thejadeleaf

tip: fresher washing

2012-02-10T07:58:00.000+10:30

lately I have been including a few drops of eucalyptus oil to my washing powder. what a difference it makes! washing comes out smelling so clean and fresh. even if you don't use homemade powder, im sure you could give it a go... if eucalyptus isn't your thing, I'm sure you could try other oils like lavender or something fresh, maybe like lemon, orange or grapefruit.

simple banana icecream

2012-02-06T21:43:00.000+10:30

Make: simple banana icecream. Simply whip up a few frozen bananas and ta-da! Creamy, healthy banana ice cream.

In the above pics, ruby is eating choc-nana icecream. I added a teaspoon or so of coca powder whilst blending the bananas. As you can see, it's a winner.

this moment

2012-02-03T07:16:00.001+10:30

this moment - soulemama

homemade: kitchen cleaning spray

2012-01-29T20:42:00.000+10:30

homemade kitchen cleaning spray.

this is an all-purpose spray that i use for cleaning everything in the kitchen. both lavender and lemon oils are natural antimicrobials.

250ml white vinegar
half teaspoon natural dishwashing liquid
250ml water
half teaspoon lavender essential oil
half teaspoon lemon essential oil

combine all ingredients into a spray bottle. shake well.

(adapted from the book 1001 natural remedies, by laurel vukovic)

make it: mud pies

2012-01-25T07:26:00.004+10:30

childhood = making mud pies (with aunty 'teesh'). bliss.

home made: hummus

2012-01-24T06:57:00.000+10:30

this is dedicated to my friend ali, who has declared this hummus recipe the 'best ever'. she is also the culprit for the above bowl being half empty. (i may have helped a wee bit.) it's that good.

hummus
one can organic chickpeas
juice of one lemon
about 80-100mls olive oil
two tablespoons organic tahini
quarter/half teaspoon salt
one small clove garlic, crushed

blend. eat. yum. yum.

pick it: strawberries

2012-01-23T06:56:00.001+10:30

summer: organic ice pops

2012-01-18T14:00:00.000+10:30

ruby just loved these icy pops that i made for her the other day. so quick, easy and healthier than any supermarket version. perfect for a hot summers day. no shoes. no nappy. bliss.

the original recipe was found here. i'm not really one for measuring things, so i'll give you my take...

three ingredients. one can organic coconut milk. fresh pineapple juice. a few fresh mint leaves, finely chopped. mix together equal parts coconut milk and pineapple juice, add mint, still well and freeze into moulds.

twenty eight

2012-01-11T12:35:00.000+10:30

twenty eight today. so i thought i'd share with you, twenty eight things about me...

one. i'm a homebody.
two. i love cooking, baking and dessert making.
three. i am lactose intolerant (making the above difficult at times.)
four. i am currently 18 weeks pregnant.
five. i was a teacher in a kindergarten for four years before becoming a mama.
six. i used to call my mum 'mama' when i was little and she hated it.
seven. i have one younger sister.
eight. my first job was as a swimming instructor.
nine. my husband gave me an ice cream maker for my birthday.
ten. i love getting bowen therapy.
eleven. my favourite number.
twelve. (before this pregnancy) i wanted four children. now we'll have to see about that.
thirteen. people often think that i'm outgoing, but it's really all an act.
fourteen. i won't buy eggs from the supermarket.
fifteen. the book that changed my life is "you are what you eat" by dr gillian.
sixteen. i used to be a swimmer. now i hate getting in bathers.
seventeen. i love books. no ipad, kindle, e-books for me.
eighteen. i drink tea. only herbal.
nineteen. i grew up on the river. love it. miss it.
twenty. jamie oliver is my kitchen buddy.
twenty one. i don't use any chemicals in the house.
twenty two. i am a light sleeper. i love to sleep with the fan.
twenty three. i love japan. i visited there years ago and dream about going back. the strange mix of modernism and culture is beautiful.
twenty four. i love winter. it allows me to do all my favourite things. stay inside, wear scarves, bake and burn candles.
twenty five. i internalise most things.
twenty six. my blood group is ab+. extremely rare.
twenty seven. i wish our house would hurry up and sell.
twenty eight. i would love more sleep.

the beach: my first outing

2012-01-09T12:49:00.000+10:30

I'm up and about. Just. Only now can I venture a tiny bit further from home. This was my first outing.

