravitating towards designing children's clothes, and sales of her initial children’s collection quickly proved that there was a market for her classical look, love of colour and immaculate tailoring.

As the sales of Eternal clothing grew in Australia, the company was faced with a difficult decision - outsource or expand? Outsourcing would bring with it the ethical dilemma faced by many designers: how do you know your designs are being made under fair labour conditions and not subcontracted to other factories that may not meet these standards?

Frances felt that outsourcing production would ultimately end up betraying the original reasons she started the company. So she decided to increase the capacity of the workshop, which would provide more jobs for the local Tibetan and Indian community as well as ensuring that Eternal Creation's trademark high quality standards were maintained. In 2005, Eternal Creation opened the Himalaya Tailoring Centre in lower Dharamsala, and today is one of the largest private employers in the area. Eternal Creation products are sold in over 200 stores in Australia, Europe and Asia.

Eternal Creation clothing can be bought from over 200 children’s clothing outlets in Australia or online at www.eternalcreation.com. You can also go to the website to find out more about the company’s principles and what they offer their staff in terms of employment standards. Of course, you should also go to the website to check out their gorgeous clothes. They are divine!

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THEM:

At The HOV we’ve had the pleasure of trialling these beautiful products and we love the designs and the quality! The fabrics are just lovely, and the garments are well-made and are certainly better than so many garments I’ve bought here. The range is extensive and covers a wide age group and so many different tastes and personalities. These would make the perfect gift for a new mummy, a lovely item to welcome baby, something special to bring baby home in, perfect for those family photos, tea parties or for just hanging out at the park or a friend’s house over the holidays. They are warm and cozy and would be the perfect winter warmer for your precious little ones. They have become one of our favourite labels!

Eternal Creation forms part of our 'Winter Warmer' promotion and you can see more coming to the June edition of The Gold Coast Grapvine!

You can vote for our beautiful new nursery!

2011-05-19T14:02:00.001+10:00

At The House of Vintner we've been renovating!!! And in doing so, we've entered one of our rooms in the Huggies Baby Care Room Designs Competition, and so far, we're strongly in the lead!

You can vote for us too and the comp closes, for this round, on May 31st, so be quick!

Vote for our room by clicking the link NAVARONE'S NURSERY!

Full details of our home make over to come in the June edition of The Gold Coast Grapevine (digital magazine)! Be sure to sign up the GCG newsletter so you never miss the link to the digital mag!

See our fabulous nursery below.... then read on after the pics!

*Below - the BEFORE shot of the Nursery...

And...... TA DA.....

AFTER!

As you can see, we've kept it bright and very modern! The paint is Taubman's - MIDNIGHT SEA (originally a Dulux colour we had converted to Taubmans - it's slightly cheaper!) As an interior decorator and designer myself, I know what makes me feel good about a room, and I just love what we've created!

The gorgeous canvases you see on the walls were created by Jodie Gallagher of the very popular Loli-Pop Kids Wall Art! (Jungle Animals and Cheeky Monkey with Crocodile sequence!)

*These paintings below were a custom order from us!

Jodie's art adorns the wall of many rooms in our home, not just the nusery ... see the coming promo to The Gold Coast Grapevine June edition for more!!! New master bedroom, ensuite, lounge room (and others to come!) All sporting Jodie's beautiful works of art! (*More below)

Our Nursery also contains beautiful handmade items made by MooBear Designs

*Navarone's very cozy sleeping bag by MooBear Designs!

Plus.... our ensuite and loungeroom promo comes to you complete with Urban Thirst Cocktails - our favourite being the French Martini Mix!

Here's a sneak peak of some of the items you can expect to see in our Ensuite promotion:

Painting below created by Jodie Gallagher

of Loli-Pop Kids Wall Art

We've ordered two!

Here's a sneak peak of the BEFORE shots

of the loungeroom and master bedroom

To see the final results of the make over

see the June edition of

The Gold Coast Grapevine

We're looking forward to sharing more of our home makeover with you ... so watch this space for more details of our suppliers and sponsors!

Also check all the details of coming issues of THE GOLD COAST GRAPEVINE at our blog headquarters GCGHOV ~ as we bring you so much more!

We've got five x $100 Bennetts Boots vouchers to give away!

Sign up two people to The Gold Coast Grapevine to be in the running!

Contact us at The House of Vintner for more details!

Vintage is in!!! .... seeking your products!!!

2011-05-10T23:00:00.001+10:00

(The gorgeous photo above supplied by Lindy Chant)

From Homewares, to clothes and costumes, masks, jewellery and other items... the HOV seeks your Vintage products to blog (products are non-returnable in lieu of advertial promotion!) The best ones will receive a 3 month advertising package on our blog/s. *Some may be featured in our digital magazine The Gold Coast Grapevine. And the promotion will be seen on our Facebook pages - both personal and business.

Send your products, so we can see feel and touch them! You are welcome to offer a giveaway or discount to our readers (although this is NOT mandatory!)

We are seeking all things beautiful and vintage!

*Be a special part of our renovation package where applicable! Details and pictures available here on our HOUSE OF VINTNER Business Page on Facebook!

Inspire our creative space! And.... get some fabulous promotion in return!

Email us with your ideas!

DUO - win a year's supply with DUO and Daisy Chain at the Vine!

2011-05-05T12:36:00.004+10:00

At Daisy Chain at the Vine we're thrilled to have the opportunity to promote this fabulous product!

DUO have launched a new product called DUO Antibacterial laundry powder, it’s a one of a kind product in the market at the moment, and kills germs and bacteria that is in your washing. It is designed especially for cold wash cycles, which 76% of Australians use.

It is especially good for parents who wash cloth nappies and children’s clothes, research has found that after one wash of dirty cloth nappies, traces of faeces can be found in up to two washes after the first wash. DUO Antibacterial kills those germs and bacteria.

We have some great gift packs of “year’s supply of DUO Antibacterial Laundry Powder,” that would be a great giveaway and thought your readers would really benefit from these prize packs, laundry powder is an expensive everyday necessity.

You wouldn’t think that faecal matter and bacteria may be lurking in your ‘clean’ washing machine, would you? Well, think again!

Clothes, especially children’s cloth nappies, attire and undergarments can harbour potentially harmful bacteria that feed on stains and sweat. This kind of bacteria is not easily removed in cold water washing cycles, which 76 percent of Australians now use.

DUO Antibacterial “Dirt Fighter” has come to the rescue! PZ Cussons, a global innovator in the laundry category.

Ms. Cathy Rixon, DUO Antibacterial Washing Powder Brand Manager at PZ Cussons Australia said, “We’re really excited about this new product, it helps to protect your family from harmful everyday bacteria and provides you with the comfort and confidence that your laundry doesn’t just look and smell clean but IS clean.”

Countless research papers have been published on the germs that fester in our washing machines. Some dirty laundry facts you may not know are alarming. A study that tested 100 washing machines, found 60 percent showed positive for coliform bacteria, an indicator of faecal contamination and various germs including salmonella and E. Coli., with another 20 percent containing staphylococcus aures (staph).*

Even after washing, bacterial contamination was found throughout the clothing and on the machine tub itself. The bacteria left behind, even showed up in subsequent wash loads.*

DUO is specially formulated with an Antibacterial agent to remove those germs at low temperatures, making cold water washes more hygienically clean. The product is also a cost effective solution to fight odours and dirt in clothes such as sweaty sports gear, underwear, socks, work wear, towels and linen that harbour germs daily, without having to change your cold washing habits.

DUO Antibacterial can be found at Woolworths/Safeway, Franklins and your local independent supermarkets at a low cost of just $5.99 for a 950g box and $11.99 for 2.35Kg box. Call the DUO Consumer Line on (FREE CALL) 1800 809 282 to find your closest stockist.

our review

I've never used Duo before, having always been brand-loyal ... and kind of stuck in a rut I guess. I use what I know. If it isn't broken why fix it? Then there's also the 'buy on special' impulse buy, but I've still never purchased a DUO product. That is... until now... I'm a convert since having some of this fabulous washing powder to trial and review!

Recently we were contacted to promote Duo's new anti-bacterial product, and as a mum of many (you know, I have ten children...), I can really appreciate a good product. I was excited to try something new... and as far as washing powder goes, yes I can even get excited over that! My world is small, it revolves around running a business, cooking and cleaning, and raising a beautiful family; and like most mums, as busy mums, we want results, the first time, every time!

As you can imagine, I do many loads per day... in fact my eldest daughter can attest to how many there are, because she has been diligently helping me for months, both before and since our tenth baby arrived. We love the Duo fragrance, and we love the results. I'm so thrilled with them, that I've definitely changed brands! For good!

My entire house is injected with this gorgeous aroma - washing powder fragrance is very important to me! I like my clothes to smell clean! I also like them to look clean! And with a new baby in the house, it's important to make sure everything is absolutely clean and fresh, every time. I hate having to rewash items. And I like his clothes, all of our clothes, to have that freshly laundered clean-smell about them! Duo gives you this every single time! Price and quality of product is important to me too.

I'd love to set you the DUO challenge! Next time you're at the supermarket, pick up a box of Duo and try it for yourself! I'm sure you won't be disappointed!

The people at DUO have very kindly given us 12 months supply of laundry powder to give away to one lucky reader!

Email us in 25 words or less 'with one sentence from this blog post that really strikes a cord with you!' (Copy and paste your favourite part of this post into the message you send us). It could be something I've written or something from the above press release!

We'll draw a winner on May 26th, 2011 at 5.30 pm.

Thank you to Cussons and their PR department for allowing us to trial and review DUO so our readers could hear all about this amazing product! We simply love it!

BENNETTS BOOTS MOTHER DAUGHTER SALE!!!!

2011-05-05T06:13:00.007+10:00

(above - my favourite pair of Bennetts Boots)

At Daisy Chain at the Vine, we're excited to bring you details of a very special sale at Bennetts Boots!

MOTHER & DAUGHTER SALE
Mothers day is around the corner and here at Bennetts Boots, we’re gearing up to celebrate our appreciation and love for our beautiful mothers and mother figures. With Mothers Day celebration and the Winter months upon us, what better time than to have a sale off our Fashion Boot Collection!!

Daring ‘Diva’: were $345 Now only $149
(in Chocolate and Black)

Precious ‘Poppy’: were $199 Now only $69
(Available in Red, Purple, Salmon, Stone and Mustard)

‘Water Snake Sandal’: were $189 Now only $69

To further spoil your mother, we’re offering a special in-store only ‘Mother and Daughter’ 10% off when you buy two pairs!! (See below for Terms & Conditions)

Sale on this weekend only!

Richmond store: Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th May
39 Bridge Road, Richmond, VIC
Sydney store:
Saturday 7th
350 Oxford st, Bondi Junction, NSW
Hoppers Crossing store: Saturday 7th
1/10 Dunlop Road, Hoppers Crossing, VIC

Terms and Conditions:
- 10% discount can be applied to already reduced stock
- Strictly in store ONLY
- Please visit the FAQ section of the website for further exchange/refund policy
http://www.bennettsboots.com/

Once Upon a Baby - Flower Fairytale Rings!

2011-04-23T21:20:00.005+10:00

At The House of Vintner/Daisy Chain at the Vine, we stumbled upon a fabulous product from 'Once Upon a Baby!' ..... their stunning Flower Fairytale Rings! As soon as I saw them, I had to have one... check out the stunning pictures below and you'll see why! And they are so reasonably priced!!!

Check out the full range of their gorgeous designs here! We're a huge fan!!!!

I ordered one in the above antique copper and cream - and it's one of my favourite pieces of jewellery! It always gets loads of compliments and is too way too cute for words. It fits comfortably and is a delight to wear - it's a lovely 'vintage feel' piece that goes with heaps of gear! And will always be a talking piece wherever you go!

