PakMag Australia – November 2016 Issue 16

ISSUE: NOV 2016

16

AUSTRALIA

TEACHERS' GIFTS

Christmas MAKE & BAKE

DOING THE MATHS

Second

LANGUAGES

PARTY LIKE A HERO

2

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

CONTENTS

HELLO

ISSUE NO.16 NOV 2016 Hello and welcome to our November edition of PakMag.

04 Feature: Christmas Make & Bake

The festive season is creeping up fast, so this month we help you get prepared early with our Christmas Make and Bake and DIY Teachers’ Gifts features.

07 Education: How Learning A Second

We also focus on education for both kids and parents this month. Our story on early language learning provides a fantastic insight into the benefits of children learning a second language. Plus, we show you how maths can be fun, and give you tips and hints to stay motivated in your own educational pursuits.

Splash into summer with Caro and Kingi’s guide to pool perfection and see how you can make spending time outdoors more enjoyable in our Outdoor Summer Fun feature.

Until next time, don’t forget to tell everyone, you read it in PakMag!

Language Can Benefit Your Child

11 Education: Doing The Maths 13 Baby: Removing The Stigma Attached

To Postnatal Depression

14 Bump And Bub: WIN 16 Summer Giveaways 18 Craft: Teachers’ Gifts

Bree x

20 Celebrate: Party Like A Hero 23 Fashion: Festive Frocks &

BREE JAMES / PAKMAG PUBLISHER

Party Smocks

24 Home with Caro & Kingi:

Pool Perfection

26 Home: Outdoor Summer Fun 28 Recipes:

PAKMAG P 4053 3331 F 4053 3350 E admin@grandpublishing.com.au PO BOX 7433 Cairns QLD 4870 FB www.facebook.com/PakmagAustralia T #pakmag PAKMAG'S CORE VALUES

Create happier communities

Love connecting families & business

Collaborate with creativity

Lead & engage with heart

Publish authentic content with integrity

DISCLAIMER No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole without the expressed permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest of care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press, readers are advised to check details before visiting. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions.

The expressions expressed within PakMag are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

Daring Designer Lise

Bree's Wingwoman Rose

Sales Star Lisa

Darling Designer Clare

Talented Trent

Grand Poobah Bree

Office Aficionado Janelle

Rad Sales Rep Jacqui

Word Wizard Jenna

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

Savvy Sales Sandra

3

Christmas PLAN, PLAN, PLAN November is the perfect time to start making lists and getting organised! Set up a family list station and spend an evening planning for December. Get the kids to put together their wish lists and write their letters to Santa while you go over travel plans, gift-giving requirements, house decoration ideas, baking needs, Christmas events, kids’ activities and, most importantly, your budget. Use a visual guide, such as a journal or spreadsheet to stay on top of everything.

BAKE & FREEZE MINCE PIES Mince pies are a delicious table setting for any Christmas-themed gathering and an easy gift idea too. Plus, they freeze well for up to three months. Freeze uncooked pies in cling wrap and store in a tin. Freeze pre-cooked (and cooled) pies by putting a sheet of baking paper between each layer and placing them in a container in the freezer.

MAKE THE CHRISTMAS PUDDING It’s just not Christmas without Christmas Pudding! You can make puddings in advance as long as you store them properly in pudding bowls. Add baking paper to the top of the pudding and layer them in cling wrap to keep their shape. When steaming your pudding, you can keep the cling wrap on – just make sure to remove it to serve!

M A K E & F R E E Z E RU M B A L L S Set up your rum ball making station and get rolling just in time for Christmas. Rum balls are a delicious snack or a perfect addition to any tin of homemade goodies to give as gifts. Get creative with your balls and use flavours that your family loves.

Peanut butter balls, coconut balls, Milo balls and fruit nut balls are all great alternatives that can all be made now and frozen for later. When freezing, include baking paper in between each layer to keep the balls from sticking to one another.

