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familyliving magazine | 3
Editor’s letter Welcome to the Christmas edition of Family Living Magazine. Can you believe another year is coming to a close? Doesn’t time fly, especially with kids!! In this edition we have some Christmas tips to ensure you have a successful day celebrating with friends and family. We also have some helpful activities like gymnastics and music for our kids and much, much more. Family Living Magazine would also like to give away a few special prizes to our readers, so be sure to enter for your chance to be a winner. Thankyou to all our advertisers for such a fantastic year and thank you to my loyal readers for your support. I would like to wish everyone a very festive Christmas and a fantastic New Year. Look out for our February Issue in 2016!!
Thanks to Keiva from KEIVA BAKER PHOTOGRAPHY for our gorgeous cover photo.
BE SOCIAL
familylivingmagazine.com.au Familylivingmagazine Familylivingmagazine
Enjoy! EDITOR@FAMILYLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM.AU
Amy Vickery
amy@familylivingmagazine.com.au
4 | familyliving magazine
Content in Family Living Magazine is for general information only & is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. The publisher, contributors and related parties are not engaged in providing legal, financial or professional advice or services. Views expressed by the contributors are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Family Living Magazine. The publisher, contributors, editors and related parties are not responsible in any way for the actions or results taken by any person or organisation on basis of anything in this or related publications or websites. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent from the publisher.
In this issue… 10 12 14
6
FIVE XMAS DAY MISTAKES TO AVOID WITH A TODDLER
Christmas Giveaway!! The Melting Room Cafe Gymnastics; A Great Activity for My Kids
17 Music Classes For Kids 21 Xmas Traditions 24 Summer Babywearing 30 Recipes 33 Business Directory 34 What’s On Calendar
familyliving magazine | 5
5 Christmas Day Mistakes To Avoid With A Toddler Christmas can be an overwhelming time for kids and especially toddlers. Below are some mistakes to try and avoid on Christmas Day. 1. NOT ENOUGH SLEEP! With so much going on, it is so easy to let your toddler stay up late on Christmas Eve (it’s so exciting, of course they don’t want to go to bed), but then they get up early, REALLY early. Then they are so excited on Christmas Day that they don’t nap (Nap? Now? Christmas Day? NEVER!)
found this really surprising last year, but my almost 2 year old had so many presents she actually got bored of opening them. Do you know why? She wanted to PLAY with the presents she opened, when she opened them. Imagine giving a toddler a great new toy and then telling them they couldn’t play with it straight away. We ended up opening presents over a few days. This year we have cut back on the amount and have chosen a few quality presents that we know she will really love. 3. TOO MUCH SUGAR!
An overtired, super excited, sugared up toddler is a great way to put a dampener on the Christmas Day festivities. This year it will be an early(ish) bedtime and we will be scheduling some quiet time during the day (a great opportunity to watch a Christmas DVD or look through our Christmas books).
There’s no way you would let your toddler eat sugary, sweet food all day long on any other day, yet on Christmas day we tend to overlook this fact. Very quickly the reason we don’t let this happen becomes amazingly clear. Remember that after the sugar high comes the sugar crash!
2. TOO MANY PRESENTS!
This year I will be ensuring that my toddler eats a big breakfast, lots of healthy snacks and a decent lunch and
What? Is there such a thing? I actually 6 | familyliving magazine
dinner. That way the treats will be just that – treats.
aside, or even better, assemble them a few days before.
4. NOT ENOUGH BATTERIES!
Don’t forget about the smaller presents too. So many of the toys these days require assembly, which normally means you at least need a screwdriver and a few fiddly parts. As patience is not a known quality of a toddler, it makes much more sense to wrap them already assembled WITH batteries.
No shops are open on Christmas Day where I live. NONE. So if you have bought a toy and forgotten to get batteries that fit, you will definitely not be very popular on Christmas morning. My advice is to buy enough for all the toys you need (check the sizes!) and then buy some more. I guarantee a friend or family member will also buy your toddler a battery operated toy so it’s always best to be prepared.
