A new school, a new start.
So many of you beautiful people have sent me messages and DMs wishing our Oli a good first day at his new school, and in his new Grade so I just wanted to do a little update for all those asking. His anxiety, and mine, have been at an all-time high with yet another school…
The Ultimate Lunchbox Planner
It’s a new year, and with that comes the aspirations to pack your kids a fabulous, mostly balanced lunchbox that you hope will get eaten and not chucked in the bin or left stagnating in the bottom of said kid’s backpack for days. Much like our dinner routine at home, I wind up making the…
Banana & Strawberry Yoghurt Muffins
The ultimate quick bake – perfect for a breakfast, afternoon tea treat or a brilliant lunchbox filler! With this summer heat I find the bananas are ripening faster than we can eat them so this is the perfect excuse to bake and use up those blackend, almost-squidgy bananas you’re about to chuck. I’ve been making…
{WIN A HOTWHEELS & ENCHANTIMALS HAMPER} A magical Christmas with Mattel
We’ve always been big Mattel fans – Oli started collecting Hot Wheels from the age of 1, so it’s safe to say he’s a fan! I’ve always said Hot Wheels are like currency in our home, and it’s true! Throw in the word ‘remote control’ and he’s in his element! Soph got her first Enchantimals…
Your Guide to getting Festive with the Kids in Gauteng this year!
Deck the halls with boughs of holly Fa la la la la, la la la la (fa la la la la, la la la la) Yip, that’s right, things are kicking up a gear and we’re in full Christmas mode. I’ve put together a list of fabulous places to visit and things to do (and…
Mom’s & Dad’s Christmas Gift Guide
I love me a gift guide, I do, but this year I’m a little pushed for time, and in fact, everyone else seems to be too – so, I’ve decided to combine the Mom’s and Dad’s Guide into one. Simple. A one stop shop so to say. If you’re going to shop online, best to…
{TOY HAMPER GIVEAWAY FROM SUGARDOTS} Kids Christmas Gift Guide
Wow! This time of the year already?! I’m half done with Oli and Soph’s Christmas shopping, but that’s only because I’m waiting to see what the Black Friday sales have in store for us! I thought I had our Christmas lists sorted, and then Oli came home from school with a Toys ‘R Us Toy…
MSL T20 is bringing the fun for families!
What an absolute blast we had on Friday evening – it’s the very first time both Soph and I have joined the boys at Imperial Wanderers Stadium – and the first time us girls had seen anyone, besides the Grade 1’s, play cricket live. Oli started playing cricket this year at school, so honestly, up…
Oli’s diagnosis
I thought it much easier to write this all down here than DM everyone, or send any more lengthy voice notes! You may already know by now that Oli has been feeling a lot of anxiety at school – but we’ve uncovered why he’s been feeling this anxiety now. At the end of last year…
{WIN A HAMPER FROM ME4KIDZ} My clumsy child!
Soph, as you will all know by now, is a little bit clumsy. Mostly, I figure it’s because she runs around full tilt and is absolutely fearless. She’s brave, and after falling and dusting herself off, will barely stop to glance at the latest in the collection of her ‘owies’ and then she’s off again….
My WAHM life
I’ve officially been working from home now, for what, six months! Is it what I thought it would be like? Yes, and no. Has it been worth the move and adjustment, ten million times YES! Working from home has it’s pro’s and con’s. The biggest ‘con’ if I can call it that, for me personally,…
What we’ve been reading this month – our October favourites!
Sophie was in her element when two of the latest releases from Penguin arrived on our doorstep – this child LOVES books, and Peppa. Match made in heaven! Right, so let’s start with Peppa Pig – Up and Down (an opposites lift-the-flap-book). Firstly, Soph is still totally enamored by lift-the-flap books and loves the surprise…
A party with ZERO stress!
A party with zero stress, does that even exist? Yip, it does! As a party planner I really toyed with the idea of still giving Oli a big elaborate party (it’s a way for me to build a portfolio, far more hoopla than he would choose), but, we had decided we’d go away to the…
I’m sorry, to the baby I never mourned.
I never thought I’d write this post or ever tell this story. But here, my beautiful daughter holding this rainbow, is our rainbow baby. Five people knew about it, one being me, one being the doctor and almost no one else. I’ve racked my brain so many times as to why I didn’t want to…
Delish Chocolate M&M’s Cookies
When M&M’s launched their brand new limited edition salted caramel variety I knew two things – I had to get my hands on some, and needed to bake something with the world’s most shareable snack. With the kids on holiday, I left the decision up to them – they chose to bake a chocolate cookie…
Breaking the mould
When I was pregnant with Sophie, we wanted to get Oli a little doll to get him used to the idea of having a new baby in the house – it’s not an uncommon thing for parents to do this. Well bowl me over, when a family member suggested that by giving our little two-year-old…
Our Instant Pot Heritage Day meal
Right, so, if anyone is in two minds about whether or not to add yet another kitchen appliance to their hoard, think no more. It’s a resounding YES. Aside from my airfryer, this is an absolute game changer, friends! When the Instant Pot team challenged Rebecca (In these Stilettos) and I to come up with…
27 Boxes – an urban chic play park that’s entirely free!
Over the weekend we visited somewhere I’ve been dying to take the kids – 27 Boxes in Melville! It has a totally FREE play area, which also happens to be open, so don’t go thinking you’re going to sit back and have a child minder watch the kids. As always, be aware. This centre is…
Do we stay, or do we go?
Cry our beloved country! While our country mourns so many senseless and abominable crimes (and this isn’t a new trend) we need to start having really tough conversations around our future in this country, for the sake of our children. Whilst not gender based, my husband has been in three attempted hi-jackings in the last…
My Optiphi skincare journey continues…
One morning, at the end of April, I swabbed inside my mouth and had a courier collect my cheek swab sample for the Optiphi DNA Skin Test. Sounds scary, but I promise you, it isn’t – it’s completely non-evasive. The analysis is done in a laboratory and identifies your skin’s genetic needs and allows you…
My ONE Birthday Wish
It’s finally Spring, a new season, my favourite season and a new month. My birthday month in fact. On the 9th September I’ll be 34. This year there will be no gift guide (sorry Dyl and those of my friends who shop off it), no genie with three wishes to grant, there’s just one wish…
Creating instant memories with the Instax SQ6
So, by now you will know how we went on holiday to Hermanus for a family holiday, and how the trip didn’t go exactly as planned (read more here), but we still got to make some incredible memories (leaving Sophie’s accident and my step-mom’s hospitalisation firmly off this list), and I had the Fujifilm Instax…
A Monster Truck Celebration!