You can contact them info@onceuponababy.com.au for more details or to place an order! Or Find them on Facebook!

They are also one of our favourite supplier of absolutely gorgeous baby items!

Machiko Baby

2011-04-22T12:58:00.005+10:00

Machiko Baby has searched the globe for the highest quality in designer kids’ clothes so you don’t have to. The brands available here are often hard to find locally, which means your kids won’t be in the same old clothes as all the other kids on the block. Designer kids’ brands like Milky Baby, Baobab, Sooki Baby, FreshBaked and Three Little Trees will have your family covered! And there are plenty of baby basics to make quick and easy shopping an absolute breeze.

If you’re looking for designer kids’ clothes that are funky and fresh, look no further than Machiko Baby! Mix and match looks from the best brands – Milky Baby, Baobab, Sooki Baby, FreshBaked and Three Little Trees. Don’t dout it - Machiko Baby will dress your little darling from head to toe in the cutest and coolest designer kids’ clothes!

OUR REVIEW

The very fabulous Machiko Baby forms part of our PINK PARTY at Daisy Chain at the Vine! We simply love, love, love their products!

High Fashion, high quality - that can't be disputed - too utterly cute for words!!!

The most amazing colours, this season's up to the minute fashion for littlies, that won't break the bank or hurt your hip pocket!!

Machiko Baby is the way to go for the very cool, designer baby's fashion collection all under one roof!

Totally adorable and absolutely perfect for that garden party, family portraits, high tea, naming day ceremony or other special events in the lives of you and your little one!

We love the quality, the colours and the designs! Stunning, stylish and worth every cent!!!

Machiko Baby is THE ONLY place to shop for the most gorgeous in outfits for your own little Prince and Princess!

Visit Machiko Baby on Facebook and tell them that THE HOUSE OF VINTNER sent you!

Or visit our other GCGHOV Media Group Blogs for more fun, give aways and Hunter Valley events at The House of Vintner Blog or our GCGHOV Blog.

When you book to come along to our WAHM Corporate Retreat being held in The Hunter Valley in June, go into the draw to win tickets to FLAVOURFEST, hosted by the Hunter Valley Gardens!

Our Wahm Corporate Retreat is being hosted by Taste'n Tag Wine Tasting Tags & The House of Vintner - so jump on board, you won't want to miss it!

Don't forget to also visit us at Mummy Ambassadors on Facebook! If your business needs promotion and you just can't afford the advertising, ask us about connecting you with a fabulous Mummy Ambassador (Mummy Blogger) to assist you with your marketing and networking!
Find our more about Mummy Ambassadors and how we can help you here!

Bellyco - Belly wraps for new mums!

2011-04-18T20:07:00.003+10:00

/BellyCo_Belly_Wrap_Natural_Lift.jpg" /> BellyCo is a Gold Coast company offering a range of modern post natal belly wraps that help support and flatten the stomach after pregnancy, helping new mums get back into shape quickly and naturally!!! It is believed that wrapping of the abdomen in the 4-6 weeks post pregnancy greatly helps the health of mother’s both immediately and well into later life, as well as benefiting their new born babies. A MUST HAVE for any labour bag!

Some other important benefits:

Minimises swelling Aids in decreasing bloating caused by water retention

Reduces discomfort Assist in accelerating the healing process

Helps minimise post natal stretch marks Abdominal support & comfort after caesarean

Assists in Repositioning the Uterus Can be used to assists in healing of Diastasis Recti

For more information our website can be found at http://www.bellyco.com.au/

OUR REVIEW

At Daisy Chain at the Vine we love Belly Co!

The Belly Wrap is a fabulous addition to my wardrobe! After birthing my tenth baby in February, and this birth being a VBAC, I was thrilled with the Belly Wrap. The comfort factor is amazing and you can wear it anywhere. I mainly pop mine on at home, or when I'm out walking - it supports everything - all those wobbly bits after bub arrives... and helps put you 'back' into place! After my c-section four years ago I used an elastic wrap the physio gave me, it was soft and comfortable and just the ticket at the time (when I was healing) but as the weeks wore on I wanted something stronger, with more ability to support - something a bit more solid that made me feel like I had that extra support as my body got back to its pre-pregnancy form! I'm sure I would have healed faster if I'd found the Belly Wrap sooner!

The Belly Wrap has definitely been the product that I needed this time around! It is perfect for supporting while breastfeeding (alleviating that lower back pain) and holding everything together. You know that 'I feel like I'm falling apart... or that spare parts feeling...' like everything is not holding together right, after bub arrives? That will be a thing of the past when you include a Belly Wrap in your wardrobe and add it to your daily routine of getting dressed! You'll feel more confident and will be able to get ready to wear those lovely outfits you felt so good in before baby!

Decrease that 'bloated, blowfish feeling'! Get back into shape faster! Look good, feel great!

Visit Belly Co to see all of the benefits of the Belly Wrap and to choose your colour!

Thanks Belly Co for making my return to 'pre pregnancy' shape easier!

Sparkle with Madam Charli!

2011-04-18T12:01:00.003+10:00

Things that go

.... B-B-Bling!!

MADAM CHARLI

...at Daisy Chain

we're just a little bit addicted!

Desk/work space making you feel un-inspired? Sick of the drab boring look? We accessorize our shoes and handbags to match our outfits. We jazz up our smart phone and iPods, so why not add some Bling to our office space? From Bling’d staplers, hole punches and even USB flash drives, you can find a Bling’d office accessory to suit you. The Bling @ Work stationary accessories are the perfect addition to give any woman’s office/work space that personal girly/chic touch. Features Benefits of the Products - Fun - Affordable - Beautiful - Girly - Creative - Unique

Where To Buy You can purchase Bling @ Work products from Madam Charli USB with a touch of bling!

Can you believe your boss is going to pay for your next jewellery purchase and benefit from it? Madam Charli's necklace is a crystal silver heart USB flash drive. Designed for the professional woman, it’s stylish, practical and fully tax deductable. Never lose sight of your USB, it's right around your neck. The First Edition Madam Charli USB Jewellery Range includes cultured pearls, sterling silver charms, precious stones, silver and charms. Adorned with vintage and new charms, no two necklaces will ever be the same.

And now in fabulous keychains to accessorise your whole life!

Never be without a handy USB again! If you've ever been caught short, wishing you had a USB on you (wishing you could copy those incriminating photos... ha ha, or wanting to keep a safe copy of your holiday pics... if you've ever wished you had one handy at Uni... or realised all too late you need to take data somewhere and the files are too big to email... then you'll never be lost or wishing again, because Madam Charli has got you covered!

For additional information on Madam Charli First Edition USB Jewellery Range, contact Carolyn Harli or visit http://www.madamcharli.com.au/

THINGS WITH BLING ... ARE THE THINGS THAT MAKE US GO ... WOW!!!!!!

If you’re a girl with a thing for bling... you need to visit Madam Charli to funk up your space! From your office desk to your piece of the business world at home, things with bling from Madam Charli will excite and delight! Ignite your passion for work once more... and you can even let the boss pick up the tab. From oldest to youngest, if you love all things shiny and glittery, you’re going to love how Madam Charli has you covered both on and off the corporate treadmill!

Girls of all ages are going to want to jazz up their space with these gorgeous pieces ... my girls are already eyeing off these items and wondering how they can score them to satisfy their thing for bling, and their stationery habits! They’ll have to fight me for them first... Part with them if you dare... the perfect Mother's Day gift if you can bear to give them away! Or why not indulge your passion for things that sparkle. Spoil yourself for the new year! Why not? It’s all for a great cause... after all, you deserve it! Sexy, sassy, sparkly, girly and gorgeous – Madam Charli products with bling will make your days at work a sparkle! From your stunning studded mouse, to your calculator, business card holder and stapler, you will ‘shine’ all day long! (And if your items grow legs and walk they’ll be easy to spot in the office...) Just yell ‘Who stole my bling!?’ There’s no hiding these hot products – they are too gorgeous to stay in the drawer!

Never ever lose your USB again... keep it close to your heart... wear this gorgeous heart-shaped pendant , a design that is always at your fingertips (or around your neck!) Perfect for work or Uni ... swap photos or data over laptops at lunch, look stunning at dinner (nobody will ever know you’re wearing your important files) and you’ll be so organised and stylish, all of the time, they’ll wonder how you do it! We love Madam Charli’s range of Bling! Absolutely gorgeous and fantastic quality! We are absolutely sold on each product! Shop til you drop – they are so hot you won’t be able to keep your hands off them! Enjoy!

MADAM CHARLI

Baby-Teresa - beautiful onsies for baby, supporting babies in need from other countries!

2011-04-10T12:59:00.004+10:00

At Daisy Chain at the Vine we are delighted to have the opportunity to promote Baby Teresa. This is a fabulous concept - please jump on board and support them! Their onsies for babies are absolutely gorgeous and their charitable quest an absolute inspiration! Follow them on Facebook or visit their website for more details about how you can help!

What is Baby Teresa? Baby Teresa is an Australian organisation based in Tasmania who manufacture and sell funky 100% cotton all-in-one outfits for babies. For each one we sell, we donate another to a baby in need somewhere in the world so that each time you purchase one, you give two. What’s special about Baby Teresa? In this day and age, dollars can be scarce, but the desire to make a greater impact on the world around us is as strong as ever. Baby Teresa gives people the opportunity to buy a fabulous gift for a baby they know, and at the same time provide a functional outfit for a baby they’ll never know, but who really needs that outfit.

Launched in September, 2009 Baby Teresa’s first charitable all-in-one baby outfit donations will be done in the founder’s home state of Tasmania to benevolent organisations assisting mother’s with new-borns in need. Our second drop was in Uganda. From there, the donations will continue with Sammie and Kirsty’s goal being to help clothe a baby in every country in the world!

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL IDEA!

Find out more about Baby-Teresa and how you can be involved by visiting their website www.baby-teresa.com today!

Mini Mates...I can't believe it's not denim....

2011-04-01T07:02:00.006+10:00

http://www.minimate.com.au/

Maria Falas is the co-founder of minimate.com.au, an Australian made children’s clothing online store. Mini Mate's clothing is quality Austraian made clotjing that's not boring!

Maria tells Daisy Chain at the Vine:

All of our kids clothing is 100% Australian made with Australian fabrics. Our manufacturer is registered with the Textile and Clothing Footwear Union. So my business partner Helen and I can sleep at night knowing that people are being paid proper wages for making our clothing. We are also registered with the Australian made and grown campaign. Here is a little bit more about our story: A tale about Maria, Helen & Mini Mate At Mini Mate, we are passionate about keeping jobs in Australia and Australian Made products. As a child Maria saw my machinist mother being made redundant several times as clothing companies sent manufacturing offshore to save money. So when Maria became a mother in April 2007 and tried without success to buy Australian Made childrens' clothing she decided to do something about it. Maria’s cousin Helen also found it difficult to find clothes for her 3 year old son Archie. Specifically, Australian made clothing for Archie that was edgy, comfortable and affordable. The sum of these ideas was the genesis of Mini Mate, a business the girls co-founded. Mini Mate, an online shop www.minimate.com.au , specialising in Australian made childrens' fashion.

Both Helen and Maria are very passionate about keeping jobs in Australia. Mini Mate features Australian made clothing for boys and tomboys. The clothing is made from quality Australian fabrics and is sized 0 to 5. The popular designer t-shirt range were created by the girls in conjunction with a graphic designer. Therefore these designs are unique to Mini Mate. The play shorts have been a hit with tots learning to crawl and walk as well as toddlers and older children learning to toilet train and dress themselves. Helen and Maria are very proud of what they’ve been able to achieve, affordable, funky Australian made clothing for parents who have a conscience about what their children wear. Mini Mate has fans all around the world, including Alex and Simon from the real housewives of NYC (please see attached picture). We really are very proud of what we have achieved in such a short time frame.