The beach. My two loves. An esky. Watermelon. And our bright yellow umbrella.

this moment

2012-01-07T07:30:00.002+10:30

this moment: a moment i want to pause, savour and remember - soulemama

peppermint bark

2012-01-04T21:01:00.000+10:30

make this. trust me, you won't regret it. this was the star ingredient in all our Christmas get togethers. originally i made it intending to put in pretty jars and give it as gifts, but after tasting it, i was told i was not allowed to give it away. so little bits came out here and there, compliment after compliment received.

and so. a new little Christmas tradition begins: peppermint bark.

snippets: christmas day

2012-01-01T08:31:00.000+10:30

peace on earth: merry christmas

2011-12-09T12:41:00.000+10:30

where to start? it has been such a long time from this space. i'm sure you've made presumptions... and you'd be right. pregnant!

i thought this pregnancy would be different, i thought i might be able to enjoy the ride, sadly for me, not the case. i seem to be one of the 'lucky' ones, where i suffer from this. the days are long and challenging, but we are taking things slowly and mindfully, trying to enjoy the small things. this christmas will be spent recycling all of last years decorations, whilst we aim for a simple and peaceful festive season. just the way we like it.

and because i am presently unable to display any inspiration, i'll leave you with some of the beautiful things i have found around the web...

these handmade santa sacks are just divine

love these crafty santa sticks, spreading the christmas cheer

how to make a crystal snowflake

following this beautiful pregnancy series

love this cute idea for the kids

purchased my christmas cards from here (first year ever i haven't made my own)

and... my all time favourite - cookies in a jar - a perfect gift

merry, merry christmas. 'til next year. jade x

2011-10-27T14:04:00.000+10:30

blogging break. back soon xx

photoshoot: baby e

2011-10-13T13:36:00.000+10:30

a few days ago i took some photos for my dear friend with her two little girls. our time together isn't as often as we'd like but when we do get together, we chat and chat and drink lots of tea.

on this day, it was nice to step back and observe through the lens.

(see the first one, from a few years ago, here)

a letter: one

2011-10-12T08:18:00.000+10:30

when ruby turned one a few months ago, i wanted to start a little tradition for her. yes, we will always have birthday parties, but i wanted something that was personal, heartfelt and really meaningful.

enter: the letter.

every year, on her birthday, she will receive a handwritten letter from her mama.

a little piece of love from me to her that she can treasure forever.

a healthy juice

2011-10-11T08:28:00.000+10:30

freshly squeezed homemade juice. such a healthy, pure way to include raw vegetables into your diet. we love juicing, and i wanted to share some of our favourite combinations...

:: apple, carrot, celery and ginger
:: apple, carrot, beetroot
:: strawberry and watermelon
:: pineapple
:: pear, apple (and a whole banana added after juicing)
:: orange juice (with the flesh of a mango and banana added)

what are your favourites? i'd love to know!

this moment

2011-10-07T11:31:00.000+10:30

this moment - soulemama...(oh how my girl loves her sushi!)

foodie gift

2011-10-05T08:02:00.000+10:30

happy birthday dear sister.

a foodie gift for you this year... homemade chicken pie and chocolate dipped strawberries.

leftover chocolate: decoration above. 'happy bday' - because the 'irth' broke as i was trying to assemble it! xxx

in the backyard: signs of spring

2011-10-04T12:25:00.000+10:30

:: temporary hot houses for the tomato plants (cherry, beefsteak and roma)

:: outside play (in between the rain spells)

:: clearing and preparing the veggie patch (with help and fertiliser from the chickens)

:: trying to stop whatever is munching my lovely kale (to no avail)

Bring on Spring!

this moment

2011-09-30T10:56:00.000+09:30

This moment - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - Soulemama

this moment

2011-09-23T11:11:00.000+09:30

This moment - A single photo, no words, capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - Soulemama

home

2011-09-22T11:52:00.000+09:30

Home.

The most important place in our world. The most beautiful, loved and cherished space, there is no where I would rather be more.

Inspired by my previous post and this amazing girl here!

Photos by Tim Coulson.

me

2011-09-21T10:10:00.000+09:30

This article pretty much sums me up as a person. I found myself nodding in agreement the whole time I was reading it. Of course, my husband is quite the opposite.

But, you know what they say. Opposites do attract.

(Photo by Tim Coulson)

short pants or long shorts?

2011-09-20T11:32:00.000+09:30

Handmade. For our new little friend that was born in a hurry.

(Oh, how I am envious of those stories)

Adapted from this pattern by this lovely lady here.

this moment

2011-09-16T07:44:00.000+09:30

This moment - A single photo, no words, capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - Soulemama

almond milk

2011-09-13T12:04:00.000+09:30

Home made almond milk. Fresh, creamy, nutty and oh so nutritious. (Rich in nutrients such as protein, fibre, vitamin E, magnesium, selenium, manganese, zinc, potassium, iron, phosphorus and calcium.)