4 4

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

W H I P U P S O M E P R E S E RV E S Pick up a few extra cute jars and spend an afternoon making jams, chutneys and spreads to give to friends or enjoy as part of your festive feast. With some green or red ribbon, embellishments and a nice handmade note attached to the jar, you’ve got yourself a gift that oozes with Christmas cheer.

You can put pretty much anything in a jar including dry ingredients like our Oatmeal Cookies in a Jar, below.

RECIPE IN A JA R Mix 2/3 cup flour, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp cinnamon and ¼ tsp salt and place in the bottom of a jar. Layer with 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup white sugar, 1 1/2 cup oats, 3/4 cup choc chips and 1/2 cup chopped nuts. Seal, decorate and include a card with wet ingredients (1/2 cup butter, 1 egg and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract) and instructions with the jar: Mix wet and dry ingredients, drop rounded tablespoons onto a lined tray and bake for 8-10 minutes at 190° C.

L AV E N D E R S U G A R Lavender sugar can be substituted for regular sugar in a number of recipes and imparts a subtle floral flavour, giving family favourites such as cookies and cakes an extra special twist. Simply add 1 tsp of dried lavender buds to 1 cup of sugar and place in a jar.

Stir the ingredients, add a lilac ribbon around the top of the jar and decorate with a floral inspired tag.

M I N T S U GA R S C RU B 1/2 cup coconut oil 1 1/2 - 2 cups sugar 1 tablespoon peppermint extract 1 drop green food coloring For a non-edible gift idea, make your own sugar scrub. Place coconut oil in a bowl and microwave for 15 seconds. Add all ingredients to the bowl to create a light green mixture. Spoon scrub into a jar and seal. And don’t forget the mint green ribbon!

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

5 5

6

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

EDUCATION

pakmag

HOW LEARNING A SECOND LANGUAGE CAN BENEFIT YOUR CHILD.

STORY Janelle Santolin, Education Officer, Catholic Education Services

Growing up in the ’70s in Far North Queensland, I didn’t have the opportunity to learn a second language in primary school, like my children do today. I was very fortunate, however, to have an Italian-born father who regularly broke into Italian at home (although, the creative vocab he used would, at times, made my mother’s hair curl!).

For me, and for more than 20 per cent of Australians who speak a second language at home, being able to transfer back and forth from one language to another depending on the audience, is just the norm. And while my ability to speak a second language has been lost over the years, the social awareness that this skill provides remains strong within me.

So, now that I am a parent of two delightful and curious early learners, I find myself asking the question: "Should my children be studying a second language?" With a lot of digging, I unearthed an exhaustive amount of research from as far back as the 1970s, which tells me the answer to my question is an overwhelming yes.

SAYING “NI HAO” TO BILINGUALISM Learning a second language at a very early stage in their development can bring about so many wonderful benefits for our children.

Improved cognitive development Harvard Professor Maria Polinsky explains that bilingual children will have developed much more cognitive control than monolingual children.

Through constantly switching back and forth between two languages bilingual children tend to be better multi-taskers, problem-solvers and creative and critical thinkers.

Enhanced general literacy skills (including understanding of their primary language) Many people assume that learning another language means a child’s understanding of their primary language will suffer. This is exactly

the opposite. When studying a second language, a child learns about how languages work and their literacy skills are enhanced because a clear link exists between learning another language and literacy development in English.

A deeper understanding of culture and values Learning a second language is more than just learning new words. As children delve into a new language, they are exposed to new cultures, traditions and values. This extends their understanding of themselves, their own heritage, culture and identity as well as giving them a worldwide view of life.

Improved self-esteem and self-awareness Just like any great accomplishment, whether it be playing an instrument, writing their name or even tying their shoelaces for the first time, learning a language can give your child a sense of achievement and this definitely enhances their concept of self and self-belief.

Improved employment potential Let’s face it, we want the very best future for our children, and having a second language gives them the edge over those who don’t. Being bilingual can be a significant career advantage in terms of employability and earnings.