OUR REVIEW:

Mini Mate's easy fit 'I can't believe it's not denim' shorts are not only sensational quality but they look and feel great! Easy care, easy wear these shorts are not only a cute fashion statement that are way cool, they are also so easy to look after and wash well! Our little man is wearing his to death and they are surviving creative play and a multitude of washes!

I love that they look so dressy and feel so great - so comfortable, soft and wearable, you can dress them up or down! Add a polo shirt or a tshirt depending on the look you want to achieve! These would be perfect for the next family photo or for the Kindy pics Daycare organise each year. Just so comfy for afternoon of play in the park or at the beach, and just as wearable for the family barbecue at the rellies house!

I think having at least three pair of these in your little one's wardrobe would make life so much easier because they are so versatile for every day wear. You'll never be lost for an outfit when you have a pair of Mini Mates shorts in the cupboard! They go with everything. And honestly ... you won't believe they're not denim!

We are thrilled to say we've awared Mini Mates with the 'GCGHOV Star of Excellence' for quality, innovation and fantastic customer service! The product is a two thumbs out, 10/10 from us!

Light up the life of your little someone!

2011-03-30T09:36:00.005+10:00

Childrens Lighting is dedicated to selling unique and fun ceiling and pendant lights for your children’s room. We are a family owned business and would love nothing more than to transform your child’s room with our extensive range of lights for girls, boys and the nursery. Your little boy will love a little plane or helicopter to light up his room. For the girls flowers and princesses will turn their room into a magical place. Animal kingdom and the ABC lights for the baby’s room will turn ordinary into SPECIAL. All the children’s lighting supplied by us, have been tested to Australian standards and conform to all the safety standards required for lighting. We are dedicated to selling a quality product and providing the best customer service!

Our review: Children’s Lighting sells unique quality lighting that will delight and surprise your little ones. From dressing up the nursery to their bedroom or their play-space such as the rumpus room, you will be thrilled with the gorgeous designs available! Cute as a button and oh so versatile, there is a design to suit every little prince and princess. If you’re renovating, moving, or creating change and you want something really special to light up your world, then Children’s Lighting is for you! There are 14 products in the range covering boys, girls & nursery themed light fittings. We’re just love ours! (pictured above)

To light up your little one's space, just visit the website to browse the many gorgeous designs on display! You may have a hard time choosing as they're all so gorgeous!

www.childrenslighting.com.au

Little Pearl Designs - a Daisy Chain featured business!

2011-03-24T15:13:00.003+10:00

At Daisy Chain at the Vine we're delighted to have the opportunity to profile 'Little Pearl Designs' by the very talented Skye Tiernan!

Skye says:

"I am a mum of two who is passionate about creating beautiful handmade room decor items for children and the home. Each design is one of a kind or limited edition plus I am available for custom orders on request. I use gorgeous fabrics, trims and printed papers to ensure each Little Pearl Design is unique and special just like the customer I am tailoring it for."
Skye@Littlepearldesigns.com.au or find me on Facebook www.facebook.com/littlepearldesigns

OUR REVIEW

Skye Tiernan created this gorgeous owl design photo board (pictured above) for my little boy and it’s just gorgeous. I just love the quality of her work and I was thrilled to have a ‘Little Pearl Designs’ original for my baby’s nursery!

I often watch Skye’s Facebook page for all of the gorgeous items she creates, and it is easy to see that a lot of love, time and effort goes into every single hand-made custom order! I love all the feminine and girly designs she creates too from fairy wings to products that sport pearls and lace... oh to be a little girl again! I'm like a kid in a lolly shop, I want one of EVERYTHING!

Skye is 100% dedicated to creating all that is beautiful, and she loves inspiring your world with beautiful things. I was very lucky to come across her. Little Pearl Designs has become a firm favourite at Daisy Chain at the Vine and at my place! Every little girl's world should be filled with 'Little Pearl Designs!'

On the road with Sesame Street

2011-03-23T16:40:00.003+10:00

Can you tell me how to get to Sesame Street?

At Daisy Chain at the Vine we're excited to promote Sesame Street products to delight your little one and to make your journey just a little easier...

Sesame Workshop is the nonprofit educational organization that changed television forever with the legendary Sesame Street. As the single largest informal educator of young children, local Sesame Street programs produced in countries as diverse as South Africa, Bangladesh and India are making a difference in over 120 nations. As a nonprofit, product proceeds go right back into education and research for children around the world.

At Daisy Chain at the Vine we were delighted to trial and review the following products... but first a little bit about them from the supplier!

SESAME BEGINNINGS – WHAT’S NEW

HIT THE ROAD WITH SESAME BEGINNINGS!

Keep the kids amused in the car, thanks to everybody’s favourite red monster, Elmo! Featuring Elmo’s smiling face, this new range of car accessories, including a back seat mirror, back seat organizer, and protector mat will keep baby’s car ride comfortable and fun!

The range also includes a neck support (perfect for long car rides) and a window cover, to protect baby from the sun.

The Sesame Beginnings car accessories range is available exclusively from Target. RRPs - Back Seat Mirror, $20.00; Back Seat Organiser, $20.00; Window Covers, $15.00; neck support, $15.00; Protector Mat, $20.00.

Stockist enquiries – 1800 814 788.

STRIKE UP A CONVERSATION WITH SESAME STREET!

It’s talk time with Sesame Street, thanks to the release of a fun new range of t.shirts for kids, featuring Elmo, Cookie Monster, Oscar the Grouch and Abby Caddaby.

These adorable children’s t.shirts have a built-in micro-chip, and when you press it, your favourite Sesame Street character will talk!

Elmo says ‘Elmo loves you’ followed by his trademark laugh.

Abby Caddaby says ‘That’s so Magical’, Cookie Monster says ‘I’m one smart cookie’, and Oscar says ‘It’s Oscar here’.

The Sesame Street Talking t.shirts are available exclusively at Target for $14.00. A Great stocking filler!

Stockist enquiries - Call 1800 814 788.

OUR REVIEW

Sesame Street products are a firm favourite in our house and of course with many children around the globe and with good reason! Bright and colourful, fun and entertaining, Sesame Street as a brand holds a lot of appeal! For those of us who remember Sesame Street fondly from our own childhood days, we are equally as thrilled to introduce our own little ones, a whole new generation of Sesame Street followers, to the highly successful muppet family! From Big Bird, to Grover and Elmo, to the beloved Cookie Monster and even Oscar the Grouch, you can't help but love them all!

Sesame Street, after many decades still enjoys a solid following and of course we love that we can watch it and enjoy the products at home... and now as travel companions for the car! I love the Elmo mirror - it's a blessing to be able to watch my little one in the Elmo mirror when travelling and know that he's perfectly fine back there in his capsule! And of course the organiser keeps the older ones amused. Perfect for storing everything in it! We tend to take a lot of stuff on the road with us as a family and having something within easy reach is perfect. It stops all of those groans of 'Mum I can't reach my book, or dvd'! No more straining over the back seat for me!

Of course these are the perfect products for the kids in your life, whether their your children, nieces and nephews or a gift for a friend, they are versatile, useful and user friendly! Escape the drudgery of travel and make it simple with Sesame Street products! How cute are these items?

I love the Tshirts too! So cute and a great way to amuse a cranky toddler! Or to delight one! I can see these being a huge hit once your child wears theirs to Daycare or playgroup! Even if the kids are too little to scramble for them, the parents certainly will be!

Such funky ideas using your favourite characters! It's never too soon to think of popping these away for Christmas or for a new baby on the way, before they all walk off the shelves!

I can tell you how to get to Sesame Street - head to your nearest stockist for the entire amazing Sesame Street range!

me2me for everyone!

2011-03-09T15:43:00.005+10:00

me2me2 is an Australian based wholesaler who recently supplied Daisy Chain at the Vine with some "funky" and stylish "tote bags" to give away, as well as some other funky products we’ve had the pleasure in reviewing! You can find more details of the product range available on their website at http://me2me2.com/category_35/Tween-Bags-Totes.htm

Their range includes both High Quality Limited Edition Japanese Fabric & me2me2's own Vintage Girl design.

What we love about them:
Designed in Australia, Made in India (Fair Trade) using Imported LIMITED edition Japanese Fabrics

We love that they hold heaps, they look awesome and they will suit your favourite girl, catering to many styles and tastes. We love the fabric range!

A sturdy product that will make weekends away even easier. Compact, portable, practical and very unique, these make the perfect accompaniment to that all important sleep-over!

The perfect gift for that unexpected birthday party your daughter has been invited to.

A great way to keep bedrooms tidy - store tiny toys inside and simply hang up! Brilliant!

Store those much-coveted ballet shoes in them, or use as a library bag for school.

Infinite uses for this very gorgeous product! Just perfect for the little girl in your life!

In order to score one of these gorgeous bags CONTACT US and tell us in 25 words or less why you love me2me products and what your favourite product is!

me2me2 is an Australian based wholesale and manufacturer of products that are designed to inspire positive experiences of love, learning and exploration while helping to cultivate inquiring minds and build the resilience that children need to interpret the world positively as they grow.

We have a variety of products for children 4-12 years which include Cooking and Chef Sets, Mum and Daughter Aprons, Hairdressing, Tool and Gardening Kits, and Tote Bags.

Why we love them!
me2me make it easy to find the perfect birthday present or a gift 'just because'! Funky, novel, unique items to utilise as stocking fillers (start putting together items ahead of time so you don't get caught short)... stock up for those birthday parties the kids attend during the year, or give them to the kids to keep them busy on a rainy day!

Teach your budding chef to get it all happening in the kitchen! Inspire the next master chef to greatness! ... Or get them busy in the garden shed creating little gardens - you don't have to be outdoors to enjoy creating new little arenas to harvest! Get the kids planting their very own items in pots. Help nanna tend her garden, or inspire the kids to look after their creative space in the yard.

me2me products make school holidays fun! Everyone can enjoy getting their hands dirty!
Whether you're creating playdough or a vege patch, the kids are sure to enjoy the me2me products every single day!

Check out our Baba Slings Give away at the GCGHOV!

2011-02-16T16:47:00.000+10:00

Visit us at the Gold Coast Grapevine/House of Vintner Headquarters -

The GCGHOV Media Group

to see our fabulous Baba Slings Give away happening now!!!!

Pendants Australia - surprise your Valentine or Mum on Mother's Day!

2011-02-05T09:47:00.001+10:00

At Daisy Chain at the Vine we have recently had the privilege of being contacted by Pendants Australia to review their stylish pendants for our readers! We are excited to provide details of their stunning products here, just for you, in time for Valentine's Day! We're very confident you will love what they have to offer!

Pendants Australia produce a new and exciting range of sterling silver pendants for ladies aged 25 to 55.

This stunning solid, sterling silver Frangipani pendant comes complete with a matching, sterling silver necklaces. All produced in Australia and registered "Australian Made and Owned".
Pendants Australia believes in ‘jewellery for life’ and that a pendant represents something much more meaningful than almost any other item of jewellery.

The idea behind our range of beautiful sterling silver pendants is that you’re giving a gift that really reflects the person you’re buying for and when choosing to purchase pendants for necklaces, you’re choosing to give one of the most heartfelt gifts there is.

Pendants Australia specialises in sterling silver pendants and silver necklaces which truly capture the essence of a person. As well as having such an individual and unique look, the Pendants Australia collections are Australian made, hand-crafted and come in the most beautifully polished sterling silver.

Pendants Australia’s competitors include household names such as Thomas Sabo, Pandora and even Tiffany’s. Globally renowned for their quality and beauty, this is the Pendants Australia notion too.