Thankyou to Carol Jones from My Bored Toddler www.myboredtoddler.com
5. NOT ASSEMBLING PRESENTS (OR UNDERESTIMATING HOW MUCH TIME IT WILL TAKE) If you have bought your toddler any major presents that need assembling (trike, play kitchen, dolls house etc) you have probably already considered that it needs to be assembled and have put aside an hour or two on Christmas Eve. Mistake #1. Putting together some of these items can be like putting together IKEA furniture with no allen key. Add at least an hour to the time you’ve put
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familyliving magazine | 9
CHRISTMAS 1) Tesoro Earrings
Win these stunning Tesoro sleek and sophisticated round profile, black tone silver earrings valued at $129.95 Tesoro- Italy’s Little Treasure www.tesorojewellery.com.au
AngelRock Baby would like to help you keep your little one close this Summer with this ByKay AquaCarrier valued at $69.95! This easy way to cuddle your baby hands free can be used in the pool, shower or beach. AngelRock Baby, visit our Ettalong Beach shop for a fitting this weekend! www.angelrockbaby.com.au
3) AquaCarrier
2) Pram Liner & Blanket
5) BlueSalt Float Suit Win a Outlook Pram Liner valued at $49.95 and an Outlook all Season Pram Blanket valued at $69.95 www.outlooktm.com
To WIN one of these prizes, simply like us on facebook and c like to win. www.facebook.c 10 | familyliving magazine
Winners will be chosen at random. Entries open 1st D
GIVEAWAY!!! 4) Breastfeeding Pack
Flower Child Baby Boutique in Colloroy are giving away an amazing Breastfeeding Pack valued at $140 including; Flower Child Bamboo Breast Pad Twin Pack $19.99, Holle Organic Nursing Tea $14.95, Totally Devoted Breast Feeding Cookies $15.95, Cadenshae Fit 2 Feed Active Wear Bra $50 & ELCE Designs Baby Bunting $40.00 www.flowerchild.com.au
The BlueSalt Beachwear Float Suits have buoyancy inserts which help children to float when learning to swim. The panels can be progressively removed to meet the new levels of their ability. They are made from Super Chlorine resistant Polyester with a SPF50+ sun protection. They retail for 64.95. www.bluesaltbeachwear.com.au
comment with the name and number of the prize you would com.au/familylivingmagazine
December 2015 and close on the 20th December 2015 familyliving magazine | 11
Let’s Eat Out At The Melting Room Cafe is certainly a hidden gem when it comes to an ideal family day out within the Northern Beaches.
Located at 34 Lake Park Rd North Narrabeen, this qaint cafe has a lot to boast in its way of delicious food, not to mention its array of surrounding activities to keep the smallest and eldest ones entertained. The serene Narrabeen Lagoon is an idyllic backdrop to the cafe whilst you tempt your tastebuds to an array
12 | familyliving magazine
of delights and providing an ideal spot to burn off energy following your meal. Whether you stop in for one of the many breakfast options (pancakes, big breakfast, eggs benedict), or a burger and chips for lunch or even just a coffee or milkshake, you certainly will be impressed by the quality and flavour. When you arrive to the Lagoon you will notice a buzz of outdoor activities taking place such as paddleboarding, fishing, bike riding, scootering, playing in the nearby park, visiting the coastal environment centre and much more. The kids are in heaven when they arrive here. First they will notice the Pelican Statue, followed by the real pelicans fishing for food in the lagoon alongside the friendly
The Melting Room Cafe ducks waddling past. There is also many sandy banks to sit and let your little ones explore the water and many of the living creatures that call this place their home. Then you can hop skip and jump to the incredible Coastal Environment Centre which is a must do after visiting The Melting Room Cafe. It teaches the kids about all the creatures that live in or nearby the Lagoon whilst allowing them to touch, hold and feel many parts of the surrounding environment. The Coastal Environment Centre delivers friendly high-quality environmental education and awareness for children and our community. This ensures the protection and conservation of our environment and its wildlife.
Right opposite the cafe you will also notice the bike track that winds around the lagoon which is perfect for strolling with prams, scooters and bikes. There is also a fantastic playground for the kids to go nuts in!!
So make sure you go and visit the Melting Room Cafe today and enjoy a day out with the kids they are sure to remember!! Please phone 9970 6310 to book your table.
