Child of the Universe Positive Parentng December

*FREE DIGITAL MAG *ISSUE 30 *DECEMBER 2016

Dealing with Highly Sensitive Children

Removing the Worry about your Child’s Future

What If… Your Kids are more AWARE than you know?

Peaceful Parenting

ed’s letter Hello my lovely Readers

ABOUT US www.childoftheuniverse.co.za PUBLISHER 2Luni Media EDITOR Linda Navon 071 346 8138 linda@childoftheuniverse.co.za OUR “Little Boss” Carmen Ché Jardim SUB–EDITOR, NATIONAL SALES & MARKETING Cj Stott Matticks 082 900 1010 candida@childoftheuniverse.co.za ADVERTISING SALES MAQNAGER Clinton Stebbing 076 657 4139 clint@childoftheuniverse.co.za DISTRIBUTION & RESEARCH Lee Coulter WRITER Dani Jardim dani@childoftheuniverse.co.za CONTACT NUMBERS TEL: (011) 462-2900 0110 262 643 0110 468 737 DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the editor, advertisers or endorsers. While every effort has been made to ensure that the contents of this publication are both accurate and truthful, the publisher and editor accept no responsibility for inaccurate or misleading information that may be contained herein.

MEDIA PARTNERS

So here we are, not only at the end of our tethers, but finally at the end of the year. YAY! During the past few days, chatting to advertisers and writers, I could just hear the relief in their voices.

From our side here at 2Luni Media, and all our magazines, we are tired though very happy with the year gone by. Many new doors are opening for us and we are growing – again.

People, please give some thought to those who don’t have much to look forward to over the Holiday Season. Do something random that will make life a little better for someone else. Smiles count as well.

December is fun, adventurous and also sad for some,, it’s also the time of year when your mind does not know how to suddenly go into ‘holidaymode’, so people get snappy with each other and couples tend to fight – this is not a good time to re-assess your relationships. Rather acknowledge that you are all tired and go with the flow.

Shew, I am completely out of words, but I do hope you enjoy all articles and passion we put into our magazines. Back copies are all on our website for reference.

We will see you again next year…. In other words, a few weeks time. Have a safe and happy December, whatever you are doing.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS Much Love

Linda

Contributing Team & Experts

LINDA NAVON Editor/Owner

LISA RALEIGH Fitness Trainer

AMY McCREADY

LEIGH DAVIES

Cj MATTICKS

MARGIE McALPINE

HELEN HANSEN

HANNA KOK

Sub Editor/Marketing Director

Angel Connection School

CLINT STEBBING National Sales

VINCENT JARDIM

VALERIE DENEEN

RENEE JAIN

Our Guardian Angel

HEATHER PICTON

MARNIE CRAYFROFT

Founder ADHASA ADHD Foundation

Carrots are Orange Montessorian

BrainGym

VERONICA HAUPT Re-code Your Life

Adventures in Wisdom

NICOLETTE ROUX

KARA LEWIS

RENAYE

Powerful Mothering

ALESSIA SANTORO POPSUGAR MOMS Asst Editor

SERGIO SALOTTO Life Journey Facilitator

contents Is your car Holiday Ready?

BABIES & BEYOND Removing the Worry from Your Child’s Future

PEACEFUL PARENTING Spending Quality Time with your Kids without Breaking the Budget 7 Things you should know about your Highly Sensitive Child What if your Kids are more Aware than you know?

What is Homeopathy Equipping your Home the Homeopathic Way Give thanks for 2016 & prepare for 2017

OUT & ABOUT Mowana Spa Shows Markets 1 Hit Wonders @ Barnyard Love to Stay Eco Friendly Getaways Sugar Bay kids camps

ANIMAL-LOVE Top 10 Hazards for Pets at Christmas Time Dogs do Speak but only to Those who know How to Listen

REACH OUT Sunflower Fund: Hope Begins with You – Helping Children with Leukaemia Alone for The Festive Season?

Beautiful dogs and cats looking for Forever Homes

For many South Africans the holidays are tantalisingly close and you’re already mentally dipping your toes into the ocean, but before you’re relaxing on the beach you need to get your car in tiptop shape. Indwe Risk Services gives you an essential checklist so that your car is as ready for the holidays as you are.

CHECK YOUR LICENCE It’s pretty easy to forget when you have to renew your car and driver’s licenses, so be sure to check that both are up to date. If you have to renew them before going on holiday, remember that you now have to provide proof of residence.