Making your own is so easy, I had been putting off making my own because 'making' milk sounded hard. Here's how...

Soak one cup of raw (organic) almonds overnight. Allow extra water for the almonds to swell. In the morning, remove almonds from water, place in a blender with two cups of water. Blend until creamy.
Strain the mixture to separate the pulp from the milk.

Your almond milk will keep in the fridge for up to a week. Drink. Enjoy!

green smoothie

2011-09-12T11:50:00.001+09:30

After playing around with the idea of a 'green smoothie' I think I've finally come up with one that actually tastes good and is soooo good for you.

Breakfast this morning, kale proudly picked from the garden for the very first time...

1 Banana
1 handful fresh or frozen blueberries
1 small bunch fresh kale or spinach
1 heaped teaspoon peanut butter
1 cup fresh almond milk
(Optional - 1 teaspoon bee pollen)

Blend together. Drink, and enjoy!

(Tomorrow: How to make your own Almond Milk at home!)

beach babe

2011-09-09T10:54:00.001+09:30

While I sit here watching the rain fall from the comfort of the warm lounge room, our visit to the beach only a few days ago reminds me that Spring, whilst glorious and magical, is also unstable and temperamental.

book :: the dirty life

2011-09-06T11:29:00.001+09:30

My blogging absence is because of the above. I am totally absorbed in this beautiful book and can't put it down.

Even the pile of washing waits.

birth story

2011-08-30T11:29:00.002+09:30

Just over one year ago I gave birth to my baby girl.
Here is our story...

It was mid pregnancy that we decided on a home birth with our first child. I wanted it to be at home, in water, peaceful and natural. As nature intended. I didn’t really see the need for a hospital, it was for sick people. I wasn’t sick. I was pregnant. Like many millions of women before me. However, I did feel comforted by the fact that we live on the same road as the hospital, literally, a 30 second drive away. I remember saying to my midwife, Wendy, that I wouldn’t hesitate going to the hospital if need be.
I enjoyed lying on the couch for my antenatal visits with my lovely midwife, Wendy, in the comfort of my own home.

At 35 weeks Wendy thought the baby was breech. A few weeks later, she thought it was posterior.

Wednesday 21^st July, 2010. I woke up with what felt like dull period pain. I met Wendy that morning at our homebirth coffee morning, and she said as soon as she saw me she knew I was in early labour. She said women about to give birth get slightly puffy in the face. So I went home, feeling a bit giddy with excitement, but still not really believing I was in labour. I was 37.5 weeks pregnant. Nick got “the call” and came home from work. That evening I (tried to!) make a birthday cake for the baby. I wanted to celebrate the baby’s birth with a home made cake – and I had heard that I might need the sugar afterwards! The chocolate cake came out burnt and uneatable. I was in labour and the cake proved it. 9pm Wendy listened to me breath through contractions over the phone and decided she should make her way over.

10pm I submerged into the nice warm pool in the lounge room. I had tried to stay out of the pool as long as possible, I wanted only use it when I really had to. It was Wendy who suggested I get in. Oh, it felt so relaxing, and I felt like I was being held – a gentle embrace from the water. At this point I was breathing through strong contractions. I had lots of pressure in my lower back. At 1am Thursday 22^nd July, Wendy suggested a lie down in bed, I think she may have said ‘sleep’ – but to call it that is laughable. So Nick and I laid down in bed together. I laid there on my side, not really thinking of anything else other than internally focusing on my breathing, and getting through each contraction. At 3.45am I felt like I needed to get things going again. I had my ‘sleep’ and was ready to go. My contractions were strong and frequent almost immediately, and I hoped back into the pool. By 5am I was starting to get tired, Wendy gave me Pulsatilla (homeopathy) for internal strength and I started falling asleep in between my contractions with my head on the side of the pool. By 7.15am we were discussing the idea of breaking my waters to help things along. I was starting to feel frustrated and I really wanted to progress. So in the pool, Wendy broke my waters and I felt a huge, satisfying gush. I remember this moment so vividly. I instantly went from feeling relief and pleasure, to a magnificent force taking over my whole body. This was not me anymore, I wasn’t in control. I had to listen to my body. It was so incredibly powerful. At 11 am I roared. I said to Wendy “that wasn’t me!”I had given my first full push. Amazing.

The pushing went on all day. I went from the pool, to the toilet. To the bed. To the pool. Back to the toilet where I finally decided I felt I could push most effectively. It felt good. I felt productive. I felt strong (strong enough to pull the hand rail off of the wall!) The pushing was so involuntary, my body (and baby)doing what it needed to do.