familyliving magazine | 13
Gymnastics;
A Great Activity For Kids As parents we usually look for activities
that provide more than one benefit. It’s great when our children are having fun but sometimes we feel that it should offer more than that. If we’re going to invest our time and money into classes, why not look for something that ticks all the boxes? We went out with a list of questions and have found the answer. Welcome to Manly Warringah Gymnastic Club’s under 5’s program. Each week over 400 mums, dads and their pre-school children attend classes at this Community Owned and Not for Profit Club hidden in 24 Middleton Rd Cromer. I knew we had a local gymnastics club but I wasn’t ready for what I saw when I walked in. The facility is huge; there are hundreds of children involved in everything from kindy gym to elite International Level programs. There’s a nice feeling to the place, the reception staff were smiling and wanted to help, the staff were bubbly and greeted all the kids with a smile or high five, everyone just seemed to share a vibrant attitude and I wanted find out more. I was informed that MWGC have over 14 | familyliving magazine
2500 members and with some elite gymnasts training 6 days a week I soon realised how this club states annual visits in excess of 200 000! I bought myself a coffee from the Summer Salt café and watched the Kindygym class. This is for the little ones aged 18 months to 3 years and mums and dads must join in. After 15 minutes of free play in a massive foam pit and on 8 trampolines senior coach Heather Rath had the kids (and some parents) climbing through jumping castles, walking over ladder bridges, crawling thorough tubes and swinging off different equipment. The class lasts an hour. There was a real professional edge to the structure and you could see how most activities had just a tiny bit of gymnastics finesse about them. The music, the bright colours, the set up and the whole atmosphere was so much fun.
Across the floor was the 45 minute Minigym group, 3 to 4 years with no mum or dad. The class was a similar format but had the next level of activities. I was impressed to see the coaches down on the floor and really interacting with the kids, I was really impressed to find out that one coach who the kids called Lui was in fact Ming Lu who as a gymnast represented the Chinese National Team for 10 Years, won a World Championship Team Medal in 1985 and a Chinese National Championship Gold Medal in 1987. You can see why this club is at the top of its game. Next is the 4-5 year old 1 hour Juniorgym class, another level up and just that little bit more challenging. Nothing over the top, just more diversity in all its activities. What’s really impressive is the fact this is just the beginning. Once kids start school they can choose to do gymnastics in so many different directions. There’s competitive, recreational, squads for trampoline and a sport called tumbling that’s really getting some interest with the teenagers. Don’t think there’s nothing for adults either, apparently the Thursday night classes are loads of fun. The entire team at MWGC are amazing, all coaches are trained and certified through Gymnastics Australia and they also undergo annual assessment and accreditation. With 2500 square meters to play in it’s not hard to see why this club has won the Gymnastics NSW Club of the Year for the past 2 years. Club CEO Ian Hardy explained the
theory. “It’s not just about the sport of gymnastics, its about offering the entire community a safe and healthy environment. All our kids, especially our teenager’s need a place go where the atmosphere is motivating. You don’t have to be a gymnast, we do freestyle/ parkour, dance acrobatics, tricking and loads of other programs. After a 15 year association with this club I’m now seeing what were tiny little kids become amazing men and women. This club teaches them to test themselves both physically and mentally, it’s both disciplined and loads of fun but one of the best things is they become mentors to the younger ones. We’ve got a few gymnasts who are now on the world stage and it’s just really nice to see them supporting the up and coming younger crew. There is no better foundation sport than gymnastics, its skills have something to offer every other sport.” The MWGC website has detailed information, www.mwgymclub.com MWGC invites you to call them on 9972 9222 anytime. They’re open days 7 days a week if you want to call in. Thank you to Linda Davidson from Davidson Photography for the great Pictures. familyliving magazine | 15
UNDER 5ʼS PROGRAM
KINDER GYM KIDS FROM 1.5 - 3 YRS OLD mum’s or dad’s participate
MINI GYM
JUNIOR GYM
KIDS FROM 3 - 4 YRS OLD
KIDS FROM 4 - 5 YRS OLD
mum’s and dad’s now get to watch
mum’s and dad’s can relax with a coffee
WHY GYMNASTICS?
- A GREAT FOUNDATION FOR ALL SPORTS - INCREASES GROSSMOTOR SKILLS - STRUCTURED LEARNING - BUILDS INDIVIDUAL CONFIDENCE IN A TEAM ENVIRONMENT NSW GYMNASTICS CLUB OF THE YEAR 2013-2014
Manly Warringah 16 | familyliving magazine Gymnastic Club - 24 Middleton Road, Cromer NSW 2099
Tel: 02 9972 9222 Fax: 02 9971 1747 e-mail: info@mwgymclub.com www.mwgymclub.com
The Benefits of Music Classes for Our Children It doesn’t take a lot of research to discover the scientific benefits of music on the brain, google ‘music and the brain’ and you’ll open up an enormous amount of information and studies all in favour for musical training. Musical training clearly increases brain volume and connectivity. Children who start taking lessons early have better connections across the corpus callosum (which connects the left and right brain). So yes, its pretty important and very worth while, But did you know, the latest research all points towards music training before the age of 7 as having the greatest impact in connecting
a lifetime of music starts here
MusicPlay classes for babies to preschool and primary school age. Group guitar/keyboard. HSC music assistance. Private lessons in piano/guitar. School holiday program. Call Kym.