Some of their gorgeous range includes the following designs:

Pebbles, Butterfly, Gecko, Light House and many others! The range is very extensive! There's something to delight everyone!

PENDANTS AUSTRALIA

for quality products

attention to detail

and excellent customer service!

OUR REVIEW

Firstly I would like to thank Pendants Australia for allowing us the chance to profile them here at Daisy Chain at the Vine! We love the quality of the many absolutely stunning pendants, and the customer service is second to none! I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience in dealing with Pendants Australia and have no hesitation in recommending them to our readers, friends and colleagues.

I am delighted with the beautiful Frangipani that was sent for our review - it has received many positive comments from all who have seen it! I love the design, the quality, and they are just as beautiful, if not more so in real life than they are on the website. I was impressed with the quality of the photographs on the website because you really do get a feel for what they really look like up close and personal! You won't be disappointed with your purchase!

There are so many that I would simply have a hard time choosing; I have posted pictures here of some of my personal favourites! There is definitely something to accommodate every personality! From purchasing something for a lover for Valentine's Day, to Mum for Mother's Day (get in early!), or even a gift for your best friend, or just something to totally indulge and spoil yourself, you will be amazed at the beautiful items in store! Try and stop at just one...

Bamboo is not just for Panda Bears!

2011-02-04T10:03:00.004+10:00

I recently discovered THE MOST luxurious fabric in pyjama wear, thanks to Kristin from Kids in Australia, and Jo from Babyjo!

Here's how it all began...

Being hugely pregnant and in and out of hospital at a crazy rate of knots, I was not feeling up to hosting the Baby Shower my friends kept asking me if I was going to hold! Just the thought of it was enough to give me a headache... then I had a great idea... to hold a Virtual Baby Shower (online) on my Facebook page, meaning that I could in fact invite friends from far and wide. My furtherest Aussie invite went to Perth and overseas ones went to America. It was so easy to simply upload pics into a photo album of the items I wanted or needed for baby and me, and then my friends could access each website and purchase what they had chosen for us! Complete success!

I asked around and got a number of reputable business names from online friends who would be instrumental in not only giving me the details, but also amassing and purchasing the most divine gifts for me! Our baby and I have been very spoilt!

One of my favourite pieces came from Kristin from Kids in Australia, via Jo Harvey's Babyjo site... Bamboo wear for mums and bubs... and the Bamboo Pyjamas are to die for! Luxurious gear without the luxurious (read: scary) price tag! The ultimate in comfort and pure indulgence for any mum or bub! I've been wearing mine while I'm pregnant (I wasn't going to originally) but I simply couldn't help myself. They felt way too good to wait...

Each set consists of:
1 singlet
1 short sleeved tee
1 pair of relaxed fit pants
*Note - the pants have elastic at the back waistband, and are a drawstring front, so they are ideal for pre and post pregnancy or everyday use by non pregnant women - the adjustment allows you to wear them at your desired comfort every day!*

A BIG THANK YOU TO KRISTIN

from Kids in Australia

for this beautiful gift!

And this is how they look on a fabulous non-pregnant body!

I've never owned such a comfortable pair of pyjamas and I think every mum should own at least two sets! When they're in the wash you're not going to want to wait! I've been able to wear these all day in hospital because they really are so stylish they resemble a lounge suit - nobody even suspects they are pj's! So... if you answer the door in them, you can avoid all of those embarassing moments! Soft, sexy and seductive to the touch... you won't be able to part with them! And, they're perfect for any kinds of weather, for home, hospital, chilling out on the deck with your favourite wine or coffee and a good mag, you are absolutely set!

You can also read Kristin's Blog post about BabyJo Bamboo Pyjamas here! And... catch up with some very special blog posts I wrote especially for Kids in Australia - Time Management Strategies - and - Beware the Dream Stealers! (*Who are your people? - coming in the third part of the series).

I was delighted to have the opportunity to write for KIA - it's one of my favourite sites!

And as such, they have -

For site quality!

Make them your favourite too by signing up for their fabulous newsletters!

Don't forget to drop by BabyJo Bamboo and order your gorgeous items for you and baby today!

Their products

Just look at them...

Gorgeous, luxuriant,

and amazing value for money!

Every baby should be spoilt

just like this!

Thank you so much Jo

for sending some

thoroughly gorgeous items

for our little man!

SURPRISE VIRTUAL BABY SHOWER!!!!!

2011-02-03T11:21:00.008+10:00

Imagine my surprise....

As many of you will know by now, I'm expecting... our tenth baby is due February 21st, 2011. However, before cyclone Yasi showed up and reared its ugly head, I had a delivery date somewhat closer (Feb 9)... I've been resting in hospital recently, however, yesterday the maternity ward was emptied to make room for North Queensland mummies coming our way... I'm back at home (resting) but I was feeling less than happy with this decision, given that my last labour was only 15 minutes long and I live at least 20 minutes from the hospital! Plus I have children to organise should I go into labour naturally and as my sitter is now no longer available, this has become somewhat of a logistical nightmare!

The situation isn't reassuring... but it is how things are for now...

As you may have noticed, I recently organised a Virtual Baby Shower (online) so that my interstate/overseas friends could participate! It also saved me the agony of changing the date several times due to being in and out of hospital constantly these past weeks! However... what I didn't know was that behind the scenes, my dear 'special friend' Stephanie Robles of MooBear Designs had organised a SURPRISE one for me, gathering together many of her friends who are creative and offer hand-made items, as well as others who contributed many other fantastic products that are completely amazing. You can imagine my shock! You can read her blog post about how it all happened here! Please stop by and check it out!

This morning the courier arrived with this massive parcel and I had no idea what was in it! Upon opening it, I had to hold back many tears... the generosity of friends I have never met was overwhelming! My husband and I feel very grateful, and very spoiled... as is our little boy! As I went through the many items I was completely in awe of what Stephanie had organised in secret, never uttering a word - a little something to cheer me up, was hardly a little anything! This is huge! What an amazing gift! I am only sorry that the English language is not sufficiently adequate to convey our heartfelt gratitude for such a special surprise!

With thanks, I must make mention of the following businesses and the wonderful women behind them, who contributed to this amazingly fabulous gift that seemed to be bottomless - the cotents of the package, all so special went on for ever and ever... thank you so much to the following:

Belinda from Bel Creations - for the beautiful hand made card!

FB - www.facebook.com/pages/Bel-Creations/162858810416453

Shop - www.belcreations.com.au

Sophie from Bare Foot Babies - fabulous bibs!

Blog - www.herheartmyhands.com

shop - www.barefootbabies.com.au

Kasia from Kasiabear - too cute screenprinted body suits!

FB - www.facebook.com/pages/kasiabear/268047188526

Blog - www.kasiabear.com

Shop - www.etsy.com/shop/kasiabear

Rachelle from rachelle rachelle - delectable burp clothes, shorts, bib!

FB - www.facebook.com/rachelle.rachelle.com.au

Shop - www.madeit.com.au/rachellerachelle

Shannon from Just Like Katie - sweet shorts and singlet!

FB - www.facebook.com/justlikekatie

Shop - www.justlikekatie.com.au

Haley from Handmade by Haylz - cutest tissue wallet and taggy!

FB - www.facebook.com/handmadebyhaylz

Jacqueline from KissKiss HugHug - cool bibs!

FB - www.facebook.com/pages/KissKiss-HugHug/12856998506

Shop - www.kisskisshughug.com.au

Zina from RaspberryBubbleZ - totally awesome personalised block set!

Shop - www.etsy.com/shop/RaspberryBubbleZ

Cara from HanSum Clothingand Accessories - (has a parcel on the way - yay!)

FB - www.facebook.com/pages/HanSum-Clothing-and-Accessories/135549449824161

Kerry Robison - works for Business Babes which is supported by the Body Shop - fabulous Body Shop products pamper pack - yum!

Recycled Journal from http://www.isis.com/ - inscribed with a personal message from Stephanie herself!

Gemma from GemmaJoy - coffee cup brooch for Mamma!

FB - www.facebook.com/GJ.GemmaJoy

Shop - www.madeit.com.au/gemmajoy

Blog - www.gemmajoy.blogspot.com

Jasmine from Jazzy Rose - nappies - yay!

FB - www.facebook.com/JazzyRoseDesigns

Shop - TBA

And last but by no means least.... the one and only fabulous Stephanie Robles of MooBear Designs & Over it! -

* Handmade sleeping pod (made from cut offs)
* Red leather boots (made from a leather jacket)
* Two face washers
* Tie Me Up Over it! Bodysuit
* Zipper brooches

If I have listed your business here... please send me:

Your link so I can add it!

Thank you once again! We are so very touched!

Keepsakes

2011-01-27T08:21:00.000+10:00

Are you searching for a special keepsake? Maybe it's for something really special like a birth or an anniversary? Or even a graduation? Or maybe it's for a sad occasion such as a memorial gift or personal keepsake for yourself...

I recently had the privilege of writing a Guest Blog Post at Romantic Flair Original which can be read here.

When you're searching for that special something to mark a milestone or momentous occasion, then Romantic Flair Original is the place you want to shop! It is an absolute smorgasbord of beautiful items brought to you by Marthese! You will be delighted with the vast range!

FIND OUR MORE AT: http://www.romanticflairoriginal.com/

A new range of Australiana gifts coming soon!

From Fluffy Slippers to Stilettos.... chapter 1

2011-01-21T11:52:00.000+10:00

Follow my story in

THE GOLD COAST GRAPEVINE

Chapter 3 coming to the February issue

OUT SOON!

I run a business from home, like many mums today... and I am a mother of nine beautiful children, expecting my tenth baby in February. I have seven beautiful boys and two gorgeous girls and I wear many hats each day, from cleaner and chef, to running a constant laundry system. I balance cheque books and children, attending school events and managing nine blogs, as well as playing nurse and running a business. I am a student, a mummy and a wife, a freelance writer and author.

The most often asked question I receive is ‘How do you do it?,’ after people pick themselves up off the floor with the sheer gravity of the shock of hearing I have nine children in my family.

So how do I do it?...

My life can go from cradle to corporate in five seconds and vice versa. I have to be prepared for all contingencies, and prepared to change plans at the last minute. Nothing is ever set in concrete, there is always something or someone to consider in this massive equation, and Murphy’s Law often reigns supreme. This means not sweating the small stuff and being armed with a healthy sense of humour.

I think that many of us today tend to compare ourselves to each other; we suffer mother guilt about so many things - we worry we aren’t doing it right, we worry if we aren’t working enough, or if we work too much, if our children won’t sleep or eat, when they’re ill, or when they’re struggling at school. We contend with bullies and homework, deadlines and reminders, and we achieve the impossible every day... sometimes miracles just take a little longer! We often look to role models as the yardstick to measure ourselves by and we constantly worry we just aren’t doing enough! ... that we just fall short.

We produce fancy dress costumes out of nothing, and similarly sometimes a meal! Our best outfits might be covered in vegemite and sometimes we haven’t seen a lipstick in months. We’re all different, but we are all mothers, and we’re all doing our best! I think it’s healthy to remind ourselves we are after all ‘only human’!

Everyone is an expert and often there is a different opinion each week about what is best for ‘our children’! I have discovered over 22 years of raising children with varying personalities, that there is no magic formula, no ‘best way’ to do everything and anything that involves our little ones. I have nine vastly different personalities in my family unit and what works for one doesn’t work for the other. It can certainly be trial... and error... and sometimes more of the error part. It’s a learning curve.

I have discovered the most healing words are ‘I love you!’ Listening to my children and believing in them no matter what is the magic that heals worries and broken hearts, it is a salve to the soul and a balm to the heart. The most special gifts that we can give offer each other are love and respect.