A couple of weeks ago I was honoured to style a fabulous Monster Truck party for two of the cutest brothers ever! Their wonderful Mom gave me pretty much free reign when it came to styling the party and it was a fabulous change in theme for me! Of course, no party would ever be…
Yummy Chocolate Coconut Slices
The simplest of bakes, this delicious recipe was passed onto our family by a dear friend, Janet, years and years ago – I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to bake it for my own children. The perfect tea-time treat or lunch box filler, these bars keep well, although they’ll disappear faster than you…
What we’ve been reading this month – our four July favourites
The best time to snuggle up with a book and read with the kids surely has to be Winter! Although, I must add, is it only me that yawns throughout reading? As soon as I read out loud it begins. The kids always giggle at me and ask if it’s my bedtime too. Anyway, here…
{WIN a Family Ticket from BOUNCE worth R550} Top 10 Active things to do with your kids in Joburg!
You all know I love my lists. Any lists in fact, it’s the Virgo in me. And some of you have messaged to say I’m you’re go-to for what on earth to do with your kids over the weekends or holidays, so ta-daaaa – another list, and giveaway! This list is for all the parents…
When good holidays go bad!
Firstly, I just want to thank each and everyone of you for your countless messages, WhatsApps, DM’s and prayers for our darling Soph, I cannot tell you how touched we have been to be ‘carried’ through such a traumatic time by so many special people. Daily check-ins, wishes and messages even when I haven’t had…
Seven! My baby boy – where has the time gone?
How on earth did we get here? I mean, I get it, the earth revolves around the sun for 365 days and BAM we’re a year older, but, how is it possible that I’m a momma to a SEVEN YEAR OLD?! All of a sudden, Oli turning seven makes it feel like he’s not my…
Pinkie Promise?
Pinkie Promise. The holy grail of commitment in the eyes of my two children. As they say – you never break a pinkie promise. So, what am I pinkie promising? Playtime with my kids. It sounds ridiculous I know, but it’s not really when you think about it. How often do YOU play with your…
Becoming a parent – the best journey you are never really ready for!
I’ve always wanted to be a mom – a title I longed for and knew would be my ultimate achievement over absolutely any career, any day. Dyl and I wanted a family long before we were even engaged, and we were on the same page – we wanted to try for a baby straight after…
My go-to Cookie!
A delicious walnut and chocolate chunk cookie – how does that sound?! I had so many people asking for this recipe after I made them with Soph for back-to-school lunch box treats last week that I decided to share the recipe here. After tearing the recipe out of a magazine years ago, it’s become a…
{WIN an Engino hamper worth R1500} Kids Birthday Gift Guide!
I’m often asked what people can get for my kids or if I have any ideas what they can get for their own kids for their birthdays. I’ve compiled a gifting guide that ranges from about 3 – 12 mostly as those are the age brackets I usually gift in. There’s various price points, as…
It’s a rite of passage.
For all my followers that follow me on Instagram, you’ll know what I’m talking about. A certain ‘rite of passage’ that took place last week Thursday evening while I was having a bath. We have scissors in multiple craft boxes the kids can access, they practice cutting lines, cutting out pictures and building creations with…
When your child bites their nails.
All of a sudden, towards the end of last year, Soph became a nail biter. Oli’s nails grow like weeds, every Sunday I have to cut them before I get nail envy. At first I didn’t even realise. Sunday would roll around and I’d fetch the nail clippers, cut Oli’s then ask to see Soph’s…
Cat and Dog
Yeah, yeah, they’re hellishly cute – I mean, look at those faces! But, boy oh boy are we having a time of it. And nope (referring to the heading of this post), we haven’t replaced our two crazy dogs with a cat, but rather, I’m referring to the sibling rivalry going on in our household…
Let’s be proud of our kids.
I am, always, without a doubt proud of my kids. Sophie, at four, asks repeatedly whether I’m proud of her for accomplishing a puzzle, baking a cake, or even just cleaning up her toys. The answer, always ‘yes’. Oli has reached an age where he knows what ‘being proud’ entails, languishes praise, but is battling…
Revive Wellness Spa – so much more than just a spa! (and how you can get a complimentary paint & file treatment!)
After 14 year of friendship, my bestie, Rebecca from In these Stilettos, and I finally got our spa day! The beautiful therapists at Revive Wellness Spa in Highlands North welcomed us with open arms and we couldn’t have been more grateful! As busy moms, any relaxation is welcomed and our time together is always treasured!…
Holiday fun in Jozi this Winter!
This is my very first July holiday with my kids at home with me! Whilst I still need to work, I can schedule my work, events and appointments around them and our plans for the day. My kids like to get out. They suffer from cabin fever and like variety and a change of scenery…
Father’s Day M&M’s Fudge!
If you haven’t already seen it, here’s the Father’s Day Gift Guide I put out last week, but if you’d rather make something homemade with the kids, I have just the thing for you. The simplest microwave fudge pimped out with half a cup of my husband’s favourite candy – M&M’s. Cut into squares and…
2019 Father’s Day Gift Guide – gifting made easy!
I’m a sucker for a Gift Guide, by now you should know this. I love shopping. And gifting, and in an alternate universe I would be a personal shopper. It’s time to celebrate our DAD’s! Father’s Day, in case you’ve been living under a rock (no seriously), it’s on Sunday 16 June. While my sweet…
What we’ve been reading this month – our four May favourites.
In case you missed this post, click here for a little intro to this series. We’ve been enjoying some new, and rediscovering some old, favourites at bedtime! Here are four of our favourite books we’ve read during the month of May: The Little Boy Who Lost His Name – David Cadji-Newby & Pedro Serapicos…
Win a Samsonite Dream Rider – The perfect travel bag for your kids!
Packing for a trip and navigating an airport has never been as easy as having both my kids with ride-on suitcases from Samsonite. This amazing brand, known for their superb quality, is making travel fun for kids with their Dream Rider range, and one lucky Mommalikeme reader will win one of their own (well, it’s…
That time Oli had the spots and Optiphi saved the day!