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

7

pakmag EDUCATION

SECOND LANGUAGES IN SCHOOLING Fortunately for parents in Queensland, most primary schools offer a language to our children, some from as early as Prep. Queensland’s Department of Education encourages all schools to deliver some sort of language program from prep to Year 12.

The dominant languages taught in North Qld, according to Florence Boulard, JCU Coordinator of Modern Languages, are Japanese, Italian and French, with some schools offering Chinese (Mandarin) and German.

Whilst this is fantastic news for parents, in reality language learning is only mandated from Years 5 to 8 in Queensland and many schools will forego language lessons in the early years.

SECOND LANGUAGES AT HOME As parents, we can fill the gap in many ways: • Start them young. It’s a lot harder to learn a language as an adult than as a child. This is because the language receptors in our brains are more open to receiving new information in our first five or six years of life. We develop the bulk of our language skills before we start school. After that, learning a language can be more difficult.

• If you have a family member who speaks a second language, then have them expose your children to that language as often as possible. The best environment for learning a language is one that is safe and relaxed, so home is perfect. If you don’t have a family member, then look to your wider community for international clubs, kindergartens with language programs or even neighbours.

• There are so many children’s toys on the market that have second language functions. Be sure to find toys that have the correct tone and accent and are not computer automated.

• Children’s TV programs that are bilingual are a very easy way for parents to expose children to a second language. Children will mimic what they hear and will eventually grasp the meaning of the words they are speaking and use them correctly in context. Parents know how this works, especially when the littlies repeat, with perfect diction and tone, the very colourful language heard on the sporting sidelines!

• Consider the myriad of educational apps specifically designed to make language learning fun for children.

For parents looking to learn more about benefits of a second language, check out www.serious-science.org for a great YouTube video by Maria Polinsky as well as www.schoolatoz.nse.edu.au for additional reading material.

APPS FOR LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT www.eLearningIndustry.com has highlighted their top apps for second language learning which include:

Duolingo

Chinese Skill

WEB www.duolingo.com COST FREE

WEB www.chinese-skill.com COST FREE

Little Pim

Gus on the Go

WEB www.littlepim.com COST FREE

WEB www.gusonthego.com COST $6.99

Mindsnacks

Rosetta Stone Kids Lingo Letter Sounds

WEB www.mindsnacks.com COST FREE

WEB www.rosettastone.com/lp/kidsapp COST FREE

All of these apps and more can be purchased from iTunes App store or Google Play store. And what’s more, the majority of these apps are free and offer a range of languages to choose from.

8

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

EDUCATION

pakmag

Doing the Maths STORY Jenna Galley

Some people are born with a love of numbers. Others, not so much. However, regardless of whether your children love crunching numbers or tune out completely when asked to calculate an equation, maths is an important part of the curriculum that leads to career success and confidence.

So how can you foster their love of maths?

SNEAK MATHS INTO PLAY.

FOCUS ON THE FUTURE.

Many board games inadvertently teach your children maths including Snakes and Ladders, Yahtzee and pretty much any game involving dice.

Card games such as Crazy Eights and Uno are also great at helping with number identification and basic maths. And Poker and Black Jack are great for mini mathletes.

“When am I ever going to need to use trigonometry?”

There are plenty of other number games that are fun for younger kids including Guess My Number (choose a number between 1-100 and help your kids guess it by saying “higher” or “lower” with each guess) and Maths Jeopardy (choose a number and give your kids one minute to find as many ways to make the number using addition, subtraction, multiplication and division).

THINK OUTSIDE THE PIE CHART. When we went to school, we were taught a certain way to get to the answer. However, turns out there are plenty of different ways to do basic equations and some will work better for visually minded students. An abacus, for example, is a great device to help with mental calculations.

Like in life, there is more than one way to get to the right answer. Let your children explore the various calculation methods to see what resonates with them.

I remember saying it countless times to my parents and I’m sure my kids will say the same thing to me once they reach this stage in their schooling.

Sure, some careers do not require you to perform equations on a regular basis but many do. And cool ones at that.