MusicPlay nourishes your childs musicality through rhythm games, song & dance, percussion and tuned instruments.
Kym Beaton 0404 378 955 Details on our website musicplayhabitat.com.au
different sections of the brain. Yep, before Age 7 is the magic number. And its not just passive listening thats going to do it, but active participation in music making. Unfortunately, Most public primary schools don’t offer music in their curriculum, and pre schools/day cares are lucky to have a guitar playing member of staff, so really mums, its up to you to get them started well before this crucial age. If you’re musical yourself then perhaps you can do this at home together, if not, well, We are blessed here on the northern beaches to have a number of kids music class options. We’ve asked early childhood music educator Kym Beaton, Local mum and home business owner of the Music Play Habitat in north curl curl to answer our questions........ So when is the best age to take my child to music class? Simple answer is: Early Toddler. Scientifically we know kids benefit learning an instrument before age 7, and here in NSW thats the age kids will be offered to enter their schools band program, which is great timing but it is much easier to start an instrument when you already have a solid foundation in music skills and awareness. This is why the pre school classes are so important. Its where the music = joy foundation is set. I find when my MusicPlay kids are of the age to start private instrument lessons, the familyliving magazine | 17
transition is so much smoother simply because these kids KNOW they are inherently musical, there is no question of whether they’re right or wrong, or good enough, or sound good, or like it, they just know! Thats impressive, how do you achieve that? Through many ways, especially repetition, parent connection, joyful feelings and exploration equaling understanding long term, rather than rote based learning. Are there benefits to the parents joining in too? Yes. MusicPlay sees the care giver joining in, learning together is key here. What we are doing is linking their earliest making music experiences with joy. Music = joy. Joyful memories, playing while learning with their mother/father/caregiver. This class offers you a special bonding time with your little one, a chance to re connect within an often busy, rushed family life. A chance to be silly and play with out distractions. All of this can be achieved with just 45 mins of your time in class. As mums we already know how important it is to actually take the time to play with our child, to be in the moment, their moment, absorbed, and in joy. We offer exactly that, loosely guided and inspired by the teacher, all while learning musical concepts along the way, together. What if my child doesn’t join in? Thats okay, sometimes we find kids like to sit back and take it all in for a few weeks, it doesn’t mean they’re not ready or not learning and listening. Our 18 | familyliving magazine
teachers never push for a child to join the group however offer gentle ways for them to integrate into the group through out class. We’ve had mums call us and say their child was singing all the songs in the car on the way home after class even when they haven’t been participating! Sometimes new things just take time, and thats okay. What are toddler classes like? Here at the Music Play Habitat we offer a play based, ever evolving curriculum. Our teachers think on their feet, feeling their way through each class and maximising on the abilities and desires of the families and group dynamics in each class. It still gets noisy of course, we are here to explore sound after all! Some of the activities might include: • dancing to the piano • playing on tambourines & singing • keeping the beat marching to drum • learning new songs in a circle • drumming on djembe’s & darbuka’s • boomwhakers or bells • moving to sounds of band instruments • learning the names and sounds of the different instruments and styles & much more.
Is it too late to start my primary school child? Its never too late! We offer MusicPlay2 afternoon classes for grade K-3 and then group guitar and keyboard for grades 3-6. You can of course start music at any age, its just going to be an easier road if they start in their toddler years. MusicPlay2 is fabulous to keep their music alive and lets them try a range of instruments until they’re ready to begin studying an actual instrument. Do i have to pay for a whole term up front? Depends. We offer both casual and term classes here. Casual MusicPlay is held at 9:45 tuesdays and wednesdays throughout school term, these you pay as you go, simply turning up when you can, no bookings required. Term classes yes are paid up front to secure your space. All group classes here at the Music Play Habitat cost $20. MusicPlay 0-5’s. MusicPlay 5-7’s. Group Guitar. Group Keyboard. Private Lessons. Adult Casual Lessons. Drum Circles. Songwriting Workshops. Guitar
Workshops. School Holiday Programs. Kids Music Birthday Parties. Like the Facebook page to stay up to date with new classes and workshops.