By about 3.30pm we made the decision to head to the hospital. The baby was doing brilliantly, it’s head was down, Wendy had first seen it hours ago. I think I just knew something wasn’t ‘right’. I was never fearful, I just knew something wasn’t quite as it should be – call it a sixth sense, I don’t know. But I knew I wanted to go. I remember how ridiculous I felt, trying to pack a bag, whilst on my hands and knees, trying to get dressed, trying to breath through contractions and Wendy telling me NOT to push!

At the hospital I tried pushing for almost another hour with the help of the (unwanted!) vontouse. This did nothing to help baby out, so it was decided that I needed a c-section. It was at this point that I surrender to the fact that I might need some help. More important than my ‘birth plan’ was the health of my baby.

Nick held my hand as I lay behind the blue curtain. I felt the weight of a little body being lifted out of me.“It’s a girl” he told me with tears in his eyes. I told him to go to her. I remember him saying to me “she’s so beautiful”. Ruby Mae Malinovski was born at 6.25pm Thursday 22^nd July 2010.

For the next 24 hours she lay on my bare chest. The warmth of her tiny body now on the outside of me. Exactly where she needed to be.

Whilst it wasn't the calm home-birth we had planned, if I have learnt anything from my baby girl, it is this... What I want to do, and what she want to do, are usually two different things. And I wouldn't change that for the world.

rocking the chair

2011-08-29T11:01:00.001+09:30

Weekend purchase: antique rocking chair for a little body.

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2011-08-26T07:58:00.000+09:30

Curls! Finally!

This moment - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words, capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - Soulemama

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2011-08-24T16:14:00.000+09:30

First time goop-ing it. I don't know who loved it more. Me. Or her. Goop is such a wonderful texture, a great sensory activity for children of all ages.

Recipe for Goop
Cornflour
Water
Food colouring or paint (optional)

Mix all ingredients together, I never measure things out, so just throw them all in and stir - with fingers of course, until you get the desired consistency. If you've never made goop before, the desired consistency is when you can pick up the goop, roll it in your hand in a ball, and then let it 'melt' through your fingers!

Have fun and enjoy the mess!

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2011-08-19T11:40:00.000+09:30

This moment - A single photo, no words, capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - Soulemama

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2011-08-15T20:44:00.000+09:30

Sometimes you venture out into your 'backyard' only to feel like you are on holiday.

That was our weekend.

Australian nature at it's best, Cleland Wildlife Park, Adelaide Hills.

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2011-08-12T11:18:00.000+09:30

Adapting this weeks 'moment'. Two pics this week, 'casue they're so damn cute.

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2011-08-10T20:35:00.000+09:30

Making. For the girl.

(Vintage tablecloth = pretty new bib)

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2011-08-09T12:14:00.000+09:30

The cutest ever Pixie hat. A birthday gift from someone special who has been knitting for over 50 years. I've (politely) requested another, that one's on the needles...

(Similar pattern found here)

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2011-08-08T21:06:00.000+09:30

They may not be perfect. But she loves. Loves them. Especially the one that goes "oink oink".

Adapted from a project in this book.

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2011-08-07T21:35:00.000+09:30

The little girls first ever cake.

Banana, lovingly made by her Mama, recipe handed down by 'Old Nan'. She ate it, kind of, threw it on the floor, mushed it into the table and made a show for the friends and family watching. She's certainly not shy, this little girl of ours.

Til next year.

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2011-08-05T19:56:00.000+09:30

This moment - A Friday ritual. A single photo, no words, capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - Soulemama

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2011-07-22T10:55:00.000+09:30

Happy birth-day to my baby girl. One whole year.

You are my world.

And so much more.

I love you.

(Photos by Tim, of course)

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2011-07-19T16:02:00.000+09:30

A little more of the photographs Tim took of our family. What takes my breath away with all of the photos he shot, is not the actual photograph - yes, they are a.ma.zing, but it's the fact that Tim has captured us so. perfectly. The feel. The mood. The temperature - that's all us. He is truly incredible. I even had a tear as I looked through them for the first time.

To see the full collection, visit Tim Coulsons blog here.

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2011-07-18T11:08:00.000+09:30

On Saturday we had the talented Mr Timothy Coulson visit our little family home. The result, above. Check out his blog to see his amazing work.

I'm waiting ever so patiently to see the rest of the photos.