VEHICLE SERVICE It’s a good idea to get your car serviced, especially if you have a long drive to your holiday destination. This will take care of any major problems and repairs, reducing the risk that you’ll be stuck on the side of the road.

VEHICLE CHECK While your service should make your car roadworthy, take some time to give your vehicle a once-over. This includes checking the tread and pressure of all tyres (including the spare), ensuring that you have enough fluids (e.g. oil and water), that your windscreen has no cracks, that your brakes, belts and battery are in good condition, and that your windscreen wipers and all lights (inside and out) are working. If you’re transporting passengers make sure that the seatbelts are working correctly.

Be prepared for a breakdown or emergency by having the following items in the boot of your vehicle: a first-aid kit, water and non-perishable food, jumper cables, a blanket, a flashlight and batteries, a container for petrol, flares, reflective triangles, rope for towing, and basic tools.

PLANNING A GPS is a handy gadget, particularly if you’re travelling somewhere new, as it will help you avoid the frustration of getting lost. Plan your drive in advance so you know your route and where you can stop for breaks and to refuel. Try to avoid peak travel times and always inform a friend or family member about your route and estimated arrival time. Store emergency contact numbers in your phone so they are easily accessible in case you need immediate help. Keep your phone fully charged or have a spare battery.

ON THE DRIVE Get enough sleep before you set off and stay hydrated during your journey. It’s recommended that you stop for a rest every two hours, and where possible let another eligible driver take over. Stopping regularly gives you and your passengers (and especially kids) a chance to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. It’s essential that you stop driving if you are tired.

With the extra volumes of traffic on the road during the festive season, it’s important that you take precautions to avoid car trouble by getting your vehicle road-trip ready. Drive safely, be patient and enjoy the journey.

ARE YOU COVERED? Make sure the vehicle you are driving is properly insured, and remember that there are different types of cover, such as comprehensive, third party only, and third party, fire and theft insurance. If you are a passenger in someone else’s vehicle, check that the car you are travelling in is insured. For peace of mind, find out from your broker or insurer what is and is not covered in your policy.

For any assistance speak to an Indwe Risk Services advisor today on 0860 13 13 14.

By Julie Kleinhans

As a parent, it's extremely easy to worry about your child's future. You want the very best for them. As they are getting older, you may find yourself becoming more concerned about what their future will look like and if they will become a confident, happy, productive adult.

First I'd like to ask you two important questions: 1. Do you want your child to engage in a future that they are passionate about?

2. Are you open to your child exploring any passion that they have?

I ask these questions because many parents have pre-determined ideas about what their children should do with their life or what they think their child would succeed in. In order for your child to truly find their way, they will need your support to travel any path.

I’ll give you an example. When I was a teacher, I remember having a quiet boy named Jordan in class. He didn’t like school very much because he didn’t feel that he was a good student. One thing he was passionate about was video games. He loved all aspects of the video-gaming world.

When I spoke to Jordan about all of the possibilities of having a career in the video gaming industry, his entire perspective about his future changed.

A shift in his perspective allowed him to get excited about the possibilities of himself as an expert in video gaming, making lots of money designing cool games.

The thought that he was talented at something that can be applied to his future career helped him to feel much more confident about his abilities.

You can nurture this confidence and excitement with your own children. Here are three things you can do right now to inspire your children and remove your own worry.

Stop Comparing Your Child to Other Children in a Way that Puts Them Down It is very hurtful to a child when they are compared to other children in a way that puts them down.

Instead, use comparison in a way that lifts everyone up by showing your child the value that everyone contributes. For example: “Sam is great at math and doing well in his math classes.

Becky, you may be struggling with math right now, but that’s okay.

You will eventually learn what you need to know. You are doing so well in your English class. We are proud of you and Sam exactly as you are.”

It is important to boost confidence in every child so they can thrive.

Help Your Child Focus on What They Enjoy Doing Every person is talented in so many things. Including you – Mom or Dad! Help your child to focus and nurture what they do enjoy doing and get creative with them to think outside the box.

You may want to make a list with your children of the things you each really enjoy doing. This could be a fun family activity for everyone to write their lists together and then participate in those activities on the list.

Get ready to think in and outside the box. For instance, things like painting and playing catch may be on the list. Some other things people enjoy doing but don’t always think of is making lists, planning, cooking, reading, etc. Look at everything each of your enjoy doing and help each other with your “Enjoyment List”.

You each may forget things you enjoy doing and reminding each other makes this an extra special family experience. You may be surprised what your children notice about you and they may be surprised about what you notice with them.