I’m still learning, still finding my way; each child brings a new story, his or her life a blank little slate like a field of perfect snow, untouched, unblemished and beautiful. To walk with them and leave a footprint that means something, that inspires them and gives them the self esteem to someday walk alone, is a lifelong blessing – it is enriching, inspiring and it is the backbone that carries them through some of the toughest times in life.

Sometimes I have to close my eyes and try not count the toys on the floor... sometimes I have to just not care about the toothpaste stick figures on the mirrors or the fingerprints upon the walls. Sometimes I just smile at them instead. Sometimes I just have to breathe out and remember this time is all too fleeting. Time will absorb their youth, alter their chubby hands and dimply smiles but it will also create the memories. How creative they are to turn toothpaste into art. One day we’ll move house, or paint over the little fingerprints, and they will be no more... one day their footprint will be more than a just a muddy print on the tiles, as they make an impression on the rest of the world, not necessarily the entire world, but most importantly their world!

Sometimes I have to remind myself its’ okay to take a breath and stop. I don’t have to be all things to all people – its’ okay to rest. It’s okay not to be perfect. It’s okay not to get it all done. It will all still be there tomorrow. Life is too short to imagine the worst and to focus on the difficult. It’s important to breathe and remember... I am human! And that’s how I do it. I take each moment as it comes. I cherish the beautiful, I somehow survive the struggles and I know that tomorrow I get to do it all again... different... better... hopefully learning something along the way... every day is a chance to give it my best. Some days will be better than others...

But one thing is for sure, whether I am wearing Stilettos or Fluffy Slippers, in chaos or the corporate world, it is great to love and be loved, and is my highest accolade to date.

Michelle Hayward is a mother of 9, (expecting her tenth baby, Feb 2011) with over 21 years experience as a parent and a Freelance Writer and Photographer who is about to release her debut novel ‘Falling.’ Michelle has certificates in Natural Therapies, Aromatherapy, Interior Decorating, and Diplomas in Make-Up Artistry; she is also a Nursing & Childbirth Education student. Michelle is Managing Director at The House of Vintner, as well as editing the following blogs!

You can also find her working hard here:

http://gcghov.blogspot.com/ - Gold Coast Grapevine/House of Vintner Headquarters

http://creationcottage.blogspot.com/

Planning kid's parties with pizzaz!

2011-01-20T14:25:00.000+10:00

It’s that time of year again ... a special birthday or event, to celebrate at your house. You’ve got the guest list ready but how do you make it into a memorable party? What is the best party for what age group and how do you theme it without spending huge dollars?

Some themed ideas for kids under 6 would be things like:

Circus, jungle animals, treasure hunt, Teddy Bear’s picnic, pirate and princess, fairies, story book characters such as Cinderella, Snow White, The Little Mermaid etc...

For children over 7 consider an Alice in Wonderland – Madhatter’s Teaparty, Hightea for that special little girl in your life, or for the boys Ben10, or their other favourite characters of the week.

Why not hire a clown for your Circus themed party!

Here's one in Brisbane!

For the older age group, 10 and above, you can look at themes like:

Red Carpet – come as your favourite movie star, Hannah Montanna, Highschool Musical, etc. Fancy Dress – come as something starting with the letter of your child’s name.

One year we did a Red Carpet event and it was a complete success!

So, how do you create an atmosphere without blowing your budget? The secret is to plan months in advance if you can! First of all, decide on your theme, and work out whether you will be baking the cake or ordering one. If you are ordering, make sure you give the store at least 4 working days notice of your requirements. If you are looking for something specialised, sometimes it’s a good idea to call the shop a couple of months in advance to make sure they will have that special picture you saw as the cake topper. Often stock comes and goes and you may never see it again. Buy it in advance if you have to, you won’t be sorry! If you see something you like better later on, you can always save it for another event. Think about ordering an ice-cream cake for something different too!

You can create stunning invitations either by hand-making cards, or using lots of wonderful different computer programs these. There are also many Graphic Designers (such as PHD2) who are also happy to create gorgeous designs for your next big event. If you’re making them yourself, be sure to source the paper, card and motifs in time. Try to have them well-prepared at least a month before your big event and then give your guests at least 3 weeks notice, slightly more if school holidays are involved.

To turn your home into a Fairyland Paradise or Pirate’s cave, Google some funky pictures, print them off and colour in! Cut out the shapes you require and hang from streamers around the room you will be spending most of the party in! Add a few bunches of balloons for effect, remember to theme the colour. For your pirate you may want black and white (pearl or plain?) and for your fairy princess you may decide to go with pink and lilac. If you’re having a red carpet event, consider going with red, black and white balloons, or red, gold and white, as this can really jazz up a boring room immensely! Lots of party shops sell very inexpensive streamers to match as well!

You can find templates on line to create your own party boxes or again, contact your Graphic Designer for assistance. Use the same pictures (in a smaller version) as you used for hanging around the room on the party boxes, and these can also be used on place cards as well. *See our place cards below. Affix motifs to them and then write the person's name with black marker, glitter pen or print names onto tracing paper/similar and stick them over the top.

Don’t forget to write the names of guests on plastic cups so they don’t get mixed up and you can create a variation to them by purchasing glittery pictures used for scrapbooking onto them using double-sided tape! I also employ these methods for Christmas lunch when we are expecting lots of guests! For the adults, I use Wine Glass Charms so we don’t mix up our drinks.

Why not put together a LOLLY BUFFET? Here's one above we created for Christmas (2010). All lollies can be displayed in glass jars or dishes, fishbowls, vases, sundae glasses or other types of clear and cylindrical containers! Be sure to cover certain lollies (or keep them stored in an airtight container) so they don't dry out, or become sticky! Use your theme colour as your basis for your bufffet, such as pink and white, or black and white or whatever your party theme is! Stagger your display to make it interesting - you can do so buy setting up books up different heights underneath the table cloth, so that the display is not uniform. You can google some different ideas! To make your lolly buffet more fun, or interesting, place helium balloons and streamers above it, again in your chosen theme colour! Also have noodle boxes and scoops on hand so that your guests can fill them up and take them home as party favours! You can even personalise the boxes with each child's photograph, their name, or a motif that suits their personality (for e.g soccer ball, animal, beach etc...) Brightly coloured paper bags are just as effective as noodle boxes, so you may even prefer to use those!

If you’re inspired to create there are so many beautiful things you can make. However, if you just feel this is beyond you and the weather is conducive to getting outdoors, why not pick your favourite park for the event. If this is for a small child, announce that it is a Teddy Bear’s picnic. Family and friends can pack their own picnic lunch and blankets, and you can supply the cake and lollies so that you don’t have to transport an entire catering pack to the park. Try to utilise somewhere close to home in case you have to run back for something important like a sharp knife to cut the cake, the camera or sunscreen. Plan the day with a list so that forgetting things is kept to a bare minimum if at all!

Don’t forget to pack the Teddy Bear biscuits (plain or chocolate or both!) And remember, you can make a Teddy Bear shaped cake or gingerbread in the same mould!

Email your invitations to save money, or if posting them, include a map to the park for those who may be familiar with the area. Also include a card for RSVPs so that it jogs your guest’s memories to respond in a timely manner. There is nothing worse than catering too much or too little!

BABY SHOWERS

If you’re theming a Baby Shower this might be the time you want to announce whether you’re expecting a boy or a girl by the balloons and streamer colours you choose! You can also purchase cake toppers in pink or blue, I have some that are rocking horses, that can certainly make your announcement really special – keep them and use them for Baby’s First Birthday cake! Or keep it neutral and keep them all guessing! ...

Of course if your guests live a long distance from you (maybe you've recently relocated) you could always hold an online baby shower - like this one! (on Facebook) or hold it via your blog! You can choose your own gifts, just like a gift registry or wish list, upload the pics and people can purchase items without making mention of it, (or they can email you the comment SOLD and the item they purchased or if it's on Facebook they can type SOLD under the item) - letting you know what they have purchased means there shouldn't be any double ups! Or you can request three of something if you particularly like the item too! Don't restrict yourself with gifts. Choose gender specific, or uni sex items, but don't forget yourself. Include items for Mamma too - often mummies are forgotten in the equation and the gifts are all about baby! Why not suggest gift vouchers to your favourite online stores, or beauty salons/spas, book stores, clothing, perfume, or other items that tickle your fancy! Or you could even suggest some lovely pamper boxes, gourmet gift packs or baskets. There are loads to choose from! When you visit my Virtual Baby Shower you'll see some of the fabulous itmes I've chosen from my favourite online stores! If I get time before baby arrives I will upload more details of this event to the Daisy Chain Blog. Watch this space... just 4.5 weeks to go!

Happy partying!

Michelle Hayward
The House of Vintner

Sniff this!

2011-01-17T11:36:00.001+10:00

A natural bath & skin care range hand made in Brisbane - sulphate free Bubbly Baths gentle enough for babies and deliciously scented for mums!

Sniff this came to us as a trial product for Daisy Chain at the Vine, and stayed to be part of my Virtual Baby Shower that I am currently conducting via Facebook!

With several weeks left of my pregnancy, Sniff this was timely in its arrival! I filled up our spa, and had a purely indulgent bubble bath at my leisure, enjoying not only the aroma, but the frothy cocoon it provided for my tired limbs! Perfect... Heaven! There’s nothing I love more than mellowing out and relaxing in a spa at the end of day – candles burning, soft music playing and something yummy in the tub that not only smells great but makes my skin feel great too

Hailing from my home state of Queensland, Sniff this has a range of products for you to enjoy – pamper mum and baby with the gorgeous array of products, available with a price tag to suit your hip pocket in these really tough times. I love that I don’t have to feel guilty for spoiling myself a little! And including these amazing products on my ‘Wish List’ for my Baby Shower means I’m not asking (or expecting) my guests to spend an absolute fortune. I get great products, for a fraction of the cost, to pamper baby and I!

With the recent floods in Brisbane, Queensland, pampering may far from your mind, however, sometimes a little R&R is just what the Doctor ordered and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune either. It may seem over-indulgent to think of leisurely products at a time like this, but sometimes a little pampering to our body and soul can make all the difference to how we feel about the world and how we face it the next day... sometimes all we need is just a little pick me up! Light a candle and run a warm bath... relax... forget the stress for just awhile... Sometimes the simplest things can renew our hearts and put us back together for a time...

Why not spoil someone who has been through the mill this past week. You could put together a Sniff this hamper – a little housewarming gift for when they can finally go home, or something to enjoy while they’re staying with the rellies! – a little break from reality! Sometimes spoiling is what we need amidst a crisis! It’s nice to be remembered... and while all the practical things are needed and will eventually be replaced, often we can forget that relaxation is also the key to healing and comfort.

Amidst the stench of mud and sludge, Sniff this will make a welcome addition to any bathroom at the end of a long day of cleaning up a flooded residence! And the natural Mozzie Repellant is perfect for the kids in the current conditions - with so much water lying around, you'll want to avoid bites and stings and threat of disease from these little nasties!

Rather than being overly indulgent, it is a known fact that when we care for ourselves holistically we cope better. It’s important to give to ourselves... especially when times of tragedy and displacement strike! It’s important to be kind to our bodies, minds and spirits at all times, but especially now!

Let Sniff this inspire you, bring you tranquillity, and peace... and return you to a calm place.

For those who hail from the rest of Australia... floods, droughts or fire... whatever the current natural disaster that is dogging your state... we are all thinking of you at The House of Vintner – and the message is the same – peace in mind, heart and spirit. Remember to breathe a little, relax a little and allow yourself to still enjoy the things that you can. One thing we’re good at being, as Aussies, is being tough – sometimes it’s nice not to have to be tough for awhile...

Visit Chantal's Facebook page to see more of what she does!