(Photograph by Tim Coulson)

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2011-07-11T08:38:00.000+09:30

Ruby's newest addition to the cot. Whipped up on Saturday night whilst the husband watched footy. Yes, we have no life, and yes, we like it that way. This quick little quilt is made from the prettiest fabric, and my favourite fabric designer (Japanese of course!) and took me no more than two hours plus a cup of tea.

My kind of sewing.

Tutorial found here.

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2011-07-08T15:18:00.000+09:30

This moment - A Friday ritual. A single photo, no words, capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - Soulemama

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2011-07-06T07:49:00.000+09:30

Apparently, I need help hanging out the washing.

And sorting out the pantry.

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2011-07-05T13:43:00.000+09:30

Just for you E. And some extra little goodness - a little matching face washer. Because I love you.

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2011-07-04T12:56:00.000+09:30

Slow down time. You're going too fast.

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2011-07-03T22:03:00.000+09:30

She said she didn't want to talk about the 'number'. So, happy happy birthday to my Mama on the birthday that comes after forty nine.

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2011-06-27T19:57:00.000+09:30

Pretty packaging. With the help of Cath Kidston. And some hand made paper. By me.

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2011-06-21T15:51:00.000+09:30

I never thought I would love breastfeeding as much as I do. I actually never thought about it before she came along. It has been sometimes tough, but oh so rewarding.

I love that it is just me and her, such an intimate and precious time. I love that I can nourish her, sooth her, relax her, please her.

Anytime.

Anywhere.

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2011-06-20T16:23:00.000+09:30

Recent vintage fabric recycling from my Nanna's op shop.

(Made with love for our newest little friend Aurora)

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2011-06-20T08:18:00.000+09:30

One little pillow.

Turned into a whole bunch of new pillow covers.

(This is so simple and it equals a brand new look for the couch. All I did was use vintage pillow cases, measure them against my pillow insert for size, cut it to size, turn it inside out and sew it back together. No buttons required, as the pillow case already has the foldy -bit!)

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2011-06-17T09:26:00.000+09:30

This moment - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - Soulemama

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2011-06-16T09:51:00.000+09:30

A new little purchase. Even if I never make anything out of it (so not the case) I just love looking at the pages, the simplistic, and oh so beautiful photography, the gorgeous Japanese writing. Even the thank you note is pretty.

Now... Which one to make first?

(From this lovely Etsy shop)

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2011-06-10T08:20:00.000+09:30

This moment - A Friday ritual. A single photo, no words, capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - Soulemama

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2011-06-08T20:18:00.000+09:30

We are all so much happier now they have popped through. We are currently sitting on two (and a half).

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2011-06-07T07:26:00.000+09:30

Bake these. You wont regret it.

These are THE biscuits in our home.

Cranberry and White Chocolate Biscuits

3/4 cup (110g) plain flour

1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup (75g) firmly packed brown sugar
1/3 cup (75g) caster sugar
3/4 cup (65g) rolled oats
100g dried cranberries
130g white chocolate chips
125g butter, melted and cooled
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix all dry ingredients together in a large bowl. Mix the melted butter, egg and vanilla extract together in a small bowl and add to dry ingredients. Mix to combine. Shape into small balls and bake in a preheated oven for 10-15 minutes.

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2011-06-05T19:47:00.000+09:30

The winter loot so far.

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2011-06-03T14:53:00.001+09:30

This moment - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words, capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - Soulemama

(Four teeth coming through at once = One sad little babe)

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2011-06-02T20:17:00.001+09:30

Welcome winter. I like you. Even though you freeze the bird bath and make my ugg boots soggy.

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2011-05-30T21:49:00.000+09:30

Time with Mama in the garden.

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2011-05-29T20:13:00.000+09:30

A sign of a good weekend?

...Or the fact that he made me home cooked pizzas?

Totally worth the mess.

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2011-05-28T20:03:00.000+09:30

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2011-05-24T11:15:00.000+09:30

I wish this was the handy work of my own hands. But no. This is the craft of my Mums. I have tried to crochet many times, my patience worn thin. I just can't seem to 'get it'. I 'got' knitting in about 2 minutes flat. Maybe that's why I admire crochet so much more - because I can't do it!

This selection of squares will help form Ruby's first quilt. Handmade by her Nana with so much love...

...and patience.

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2011-05-22T22:10:00.000+09:30

And so. She left again. Only for a little while. She'll be back. And go again I'm sure. A petite bon voyage gift, a good excuse to use my new pretty fabric tape. And a good excuse to make these to fill the inside.

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2011-05-20T09:01:00.000+09:30

This moment - inspired by soulemama.