Remember that so many things you enjoy can be turned into careers. A person that enjoys painting may become an artist, an art curator, own a gallery, etc. Your child may like to play catch now and in the future could do it professionally as a player, a coach, a manager, a sports news person, etc. Someone that enjoys making lists and planning may become a great project manager, travel agent or entrepreneur.

Cooking is a great skill that can be applied to restaurants, cooking shows, books and more.

Those that enjoy reading may become authors themselves, editors, proofreaders, book store owners or work in book publishing.

There are a myriad of opportunities for any and all passions that you and your children have!

Find Your Child a Mentor in the Passion That They Have If your child is interested in a particular career, help them find an adult in that field to have a conversation with. I recommend having a conversation with this person first to be sure you are okay with your child learning from them. Then set up a phone call or an in-person meeting for your child.

Your child can talk to this person about how they got to where they are today and some of the obstacles they overcame to succeed.

Have your child make a list of everything they’d like to know and see about this career choice, so they can make the most out of their experience. Having a tour of the work facilities of this career would also be helpful so your child can envision if this is a place for them.

It’s important for children to explore their passions without judgment. Allowing them to find their way will most certainly guarantee their success.

“Youth Empowerment and Education Mentor Julie Kleinhans works with parents, teachers, teens and young adults to love themselves, be successful and embrace their own uniqueness. Get her FREE Guide for Parents and Teachers “5 Steps to Productive, Confident and Happy Kids” at www.MindFocusGeneration.com.”

A baby’s delicate, sensitive skin is 25% thinner than an adult’s and needs extra protection and nourishment using only the purest, gentlest and most natural ingredients.

Rain’s Baby range is made from 100% natural, organically-certified ingredients like organic olive oil, virgin cold-pressed coconut oil, shea butter, beeswax, and traditional African wild-harvested oils.

SPENDING QUALITY TIME WITH YOUR KIDS WITHOUT BREAKING THE BUDGET

By Kathryn Main

Holidays can be a great time to bond with your children and maybe even let your own inner child come out to play. In MSK fashion, we have some few holiday ideas to keep children occupied without breaking your bank account.  Make your own games. Get a supply of colored cards, children’s scissors, glue and anything else you may want to make some fun games. Games like Hoopla, Pin the Tail on the Donkey or Snakes and Ladders can all be easily made at home and will keep the children occupied for some time.

 Cooking and baking. Once a week plan a cooking or baking day. Involve the kids in the process from the beginning — let them chose from a selection of recipes that you have ingredients for. If the child can read, get them to read from the recipe book. Step by step, help them to work through the instructions. Try to avoid the temptation of doing it yourself.

 Build a garden patch. Dedicate a small patch in the garden to the kids. Plant flowers, herbs, lettuce — anything that grows quickly and gives them the satisfaction of having produced something. If your kids are small, just give them a spade, put on their old clothes, and let them loose.

 Go camping. Build a tent indoors or outdoors with blankets and sheets. Once the tent is up, give them a torch and a picnic to take with them.

I guarantee you won’t see them for hours.

 Go on picnics. You don’t have to go far to have a picnic — give them whatever is in the fridge.

You’d be amazed how once it is packed in a plastic container and eaten on a blanket on the grass, how much the atmosphere romanticizes the most boring of sandwiches.

 Have a treasure hunt. Make a treasure map with clues to find some treasure you have hidden somewhere in the garden. It doesn’t have to be expensive or big — any little treat will be exciting when it is found outdoors.

 Get jamming. Grab some musical instruments — things like bongos, shakers or tambourines, and get jamming. Get the kids to sing and dance along

 Paint. One of the nicest ways to express your creativity is to use paint. Get large sheets of paper and lots of paint. Go mad and use your hands and feet — it’s liberating. To avoid any stress, prepare the area well and cover with plastic or newspaper. Have some water on hand to wash when you are finished.

 Get into jewellery making. Go to a bead shop and stock up on beads, wire and clasps, and get busy making your own jewellery. This activity can be done with the smallest of children, just be sure to get appropriate bead sizes for different age groups. The children will be so proud to wear the jewellery that they have made.

 Have a garage sale. Get the kids to clear out their rooms and have a garage sale. You could sell some of your baking products and make lemonade. Pool all the money together and use it to pay for an outing for the whole family.

kathryn@moneysavvykids.co.za

7 Things You Need to Know About Your Highly Sensitive Child Discover Their Dominant Element For Better Understanding

By Robin Ray Green

Is your child highly sensitive? Is he easily affected by the emotions of others? Is he irritable or overstimulated after school? Is he highly fussy, picky, or dramatic? Does he have an “imaginary” friend? If so, chances are you have a highly sensitive child.