BACK TO SCHOOL ... are you organised? You can be with Kmart!

2011-01-14T16:11:00.016+10:00

Christmas came and went, we are now two weeks into the new year and the start of the brand new school year is looming! Didn't that creep up fast!?

As a mum of many, getting organised for new classes is always a mammoth task at our house! So this year... I'm sending my crew back to school with Kmart, and little help from my friends...

Time to purchase all those back to school items!

What’s on your shopping list?

Stationery, backpack, lunch box, drink bottle and other supplies?? All available from Kmart!

Going back to school - stay on budget with Kmart... find out more below in our review!

For other items... check out the following:-

Hats and sunscreen - see what the Cancer Council has to offer!

Fabulous school environmentally friendly, reusable school packs from www.lopees.com.au - from drawstring library bags, to reusable envelopes and more!

Name Labels – both for books and personal items, clothing and more

Socks and shoes

Contact for book covering, or funky plastic covers that require next to no work at all!

Hair Ties, ribbon, scrunchies

Brushes and Combs (for home and travel)

Hand sanitising pump packs for the kids school bags - (saves on soap and water and lets them clean their hands at a moments notice). You could also supply wet ones. (*This was a tip I was given by some mums at a birthday party over the holidays who like to ensure their little ones hands are clean and germ free!)

Swimming togs, towel, swimming cap and waterproof bag

School Diary - check out the beautifull personalised items from Heavenbound Gifts!

Raincoat or umbrella

Tissues

Blistop - see our fabulous Blistop review coming THE GOLD COAST GRAPEVINE Feb/Back to School issue!

Lip Balm

Going back to school -
stay on budget

with Kmart

SAVE TIME
& $$$$$

Fabulous back packs and 'Back to School Packs'
from Kmart!

Forget the back to school blues with kmart’s A+ solutions After the ‘Silly Season’ it can feel like there’s no reprieve for mums as they head back to the stores to ensure their kids have everything they need for the school year ahead.

Kmart understands the pressure of managing the Back to School budget and has designed a range of solutions to ensure your child has everything they need without adding further financial worries or stress to busy mums.

Pack your bags for $25 .... Want to know more?
Find out about the 'Back to School' Promo here

OUR REVIEW:

Preparing for school this year is made easier, thanks to Kmart who are helping busy mums cope with getting their kids ready for the big day!

At Daisy Chain at the Vine, we’ve been fortunate to trial a fabulous Kmart Backpack (and supplies) for review.

The Kmart’s 5 piece Value Pack includes:

Backpack

Lunch Bag

12 “ Ruler

Mesh Pouch

Large Pencil Case

And you’re going to love the price tag! ....all this for just $8! That’s right, just $8.

What we love about Kmart’s Back to School products:

If you’ve left it to the last minute to get the kids organised, or if you forgot to lodge your ‘school pack forms’ with your local newsagent, or maybe you’ve recently moved house and you’re just getting sorted, then Kmart is your one-stop shop for everything back to school related!

You won’t be disappointed with the quality! The sturdy canvas backpack is a versatile size and easily accommodates all of the stationery required to start off the new school year! Did you know you can outfit your kids with all of their utensils for just $25? How? Don’t forget to click the link above to see the entire Kmart ‘back to school’ promo and what’s on offer...

Pushed for time? Grab one of these backpacks and you will save time and money ...instead of scouring the shelves for product you will have everything at your fingertips! Don’t leave empty handed! It’s easy to be organised with Kmart, who have created their back to school range with you in mind. It’s great to know that they understand how stressful it is and they have worked to create an environment that makes shopping easier! Our local Kmart stores have all of their school stationery set up by the front doors! It’s easy to locate and everything is clearly marked and accessible to save you precious time!

With just a couple of weeks to go before school resumes I would encourage you to go to your local store today! At these prices, stocks won’t last! And with the aftermath of the QLD floods, it might be prudent to be sorted! Back to school supplies are always in high demand, but with Kmart offering such a generous range, at economical prices that won’t break the budget, you’ll want to make sure you have everything good to go!

We love the quality, price tag, and the generous range! This year, I’m much more organised... thanks to Kmart!

VIRTUAL BABY SHOWER!

2011-01-08T14:06:00.000+10:00

My baby is due in six weeks and I am currently on complete bed rest. While sitting with a little too much time on my hands, I am seeking businesses who offer 'Virtual Baby Showers' through their websites OR alternatively businesses who need some extra promotion and would like to jump on board and be involved in a virtual Baby Shower. All you need to do is supply images of your product and I will add you to the list of stores I am using both on the blog and on my Facebook Page so that my guests can purchase the items I have chosen... it's that simple!
Email me for more information about how you can be involved!

Your products could be high-end, sophisticated products, or they could be hand-made with love! I love either!

I am seeking products for a baby boy! From clothes, to toys and mobiles, to blankets and other gorgeous products! I'd love to create a database of fabulous baby businesses from the people who reply for some exciting ideas I have coming soon to help give you more promotion (ideas that won't cost the earth! - and don't worry we won't share your information with anyone without your permission!)

If you can help me pull together a Virtual Baby Shower and we can get some sales for your fabulous products, then I'd love to help you out!

Please contact me asap so we can get organised!

Thanks so much,
Michelle Hayward
Daisy Chain - Editor

Last minute Christmas gift ideas from Daisy Chain at the Vine!

2010-12-23T19:12:00.003+10:00

Have a look at the Children's Book that is changing lives at Legends of Altai and a DVD to help mothers with infants and children here!

The Legends of Altai is a beautiful book that shares, and teaches, the lessons of life... written in parable format, this wonderful chapter book of short stories with a moral backbone, is aimed at sharing a love of our fellow man with each and every young soul we are responsible for. Bringing a conscience and consciousness back to our world, Paolo Tiberi, the author, gives his anecdotal messages through life lessons learned via experience and cherished memories he has from his own childhood and youth!

The special experience that is The Legends of Altai, is for old and young alike. We can all learn something amazing from this little book! At Christmas time, more than any other time, perhaps our conscience is pricked to do more (for our world at large), to see more (of the good and wonder in the world), to appreciate more (and complain less), to embrace life and all it offers (for better or worse) and to engender a heartfelt appreciation and love of that life in our little ones...

We can all be responsive to the messages within!

The perfect Christmas present for the children in your family, fabulous for teachers and librarians, and for any member of the human race who wants to make a difference!

As Paolo says:

Dear Reader

We live in a society where our children have been unconsciously trained to disassociate themselves from feelings of compassion, empathy, respect or guilt. False heroes found in most video games, television shows, internet and movies often set this silent training.

In a society where instant gratification has replaced true labour and dedication, children have grown to expect everything immediately. They want instant soup instead of a finely brewed broth, even though the latter is more flavoursome and better for them.

In our education system children are taught about geography, chemistry, mathematics, but the most important life lessons like compassion, honesty, respect, empathy and generosity just to mention a few are often left behind.

The problem is that by the time a child has reached 6 years of age, his/her neurological synapses and neuro-pathways have been formed. This neurological map within a child 's brain creates their mindset, attitude and how they will see themselves and others in life. While they gain more experiences, knowledge and wisdom after the age of 6, their character and personality would have already been formed and hardwired in their brain.

Want to change society? Change the child educational development between birth and 6! The future of our society and this planet depends upon this task. We cannot have a healthy and functional society with dysfunctional children. They are our future.

You can see this inter-dependability between children early development and society by how the different generations (Silent Generation, Baby Boomers, X,Y,Z etc) were educated and how they behave.

Although it might look like society is self-destructing there is hope.

http://www.legendsofaltai.com/index.html

Discover Paolo's inspiring story here

Are you renovating or decorating for 2011????

Well then, what about this fabulous range of wall stickers called MOVEABLES for kids. Nine amazing designs available.

MOVEABLES™ are premium Australian Made wall stickers that will remove and reposition without damaging walls* or leaving residue. These durable, easy to use stickers are a quick and effective way to brighten up bedrooms or play rooms.

MOVEABLES™ by Little Chipipi are trusted for their quality and renowned for their original designs. Manufactured using a premium adhesive material, they will reposition over and over again, giving those budding little designers the opportunity to change and rearrange to suit.

WHY WE LOVE THEM! :

The cutest designs, to suit all tastes and styles! Perfect for every room - jazzy up your child's rumpus, bedroom, study, retreat and more... Create a space they'll love and adore!

Create an inspiring room where they'll love to work, rest and play in! A room, that will grow with them! Give them the ultimate gift of refreshing their area, even if you're renting! MOVEABLES MOVE WITH YOU! Transfer from room to room... place to place! And there's a design to suit every child and every space.

The perfect accompaniment to the new linen they received for Christmas... or all of those gorgeous items you purchased to dress up their room or to create a nursery for your brand new 2011 babe! Now add MOVEABLES and you're done! Simply perfection!

Also the perfect gift for friends and relative who 'move' around a lot! Or for someone who wants to do something fabulous with a room, without spending a fortune or altering it cosmetically with paint or wallpaper. These are the ultimate answer to a multitude of sins... and issues... you can even turn one corner of the room into a special area that denotes it belongs to the kids! The perfect product to give your room a facelift without altering anything at all!

Now here's a funky way to see in the new year!

Gather the girls around for this one...

Girl Talk Story Starters from Leaf. These are a fun story telling games just right for silly girlie conversations for all girls aged 12+. Younger ones will enjoy them at sleepovers, camps or having high tea. For older girls, a little lubrication from a good bubbly goes down exceptionally well.

ABOUT Story Starter cards ...

Everyone has a story. Some are shared. Some are secrets. They help us connect, remember, dream. They can make us cry heartfelt tears or laugh so hard it hurts. Most of all, they help us understand what it is to be human. Leaf Story Starter cards aim to help you share your stories, now and into the future. Use these Story Starter cards to break the ice with strangers, get to know your acquaintances better or deepen your relationships with friends and family. You can even use them to help you write a journal. Team a Story Starter card with a theme card from our range of themed sets for endless combinations of story telling fun. Find out more here... how to use them!

WHY WE THINK THEY'RE FABULOUS!

When my eldest children were little they had a very simple version of this idea in their games cupboard and I remember all the fun we had using it and creating stories and memories together... sadly the game 'died' a natural death over many years of use, subsequent children utilising it and time moving on... I've never seen anything like it before, or since.

I love products that link sisterly solidarity, like this game, whether it's in adolescents or women! Stories bind us, unite us, and connect us in ways we could never imagine... sharing our stories we share our lives and loves with those closest to us... we invite them into our world... we laugh, we cry!

This fabulous little invention is just perfect for hens parties, sleepovers, party plan icebreakers and other girlie occasions ...

Inspire fun at your house this Christmas/New Year and well into 2011... once you have this little game up your sleeve you'll never be lost for good times and good laughs. Couple it with your favourite punch (spiked or not...) and let the fabulous times roll!!!!! We think you'll have a ball!!!!

Stuff your stockings with Pro Skinz

2010-12-21T15:42:00.000+10:00

The first of its kind in Australia, recently launched ProSkinz is a range of fashionable die-cut laminated decals, designed by local artists, to transform iphones and ipads into true works of art.

Iphone and ipad users can express themselves this Christmas by pairing their new iphone with a ProSkinz that reflects their individual personality and will turn a phone into a fashion accessory. ProSkinz offers 15 different ranges of stylish decals designed by Australian artists providing a collection of skinz that express all identities.

Priced from $25-35 RRP and completely Australian owned and made, ProSkinz is the perfect stocking filler this festive season. Whether a teenager looking for a funky retro skin, a mum who wants to release their inner-glam with a leopard print skin, or a businessman who prefers a sleek metallic carbon fibre skin for a professional look, there is a design to suit every taste and style.