For kids that are interested in animation, special effects, technology, computer games, forensic science and architecture, maths is critical for career success.

Other people that require maths in their career? Fashion designers, statisticians, engineers, stockbrokers, car designers, doctors, tradesmen and so many more!

MATHS IS SO BORING, MUM! So is doing the dishes and folding the laundry every day. But it has to be done, just like maths homework.

The next time your kids complain about maths, here are a few gems to throw their way.

Maths helps you develop lifelong skills. Problem solving, adaptive reasoning, critical thinking – these are the skills we all need in life and ones that are practiced when performing maths.

Maths assists with focus. And focus is one of the most important assets when it comes to a good work ethic.

Maths can be incredibly rewarding. That ‘a-ha’ moment when you finally figure out an equation is extremely satisfying (and addictive). It can also help build self-confidence and pride in the ability to understand complicated things.

Maths can also be kind of fun.

There are plenty of amazing maths equations and facts to impress the kids out there. Our favourite one? The Birthday Equation which confirms that if there are 23 people in a room, there is a 50 per cent chance that at least two people share the same birth date.

In a room with 75 people, this number increases to 99 per cent. Fascinating!

And, finally, lots of celebrities like maths. Some of the rich and famous even studied maths in university and college including Michael Jordan, Teri Hatcher and Mr. T. See kids. Maths is cool.

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

11

BABY

pakmag

Removing the Stigma Attached to

Postnatal Depression STORY Dr Isobel Morse FRACGP BSc (Hons) Psych

New parents are often hit with clichés such as, “Enjoy every moment” during their first year with bub. And although these clichés are not said with malice or harm, they can sting, especially for those who are faced with postnatal depression or anxiety.

The reality is that up to 80 per cent of new mothers experience feelings of sadness, irritability, and bouts of crying in the first few days after birth, known as “the baby blues”. Such emotions are considered normal in those first few days, however, they should not be ignored if they are still there after a few weeks, or appear during those first 12 months, as they could be signs of postnatal depression.

Postnatal depression or PND is the name given to depression that develops up to one year after the birth of a baby. Fathers can have PND too, either along with their partner’s postnatal depression or by themselves. An estimated one in seven new mums experienced PND and one in 20 new fathers are impacted by this condition.

It is often hard to acknowledge you are experiencing PND and people often wait to try and “snap out of it”.

However, it does not usually resolve itself without treatment. If PND isn’t identified and treated, the toll it can take can be considerable for the entire family.

Nevertheless, with early identification and intervention most people can fully recover from PND with no long term effects.

There are several treatment options. These might include things like practical support in the home, lifestyle changes including diet and exercise, counselling and sometimes medication. Making an appointment with a GP or Child & Family Health Nurse, or contacting a support organisation such as PANDA is a good first step to diagnosis and the development of an individualised treatment plan. In situations where there are ideas about self-harm or doing harm to a baby, professional help should be sought straight away.

PND is not something to be ashamed of. It should be seen as one of the many complications of parenthood. With appropriate help, people with PND do recover.

Stand Up, Speak Out and Stop Suffering in Silence Many new mums suffer with PND in silence. It can be hard to admit that you are not coping and that it could be due to PND. There is a huge strain on new parents to prove that they are succeeding in all aspects of parenting and a sense of shame when they are not.

Get involved in helping to end the stigma attached to PND. The Perinatal Depression & Anxiety (PNDA) Awareness Week is held from 15th to 21st of November each year and is a great opportunity to raise awareness about perinatal mental health issues in your local community.

New parents often assume they have to be superheroes.

But the bravest thing you can do is step forward and ask for help. It’s okay to admit that things aren’t perfect.

It’s okay to admit you’re not coping. In fact, asking for help is not only beneficial to you, but your new baby as well.