Thanks to Kym Beaton of the Music Play Habitat. ph. 0404378955. kymfairy@optusnet.com.au Musicplayhabitat.com.au
a lifetime of music starts here
familyliving magazine | 19
XMAS ACTIVITIES
20 | familyliving magazine
CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS!! Life today is hectic. It is easy to forget the important things as we rush through our day. One of the things which brings extra meaning to our life are our family traditions. These can be traditions we grew up with or the traditions we create for ourselves in our own families.
Christmas is a time of year rich in traditions. Christmas is traditionally a Christian holiday but I think one of the reasons Christmas is so special to us all is that it is the time of year when we prioritise our family and those dear to us. Lasting memories are created when we gather together with our family and celebrate friendships with the special people in our lives. I would love to share with you some of the traditions which add much happiness to the way we celebrate Christmas as a family. Life can get in the way of good intentions and some years we add traditions, and may not get around to others, but they are important rituals we try to achieve. Here are a few ideas
for you and your family to adopt this Christmas. Gingerbread house: My kids and I always decorate a gingerbread house as part of our Christmas tradition. I love to make the house from scratch but if life is too hectic I will buy a pre-baked house. I have a friend who has a similar tradition and sometimes we get the kids together and share the experience. The Christmas Tree: The Christmas Tree is the focal point of Christmas in our home. To take away any drudgery associated with putting up the tree we break the task into two parts. Firstly we put up the tree and place the lights onto it. The following day we decorate the tree. Whilst decorating we have our favourite Christmas movie playing in the background and we share happy family time as we decorate. Light displays: Decorating the house and gardens with lights has grown in popularity over the last several years. After a little research online and input from friends we love to spend an evening driving and admiring the wonderful Christmas light displays people work so hard on, on their homes and in their gardens. Advent calendar: For children the lead up to Christmas and the counting down familyliving magazine | 21
of days until Santa arrives is probably the highlight of their year. Advent calendars are a special part of this anticipation. We have loads of fun with a train calendar, which allows us to put little treats in each of the drawers. The treats do not always have to be sweets I often include notes or clues to puzzles or little activities we can all enjoy together. Christmas party: Every year we host a Christmas party. It is not a grand affair but just a special time for us to remind our friends and family how much they mean to us. Christmas movies: Watching your favourite Christmas movies tucked up on the couch together is a real highlight for my children and I.
Christmas Shop: A visit to your favourite Christmas shop is a must in the lead up to Christmas. We have the children select one special ornament each year. When it comes to decorating the tree they always remember which special ornament belongs to them. One day when they leave home to start their own Christmas traditions we will package them up for their own Christmas tree. Giving Tree: We have many blessings in our lives but sadly not everyone is so fortunate. Each year the children choose a gift for a giving tree for a child not as blessed as they are. Thank you to Nicole Keleher from My Christmas for your article. www.mychristmas.com.au blog.mychristmas.com.au
22 | familyliving magazine
familyliving magazine | 23
Summer
Babywearing In The
Water Aussie summertime: the backyard pool, beautiful beaches and barbeques with friends are beginning to call us outdoors for the holiday season.
an older baby or toddler, lessen your activity in the heat, and make good choices about appropriate activities you combine with babywearing.
The youngest members of our families thrive on being with us and involved in what we are doing, so summertime babywearing is essential!
What you wear and how you wear it are both important in the effort to remain comfortable over the hottest time of the year. If your baby has enough strength to support her own head you might want to try a hip carry, in this position there is less surface area of your bodies pressed together. There are fibres, such as linen and linenblends, which offer breathable and cooling properties, and considering how you dress yourself and your child is important too.