So much more than a traditional decal, ProSkinz gives the ability to completely transform the entire mobile phone or ipad by simply downloading the matching wallpaper – resulting in one sleek funky device.

How ProSkinz Works

Step 1: Simply purchase and place the Skin on the front and back of selected iphone or ipad.

Step 2: Next, go online to www.proskinz.com.au to download the free wallpaper and complete the ProSkinz look.

Step 3: Express Yourself

What ProSkinz are you?

With a ProSkinz for everyone...what ProSkinz are you?

VIP Artists ProSkinz

1. Teazer – Designed by popular street Artist Teazer aka Davey Mac who takes a colourful and bold approach on design.

2. Rhys Gordon – Incredible tattoo artist Rhys Gordon has to designed a Japanese influenced ProSkinz range that is beautiful yet edgy at the same time.

3. Dead Seven – Well-known graphic designer Dead Seven designed a range that is chic, trendy and very fashion-forward.

4. Smitten by Stephanie – Stephanie is creative and distinctive artist that is increasingly being recognised internationally with her clever and inspired take on illustration.

5. Esjay – Esjay is a prominent graphic artist that has developed a range of illustrated ProSkinz with eye-popping colour.

Additional ProSkinz Ranges

6. Art Skinz

7. Glam Skinz

8. Carbon Fibre

9. Graffix Skinz

10. Moto Skinz

11. Vibe Skinz

12. Patriot Skinz

13. Surf Skinz

14. Sin Skinz

15. Kandy Skinz

Visit www.ProSkinz.com.au to browse

through the entire ProSkinz range,

see what type of ProSkinz you are

and to find your nearest ProSkinz stockist

OUR REVIEW:

The funkies, the coolest skins on the beat... WE LOVE THEM! Gorgeous designs, funky, hot, up to the minute designs... designs for the guy in your life, aussie pride, jeans, girly feminine designs, or catch that wave and many many more !! Makes choosing your favourite design really difficult...but it was easy choosing them for friends and family as there's something to suit everyone! The floral is my personal favourite! And for each design I had someone I knew who would absolutely love it on their iphone!

They stick cleanly and easily! Simple to apply! And I love that you can download a wallpaper to match! The people at Pro Skinz have thought of everything! What a really cool way to see in the new year, with a whole new look for your funky new phone!

Looking for those last minute, stylish stocking stuffers? The gift for the person who has everything? A gift that funks up someone's brand new iphone 4 under the tree this year... what a perfect accompaniment to the new phone they just scored from Santa! They'll love you for it! (Iphone 3Gs covered too! And... your ipad! Style it up for Christmas and 2011!)

Too cool to pass up! A perfect last minute item to grab off your list!

BENNETTS BOOTS BONDI OPENING TODAY!

2010-12-21T14:11:00.000+10:00

If you're in Bondi today - check out Bennetts Boots who are opening a store in Oxford Street Bondi Junction today; they are having a Boots and Bubbles event 2pm - 8 pm. Browsing, buying and some champagne to celebrate.

I have a pair (of these pictured above!) And I just love love love them! Perfect for Summer, oh so comfy, unbelievably stylish and just something a little bit different. I LOVE the purple ones too and had a really hard time choosing! I'm a bit of a red girl though!

Do check out their new store today if you're headed into Bondi doing your Christmas Shopping!

Coffee Secrets.... that we can share with you at Daisy Chain!

2010-12-18T16:11:00.002+10:00

Welcome to the freshest, highest quality, best tasting coffee that you will find anywhere! I’m Vladimir Kazionov and I’m the Founder and Master Roaster here at Coffee Secrets. Coffee Secrets is unlike any coffee brand that’s out there, because we are a team of artisan roasters, passionate about coffee. We don’t just make coffee – we live coffee and we breathe coffee!

It all starts with one perfect, flawless bean…

Read more...

OUR REVIEW:

Coffee Secrets is a new multi-award winning coffee roasting company that hails from the Gold Coast. Perfect coffee you will want to try this festive season! (And then have on hand all year through!)

Coffee Secrets offers a pure indulgence - available in four different heavenly blends, that you can purchase for your espresso machine, plunger, drip filter and Stove top espresso variations.

But how does it taste? In a word... awesome! If you're really fussy about your coffee and looking for a blend that says 'Decadent cafe style of the world' then Coffee Secrets is the coffee for you!

Aromatic, smooth, dreamy, decadent, quality, cafe-style coffee that will reward your tastebuds! So spoilt you'll never return to your previous coffee blend again! Pamper someone with a fabulous blend today! You could even pop some under the Chrismas tree, but be warned ... the aroma is intoxicating and you might be tempted to drink it before you give it away;your recipient will not be left guessing what it is on the day! The aroma will give you away instantly!

The perfect coffee to add to your pamper gifts, such as corporate hampers for your clients and colleagues, and makes a fabulous gift for friends and family! If you're looking for the most luxurious gift to give this festive season, make it a Coffee Secrets blend!

Choose your favourite from these famous blends:

New York

Gutsy, Sharp & Bold

A gutsy blend that is as black as ink yet distinctly colourful with its complex rich, bold, sharp flavours, guaranteed to kick start your day. This dark roasted arabica espresso finishes with a burst of all enveloping aroma & a hint of caramel.

Bronze: Golden Bean 2008 for Espresso
Bronze: Sydney Royal Show 2010 Class 1 Espresso

Tokyo

Velvety, Sweet & Demanding

This voluptuously fragrant coffee releases luscious berry tones when ground. A deeply rich & velvety coffee with just enough acidity to be powerful & demanding. This dark, aromatic espresso arrives dressed in a velvety mantle of delicate crema, seeking those who appreciate classical beauty.

Bronze: Golden Bean 2008 filter coffee
Silver: Golden Bean 2009/2010 Milk Based
Bronze: Sydney Royal Show 2010 Class 1 Espresso

Havana

Rich, Exotic & Complex

This exotic, rich coffee is lively & complex with embracing cocoa & hazelnut undertones that will leave you warmly satisfied. A suave coffee with a rich, bittersweet chocolate finish.

Bronze: Golden Bean 2008 milk based coffee
Bronze: Sydney Royal Show 2008 Class 2 cappuccino

Secret Blend

Smooth, Creamy & seductive

This naturally radiant blend allows the beans finer citrus & berry tones to shine through. The long seductive finish will leave you savouring its rich, sweet, buttery smooth tones.

Silver: Golden Bean 2008 for retail filter coffee
Bronze: Sydney Royal Show 2008 Class 3 plunger coffee

And yes you can even go...

Decaf

Swiss Water Decaffeinated

This full-bodied cup of coffee is the best decaff you will ever find. A jewel with fruity undertones on a rich foundation. This is a medley of the finest Swiss water decaffeinated 100% Arabica beans artfully roasted to retain the natural flavours & sweet aromas.

Rain Forest Alliance Certified
Certified Organic
Bronze:Golden Bean 2010/2011 for Decaf

Are you.... MAD ABOUT SCIENCE...

2010-12-13T09:17:00.008+10:00

Are you looking for a unique gift this Christmas season... something for the little science fanatic in your house... or even for dad who likes gadgets and gizmos... something for the magician in your family who likes to excite and inspire that wow factor in his (or her) audience!?

Then MAD ABOUT SCIENCE created by a Primary School Teacher is for you!

Mad About Science is an online educational toy store that stocks unique science-inspired toys with real WOW factor! Unlike many other toy stores, Mad About Science has a soul. And founder, Naomi Morriss, really cares about connecting more children with the delights of science.

Naomi has a unique combination of experience, having worked as both a laboratory scientist, and a primary teacher who has brought the wonders of science to many, many children. She is also a published author of a science fiction book, The Wild Ride, entertaining 8 to 10 year olds.

A VERY busy mum!

“As a primary school science teacher, I inspire children and children inspire me on a daily basis."

THANK YOU NAOMI FOR SHARING YOUR FABULOUS PRODUCTS WITH US. WE WERE AMAZED.

Levitator - The ultimate anti-gravity device.

Magnetic forces enable this levitator to float

in mid-air and spin. Just give it a gentle nudge and it will rotate in a state of near perpetual motion for minutes. How long will your spin last? Amaze your friends or colleagues with a great desk gadget and some magnetic magic!

OUR REVIEW:

Excite, delight, and inspire that wow factor this Christmas!

If you have a science fan at your house –

or even a child who just likes something a little bit different...

If curiosity is your child's middle name, you will want to investigate - MAD ABOUT SCIENCE products - and ensure you have them installed under your tree in time for Santa's arrival! This fabulous product will whip

your child's imagination into a frenzy, giving them hours of fun!

Watch them amaze their friends with the Levitator...hear their cries 'But how does it work?' ...

Bring something different into your child's world this Christmas - help them to explore and discover a world beyond theirs where sometimes things can defy gravity, create magic and raise questions. You just may inspire your little one to follow a path they previously found boring or closed to them... broaden their

knowledge-base while having fun doing it!

Solar cockroach –

When the sun shines on the cockroach’s solar panelled back he starts to do a funny jumping dance that will have everyone smiling.

No batteries required.

Clean, green energy at work.

A great educational toy that is lots of fun.

OUR REVIEW:

Lots of fun... especially if your sister finds it in her bed!!!

How does the sunshine make it work!?

We might be in for a long wet summer, but as soon as a hint of summer sun shows, you can race outside with your fabulous solar cockroach and impress the neighbourhood with your dancing cockroach!

Do that funky dance little cockroach!

Who could resist such a cool item!?

The perfect secret santa gift or something really cool for those birthdays over the school holidays too!

And don't forget the nieces and nephews... they'll LOVE them too!

Order online at www.madaboutscience.com.au

NAOMI SAYS:

Our science toy store that stocks truly unique products that have real WOW factor!

From growing crystals, making slime, bouncing putty, crazy toys powered by the sun, explosions of rainbow colour, gravity defying robots, digging-up dinosaur bones, to simply amazing polymers that grow or shrink before your eyes, and even erupt into fake snow.

Or we have some great free experiments that are fun and easy, and can be done using things from around the house. Keeping the kids busy over the Christmas holidays. Our gravity-defying levitator as an example of the sorts of products we stock. It retails for $13.50. Magnetic forces enable this levitator to float in mid-air and spin. Just give it a gentle nudge and it will rotate in a state of near perpetual motion for minutes. A cool desk gadget to amaze your friends or colleagues.

THANK YOU BENNETTS BOOTS, BUD PAFUMS & SACRED SELF!

2010-12-10T11:13:00.000+10:00

www.BennettsBoots.com

www.budparfums.com.au

www.sacredself.com.au

self-love - would that change anything? Or everything?

THANK YOU TO BENNETTS BOOTS, BUD PARFUMS AND SACRED SELF who recently generously donated some gorgeous products to one of our very special mums who was having a tough time recently!

At The House of Vintner we did a call out for Stephanie and she was blessed and rewarded with beautiful gifts from the above three businesses, who generously gave of their product, kindness and time to not only acknowledge our call out and correspond with us, but also taking time out to post the items! We are very grateful for their assistance and thank them sincerely at this festive time of year when many families, and businesses are struggling to keep their heads above water! We are honouring these businesses with promotion to say THANK YOU!

More details coming soon on these businesses! But in the mean time do feel free to visit their websites and purchase to your hearts content, just in time for Christmas!

Coles is your one stop shop for festive desserts this Christmas!

2010-12-09T21:37:00.000+10:00

COLES and Margaret Fulton

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas and as the trees go up and the presents are wrapped, Coles has decked the aisles with all things sweet this festive season.

Fast building a reputation as the destination for delicious high-quality puddings and mince pies, the Coles Christmas dessert range has been developed in line with Coles’ commitment to providing great tasting, great value products. The extensive bakery and dessert range features everything from decadent gifting options to sweets on a budget, and a Signature Series developed exclusively for Coles by Australian Christmas icon, Margaret Fulton.