Calm Balm – an absolute blessing in our home! In December last year I noticed spots on Oli’s torso. I immediately thought – CHICKEN POX! Well, it wasn’t. No watery pox appeared and I began to Google late into the night, obvs. My (or Dr Google’s) diagnosis of Molluscum was spot (excuse the pun) on,…
Best Baby Shower Gift Guide to help you gift a Momma just right – WIN with Tommee Tippee!
I decided to do this gift guide after throwing a shower for my bestie and having so many people ask what to bring as a gift. What a preggie Momma needs varies from one to the next – you might have only got clothing etc. so far and still need all the essentials, or you’d…
21 Birthday Cake do’s and don’ts!
I’ve worked with Cara, the owner and the face behind Aristocakes, on a few parties and I couldn’t pass up this opportunity to pick her brain on some of the do’s and don’ts you should consider when ordering a Birthday Cake. Here are 21 of the biggest do’s and don’ts you need to keep in…
Hyto Tyto – a kids haven!
You know I love to bring you the best child-friendly places to visit and things to do with the kids, well, we finally got around to going to Hyto Tyto Kid’s Play & Eatery in Midstream and boy oh boy was it worth the wait, and the drive! We kept the outing a surprise for…
Baking with Soph – Pillsbury Red Velvet Mug Cakes
Mother’s Day is literally a few days away, Dads, so why not surprise the Momma in your life with a showstopping Red Velvet Mug Cake in bed, made all the easier by Pillsbury!? With just over 2 minutes in the microwave, how simple is that – add some Ready-to-Spread Cream Cheese Frosting on top and…
2019 Mother’s Day Gift Guide (for the Dads)
Dads, it’s time to get on it. Mother’s Day is THIS weekend! If you’re counting, like my youngest, you have precisely 6 sleeps. It’s time to jump online, if delivery times allow, or head to the nearest mall and find the ‘Momma’ in your life the perfect something special. Well I can appreciate, and wouldn’t…
Baking with Soph – Pillsbury Rainbow Birthday Cupcakes
Last month we got to celebrate our little baker’s birthday! We decided to make some colourful Rainbow Cupcakes from a Pillsbury Moist French Vanilla Cake Mix by simply adding in some colour-popping gel for her school birthday ring! Naturally, given the choice, Sophie chose pink, purple and turquoise to form the three coloured cake batters,…
The most epic press drop ever – meet the Transformer’s BOTBOTS!
Last week I came home to the most epic of press drops that had both my kids shrieking with excitement. Before I get into more on the actual product, I just have to give credit where credit is due. It was a simple drop, with two ‘Blind Bags’ from Series 1 and the most phenomenal…
My New Chapter
Some of you may know already, I’m closing the door on one chapter of my life today, and starting a new one, tomorrow. I’ve decided to leave full time employment and agency life (with a whole bunch of people I adore) to focus on growing Bunting + Blooms, my bespoke kids party business, and of…
TUTTI FRUITTI Sophie is a cutie!
On the 6th April we got to celebrate the birth of our FOUR year old on her actual birthday for a change. Amidst every single (and I have several!) Weather app telling me we were in for ‘dangerous thunderstorms’ and ‘multiple showers in the morning’ – our morning-scheduled birthday party day rolled around and the…
Baking with Soph – Pillsbury Raspberry & Vanilla Cake
Celebrating these luscious berries that are still in season, we just had to incorporate them into a simple vanilla cake! Pillsbury has made baking with Soph an absolute joy, we whipped up this beauty in no time for an afternoon treat. Of course, being 4, Soph had to add her own unique twist and insisted…
Baking with Soph – Pillsbury Rocky Road Easter Brownie Bars
If you’re looking for an Easter bake, look no further! Chewy, triple chocolate brownie bars topped with hard candy shell eggs and speckled eggs, what more could you want?! Soph and I had such fun with this simple bake, she got to bash the eggs with her little rolling pin, steal a dozen mini marshmallows…
{Win a pair of Bubblegummers} We love our Bubblegummers!
Who remembers owning a pair of Bubblegummers as a kid? I do! And now my kids have their very first pair! For those of you that have no recollection of them, Bubblegummers are a fabulous kiddies shoe brand, with dozens of styles and colours to choose from, the popular Bubblegummers collection has something for every…
A Gold and Tropical Celebration for baby “B”
A few weeks ago, I got to host and style a celebration of a different kind – a Baby Shower! I feel most comfortable styling bespoke kids parties, but it was my bestie’s Baby Shower (the 3rd, and last, Becks!) was held at the glowing Mama’s venue of choice, Killarney Country Club, in Houghton. KCC…
Baking with Soph – Pillsbury Celebration Cake
If you’ve yet to catch up on our first two bakes with Pillsbury – we’ve made Frosted Brownie Slices and a Banana & Walnut Bundt Cake – go check them out and then add this fabulous Celebration Cake to your repertoire! My wonderful husband had a birthday recently, so we leapt at the opportunity to…
{Win an Our Generation Doll} Sophie’s Birthday Giveaway!
Since a day is purely not enough, Sophie has decided to celebrate turning four all month! In honour of this milestone, Mommalikeme and Our Generation Dolls are giving away one beautiful doll to a lucky reader. After months of begging, we finally enrolled Soph into a Ballet school from the beginning of the year….
Happy Birthday, my sweet Buggy!
How on earth is time flying by like this, on Saturday 4th April you’ll be F O U R?! I remember writing a post to you, my little poppet, this time last year, and it literally feels like yesterday. So much has changed in the last year, but so much has stayed the same (your…
{Win an Enterprise voucher} Enterprise is back in my shopping trolley!
Enterprise has brought breakfast and lunch back! The brand has done an immense job in rebuilding trust in its products and restoring its iconic status and enduring love that many parents, and people in general, have towards their products. The brand has even more stringent quality checks in place, upping the standard of all food…
{Congrats to our Philips Avance Pasta Maker Winner} A delicious meal for the whole family!
I can finally reveal the winner of the fabulous Philips Avance Pasta Maker – Vannah Piers! She shared her dreams of making a delicious, steamy, Garfield-worthy lasagne dish – so here it is! Thank you to everyone for inspiring me with so many dishes that I’ll be trying for months to come – I so…
We love Keedo (and their sales!)