The hotter temperatures call for us to consider overheating and hydration concerns. Using a single layer to carry baby, such as a thin ringsling or a shorter woven wrap is a good idea. Make sure you seek shade, wear a broad rimmed hat, offer bub frequent feeds or take a bottle of water for
“Wet-wearing� is using a baby sling, carrier or wrap which is intended to be used in or around water. Always make sure that the way you are using your sling is the way it is intended to be used. There should be information in your instructions, on the care tag and on the website or in the shop you purchased from to give you confidence in making the right choice of product. Buckles, stitching, fabric, rings and 24 | familyliving magazine
other components that give your carrier strength may be corroded, stretched, weakened, rusted or damaged by either saltwater, chlorinated water or even freshwater if they were not intended to be used in this way. Most mesh style synthetic water slings are only meant to be used in water, rather than for every day, as the sling fabric relies on some buoyancy to support the weight of your child. The wet fabric holds better tension through the rings too, allowing for a more secure carry. An example of a synthetic mesh ringsling is Comfy Joey, and the CJ website explains more about the properties of the mesh. Wrapsody DuO, which is a wrap style carrier, can be used in the pool, shower or at the beach as well as worn for gentle dry activity, such as a mum and bub exercise class, or a walk. The fabric is designed to wick away moisture and dry quickly. ByKay offer both ringsling and wrap options, this allows you to choose which type of carrying style suits your body and your baby best. Staying safe around water goes beyond the carrier you choose. Life jackets are important on boat craft, and you cannot wear a baby and have them wear their life jacket, so this would be a good example of an activity that isn’t made more accessible to your family through babywearing. Wearing your baby while you take your toddler for a paddle at the beach is a great way to entertain the whole family. Many families with twins or children close in age find it essential to have their hands free around water, and a good quality
water carrier of some type will help in this. Before summer begins it’s a good idea to brush up on your first aid skills, and think about how to organise your play around water. Will one adult be caring for the baby while another watches over older children? Will you be looking after several children on your own? While your baby is snug in your sling, and you keep your hands free for the adventurous toddler, or playful pre-schooler you can truly enjoy the gorgeous outdoor lifestyle that is so well loved in Australia. For more information you can join your local babywearing group or visit AngelRock Baby in Ettalong Beach.
AngelRock Baby Natural Jewellery
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angelrockbaby.com.au familyliving magazine | 25
Summer Salt Cafe ‘The Muffin Man’ Upon
entering Summer Salt Cafe in Cromer, you a greeted by the friendly sincere owner Jeff Rahme. Jeff ensures every customer feels warm and welcome in his family oriented Cafe that prides itself on their “Baked Fresh Daily” muffins, however they also provide a wide selection of fresh gourmet wraps, rolls, Pastas, Home Made Hamburgers, 140g Chicken Schnitzel burgers & Beer Battered chips, not to mention their amazing Organic coffee from Grinders.
With the credited “Muffin Man” Jeff Rahme is running a tight ship to ensure your visit & meal is more than just a “café experience” with happiness & satisfaction.
The local community also rely on the Cafe’s popular Catering service for private & business functions which offers very good value for money and xgenerous Fully Magnetic School Board portions.
Jeff was asked to be featured in the local Manly Daily recently through word of mouth after an employee had tasted his tasty muffins and wanted to share his Packages with product with the localMarker/Eraser community.
ORK PROOF - Cromer
000
Fax to: 07 5593 7555
Located adjacent to the ever popular your advertisement includes your artwork and 2 amendments. Manly Warringah Gymnastics Club, to carefully check all details for any amendments needed to avoid further cost. attend a Kindy Gym class with endments will incur a $25.00 fee. We thank youwhy for not understanding. the kids and treat them to a muffin or delicious lunch whilst your there.
VOUCHER
Buy a Coffee and Receive a FREE OPEN AT 6:45am FOR COFFEE & BREAKFAST Muffin
• Fresh muffins baked daily • Email orders for pick this up when you present Voucher oroutdoor mention • Large diningFamily area Magazine •Living BBQ facilities available • Home & business catering
26 FOOD | familyliving magazine MADE STY FRESHLY
n Road, Cromer
Ph.9971 1963
OPEN AT 6:45am FOR COFFEE & BREAKFAST • Fresh muffins baked daily • Email orders for pick up • Large outdoor dining area • BBQ facilities available • Home & business catering
SIMPLE TASTY FOOD FRESHLY MADE 24 Middleton Road, Cromer Ph.9971 1963 summersaltcafe@optusnet.com.au
Artwork at actual size.
Designer Berries ‘A Healthy Xmas Treat Starting at $2.50 each. Designer Berries was created 2 years ago and has an amazing following. Inspired by my super yacht experience as a Chef, I design, hand dip, and decorate chocolate dipped strawberries. Sounds so simple right? We bring it to a whole new level that most haven’t seen! When moving to the Northern Beaches with my family, my husband who was born and raised here suggested I make these, and with the love that my son still has for strawberries and his constant struggles in and out of hospital we needed to provide for him, hence Designer Berries was born! The strawberries used are premium gourmet, the best in Australia. They come fresh from the markets and are dipped in gorgeous Couverture Chocolate made by an Italian Priest mixed with a delicious compound to
create that crunch that you love when you bite into your favourite chocolates. Our prices can’t be beat throughout Australia while providing this high quality delicious, yet affordable product. Why do I aim for affordability and high quality? I believe everyone deserves “A taste of Luxury” whether you’re celebrating the best of times, or showing your love. Sonia: 0487516405 Email: info@designerberries.com.au www.designerberries.com.au Facebook.com/designerberries Instagram.com/designerberries Twitter.com/designerberries Pinterest.com/designerberries #designerberries
familyliving magazine | 27
BECOME A FOSTER CARER As a foster carer you’ll receive a fortnightly allowance, 24/7 support and ongoing training opportunities. If you’ve been thinking about fostering and you have a spare bedroom, talk to us today and start a journey you’ll never forget.