(You know when you have those moments when you are so blissfully happy, the whole world is radiating love just for you? Well, this was one of them. Hanging out the washing in the glorious sunshine, babe eating dirt at my feet (who said dirt isn't full of nutrients?) and just when I thought the world the world couldn't get any more beautiful, this little guy thought he'd prove me wrong.)

And yes, my camera is pretty much glued to me!

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2011-05-18T13:28:00.000+09:30

Hat. Handmade. By Mama.

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2011-05-17T16:46:00.000+09:30

Cute handmade packaging in the post for Ruby's twin cousins this week...

2011-05-15T19:57:00.000+09:30

Belated (first!) Mothers Day pics. A picnic to remember.

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2011-05-10T13:19:00.001+09:30

I was planning to write a post today about how lovely my first Mothers Day was. It was lovely, spent with my two most favourite people in the world.

But. Oh yes, that's a big 'but'. I have just returned home from the supermarket, which is where my post on my lovely Mothers Day gets pushed to the side for the moment.

Here's what I want to talk (rant?) about today.

Fritz.

Whilst shopping today with my nine month old baby, the lady behind the deli asked me "would she like a piece of smiley?". I could have jumped the counter and slapped her. (I didn't). Smiley = Fritz. In fact, smiley is possibly worse than fritz, because this disgusting, processed emulsified pig bits are made to look half appealing to children by making it into a smiley face, hence, 'smiley'.

I did a quick search when I got home, astonished, that a stranger would offer my baby something that I cannot even class as food. Let me tell you what my search came up with.

Fritz, which is processed sandwich meat, can be made of ingredients such as soy meat extender (?) meats which MAY contain pork and beef, starch, soy protein, cereal, spices and sodium nitrate. They basically use up all the leftover crap, mush it all together and then stuff it into a synthetic casing (don't even get me started on sausages) and then market it at kids (whom we should be least feeding it to) and tell them it's good for them. Umm. No. Doesn't work on me. Why in this day and age, when we know so much about healthy eating habits, and what we should and should not be eating, what we should try and feed our kids, are there still things like Fritz around? It comes back to something so simple, as Michael Pollan puts it "Eat Food. Not too much. Mostly Plants... Instead of food, we’re consuming “edible foodlike substances” — no longer the products of nature but of food science." It really is that simple.

I try my hardest every single day, to put wholesome, homemade nutritious food into my daughters and family's mouths. I read almost daily about nutrition and am so passionate about giving my daughter the best start in life - for me, it's not just 'food' but a way of living.

So, thank you lady at the Deli. Thank you for reminding me why I put blood sweat and tears, and time, and love, into my family's meals.

(Photos taken on Mothers Day. Eating real food.)

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2011-05-06T07:54:00.000+09:30

This moment - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember- Soulemama

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2011-05-05T09:28:00.001+09:30

I really try to make my house as natural and eco-friendly as possible. I don't use any chemicals to clean the house, I make my own washing powder and can generally find a green alternative for anything I want to clean round the house. Not only is it better for our health, and that of the environment, but it is cheaper and gives me peace of mind that I am doing the best by my family.(Especially now a little someone is crawling and into almost EVERYTHING!) Cleaning staples in our house include borax, baking soda (bi-carb soda), salt, vinegar and a selection of essential oils. You can pretty much clean the whole house with these ingredients, plus a few others you probably already have in the pantry.

One of my relatively found 'green cleans' is for the dishwasher. I love my dishwasher. It makes life easy. But I really hated using (what the boxes claimed to be 'natural') dishwashing powder or tablets. If you have a dishwasher, try this simple recipe, it truly is, a safer natural alternative - and works beautifully.

1 tablespoon of borax
3 tablespoons of baking soda
a few drops of lemon essential oil

I just throw it all down on the lid and let my dishwasher do the rest. Easy! Start the dishwasher and let it run its normal cycle.

You will feel peace of mind knowing that the dishes you eat off are not caked in harmful detergents!

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2011-05-04T08:45:00.001+09:30

Lots of babies being born around me.

Hmm, is it too soon to plan another babe?

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2011-05-03T09:33:00.000+09:30

Her name is Polly. She is the newest member of our toy collection, handmade by Mama. Please don't look too closely at the sewing, she is a little rough around the edges! (Self taught. Still learning.)

Polly started as the flip doll kit, by Umbrella Prints, but because I can't/won't/don't like to follow patterns, she (or I) decided to do my own thing. The fabric is just so lovely, and I couldn't bare to make just one doll, with all those beautiful faces.

I'm sure it won't be too long before Polly will have some siblings join her in the toy basket...

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2011-05-02T10:12:00.000+09:30

These aren't your average gingerbread cookies. They may look like it, kind of, but they have ingredients like garlic and chicken stock. They were made for a special little family member with big ears for his birthday on the weekend.