Support organisations available to help with PND: PANDA (Post and Antenatal Depression Association) - 1300 726 306, www.panda.org.au Pregnancy, Birth and Baby (Australian Government Service) - 1800 882 436, www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au Lifeline (Crisis service) 13 11 14, www.lifeline.org.au

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

13

BumBp

AND BU

WIN

www.pakmag.com.au FOR YOUR CHANCE TO Win!

VISIT

TH E PR OP PR .00 WEB www.theproppr.com RRP $149

st that offers an The PROPPR is a stylish bathroom footre ed constipation induc y nanc effective natural solution to Preg bathroom when y nanc preg post ort comf and also offers ult. diffic be can visits when using the To use - Prop your feet on the PROPPR ment for a Proppr align t squa pr Prop the loo, to put you into use daily. and loo release. Store discretely beside your PPR and PRO your using nue For ongoing wellbeing conti the benefits enjoy to y famil your of bers mem all encourage of PROPPR mornings.

THANK YOU BABY RANGE

WE LOVE

WEB www.thankyou.co/baby Since 2008 ThankYou has given $4.7 million to projects around the world and their recently launched baby range will continue to help these numbers grow. Thankyou’s baby products are not only adorable and functional, but they are also serving an incredibly important global purpose; 100 per cent of their profits fund safe drinking water and sanitation around the world.

Their new baby product range includes nappies in six sizes (including cloth nappies), baby wash, lotion, massage oil and nappy balm. You can check out the full range at www.thankyou.co/baby and purchase select items from Coles, Woolworths, Baby Bunting and Priceline.

14

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

CHIBEBE SNUGGLE POD WEB www.chibebe.com.au RRP $99.00 The multi-award winning Chibebe Snuggle Pod is designed to help prevent reflux and flathead in babies, and it doesn't hurt that they look amazing also! They are laboratory tested for use from birth to pre-teens and are loved by babies all over the world!

EXPLORING THE BENEFITS OF SENSORY PLAY STORY Goodstart Early Learning – Sally Fitzgerald, Senior Occupational Therapist

From birth through to early childhood, children use their senses to explore and try to make sense of the world around them. They do this by touching, tasting, smelling, seeing, moving and hearing.

Providing opportunities for children to actively use their senses as they explore their world through sensory play is crucial to brain development – it helps to build nerve connections in the brain’s pathways, supporting cognitive growth, language development, gross motor skills, social interaction and problem solving skills.

We often talk about the five senses: taste, touch, smell, sight and hearing. However, there are two others we commonly miss: body awareness and balance.

Another example is a child who is particularly fussy with eating foods with a wet texture such as spaghetti. The use of sensory play can assist the child in touching, smelling and playing with the texture in an environment without being expected to eat it. As the child develops trust and understanding of this texture it helps build positive pathways in the brain to say it is safe to engage with this food.

So, what is sensory play?

Sensory play includes any activity that stimulates your young child's senses. Sensory activities facilitate exploration and naturally encourage children to use scientific processes while they play, create, investigate and explore. Sensory play literally helps determine what children believe to be positive and thus shapes the choices they make and impacts their behaviour.

For example, initially a child may find it difficult to play appropriately with a peer when there are other things going on in the environment with conflicting noise. However, through sensory play, exploring sounds and tasks, a child learns to adapt to being able to block out the noise which is not important and focus on playing with his or her peer.

Tips for parents on creating a sensory play environment in the home: • Organise physical indoor and outdoor areas for your child so they have flexible spaces that include quiet, active, wet and dry areas.

• Ensure your child has access to materials they can shape and adapt, such as play dough.

• Use lighting and soft furnishings such as cushions and blankets to create separate spaces.

For more information, please get in touch with us on 1800 222 543 or visit your nearest Goodstart Early Learning centre.

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

15

SUMMER GIVEAWAYS GIVEAWAY FOR GREAT ADVENTURERS WEB www.lonelyplanet.com/kids RRP From $24.99 We have three great books to give away for little explorers. Lonely Planet Kids’ Unfolding Journeys series presents some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet. Our giveaway includes three titles - Lonely Planet Kids: The Cities Book, Lonely Planet Kids’ Unfolding Journeys: Rocky Mountain Explorer and Lonely Planet Kids’ Unfolding Journeys: Amazon Adventure.