If you follow us on Instagram, you would have seen some stories a few weeks back from Soph’s little shopping trip to Keedo, Cresta. Well, here’s our haul, and why we love this brand and their fabulous sales so much! A proudly South African brand that encompasses so much more than just ‘selling clothing’ –…
{WIN a Philips Avance Pasta Maker} Oli’s favourite Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs!
Have you read and entered on this blog post and the Facebook and Instagram posts, if not, what are you waiting for, there’s only a few days left to enter! After a spurt of intermittent power and no water, we finally had a day with both, that allowed Oli and I to try out our…
What we’ve been reading this month – our 5 favourites.
I’ve decided to share what we’re reading as a little series on the blog. Reading to the kids is so important to me and books are something I’ll happily spend money on. I grew up in home where we were always read to, which I believe fostered a love of books and writing in me….
Baking with Soph – Pillsbury Easter Nest Cupcakes
Easter is coming! Why not get the kids into the Easter spirit these holidays by baking these adorable (and easy) little Easter Nest Cupcakes. I used a medium sized cupcake case so they weren’t too big for little mouths. These are also the perfect little treat to share with classmates and friends, and a fun…
WIN a Philips Avance Pasta Maker worth just under R5000!
Always dreamed of making your own pasta? Well, now you can, with a little help from Philips and this automatic pasta maker! “Making delicious, fresh pasta has never been easier. You just add your ingredients and the Philips Avance Pasta Maker does the rest. With powerful, automatic mixing, kneading and extruding, the Avance Pasta Maker allows…
Are we putting too much pressure on our kids today?
Thank all that is good and mighty that school holidays start from today. Besides not having to worry about packing lunches, remembering what day of the week what kid does what, and the endless shuttling up and down, it signals no homework. Don’t get me wrong, homework is not a bad thing, but the amount…
Baking with Soph – Pillsbury Banana & Walnut Bundt Cake
If you missed the first bake in the series, this one , you might not know that I have a budding chef/baker in my home, named Soph. We’ve partnered with Pillsbury to bring you some amazingly simple twists on their existing products to make baking with your kids on the weekend, or during the holidays,…
Baking with Soph – Pillsbury Frosted Chocolate Brownie slices
So, Soph and I have been busy in the kitchen. My little girl loves to bake and help out in the kitchen, from a very young age. We love baking together on the weekend as a generally inexpensive fun activity to do, working on fine motor skills, and bonding together. So much so, that we’ve…
WIN with Ackermans as Barbie celebrates her 60th Anniversary
This year Barbie turns 60! – can you believe it! Since her debut back in 1959, Barbie has become a global icon and muse and continues to spark imaginations and influence conversations around the world. Barbie has become a reflection of the times and aims to show girls that women have choices – Barbie has…
Best Kids Party venues in Johannesburg!
I’ve visited loads of these places, been to parties at them and even had my own kid’s parties at some. The most stressful thing for me in thinking of my kids parties is where to have it. You’ll know by now I also run a Party Planning business called Bunting + Blooms, so I don’t…
{WIN yourself a pair of shoes!} Saint & Summer launch their AW19 range – and it’s right up my alley
Saint & Summer, a much-loved South African brand have just dropped their AW19 collection and oh my gosh, it’s making alllll my leopard-print-dreams come true. This season is all about statement shoes, and it certainly does not disappoint. A pair of leopard print mules from a previous collection (ROSIE) is what originally caught my eye…
The first Kids Gym opens in Johannesburg!
Johannesburg kids are about to get a whole lot fitter! The Kids Gym has created a non-competitive space that nurtures a love for physical activity, regardless of their ability. Opening today, on the 15th of February at Cedar Square in Fourways, this will be the second location following the successful launch in Cape Town back…
optiphi® Intense Retinol Serum – the serum solving my skincare problems!
Let me start by saying, this product arrived at home, out of the blue, a few weeks before Christmas as a gift from the brand. There were no strings attached to review or punt it, but this product is that good that I have to tell you about it! I’ve been using optiphi® products for…
Oli & Sophie’s Top 20 picks of what to watch on Netflix!
We love Netflix in our home! I did this post last year on what we’ve been watching (my husband and I) but now it’s the kid’s turn! Inevitably, my two argue over who’s turn it is to pick what to watch when they’re allowed some screen time. Since they’re nearly three years apart in age…
It’s okay to be different!
It’s okay to be different – this is something I’m constantly reinforcing with my 6-year-old, Oli. Oli was a late talker, for no particular reason, he just was. He is our first born, has no problem with his ears (or eyes for that matter), but just was very late to talk. When other kids were…
Finding our feet
Woah, Momma! The last few weeks have kicked our little (or ample) butts. And I know I’m not the only one feeling like this. Grade 1 and Grade RRR started off with a bang, I couldn’t be prouder of our two beautiful children that marched proudly into their (separate) schools armed with smiles and confidence….
Let’s learn numbers: number recognition sensory box!
You might remember I had a friend of mine, Tash, share her Rainbow Rice recipe here on my blog. A few weeks ago, I stumbled upon the use of coloured beans in sensory boxes on Pinterest. Anything bright and colourful is bound to attract the attention of my kids, in this instance, particularly Soph, who…
{WIN a R1000 Makro voucher + hamper} Nestlé NESPRAY Fortigrow milk powder helps fuel our kids!
With more than 70 years of expertise in child nutrition, NESPRAY fully understands the need of each stage of childhood development and has designed a product range that satisfies the nutritional requirements of that stage. “Nestlé NESPRAY FortiGrow is the product proposition of the NESPRAY range that is designed for school age children from…
{The best shoelace tying hack ever!) Sh*t’s getting real!
Top of my forever growing to-do list this holiday has been ‘Teach Oli to tie his shoelaces’. It’s remained there at the top, until Monday when I finally just did it. I think I kept procrastinating it as it signals his start of big school. We had an orientation day with Oli’s new school at…
Snow sensory box – the only snow we’ll see this holiday!