This isn't a regular occurrence, I don't tend to hand make my dog his food for the week or anything like that- but I thought he is a member of our family, and a loved one at that! So, for his 2nd birthday, or 14th birthday in human years, our mate Huey deserved some Mama made biscuits for his special day.

The recipe was adapted from this book, 1001 Natural Remedies, found here.

Here's my version - based on what I had on the pantry.

Huey's Garlic Dog Biscuits
300g Wholemeal plain flour
100g cornflour
100g sesame seeds
3 eggs
50ml milk
125ml chicken stock
2tbspn olive oil
2 cloves minced garlic

Mix all dry ingredients together, mix 2 eggs, and remaining wet ingredients and add to dry ingredients, mix well, making sure you have a firm dough (I added more flour at this point). Leave to stand for 15 minutes. Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll to a thickness of about 2cm. Cut into shapes, and brush the biscuits with the remaining egg. Place biscuits on baking paper and bake them at 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 30 minutes, or until they turn golden. Remove from oven and leave to cool.

It was well worth the effort, even they were so easy, because Huey LOVED them!

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2011-04-29T07:03:00.000+09:30

This moment - A Friday ritual. A single photo, no words, capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause savour and remember - soulemama

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2011-04-28T21:42:00.000+09:30

A package for a little friend. Inside? Two pairs of little knickers. Toilet training here she comes! Made easier with the help of some pretty little undies.

(Inspiration from here)

2011-04-27T19:58:00.000+09:30

Easter spent here.

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2011-04-21T14:01:00.000+09:30

This Moment - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words, capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - Soulemama

(One day early as we're off for Easter!)

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2011-04-20T13:33:00.000+09:30

... and, just like that, she's off.

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2011-04-15T08:26:00.000+09:30

This moment - A Friday ritual. No words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - Soulemama

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2011-04-13T14:56:00.000+09:30

This week I have been caring for two babies. A big one. And a little one. The big one was in need of the best natural cold remedy I swear by. It is such a comforting way I can give my family a boost to the immune system. Chicken Soup.

This recipe is my take on my Nonna's Italian Chicken Noodle Soup.

I throw a whole organic chicken, one onion, two carrots, two sticks of celery, 2 very ripe tomatoes (quartered), enough chicken stock to cover the chicken and a big bunch of parsley into a pot. I bring it to boil and then let it simmer away, ever so slowly for over two hours. Right before you are ready to serve it, shred the chicken meat (it will practically just fall apart)and then cook up some small soup pasta or risoni in a separate pan, then add the pasta to the soup. Be sure to remove all bones from the chicken. Season to taste.

So easy, so nourishing, so comforting, so delicious!

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2011-04-09T12:30:00.000+09:30

One of Ruby's favourite things to do is play in front of the mirror. She happily watches her self for ages. And whilst sometimes I feel like I am just 'plonking her down' in front of the mirror, she is engaging in much more than just self observation. She is learning to understand her sense of self. Self awareness, self recognition and imitation... and the most important thing is she enjoys what she sees! Of course there is always licking and tasting, patting, banging, talking, singing and scratching at the mirror. But cleaning the mirrors with vinegar means the licking, well, that's sure to get a laugh from mama.

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2011-04-07T19:59:00.000+09:30

Inspired by this, I preformed a five minute solution to all my jars in the pantry...

Sorted.

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2011-04-05T20:47:00.000+09:30

He took her swimming on the weekend.

Love.

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2011-04-01T13:58:00.000+10:30

I have tried to take the simple approach when it comes to Ruby's baby food. She has (so far) only had mama-made food. I love cooking her baby food. I love knowing that I am responsible to putting the best I can into her little body. Generally, I have followed the guidelines in the book "Well Adjusted Babies" by Dr. Jennifer Barham-Floreani, which I use for much more than feeding advice.

Some of her favourites include pumpkin, zucchini, peas, apple, pear, carrot, beans, kiwifruit, squash and any stone fruit. It is only just now that I feel a bit lost and unsure where to go from now. I plan to introduce small amounts of chicken over the next few days and possibly pasta (rice and corn pasta). I don't want her having any dairy yet, as I really believe that our bodies aren't particularly suited to dairy products - and I am lactose intolerant.

Any advice? Any recommendations? Great blogs/books I should check out? I'd love to hear what you think...