What is it like to be a highly sensitive kid?

You may already have a good idea, but if not, imagine being unable to distinguish your own emotions from those of the people around you! Everything you feel is so strong and overwhelming, yet you can’t find the words to explain how you feel!

For generations highly sensitive kids have been misunderstood.

They've been told, often unkindly, to “stop being so sensitive,” to “get over it,” and to “toughen up.” It’s no wonder highly sensitive kids grow up thinking there’s something wrong with them.

What most people don’t know is that highly sensitive kids are physical, emotional or intuitive empaths. Some kids are all three. Through one of more of their senses, they can easily feel energies that are beyond the physical realm. This is difficult enough to comprehend as an adult, much less as a child.

How to Help Your Highly Sensitive Child It’s incredibly important to make sure your child’s fundamental needs are met. They need to be loved and to eat, sleep, play, and move in just the right amounts. They need to avoid chemicals and excess sugar because their bodies are sensitive, too. When their needs are not being met, it will be even harder for them to control their sensitivities.

Here are 7 things you need to know to understand your highly sensitive child. He or she:       

Easily picks up on the emotions and or thoughts of others Can sense stressed energy in people, places, and things May feel overwhelmed or unsafe in new or crowded environments Has a tendency for food and environmental sensitivities and allergies May have responses that are overly dramatic, emotional, or seemingly inappropriate May feel the pain or suffering of people, animals, or the environment in their own body May feel pain and discomfort more intensely than others

Discover Your Child’s Five Element Type One of the things that has helped me the most in understanding highly sensitive kids is the Five Element system of Chinese medicine, a framework that allows us to determine each person’s unique nature.

The Five Elements are Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Each Element has corresponding physical characteristics, personality traits, strengths, and challenges that shape each child’s overall health and way of being in the world.

It is thought that one particular way of being will influence your child’s personality, health, and temperament above all others—their Dominant Element.

Once you discover your child’s Dominant Element, you’ll have a better understanding of how your child’s sensitivities will manifest. You’ll know how to support your child physically and emotionally to help them understand and use their gifts.

You can discover your child’s 5-Element type by taking the 5-Element Questionnaire on my website, or in my book Heal Your Child from the Inside Out, and learn more about helping your child thrive.

It’s our calling as parents and grandparents to assist our children in harnessing their sensitivities, allowing them to shine their lights brightly.

They are going to grow up to be the healers, helpers, peacekeepers, change makers, and environmental stewards that will usher in a new level of consciousness. Let’s make sure they thrive!

Robin Ray Green helps parents harness the power of the 5-Elements of Chinese medicine to create healthy, harmonious families that thrive!

Pediatric acupuncture specialist, Mother, Author.

By Penni Du Plessis

How are you feeling with that new life growing inside of you? Are you enjoying every moment,? This is one of the most amazing and special times of your life. A time when you are blessed with an abundance of love, compassion and angelic support as you nurture that special little angel inside of you.

Take time to drink in every memory, to talk and sing to your unborn child, to feel the joy building inside and around you. The tiny being is so very aware of every emotion and interaction you have, and this will affect their personalities as they come into life.

If you find you are too stressed and are struggling to cope right now, begin to change this as it will only be ten times worse when the baby arrives.

There are amazing natural supportive tools out there to help you during this time.

Penni of Divine Space has created a range of magical coloured Oils and Sprays that can help you cope with any situation. Each colour is a combination of natural plant and herb oils, with 7 essential oils, colour inclusions, crystal energy and sound vibrations. The result is a gentle healing pack of note that is used as either a body or bath oil. When absorbing the oils in the body they begin to help you regain balance and dissolve the issues that are creating hurdles in your life. The colours below are safe to use during pregnancy and are suggested as a support after the first trimester.

SUPPORTIVE PRODUCTS USED DURING PREGNANCY AND INFANCY  

During pregnancy, anywhere after the first trimester and continued until birth: Rub the pink ‘’Light Matrix oil” on the tummy and blue ‘Light Matrix oil’ around the outer edge in a U shape – the blue symbolizes the support and strength of the father energy holding the loving compassionate mother energy. The combination is loving and supportive for both mother and child.