We were sent some amazing Zimpli Kids products to try out and were immediately drawn to the SnoBall Battle Pack. Although we decided not to use the SnoBall’s in ‘battle’ we decided to make a fun snow sensory box to play with, and to celebrate the snowscapes the Northern hemisphere is getting. We’ve promised Oli…
Wow.
Wow. Just wow. What a year 2018 was for Mommalikeme! If I think back to this time last year, I never thought this little pipeline dream and passion project of mine would have achieved so many highs in such a short space of time. Besides my blog turning one, so many dreams have been realised….
You’ll never be ‘board’ this holiday with Ravensburger!
Two weeks ago we got to take the kids to the Ravensburger activation at our local ToyZone and boy oh boy did they have a blast (Oli especially)! Oli is at the perfect age right now for board games as they can hold his attention long enough and he can grasp the concepts and understands…
Snickerdoodles – the perfect Christmas cookie!
Cinnamon is one scent that immediately takes me back to Christmas in my mind, which is why these cookies will make the perfect addition to your Festive baking repertoire! I have used the recipe from Sally’s Baking Addiction and it doesn’t disappoint! For the cookies: 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp cream of tartar…
Dettol’s new Profresh soap keeps you germ free, hygienic and protects against odours!
There is no arguing that living a healthy lifestyle supports a greater quality of life, no more so than in how we raise our kids. Children should have the freedom to get out into the world, explore till their hearts are content, have fun and get dirty! “A dynamic lifestyle ensures healthy development of…
{Win a Samsonite school bag!} The Mommalikeme Back to School Essentials Guide 2019
I know, I know, we’re just closing the chapter on the 2018 school year, but with some of our children going back to school as early as the 8th January, we need to plan ahead and get orders in on time! The better prepared we are, the less panicked we are, win! There’s a fabulous…
{Giveaway} DC superhero toys and puzzles – great for little fans!
We love imagination play in our home – it’s the most wonderful way for the children to express themselves and we encourage it with every chance we get. We received the latest DC Superheroes range from Prima Toys the other day which had my two all kinds of excited. This range is made up of…
Christmas Gift Guide for Mom’s
Last of the Christmas Gift Guides, but certainly not most least, is one for all the Mom’s out there. Dad’s, this is where you enter. It’s time to spoil the fabulous Momma of the house with a little something, although a gorgeous cup of coffee or tea in bed would be equally as appreciated. From…
{Review} TOWER’s superb Scholastic Label range!
The fabulous team over at TOWER sent us a gorgeous hamper of products from their Scholastic range. For the longest time I thought TOWER only did those plain white rectangular stickers and stars that the Teacher’s used to use on my homework growing up. That all changed this year when I got to experience the…
{WIN a hamper} Nattou’s latest Plush range lands just in time for Christmas!
If you’re looking for the perfect gift (especially an extra special soft toy) for your baby or toddler this Christmas, look no further than the plush lines available by Nattou from Prima Baby. Known globally for their incredibly soft plush, Nattou has mastered the art of the cosy and cuddly. This year they’ve brought…
{WIN four Tickets!} A December Staycation in Jozi – what to do with your kids!
This year we’ve opted to stay put in Jozi and travel in the first part of the year when things aren’t as hectic at all the usual holiday spots. ‘Staying put’ doesn’t mean I want us to be bored to death, so I’ve rounded up a list of fabulous kid-centric activities happening in and around…
A Super Science Party for twins!
On Saturday I got to style the most amazing party for my favourite twins, as Bunting + Blooms. I had a little carte blanche in picking a gender-neutral theme as it was for a girl/boy set of twins, and luckily after showing them the mood board, they were sold on the idea I had come…
Why our Elf will be back to visit this year!
The poor Elves have been getting a lot of flak over the past few years, but this is why our Coco will be back. My Mom gave us our Elf on the Shelf last year, and we had the best time creating this new tradition for our kids in our home. What is the Elf…
Christmas Gift Guide for Dad’s
If you’re looking for the standard socks (unless they’re fabulously funky) or soap-on-a-rope-type suggestions, you’re in the wrong place. I’ve carefully selected some phenomenal products that will have the Dad in your life beaming! If you didn’t hit the Black Friday sales and make your way through your list, best you get shopping! I’ve banned…
The best Christmas Shortbread!
If there’s one bake I have to make to get me in the Christmas spirit, it’s homemade Shortbread. It reminds me of my childhood, and my Mom and both grandmother’s baking it. Dredged in Caster Sugar, this crisp and buttery Shortbread is delicious with a cup of coffee or mug of steaming tea, or to…
{GIVEAWAY included} Christmas Gift Guide for Kids
It’s the most wonderful time of the year (yes, I just sang that in my head for all the Home Alone fans out there)! Here’s the first of my three Christmas-themed gift guides that I hope will make your shopping a little easier. Disclaimer, this is based on Pre-Primary to early Primary School going children…
On realising my dreams
I’ve always had a love for party planning and event conceptualisation, for as long as I can remember – which is why I got into PR in the first place. I’ve worked at the number 1 Agency in South Africa since I left University (with a hiatus in the middle whilst we lived in the…
My journey with Environ
Four weeks ago I started my skincare journey with Environ and Beauty Bulletin – trialling out two of their products from their anti-aging Youth Care+ Range in the #focusonflawlesssa campaign – the Tri BioBotanical Revival Masque and the Vita-Antioxidant Hydrating Oil Capsules. The focus of these products is to improve signs of aging with the…
{WIN A SET OF TWO} Introducing the CRUNCHBOX – making packed lunches a cinch!
As you’ll know after reading this post, my firstborn is headed to ‘big school’ next year. Amongst other monumental changes, this means a proper packed lunch! We’ve been lucky that the kids Pre-Primary provides breakfast and a cooked lunch, as well as an afternoon snack, so we haven’t had to pack too much of a…
New Christmas tradition – building a Gingerbread House!
More and more over the years I’ve seen a growing number of Westernised Christmas traditions creeping into South Africa, this is one I’m absolutely thrilled about. We like to do Christmas ‘big’ in our house, and have loved starting and continuing Christmas traditions for our children. Decorating the tree together and who gets to adorn…
The leap to Grade One – I’m not ready!
I still cannot quite wrap my head around my little Oli-pop going to Grade One next year. To see my little baby in a uniform. It’s a monumental milestone, bringing with it so many exciting opportunities and the inevitable change. I wish I could tell you this was all about Oli, but in fact, it’s…
Netflix – our top 10 series picks of what we’ve been watching!