OUR REVIEW

Margaret Fulton’s signature range, now available from Coles is a delectable selection of her fabulous recipes now available to you in time for Christmas! Forming just part of the fabulous range are Margaret’s plum pudding and Christmas cake which must surely stand as Australian icons; a significant and scrumptious product you will most definitely want on your table this festive season! Make sure you keep a couple in the pantry to give away as gifts, or to delight your guests at afternoon tea during all of the celebrations! When visiting family be sure to take along one to ‘share’, they won’t be disappointed! You can see Margaret’s entire range, available now, exclusive to and created especially for, Coles.

In other lines you won’t want to miss this Christmas, Coles offer Plum pudding ice cream – exquisite, decadent, indulgent! If you love this famous old recipe you will adore this modern twist on traditional fare. This premium ice cream, made with French Brandy is packed full of deliciously festive dried fruit it will delight and tantalise your tastebuds! Truly the perfect ending to the perfect meal this Christmas! And so affordable! Absolutely a must-have in your freezer this summer... don’t leave it too late to purchase though – once the word gets out you don’t want to miss out! Be sure to keep a handy supply for enjoying all through the Christmas season!

Piano Maestro... your child's playground this Christmas!

2010-12-09T08:15:00.000+10:00

Piano Maestro

We have just launched a new tool to help people revisit an old hobby and learn how to play the piano. Our product the PianoMaestro is featuring on The New Inventors in Feb 2011 and has received great reviews from people who want to reignite their childhood hobby of playing the piano.
The PianoMaestro® learning system is comprised of:

1. a computer program that reads standard MIDI files and displays the notes on the screen and
2. a ruler-like strip of lights that is placed on top of an acoustic or digital piano connected to the computer via the USB port. PianoMaestro®’s 48 lights correspond to the keys on your piano, indicating which keys to play at the right time. Visit www.thepianomaestro.com

OUR REVIEW

Are you searching for a really unique gift for the little musician in your life? Then you need to visit The Piano Maestro and order yours now! This fantastic product will inspire and cement this love of the piano for years to come. A fabulous idea that combines technology with a love of music and the keyboard (in more ways than one)... it gives your child the chance to explore a whole new world of music in a very special way! Do you have a little recording artist on your hands? Do you want to reignite a passion for the keyboard, piano or music in your child’s flagging spirits, or are you just looking for something to spur them on to a path that you know is theirs to follow?

At Daisy Chain we are so impressed with Piano Maestro! This very unique product is a must-have under your Christmas tree this year! If you grew up with the piano and it’s one of your favourite instruments, then this idea will truly inspire you and your child, to love it all over again! A dying art? Not anymore! Piano Maestro brings yesteryear into the 21^st century in a very modern and user friendly way that will excite your musically inclined child. Explore a whole new world of music that will set your soul on fire and increase your passion for something you already knew you loved... but in this very new and wonderful way! Your own little Maestro could be composing songs before you know it! Invite Piano Maestro in to your home this festive season... it’s definitely time to enjoy some carols around the piano... just like you used to!

Brookfarm trail mixes and bars!

2010-12-08T19:18:00.000+10:00

Brookfarm

Brookfarm, based in Byron Bay is most famously known for its macadamia mueslis but had made the leap into snack lines. Slow food for fast people. Snacks that you can pop into your handbag, gym or computer bag; sustaining nourishing snacks that not only taste good but are good for you.

The Walkabout gourmet trail Mixes offer a delicate blend of premium nuts & seeds, fruits, and the finest Belgian chocolate to deliver the perfect snack without regret.

The most popular of all the Walkabout Mixes is surely the Mt Bogong blend.

This mix was created in honour of one of the legends of Mt Bogong, Mick Hull, Pam Brook's father. Mick climbed Bogong, the highest mountain in Victoria, over 200 times. His last climb was at the age of 82. Mick always climbed with a home-made blend of delicious chocolate, fruit and nuts which has been recreated for consumer enjoyment.

Brookfarm’s Walkabout Mixes are the perfect snack to fuel you through your day in the great outdoors.

The new Brookfarm Bar, available in gluten free & toasted varieties is the perfect mid morning snack or brekkie on the go. The bars are light and crunchy, comprised of over 17 different ingredients and, not relying on sticky syrups, oven baked with bush honey, which makes them not too sweet. Pop a few into your backpack for the sustained energy you need to thrive throughout your day, whatever it may bring.

Brookfarm donates a percentage of profits from sales of both of these snack lines to Rainforest Rescue for their Daintree Buy Back and restoration of rainforest in the Daintree.

Brookfarm can also be found onboard Qantas (domestic & international) and Virgin Blue & affiliates.

OUR REVIEW

Why we love it! Where on earth can you find a product that is delicious, environmentally (eco) friendly, gives back to nature and supports growth, and is good for you? Brookfarm of course! These delicious snack packs are now personal favourite snack while working hard at the computer each day! I can indulge my chocolate habit (at 30 weeks pregnant) without feeling terribly guilty! The synergistic blend of delightfully healthy and exotic nuts and dried fruits coupled with a smooth and decadent Belgian chocolate is the perfect alternative to fast foods and other snacky bites that you might be tempted to eat on the run!

Perfect handbag or briefcase size in pouches that will fit neatly into your office draw, rucksack or placed strategically on your desk, they won’t take up any room at all! The best munchy I can think of to have at Uni with me, or while I’m working all day long. A wonderful late night snack, fabulous to share with friends, and gluten free!

You can power on, even when you energy is low; this quick pick me up will see you working through that terrible 3.30-it is! It’s easy to see why the Mt Bogong blend is so popular! It’s my absolute favourite!

The Brookfarm Bars are light and practical and oh so tasty too! An easy ‘to go’ snack that will see you through the ‘grumbly tummy’ stage, at any time of the day!

Remember to watch out for the Brookfarm products inflight, during your journey with Qantas and Virgin. But don’t wait til then to enjoy your favourite snack! You can indulge simply by locating them in independent supermarkets, quality fruit & veg stores, health food shops & gourmet delis. Enjoy round the clock, when you need it most!

And as an extra tip, do remember to pack a stack for your next camping trip during the Summer holidays! They are the perfect accompaniment to your adventure!

Share a Bondi Chai with your best friends!

2010-12-06T13:55:00.002+10:00

BONDI CHAI - Australia's own Gold Medal winning Bondi Chai Latte

When was the last time you had a Chai Latte? Were you in a cafe, at lunch with friends? Enjoying High Tea? Or did you grab one to go? Did you know you can now enjoy your favourite beverage at home?

BONDI CHAI - is Heaven in a mug! Vanilla Honey and Club Cinnamon! It doesn't get much better than this! Flavours to delight and tantalise your taste buds, pure indulgence that is easy to make from your very own kitchen, and tastes just like your favourite cafe blend! Bondi Chai is to die for!

In that smooth, indulgent taste...experience the pure bliss that is Bondi Chai, all on your own... or invite the girls around for morning tea and serve chai cupcakes with your chai lattes... what a perfect start to the festive season! (*You can google different chai cupcake recipes that are just scrumptious). What a perfect way to start or finish to the day with your best girl friends!

Why not plan your own high tea with Bondi Chai as the centre of attention!

Ecoswitch... save $$$$$$ on your powerbill... and look after the environment!

2010-12-02T09:52:00.000+10:00

Ecoswitch - designed to reduce a household's and businesses electricity bills by cutting out standby power of electrical appliances. Not only will households and businesses save money, they'll also save the environment by reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. The RRP is $19.95. http://www.ecoswitch.com.au/ And we have THREE TO GIVE AWAY!!!!!!! Email us and tell us in 25 words or less why this handy gadget is a MUST for your family?

Our Review – why we love it...

This fabulous little gadget works a treat! I love how convenient it is just for starters! I love that it’s a time-saver, a power saver and a dollar saver all in one! Perfect for families stretched to the limit. Perfect for the most environmentally conscious family, and the family who want or need to save $$$ starting now! Simply plug in your appliances, one or more! Yes you can use it with a power board! It is extremely versatile!

No more struggling to get behind furniture to turn off your power supply! When the light is green your appliances/products are drawing power, even on standby, and this is where many of us waste our power supply the most. Simply click off the button and save dollars from the minute you flick that button! Turn it off before bed, before you leave the house, or when you go on holidays. Leave in confidence knowing you aren’t racking up the bills while you’re absent for even just a few hours! Or even while you’re sleeping!

Every family is becoming dollar conscious, eco-conscious and concerned about our previous methods of doing things, realising they haven’t worked or have cost us far too many hard-earned dollars. With the eco-switch you feel like you are saving straight away! I haven’t yet had an electricity account to see how much I’ve saved, but I love the reassurance of knowing that I am doing something positive for the environment and my hip pocket!

READ MORE ABOUT THE ECOSWITCH HERE!

Take a Wasp with you!

2010-12-01T10:21:00.000+10:00

Wasp Bags

WASP Bags are completely water and sand proof bags. Brilliant in their simplicity, they are a brand new product and brand, essential for every camping trip. Nothing can ruin a family camping trip quicker than water and damp getting in your gear. WASP Bags are the solution!

Thanks to their heavy duty construction and unique seal, they can be left anywhere without the worry of rain or water getting inside! Even with their toughness, they are light and roll up nice and small. This makes WASP Bags perfect for packing your gear into, and also taking along for those inevitable trips to the beach. The wide trimmed opening makes getting stuff in and out a breeze and the adjustable shoulder strap makes them super easy to carry, plus free up your hands.

Retailing at $25 for the Baby WASP, $35 for the King WASP or $50 for both, WASP Bags are now available for purchase from the secure online store at www.waspbags.com.au.

WASP Bags founder, Chris Maccan, first saw this type of bag on the beaches of Thailand. “As soon as I saw them, I thought ‘they’re cool’. It didn’t take me too long to realise that we really should have these at Australian beaches too!” The WASP Bags design has been tirelessly perfected to ensure the right mix of function, durability and style. “I am stoked with the looks, quality and toughness of WASP Bags – I back them all the way. That’s why if a customer is unhappy with their WASP Bag, at any time, I’ll refund their money. I call it the No Sting guarantee”.

**More About WASP Bags**

WASP Bags is a start-up business based in Melbourne, Australia. As well as introduce a great product, WASP Bag’s founder, Chris Maccan wants to make a positive difference to the community. That’s why 10% of all proceeds are donated to the Surf Lifesaving Australia foundation.

OUR REVIEW
We love these bags! Heavy duty, light-weight, fantastic quality! A very innovative product that makes camping, or that day at the beach with the kids, an absolute breeze! They hardly take up any space at all and they really do the job! Wet, sandy, grotty clothes are a thing of the past! Don’t ruin the upholstery in your car with all the dirt you drag in from the dusty outback camping, or half a beach in your vehicle either... grab your Wasp and go! Save time, and energy! No messy cleaning up with the vacuum sucking the dirt and getting clogged. Such a simple solution you wonder why nobody thought of it before!
If you’re searching for the ultimate product for your husband this Christmas when he takes the boys fishing, then this is it! It’s the perfect gift for the boyfriend who spends his life on the beach, and fabulous for mums, dads and grandparents who like to spend the school holidays exploring the great outdoors! An absolutely awesome product that solves a multitude of messy sins! No more ruined holidays, car seats or dry gear that needs to stay dry! Perfect for Australia and our great outdoors lifestyle! Make sure you grab a few for the Christmas stockings this year! You’ll be very popular if you do! Grab one for a friend! I’m pretty sure they won’t have one, and if they do, how thrilled will they be to have a spare! I think every family should own at least six! Get yours online today – it’s time to celebrate summer!