GOOGLY EYES GAME WEB www.crownandandrews.com RRP From $39.99 A twist on the classic game where a team member draws an object and the others guess what it is – this time the person drawing has to wear the vision-altering ‘Googly Eyes’ glasses!

Get your teammates to guess the right answer by drawing clues before time runs out. The first team through to the finish wins! The large wacky glasses have three sets of vision altering lenses that go from easy to hard.

Suitable for 2+ players aged 7+.

Visit www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to

16

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

WIN!

liev

Unbeleafably Good

|

TEACHERS' GIFTS

Who doesn’t love a good pun? Give your child’s teacher a bit of a laugh and a pot full of fragrance with these adorable and unique teachers’ gifts.

Teachers give our kids so much. They literally plant the seed to learning (which we then continue to feed and grow at home). And thus it’s time to give them something back to let them know they are doing an incredible job.

It is not required for students to give a gift but it is a great way to end another year of learning. This year, in Queensland, the last day of school is 9 December which gives you plenty of time to get planting!

Common teacher gifts include gift vouchers, chocolates, flowers and stationery but there is no specific etiquette when it comes to giving to your child’s teacher. Your child may want to get involved with a hand-made card or message or you may want to bake something together (check out our Make ‘n Bake section on page eight for some more great gift ideas).

The gift that keeps on growing… This year, get ahead of the class with a gift that not only stands out, but honours the hard work performed by the teacher and comes with that creative hand-made touch. And what better way to do this than with a planter complete with a spice, flower or herb of your choice?

Not only do plants looks attractive but they also come with a number of benefits. Plants are known to reduce stress, create a feeling of wellbeing and provide a pleasant and tranquil environment. And anything that helps create a more calming classroom is certainly going to benefit both teacher and students!

PUNNY PLANTS Have some fun with a punny plant!

There are plenty of cute messages that play on the planting puns.

HERE’S A FEW TO CONSIDER: • Thanks for helping me Bloom • Thank you for your Thyme • Thank you for your Sage advice • Thank you for your commit Mint.

WHAT YOU NEED: • Potted plant of your choice • Brown paper lunch bags • Manilla shipping tags • Alphabet stamps • A vine/leaf stamp, green ink pads • Fabric cut into 3 centimeter wide strips HOW TO MAKE: • Transfer your pot plant into a lunch bag. Open the lunchbag and start folding down the top until it is just tall enough to cover the top of the pot.

• Using the stamps, stamp your manila shipping tag with your message and leaves.

• Thread your strip of fabric though the stamped tag and tie around the folded top of the lunch bag.

Thanks to: www.anightowlblog.com

18

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

|

YOU RULE! PLANTER

| Add a bit of colour to a teacher’s desk with this creative “You Rule” planter, complete with a punny message to go with it.

WHAT YOU NEED: • Your plant of choice • A metre wooden ruler (or three regular sized wooden rulers) • Saw and scissors • 1 empty one litre milk carton • A hot glue gun • A pencil/ permanent marker/ potting soil/ small stones/ small plantings/ sphagnum moss.

HOW TO MAKE: • Cut the ruler into twelve 7.5 cm sections. Clean up the ends with scissors to remove any super sharp and sloppy bits.

• Mark the carton so you know where to glue the sections of the ruler.

• Cut the top off the carton and wash and dry it.

• Glue the ruler sections onto the carton.

• Add small stones to the bottom of the carton and poke a few holes at the bottom for drainage.

• Add your plant of choice and finish with a bit of sphagnum moss.

• Add “You Rule” to your pencil and tuck it into the back of the planter.