Netflix has revolutionised our tv/series watching at home. With our arrival of uncapped fibre, finally came our subscription to Netflix. Best. Thing. Ever! Our favourite way to unwind, on the nights we don’t need to work (and when the kids are down), is to watch series and chill – such homebodies! The pro’s? No more…
A letter to my second child
When people ask me if having a second child was harder than the first, my standard reply is “No, our second child literally just fell seamlessly into our lives and routines”. And I mean it. With Oli we literally parented by trial and error. We learnt what worked for us and our family and we…
Disney is bringing some exciting new movie releases – coming to a cinema near you soon!
Our family absolutely loves going to the movies. In fact, some of our all-time favourites have been brought to us by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. I’m sharing this mind-blowing Disney line up with you, they’re all set for theatrical release between November 2018 and November 2019, and I got to have a sneak-peek a…
{GIVEAWAY} Colgate-Palmolive answers your questions about your child’s oral hygiene habits
I’m bringing you the answers to all your child-related oral habits after sitting down with a Colgate-Palmolive Oral Hygienist, and my mind is blown! There is so much that I didn’t know, other than the importance of good oral habits. I’ve just gone full circle with my eldest, Oli, he’s lost two milk teeth and…
No tricks, only treats – some DIY Halloween gifts!
We love holidays of any sort in our home, and we celebrate them all! Halloween for us is a little more about the kids swopping treats and dressing up, than the ghoulish, dark-side of the holiday. This year we’ll be joining Killarney Country Club for their fantastic family event and we’ve been making some little…
Are sleepovers a thing of the past?
I might be that paranoid or overly cautious mom, but maybe I’m not? The more moms I talk to about this the more I’m beginning to feel the general consensus. Simply put, are sleepovers too dangerous to have anymore? I grew up in a tiny Diamond Mining town in Botswana and every single weekend from…
#JUSTLIKEUSKIDS
In January this year (on the very day Jess was to give birth to her daughter) in a Mommalikeyou feature, I introduced you to Jess Roberts. A Momma to Luke and Holly, she has spearheaded a phenomenal campaign to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month this October and prove that Luke, just like any other kid born with…
Help! My Baby has Colic!
Colic. The five-letter word that makes every new mother or father tremble. My first born, Oli, had it and those first three months were tortuous for all of us to say the least. Coupled with adjusting to a baby for the first time, raging hormones, and a lack of sleep, colic thrown into the mix…
The perfect Peppa Pig party!
Monday came with the honour of styling a Peppa Pig party for one of the sweetest little three year olds I know! My family has been to Bella’s last two parties, and I know the lengths her Mom goes to, to throw the most special day for her baby girl, so I knew it had to…
Mommalikeyou – Meet Cisca!
This month the Mommalikeyou feature is dedicated to the phenomenal Cisca de Kock. This lovely lady came into my life last year and right from the start we struck up a friendship. She’s the kind of friend who always has your back, will be your biggest supporter, and will keep you in fits of giggles…
An update on our potty training – and what it taught me.
If you’ll remember from this post , you’ll remember that although Soph has been potty trained (during the day) for a year, she was battling with night-time potty training. I decided to potty train her because I thought it was what I should be doing, instead of thinking about how ready she was, and as…
Mommalikeme turns 1!
I can’t believe my little passion project has just turned one! My first blog post was about Oli’s Magic Party, and a year later I’ve just blogged about his Carnival Party! Celebrations all round. I still can’t quite believe how much my ‘space’ has grown in just 12 months. I started the blog as a…
The Carnival comes to town – Oli turns 6!
After postponing the party due to the birthday boy having an unexpected hospital stay – remember this post – the Carnival finally came to town! Oli and I probably started planning this party last year, directly after his Magic party – that’s how it works in our house – lots of forward planning! Oli immediately…
A Mommy’s Birthday Gift Guide (aka mine)
I’ll be 33 (eek, I can’t quite believe it) on the 9th of September. I do gift guides for everyone else, and for just about every occasion, so I figured why not do one for my own birthday this year?! I hope this round up might be helpful for a friend/boyfriend/husband out there wanting to…
A true “Oolala” moment – meet Daniella the founder of The Oolala Collection Club
A true “Oolala” moment – meet Daniella the founder of The Oolala Collection Club In celebration of Woman’s Month – a day is just not long enough – I wanted to feature a female powerhouse I’ve had the pleasure of meeting in person. A lady, full of grace and poise, but also drive and sheer…
optiphi® Facial Cleanser: The good, the bad and, nope, there’s no ugly!
Truthfully, there really isn’t ‘an ugly’. I’ve been testing the optiphi® Facial Cleanser (part of their Active range) for well over a month now and I’m completely sold on this product. Better than the phenomenal results I’ve gotten, this brand is Proudly South African! “Born from the knowledge applied in the fields of producing burn…
A very (un) Happy Birthday.
On Monday night, as we wrapped up Oli’s big boy bike and presents, we struggled to get him to sleep. Not because he was showing signs of any illness, but because he was so excited, he proclaimed he just ‘could not sleep’. I went to bed just after ten and could hear Oli talking, so…
Turning Six
Today, the 7th August, our firstborn, turns 6. SIX. This birthday symbolises so much for me, let alone you, Oli – most of which I’m distracting myself with by focusing on your birthday party instead. This year we’ll be throwing you a Carnival Party with all your school friends invited – you all know how much…
Come visit the new and improved play area at The Silver Birch Restaurant!
There’s a brand new play area in town! The Silver Birch Restaurant, which we’ve frequented for years, has just opened a revamped play area at its restaurant at the Lifestyle Home Garden centre in Randpark Ridge, and this one is not going to disappoint! Separated into two play areas – for 6 and under, and…
{Featured Party} Yusuf’s TEE-RIFFIC 3rd Birthday!
So, most of you will know by now that Rebecca from In these Stilettos and I collaborate on parties and had talked about turning it into a business – well, it’s happening! Bookings are officially open, and today I’m featuring the unbelievable party Becks threw for her son that I got to help with at…
{Giveaway – WIN a personalised eating plan} Let’s get healthy!