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During labour or trauma: rub or massage the Blue Light Matrix oil onto the tummy and legs to ease contractions and assist the birthing process. The blue is the rescue colour and is used for any pain or trauma in adults or children. It calms and soothes all muscle strain, as well as for cuts, bruises, burns, abrasions etc…

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On Mom – after the birth, to heal the birth trauma – use the orange ‘Oil of Transformation’ down mom’s left side every morning to re-seal the aura, then soak every evening in a bath with about 10 pumps of the blue ‘Oil of Transformation’ to ease and assist the healing and recuperation, while helping mom to relax. This should be repeated every day for at least a week, but preferably until the oils are finished. Orange in the morning and blue in the evening.

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During the birth and when baby comes home gently massage a tiny bit of the Mother Mary – ‘Divine Transformation’ Oil on them in the mornings and the blue Oil at night. You could use a few drops in the bathwater instead of directly on the body, or mix a couple of drops in Sweet Almond oil to make a wonderful massage oil.

Continue this for the first 2 or 3 years. Mother Mary is always present at a birth and welcomes the child in with infinite love and compassion. She brings in the gentle loving mother energy and the blue relaxes and calms the child, bringing in the supportive father aspect, and helping them to relax and sleep. The combination of the two colours bring a nice balance and helps the child to feel safe. They are definitely more manageable when using the colours.

Use a combination of the Blue and Pink Light Matrix Oils on all children in a single parent home, or on children of divorced parents as one of the parents is missing and the 2 oils help to restore a sense of stability and balance in the child’s life. Inviting in both the masculine and feminine support. Other colours can be introduced from school going age.

Support the energy by using the pink Angel Spray (Angelic wings of Love) when the baby, child or adult is uptight, anxious or irritable. The spray instantly calms aggression and brings in love. This affects everyone in the environment.

Using the Pink Angel spray every evening at bed time – is really supportive. Invite the angel of protection into the space by spraying the child and room – then ask the child to feel their angel standing behind them. Ask the angel to wrap their soft wings around the child and to hold them safely like this all night. Brilliant to alleviate nightmares and to make the child feel safe and protected all night When the child goes through the terrible twos and threes – begins to push boundaries, goes to play-school or has to re-adjust to a new environment – the green will assist with this adjustment. Green brings the heart into any situation and helps to establish boundaries while making them feel safe in the new space. This works for adults going through any change as well. Also excellent to ease chest colds.

School going age: when children begin to learn their ABC’s and 123’s – the yellow will help them to grasp the new concepts. The yellow oil or spray will support them throughout their entire schooling career, helping them with concentration, focus and enabling the information to be absorbed. It is also beneficial to use before writing exams or tests as it calms the stress and fear and brings back the memories of what they have studied (all ages).

Enjoy every moment with your precious angel – they grow up so fast.

For more information on colours, workshops, courses and products: please don't hesitate to contact call Penni : penni@divinespace.co.za

Meta Me presents In our ever frenetic lives with extra murals, home work, studies, tests, technology, bullying, divorces, deaths, tension and moulding, it is becoming increasingly more difficult for our children to remain grounded and calm.

I am a Llaqta Alto Mesayoc (a Shamanic master in the Andean tradition) and present a workshop to children wherein I provide them with the tools they need to cope with their lives’ demands.

The workshop is very interactive with games, meditations, hands on experience and a little bit of theory. The youngsters are given a crystal, some meditation music, incense spray and notes to take home.

We will cover, amongst other things:  What energy is  How to work with the elements (earth, water, air and fire) to restore balance to oneself and the planet  How to connect to our Creator, our Guides and Angels  Identifying their own issues versus others  Recharging their internal batteries  How to protect themselves from others and outside energies  How to protect themselves while sleeping and astral travelling  Speaking our truth The dates for Term 1 are as follows: Ages 6 – 8 (choose a date) From 09h00 – 16h00 Ages 9 – 13 (choose a date) From 09h00 – 16h00

Saturday 28th January 2017 Saturday 4th March 2017 Saturday 1st April 2017 Saturday 11th February 2017 Saturday 11th March 2017 Sunday 2nd April 2017

I run these workshops from my home in Dainfern Valley. I keep the groups small so pre-booking is essential.

The cost of the workshop is R1 350 which includes lunch, snacks and refreshments at the workshop.

Contact Michelle Barker on 082 371 5701 to book your child on this workshop.

www.thehealthnut.co.za

By Margi McAlpine

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As the end of another year approaches most of us are still trying to catch our breath as we wonder at the rate this year has passed!