1800 WE CARE iwanttofoster.com.au
Congratulations You have a new baby!
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so many questions...too many answers. google, family, friends...who do you turn to?
When you arrive home with your new baby, consistent professional support could save you hours of valuable sleep. Glynis Howard is a registered nurse and midwife with a deep passion for helping and supporting parents in their journey through parenthood. www.babyofmine.com.au
0416 151 154 it is perfectly natural to have questions. baby of mine is pleased to help you find the answers!
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Parent Guidance/ Home visits Grief (death or separation) Relationship/Transitional life changes Family therapy and Personal counselling
0421 322 379 Suit 3/ 47A The Corso, Manly www.cristianelobato.wix.com/counselling Dip. Children’s Services; Dip. Hypnotherapy; Dip. Counselling medibank refunds available
Little Smiles Family Dental If you are yet to take the kids to the dentist, we recommend visiting Little Smiles Family Dental in Mona Vale.
machine, tooth fairy letterbox and a kids room complete with books, toys and a Playstation.
Little Smiles Family Dental is a family friendly practice that makes going to the dentist fun for kids and mums and dads too!
Kids are entertained in our playroom with an iPad, Playstation, giant chalk wall, books, toys, colouring in and more. We play with the kids to help them feel relaxed and comfortable before their checkup.
Their brand new, state of the art dental surgery has been custom built with inchair iPads, ceiling mounted TVs, coffee
Call them on 9986 0600 to book today!!
Ph- 9986 0600
www.littlesmilesfamilydental.com.au
Shop 6A, 13 Waratah St Mona Vale 2103
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STRAWBERRY CHEESCAKE INGREDIENTS CRUST
• 1/2 cup almonds • 1/2 cup medjool
FILLING
• 2 cups raw cashews soaked • 1/4 cup of brown rice malt syrup • 1/4 cup coconut oil melted
dates, pitted • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean, scraped • 1/2 cup lemon juice • 1/4 cup of water • 1/2 cup of strawberries blended into a puree
METHOD 1. Line a 15cm baking pan with baking paper 2. Blend almonds and dates into food processor until the mixture is crumbly and press into pan 3. Cover and place in the fridge until the filling is made. 4. Place the soaked and drained cashews into a food processor and process for 2 minutes, or until the cashews have started to form a paste. 5. Add the remaining ingredients and process for a further 5 minutes until smooth. 6. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and process for a further 1 minute. 7. Pour over the crust, cover and refrigerate for approximately 3 hours or until the filling has set. 8. Remove from fridge or freezer 15 minutes before serving. 30 | familyliving magazine
This Cheesecake is a great recipe to try this Christmas or New Year. It is Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Vegetarian and can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Thank you to Felicity Gatfield from Pure Goodness for kids www.puregoodness.com.au/kids ebook@puregoodness.com.au Check out her ebook which is full of amazing recipes just like this one!!