You know what they say, ‘summer bodies are made in winter’ – and guess what, ‘they’re’ right. I love being in the kitchen, cooking and baking with Soph. I love food. In fact, before deciding to go down the PR route, I was ready to enrol at Silwood School of Cookery. I thought it would…
My favourite new find – Kiddylicious snacks!
A close friend who knows my battles with my fussy eater, Oli, dropped off a variety of Kiddylicious snacks for us to try. Oli is notoriously bad at willingly eating vegetables so I’m limited to basically three choices with him, which still need to be washed down with multiple cups of water. Brand new to…
Mommalikeyou – Meet Laura!
This next Mommalikeyou feature unveils the beautiful Momma behind the Rosie Bee brand – a lady I’ve come to call my friend, even though we’ve only met over the interwebs. Meet Laura, a beautiful Momma of a pigeon pair who successfully juggles motherhood, two small children and a thriving local business. Name: Laura Ritchie Where…
Nestlé has launched the new and improved MILO® Energy Cereal with 27% less sugar, more added benefits and I’m sharing the secret recipe with you!
The secret is out, and parents, you’re going to love this. The famous brand has given the cereal we know and love an entire makeover, and has reduced the sugar contents by a whopping 27%. That’s huge! Breakfast time can now be guilt-free! I attended the media event last week, hosted by Dr Michael…
The best indoor activities to do with your kids in Johannesburg and Pretoria this Winter!
It feels like we’ve been living in the middle of the Antarctic lately. Seriously, that was more than just ‘winter’. My poor kids are so layered up right now, their movements are restricted and their resemblance of the Michelin Man is striking! The current weather has inspired my latest list of places to keep the kids busy…
The downside to being a working Mom
Recently our entire family was down with swine flu. One by one, with me being second in line. Soph had had it for quite a while before she was actually diagnosed and I had to leave her at home with our helper for a whole week battling raging temperatures while I went to work. I…
{Win with Travelstart} Oh to be a kid again!
When I was a kid, all I wanted to be was an adult. Now that I’m an adult, all I want to be is a kid again! I cringe at all the naps I refused to take (now, I’ll take ALL the naps I can, given the chance!). In celebration of Youth Month, Travelstart is…
{Holiday fun} Head on over to Cradlestone Mall to discover the Dinosaurs of The Lost World!
Are you looking for something fun to do with the kids during the long school holidays? Cradlestone Mall, in conjunction with the cinema release of Jurassic World 3, has set up the most incredible collection of prehistoric creatures throughout the mall for your entertainment, and what’s more, the exhibition and activities are totally free of…
{Father’s Day Feature} Two Dads and a KiD
With Father’s Day fast approaching, I reached out to my two favourite Daddy Bloggers – Emanuel and Darren from Two Dads and a KiD to get their take on their journey through fatherhood. These are two of the nicest, most genuine people I know, and they take such pride in being the best fathers they…
{Featured Party} A Harry Potter Party for Riya!
Remember those gorgeous cake pops my friend Jaysheela made for Soph’s party? Well, this fabulous Momma also loves doing parties like I do and I just had to feature this phenomenal party she threw for her daughter. If you’ve done a party for your child you’d like featured, send through your submissions to mommalikeme@yahoo.com and you…
The Mommalikeme Father’s Day Gift Guide (for Moms)
Father’s Day is fast approaching, so I’ve collated 18 items to suit almost every type of dad (and budget) out there. Everyone always complains how hard it is to by a gift for a man, well I’ve just made your life a whole lot simpler with this guide. There’s something from everyone here. Everything from…
Meet: Sam and Tam
It’s been ages since the last Mommalikeyou feature, so I’ve decided to resurrect the series with the fabulous ladies behind Pink Dust Events – Sam and Tam! This fabulous Mompreneur duo are revolutionising ‘Ladies Night Off’ in their midnight hours – let’s meet the Mommas! Names: Samantha Lopes Tam Lobban Where do you live: S:…
{Win a fabulous Dettol hamper} Three easy ways we’re busting germs in our home this winter!
We’ve visited the GP far too many times this year – between the kids and I, we’ve passed various bugs and viral infections between each other faster than an Olympic Ping-Pong match. I’ve decided to up the ante this year and cleanse our household as best as we can for the Winter onslaught of germs….
{Review: Clarins Double Serum} – why I’ll be repurchasing this!
I’m by no means a certifiable ‘beauty’ blogger (I’ll leave that to some of my favourites – Mascara and Mimosas, Kiss Blush and Tell and For the Beauty of It), but I have a love for all things beautifying and have become increasingly interested in skincare and how I help delay the aging process and…
Night Time Potty Training – why we’re just not ready yet
Oli was the kid that at the age of three decided he was done with his nappies, stuck on a pair of undies and with only a few wet episodes was good to go. That same day he told me ‘no more nappies’ he refused to wear one to bed and after piling up three…
15 signs you’re currently parenting a threenager
Soph’s birthday came around and it was like a dormant time bomb went off, signaling the start of year three, and all the sass she could serve. Her previously slightly ‘stubborn’ streak became more of an all-consuming personality trait. Threenager – The Urban Dictionary defines the term ‘threenager’ as “a 3-year-old spouting attitude like a…
Momma battling HG – I see you.
If you’ve been following me from the start, you’ll know I didn’t have an easy time with my pregnancies. You’ll know the second pregnancy was substantially worse than the first and I honestly felt like I was battling a demon. Today, 15th May, is World HG Awareness Day. The one day dedicated to creating awareness…
A party fit for a mermaid – Soph turns 3!
Having a little girl to throw a glittering, pink-popping, girly party for is an absolute dream come true for me. Parties and events are initially what drew me into the PR industry, and more and more I’ve come to realise it as my passion. I love seeing how my ideas come together and watching everyone…
The Mommalikeme Mother’s Day Gift Guide (for the Dads)
Mother’s Day is around the corner, 6 days to be exact, and I know that most Dads’ are preparing to scramble. Here’s a roundup of some deliciously divine spoils you may just want to subtly pass on to your husband to give him a little guidance. If your husband is anything like mine he has…
Baking with Snowflake – the easiest marshmallow-frosted cupcakes
A couple of weeks ago it was Sophie’s school birthday ring, which means baking or buying cupcakes. If you know and follow me, you’ll know that I love being in the kitchen, but you might also remember a cupcake incident last year that threw me for a loop and l lost my cupcake-making mojo. Since…
Ster-Kinekor opens a Kids Cinema in Sandton City!