Every year seems to fly past with more speed than the last one making us realise how fast time is passing and how little time we have to achieve what our actual Soul purpose in this life time is!

As we look back and assess the past months for many of us they will have been filled with daunting challenges and issues that we probably never anticipated and would really rather not have had to deal with. For many there would have been ups and downs and perhaps you often felt like you were sitting on a roller coaster and hanging on for dear life as it took you to extremes of joy and fear!

Often challenges are also gifts that you are given as the lessons and growth that occurs with having to deal with issues is enormous and allows you to grow and do your own selfdevelopment. This would not have happened if you had not gone through the difficult times. It is therefore appropriate that you give thanks for the hard times and lessons as well. It also indicates a level of understanding and trust that you know you will always be looked after no matter how difficult times are.

Gratitude occurs when you are able to appreciate and give thanks for everything that you have been given so abundantly in your life whether they are positive or negative.

Life is often so busy and hectic that you miss many of the gifts that the Universe bestows on you. It is very easy to just not see or acknowledge what you have received because you are so busy or hectically trying to cope with what is happening in your world.

You need to give thanks for everything no matter how small or large. Often the small things are overlooked as many wait for things that are of huge significance before they even think about giving thanks.

The more you are able to be grateful the more you open yourself up to abundance and blessings in your life which are also known as grace.

Be generous in sharing your blessings and grace with others. When your hands are open to give they are open to receive.

Show gratitude and thanks for everything and everyone in your life which will allow you to live in a state of grace which allows you to be showered with blessings by the Universe in a never ending cycle of abundance.

Now before we start a new cycle and hopefully a new beginning with the start of a New Year it is time to look back and show gratitude not only for all the wonderful blessings we have received but also for all the amazing lessons we learnt with the challenges we faced.

I look back with gratitude and wonder at the abundance and the lessons that have occurred during the past twelve months and feel so blessed, honoured and loved!

I was so blessed to once again be able to travel around our beautiful country facilitating workshops and meeting and working with the most amazing beings. I am always humbled by the privilege of being able to work with so many of you. Thank you!

I would like to thank my helpers who so willingly assist at my workshops. You always help with big smiles and open hearts! Without you I cannot do the work I do.

To the enthusiastic and motivated teachers of the Angel Connection School I say thank you. It is always a pleasure and an honour to work with you and I look forward to our next phase of work together.

Blue Man Group

Good For All Ages/ No Language Barrier The key to success for Blue Man Group has proven to be the wide appeal to all ages, languages, and cultures.

The Blue Men are able to communicate a humorous perspective on our world, pure human emotion, and surprisingly sophisticated ideas without saying a word, allowing the audience to enjoy the show on many levels, with no language barrier.

: Blue Man Performs on La Voz

Kids relate to the wide-eyed wonder of the Blue Men immediately, and adults get the chance to relive the feeling of seeing the world with child-like curiosity and joy again. For a multigenerational night out, Blue Man Group can’t be beat!

Festive Season Gift Ideas

REVIEW This is by far the show I have enjoyed the most this year – In face, I am going back to see it again, alone this time, so I am not distracted by the party of people I had around me.

The cast are amazing and the show is an absolute HIT OF NOTE‌ Ed

Cape Town Wednesday 26th April 2017 Green Point Park, Cape Town

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Johannesburg Friday 28th April 2017 The Dome, Johannesburg

FIND & BOOK ECO-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION IN SOUTH AFRICA lovetostay.co.za is your green heart guide to eco-friendly accommodation throughout beautiful South Africa. We partner with all kinds of accommodation establishments that operate in an eco-friendly, sustainable and responsible way. So whether you opt for a luxury boutique hotel or rustic tree house, you can feel good knowing your holiday supports a place that serves the environment and community in a positive way. To help you make these good choices, we are committed to growing a wonderful selection of urban and country, luxury and rustic green accommodation options where you will love to stay!

Search for your next green getaway on www.lovetostay.co.za by location or type; the Check Availability & Book Online green button will enable you to check real-time availability, make a booking & secure online payment through the Nightsbridge booking system at no extra charge.

WHAT IS ECO-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION? Eco-friendly accommodation is defined as a lodging establishment with structural features that minimize the impact and footprint on the environment; as well as well as those that follow green living, sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

WHAT ARE GREEN HEARTS? Look out for the Green Hearts Seal of each establishment. We are proud to showcase all of our members and love to highlight their specific efforts to protect and conserve the environment. Seals display between 1-5 Green Hearts as awarded to them for their positive Green Acts. Here`s more info!