(A great website I have also used as a reference is weelicious)

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2011-03-29T08:23:00.001+10:30

Yes, I know those little toes are cute. But what I would like you to focus on is that little blue bottle up there. I have loved, loved, loved this little blue bottle for about four years now. "Dr Bronners Magic Pure-Castile Soap" is both mine and Ruby's all-in-one beauty product. It is all I use on my body (and face) and all Ruby has ever been exposed to. This baby blue one is my personal favourite. There are others such as rose, lemon and lavender. It is unscented and very mild, hence the name, Unscented Baby Mild!

I also use it (in the solid form, a bar of soap) to make our washing powder. So here it is, my recipe for...

Natural Eco Washing Powder

1 bar Dr Bronners Castile Soap - finely grated
1 cup Borax
1 cup Baking Soda
1 cup Washing Soda

I use about 3-4 tablespoons per load.

I hope you enjoy this lovely soap (in many different ways!)

2011-03-25T21:09:00.003+10:30

I never knew changing the sheets could be so much fun. For me. And for her. Can you see what she's saying in this photo? ... 'Peekaboo'!

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2011-03-23T14:07:00.003+10:30

Sometimes the best 'toys' are not even toys at all. We all know the power of 'just a cardboard box'. To children there is no 'just'. It can be whatever they want it to be. It is where the magic of imagination comes into play. As Mr Einstein says "Imagination is more important than knowledge". True true Einstein. Here is a lovely, very simple activity that Ruby enjoys - which can so easily be created, assembled and packed away in a flash. Place a collection of ribbon on the floor - and you're done! I try to choose different textures, colours and lengths but the shiny ones always catch her attention! I never giver her too many at one time, just a few is enough, so she is not overstimulated. Simple is always best. This can keep her entertained and engaged for some time. To us, this may seem so simple. Too simple, but to my little Ruby, I'm sure it is a wonderful kaleidoscope of colours and textures which she can swirl and whirl on the floor to her hearts content.

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2011-03-19T19:56:00.006+10:30

Apart from family and friends who read this blog, I'm not really sure if I have ever talked about the fact that I am a teacher. An Early Childhood teacher to be specific, and it is my love and passion. I was previously an 'Early Childhood Educator' in my previous life, and whilst I did love having my own classroom, building wonderful relationships with the children and their families, I often felt constricted, or restrained. Frustrated at times. By many things, really. Programmes, school policy, time restrictions, the list could go on. I did love being a teacher. I loved learning alongside the children, putting fresh flowers at nose height, setting up 'spaces' , groups story time... Yes, I was a teacher. I put that in past tense, because I really do feel that was before. It is now, with the birth of my first daughter, that I truly feel like a teacher. A teacher in every sense of the word. Her teacher. A teacher in so many ways, that I feel like I have found my calling. It amazes me everyday what she learns. What she teaches me. I sit back and watch her, as she discovers the world around her. The tiniest things she learns, or does for the first time delights me. I think many of us parents forget that we are, actually our children's first teachers. I no longer feel restrained, or constricted. We can Play. All. Day. If we want to. Which to me, is how childhood should be. Learning through play. I love being my daughters first teacher... (And I love being her Mama.)

2011-03-18T09:08:00.002+10:30

Before the sun has even risen, those early morning, foggy, hazy cuddles in bed certainly are the best. Beautiful, warm and sleepy.

2011-03-16T20:03:00.002+10:30

Handmade quilt/floor mat/heirloom for my baby girl. Thank you B. Your talents are amazing and I am reminded of your beautiful generosity every time I look at it.

2011-03-15T20:53:00.001+10:30

My friend N makes the. best. brownies. • 3/4 cup plain flour • 3/4 cup self-raising flour • 2/3 cup nestle baking cocoa • 1 1/2 cups caster sugar • 1/3 cup walnuts, roughly chopped • 200 grams carton low-fat vanilla yogurt • 60 millilitres light olive oil • 4 egg whites • 2 teaspoons vanilla essence Preheat oven to moderate 180°C. Line a 30 x 20 cm shallow baking pan with aluminium foil. Sift flours and cocoa into a large bowl. Stir in sugar and walnuts, and make a well in the centre. Whisk yogurt, oil, egg whites and vanilla essence together in a small bowl. Pour onto dry ingredients, and mix lightly and quickly until just combined. Spread into prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 30 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre of the tray comes out clean. Leave in the tin for about 15 minutes, then lift out and peel the foil away.

2011-03-15T07:55:00.002+10:30

oh to be intrigued by broccoli.

2011-03-14T20:48:00.004+10:30

Sometimes pots and pans, and a good old wooden spoon can entertain, surprise and delight.

2011-03-11T09:13:00.002+10:30

This moment - A Friday ritual. A single photo - words, capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savour and remember - soulemama.