ORANGE SPICED XMAS COOKIES INGREDIENTS • 250gms Almond Meal • 2tsp ground ginger • 1tsp cinnamon • 1/2tsp nutmeg • 1/2 tsp baking powder • Zest of an orange • 2 pinches salt • 1tsp green leaf stevia • 1 egg
(GLUTEN FREE)
• 50gms butter or coconut oil • 1tbs rice malt syrup • 1 tbs maple syrup • 400gms of desiccated coconut • crushed pistachios • roughly chopped goji berries
METHOD 1. Pre-heat the oven to 160 degree fan forced 2. Mix all the dry ingredients together including the Orange zest. This can be done by hand or in a food processer 3. Add the wet ingredients and process until dough has formed. 4. If you are mixing by hand add the wet ingredients in a bowl and whisk before adding to the dry ingredients. 5. Place dough in between two pieces of baking paper and roll out to 1cm thickness. (The dough will be very oily, don’t worry this is good) 6. Place in the fridge for a few hours or freezer for one hour so that the oils harden. 7. When dough is firm, cut into Christmas shapes and bake 160 degrees fan forced oven for 12 – 15 minutes, or until slightly brown on the edges. 8. Cool cookies 9. Process desiccated coconut until it
forms a liquid butter (time can vary) and use straight away to decorate cookies how you like before it hardens. 10. Decorate with crushed pisachios and Goji berries Thank you to Kate Richmond for this recipe. Kate is a PDHPE teacher & Holistic Health Coach. Follow her on Instagram Fuel_my_life or contact her at:
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THE
OF
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BUSINESS & TRADE DIRECTORY Busy family, need a holiday? I bring the Travel Agency to you! Sue Barton - Mobile Travel Agent m: 0415 396 622 e: sbarton@mtatravel.com.au w: www.mtatravel.com.au/sbarton
Wellness support for Super-Mums Relieve tension, Sleep Better, Feel great! Wellness support for tired & stressed Super-Mums - Massage - Acupuncture - Osteopathy - Nutrition - Kinesiology - Homeopathy - Parenting support from Child psychologist
Book Online right now at www.familywellnesscentre.com.au or 9938 1090
Ignite your child’s passion for sport and exercise We are Australia’s leading sport program for 2.5–6 year olds! • Over 50 locations across NSW • Small class sizes • FREE trial available Franchise opportunities available
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readysteadygokids.com.au 1300 766 892
Phone- 0425 220 874
Etablished Since 2002 Cleaning Services:-House, End of Lease, Move In, One-Off, Holiday House, Spring Clean, Real Estate, Sales/Property Management, Strata Clean. We also offer Handyman Services Facebook.com/shimmernshinecleaningsolutions enquiries@shimmernshine.net.au
Marisa’s Bookkeeping Services Here to help simplify the bookkeeping process Certified & Registered BAS Agent 15 years Bookkeeping Experience Quickbooks Online, Xero, Reckon Accounts & MYOB Marisa Sutton 0412 193 396 ms_books@bigpond.com
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Marisa’s Bookkeeping Services
What’s on in December 3, 17 SUMMER SESSIONS 11, 15 SUMMER SESSIONS 4, 15
SUMMER SESSIONS
5
5:30PM-7:30PM BERT PAYNE RESERVE NEWPORT BEACH
FORESTVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOL XMAS TREE SALE
12PM-2PM LIBRARY LANE MONA VALE
DARLEY ST STAFF CARPARK 7:00AM-1PM
5:30PM-7:30PM DUNBAR PARK AVALON
5
9452 5444
6
CAROLS IN THE PARK & FAIR TRADE MARKET 4PM- 8:30PM 16 LOCKWOOD AVE BELROSE
NORTHERN BEACHES SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA XMAS CONCERT 2:30 PM – 4:00PM ST MARKS FRESHWATER
FAMILY POP UP XMAS EVENT 5PM-9PM ROBERTSON RD NEWPORT
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12
12
10
PITTWATER XMAS CAROLS BY THE SEA CHRISTMAS 4:30-9:30 CAROLS IN THE PARK PANTOMIME IN THE PARK AT THE SOUTHERN END OF 6:30PM-9PM 3:15PM-4:30PM
VILLAGE PARK MONA VALE
MONA VALE MEMORIAL HALL
10
AVALON BEACH
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21 BEACHES XMAS MARKET 9AM-3PM
PITTWATER RUGBY PARK (RAT PARK) 1472 PITTWATER ROAD, WARRIEWOOD
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NEW YEARS EVE DEE WHY 9PM-9:30PM
FIREWORKS DEE WHY BEACH RESERVE
What’s on in January 3
12
KIDS DAY TERREY HILLS TAVERN
CRAZY SCIENCE KIDS SHOW
3PM-5PM TERREY HILLS TAVERN
10AM DEE WHY RSL
15
SUMMER SESSIONS
THE WIZARD OF OZ
15
SUMMER SESSIONS
19
19 - 24
14 10:30AM DEE WHY RSL
PRINCESSES OF POP 10:30AM DEE WHY RSL
12PM-2PM LIBRARY LANE MONA VALE
5:30PM-7:30PM DUNBAR PARK AVALON
THE GOOD DOCTOR GLEN STREET THEATRE WWW.GLENSTREE.COM.AU
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A NEW DAWN FOR THE DIGGERS