The Rest farm can be found deep in the Sneeuberg mountains of the Karoo.

At the top of the water catchment you will find refuge from sound, light & air pollution. Taking a break from the endless buzz of information, cars and deadlines, you can find a place of deep rest.

Paula and Iain returned to the family farm in 2010.

Their vision is to create a space where visitors are able to reconnect with themselves by feeling the earth under their feet and regain perspective by listening within and connecting with the natural environment.

On The Rest you will find a workshop space made from the earth and filled with light and love. You are invited to join one of the Reconnect series of drama therapy workshops for professional and personal development that take place throughout the year.

Workshops are run by Paula Kingwill, drama therapist and farmer, who has 15 years of experience of working in a range of contexts throughout South Africa.

We offer accommodation for weary travelers. Our rustic accommodation is perfect for families.

We produce grass-fed beef from our cattle which we sell off the farm also deliver to some of the major centres.

For more information see our website www.karoorest.com Contact us on karoorest@gmail.com.

Christmas is a wonderful time for us humans, but sometimes we are so caught up in the festivities we forget about the dangers to our pets. There are lots of hazards that can cause major issues for our pets. Pets such as cats and dogs are normally in the house and even involved in some of the festivities, so they are more at risk.

It’s important to be aware of the things that can harm your pets and keep them well away from them. Don’t leave things lying around and take extra precautions to keep things out of reach.

Here are ten hazards for pets at Christmas time.

•Chocolate Chocolate is extremely poisonous to dogs. The higher the percentage the worse it is, dark chocolate causes the most problems. We all eat a lot of chocolate and often receive it as gifts at Christmas time. Keep chocolate away from dogs and pets throughout the festive season.

•Tinsel Tinsel is very dangerous for pets for a number of reasons. Firstly, they can get tangled up in it and even strangle themselves. Secondly, they may be tempted to eat it. Swallowing tinsel can cause major digestive issues and it can even get stuck in their stomach. If they try and eat it they may choke on it. Take care when using tinsel on your tree and around your home in December.

•Fairy lights Fairy lights present the same dangers as tinsel but there is also a chance of your pet getting electrocuted. Don’t let them anywhere near fairy lights and they may be tempted to chew on them. The glass in the lights can also cut your pet and cause serious issues if they swallow it.

Keep all pets away from fairy lights.

•Overeating This may not seem like a serious problem but it is a big concern for pets. It’s so easy to overfeed pets over the festive season thinking we are spoiling them and making them happy. Don’t change their diet, stick to what you normally feed them. A lot of the foods we eat over Christmas are full of fat and your pet will pile on the pounds in no time. Obesity is a big concern for pets as it causes debilitating health and joint problems.

•Alcohol Alcohol is very toxic to dogs. It can cause nausea, vomiting, loss of coordination, disorientation, cardiac arrest, seizures and sometimes even death. Keep an eye on your pets when you are drinking alcohol to make sure they don’t try and steal any. Also be aware of foods that contain alcohol such as alcoholic chocolates.

•Christmas tree decorations All those fascinating decorations you put on your tree can be very intriguing to pets. They are in fun shapes and sizes and look like the perfect toys to play with, they are not. Christmas tree decorations are not made for pets and contain harmful things that your pet could swallow.

Make sure your decorations are high enough and kept out of reach.

•Cooked meat bones Take care when throwing away cooked meat. Your pet could try and get into the bins and eat the bones. Cooked bones can be very dangerous to pets as they can splinter and get stuck in their stomach. Dispose of all meat safely where your pet can’t get to it. You may want to invest in a special rubbish bin that your pet can’t get into.

•Raisins and grapes Both grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs. Raisins are also in lots of different foods that we eat such as mince pies and Christmas pudding, so avoid giving your dog anything that might contain raisins. Raisins can cause kidney failure in some dogs.

•Christmas tree Believe it or not, your Christmas tree is also a hazard to your pets. Make sure it is placed in a safe place in the home and is securely properly. The last thing you want is for your Christmas tree to fall on top of your pet, some of the larger trees can be extremely heavy. If you have a natural tree you also need to be careful with the needles as they can get stuck in your pets feet and fur. If swallowed they can cause severe stomach issues. The water used to keep a Christmas tree nourished can also cause issues if your pet tried to drink it.

•Mistletoe and holly Mistletoe and holly are also poisonous for pets. Holly can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and mistletoe can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation. Other plants that are dangerous include lilies and daffodils.