With the reopening of the newly revamped Ster-Kinekor cinemas in Sandton City, came the launch of an entire cinema catering just for kids – what could be better than that? Oli absolutely loves going to the movies, I think he even sees himself as a bit of an aficionado, and he’s thrilled that he can…
{Win 2 Enchantimals™ dolls} The power of imagination play – Enchantimals™
Mattel South Africa, the magical toy company that’s brought us our beloved brands like Barbie® and Hot Wheels®, has now introduced a brand-new franchise to their girl’s portfolio – Enchantimals™. Each whimsical half-animal character is paired with her animal counterpart – depicting the special bond that is often formed between a child and their pet,…
We need to talk.
I had a completely different blog post in mind for today, but after the monumental meltdown in our home yesterday morning I just had to address this, and find out if anyone else has come across this in their own home. It’s a very real and disturbing issue that I never thought would affect kids…
WIN a Hatchimals CollEGGtibles Season 2 hamper worth R500!
This Easter we decided to limit the number of sugary finds on the egg hunt after last year’s sugar overload of such epic proportions that we literally chucked away some precious gold bunnies that had expired! We opted for various books, bunny-themed t-shirts & socks, cups, puzzles and of course, some of the brand new…
So this is three – a letter to my Soph for her birthday.
My precious, feisty little child, on Friday you will be 3. Three! I can’t quite believe it. Three whole years since you set the tone for your personality, by arriving on your own terms. No one is going to stop you from being you, don’t let them. Three years since the last little space in…
{Win a Barbie Dreamtopia doll} The power of imagination play – Barbie Dreamtopia
Imaginative play is crucial to the cognitive, emotional, social and physical growth and development of young children. In other words, children make sense of the world around them through imaginative play. When a child enters the magical world of Barbie Dreamtopia, and fantasizes about being a fairy, a mermaid or a princess, they escape the…
{Easter} Bunny Bark
I can’t quite believe it’s Easter time already, but, it is! That means decadent treats and a little indulgence. Scrolling through Instagram one night I came across these amazing shards of heavenly chocolatey goodness. It’s so simple they barely require a ‘recipe’ – I feel I bit silly even typing it up, but here it…
{Win a Sonicare for Kids toothbrush worth R800} Staying on top of your little ones’ oral health this Easter
Easter is just a few days away, and for the little kids, that means only one thing – the Easter egg hunt AND chocolate! This year I’ve decided to limit the chocolatey finds and switch some of them out with Easter-inspired goodies. Cute bunny tees, books & fun toys replacing some of the sugar-loaded loot….
Mom guilt – your kids only need YOU!
A couple of weeks ago I took Soph for her vaccinations. Her 18 month vaccinations. Soph will be 3 on the 6th of April. I gave a high-pitched laugh when our family doctor asked what we’d come in for that day, barely masking my embarrassment of not having had her immunisations done already. Ever the…
{HERE’S HOW YOU CAN WIN A BROW MAKEOVER WORTH R1850} Debunking the myths surrounding Microblading
There are so many misconceptions surrounding the microblading procedure, I’m going to clear some of them up! For those of you that are considering it, I hope this puts your mind at ease. Debunking the myths: You need to shave your eyebrows when microblading. False. You absolutely do not need to do this, in fact, a technician…
{YOU COULD WIN A BROW MAKEOVER WORTH R1850} I got my eyebrows Microbladed – here’s what you need to know!
I grew up plucking my eyebrows overzealously – heavens I wish I hadn’t. Over plucking, a botched wax job by a trainee and possibly just bad genes resulted in sparse, unsymmetrical brows. The hair on my left brow grows out like cyclops, and the right brow was longer and higher than the left. Filling in…
{WIN} The power of imagination play – PowWow Designer Teepees
My children love toys. Don’t most kids? I often feel like they have far too many of them. The one thing I don’t mind adding to their ever-increasing collection however, is imagination play toys. Toys where they can play for hours on end engrossed in a faraway make-believe world. A world with magic fortresses (or…
Parenting an anxious child – the thing about Soph.
Soph is generally a very happy and easy child (bar her strong will), but over the last year she’s battled consistently with being separated from me, and only me. She’s always been a ‘Mommy’s girl’ but this is taking it to a whole new level – this is the thing about Soph. Separation anxiety is…
Easy Banana Breakfast Muffins
The kids and I bake most weekends. They love the process of measuring, pouring and mixing and of course enjoy tasting the end result! Faced with a bowl of overripened bananas (this heat ripens everything so much faster!), we decided to bake Banana Muffins in our jaarmies on Saturday morning. Perfect for a quick breakfast…
Colour sorting sensory box
During the holiday I decided to do a fun colour sorting sensory box for the kids. At 5, Oli is obviously a pro and could sort the colours and name the objects, but as for Soph, not so much. She can easily group the colours together, as well as recognising what the objects are, but she’s still learning…
7 ways to raise a confident child
In a world full of uncertainty, chaos and instant gratification, raising a child that is confident enough in themselves is crucial. Self-esteem is the key to a happy and successful child and in turn, adult. My hope is that I raise my children with enough confidence that they are self-assertive and assure – with just…
A letter to my Love
‘I wrote a letter to my Love and on the way I lost it’ – okay, so I never lost it, but I also never wrote a public declaration of my love, so here it is, as we enter your birthday month. If you cringe at gushy posts, click away, this one isn’t for you!
Baking with YUM YUM – The best Peanut Butter Cookies!
Flourless and gluten-free Peanut Butter Cookies – they’re virtually sinless if you don’t count the sugar and chocolate chips. A few days ago YUM YUM dropped off a fabulous gym kit for me (did you read this post about getting my BC body back?) and two boxes of peanut butter sachets for the kids. Inspired by the delivery, we…
Our Instant Pot Christmas
Our Instant Pot Christmas! By know you’ll know how much I absolutely love my Instant Pot. I’ve cooked and baked in it multiple times – remember the Heritage Day meal ? To get us into the Festive Spirit, we decided to put together an Instant Pot Christmas feast – to test our usual family favourites –…