“Dog’s do SPEAK, but only to those who know how to LISTEN” Orhan Pamuk

A dog is a man’s best friend. If you want to see the purest form of unconditional love and loyalty, man’s best friend is sitting there by your side. This little creature creeps into your home and your lives with glazing eyes, a wagging tale, and a “I wont take no for an answer” attitude. In one hasty sprint, this little creature lightens your stressful and tiring day with a playful manner and plenty of tricks. Before you know it, this little creature is not only considered a pet, but a companion and member of the family.

We believe in Man’s Best Friend A dog is a man’s best friend. We believe in a healthy natural lifestyle for your dog, inside and out. We care about the wellbeing of dogs, and bringing them, as close as we can, back to nature. Our little fury friend’s deserve only the best.

We believe in replenishing the good nutrients that dog’s need. Helping man’s best friend to be strong and healthy is our highest priority.

Bringing the best inside your dog, back to nature All of our products that we offer are 100% natural. No preservatives. No harmful chemicals. We have a considerable doggy menu that gives dogs the choice between beef, ostrich or chicken. The larger the fine selection, the more there is to choose from. These products were developed with our dog’s in mind, by giving them a nutritional treat that is healthy and good for them.

We manufacture 100% Natural Healthy Dog Treats Offering a wide variety of dog treats to spoil your furry friend. Pro-pet is a manufacturing organisation producing chewable treats for dogs. With all our furry friends in mind, we cater for all dog types, from puppies to large dogs. We produce all products from biltong , beef chips and dry wors to tracheas and wizzle sticks. Some of our best sellers for our furry friends:

Bits ‘n Pieces Small bite size pieces of dry wors, in a convenient size pack.

Perfect for a treat during training sessions.

Dried Beef Trachea Helps clean teeth as a natural toothbrush and contains natural sources of Glucosamine for strong healthy joints.

Wizzle Sticks Fully digestible treat that massages your dog’s gums as they chew. This treat softens through chewing, so no harm is caused.

Beef Chips A soft treat that can be easily broken into pieces as a reward.

(011) 673 9921/ 082 374 5251

MAKE A DIFFERENCE Because you CAN

ALONE FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON? ADOPT A PET… GO ON – BRING MORE LOVE INTO YOUR HOME This little kitty –and many more animals, dogs and cats – are living out their lives in small cemented cages, hoping that someone will find place in their homes and hearts to give them ‘Forever Homes’.

I know I harp on and on about adopting pets, but there are so many of us who have the room in our lives for a loving animal, and there are so many of our furr-kids, young and old, who would bring loads of fun and joy to your lives.

Just an example: early this year I took on a new-born kitten to hand-rear, bottles, formula and the whole toot. … and the frequent feeds every 3 hours, and the worry when the little one’s tummy doesn’t work. Anyone who has hand-reared kittens and puppies will know how relieved your are when the tummy works – kinda proud!

Anyway, this little kitty got to the point where she needed to homed. My daughter had spent a lot of time helping me with Maxi, so naturally she got fond of the kitten and took her home to join the other 4 ‘rescue cats’ that live with her.

Well, Maxi lit up the lives of these four fairly lazy cats and brought loads of mischievous energy into the house. Somehow she has captured the hearts of all the cats and they cuddle and play with her as much as they can before flopping over and sleeping again.

So my friends, think about the difference adopting an animal will make to not just your life, but to your resident pets and obviously to the animal you give a home to. Call your closest SPCA or look on Facebook for your new family member. Xxx Linda

WE ARE LOOKING FOR OUR ‘FOREVER HOMES’ Please find it in your heart to adopt one of us so we can LOVE you….

NIGEL SPCA

My name is Aly, I am a pointer type female approx. 10-11 months old I am very sociable and loving.

My name is Chappia. I am a Husky/German Sheppard.

My name is Maya, a one year old Jack Russell female. I am good with kids and other dogs.

JOBURG AREA KITTIES FOR LOVING HOMES Contact Lynette on 082 895 5935 MAX & RUBY

JETHRO

ANNIE – 10 weeks old PUFFY

JONNO

JODI

MAYA

BREE

THOMAS 6 weeks old

JOLIE 6 weeks old

Finding a home for Barry has now become rather urgent.

Barry is about 10 and needs to be an only kitty. Rescued from horrible circumstances he has the love to give but needs the space to learn to give it. Jhb area. Adoption rules apply. Contact Lynette on 082 895 5935.

with much appreciation to our advertisers, contributors, endorsers and our readers namaste