Thanks to: www.hgtv.com

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

19

A E K I L PA R T Y

www.karaspartyideas.com

pakmag CELEBRATE

ete with rheroes compl e party for supe at tim ul e th w rts as you thro ur heroic effo “Marvel” at yo ts es decorations. gu ic ur ic at yo Ensure served in com mes and dram ga ed ifi or gl , ts ero party. Food ee rh pe sw su ng g ic hi in ep as nt sm M and bu throwing an as POW and BA fference when slogans such that make a di o s er he rh uc pe to su s. tle on es It’s the lit ero succ with comm age for superh pcake holders S will set the st book paper, cu an rm pe Su ic w you can the icon tle ones and ho e designed with eyes of our lit e th h bowl. Pin th in nc l ia pu t ec sp n make a grea a d ca perheroes so s an su l nd ze es ha et ak n pr m ee a at pcakes with party. Hulk’s gr cu Think about wh ur er m yo m to ha in ng ’s pi ls mask by pi ese symbo Create Thor incorporate th loured shield. eet Spiderman erica’s multi-co into a pretty sw ry Am er n ai wb pt ra st Ca a star on and transform marshmallow chocolate. d d masks or te some mel r own capes an kids make thei e th t aganda (you Le op pr n? io ok ct and comic bo a great craft se es up um t st se co t of no Why ur collection booth with yo ll of them!). set up a photo ole toy box fu wh a ve ha n re ild ch know your tions! of epic propor gers for a party en Av ur yo e bl So assem

www.catchmyparty.com 20

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

www.andersruff.com

Design your Super Hero Cape www.earthtoys.net (RRP $49.95ea)

Crochet Super Max www.earthtoys.net (RRP $85.00ea)

Wonder Woman Biscuits www.okyscookies.com

Spider-Man Strawberries www.trendhunter.com

Thor Cupcakes www.horriblehousewife.com

Icingbits Cake Toppers www.icingbits.com

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

21

22

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

FASHION

pakmag

STORY Gerlinda Stella - Personal stylist, image expert, speaker, fashion consultant and style blogger. www.gerlinda.com.au There are so many celebrations at this time of year. Christmas parties, BBQs, weddings, the races - the list can seem endless! Knowing how to dress for the occasion is key. With creative dress codes such as “dress to party”, “beach chic “or “tropical cocktail” what to wear can be confusing. If you have an event coming up and you’re not sure of the appropriate attire take these three things into consideration:

1. LOCATION

2. WEATHER & TEMPERATURE

3. TIME

The venue plays a vital role in deciding your outfit. Is it in a hotel, at the beach or at a park?

There’s nothing worse than feeling overdressed in a sparkly gown at a backyard BBQ, especially if everyone else is in jeans! Ask your friends or co-workers what they are wearing.

This can make you feel more at ease about your fashion choice.

Will it be rainy, windy, or sunny?

Dressing to suit the weather will ensure you are comfortable in your clothes. If you are attending an inside event the air-conditioning can be quite cool so pack a scarf or jacket.

If it’s outdoors take protection! For example, if it’s warm and sunny don’t forget your sunscreen. If there’s a possibility of rain, ensure you have a stylish umbrella on hand.

Is it morning, noon or night? Timing helps to determine your footwear and accessories. For morning and lunch events a pair of ballet flats or sandals may be appropriate. Heels and sparkly jewellery are the perfect addition for night time functions.

(Red dress) Vanessa lace pencil dress, $229.95, Koreeda pointed toe heel, $149.95, Diana Ferrari // (White dress) Sadie lace midi dress, $229.95, – Koreeda pointed toe heel, $149.95, Plave Clutch, $69.95, Diana Ferrari // (Black top) Peggy layered embellished www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016 top, $99.95 - Novalee Cigarette Pant, $99.95, - Katinka pointed toe heel, $149.95, Felicity clutch, $69.95, Diana Ferrari

23

pakmag HOME

P L PERFECTION Is there anything more refreshing (and relaxing) than jumping into a pool on a hot summers day? Kids love to swim. Adults love to cool off. And swimming pools provide the perfect backdrop for summer BBQs, outdoor dining and family time. So take advantage of the tropical North Queensland lifestyle with our guide to pool perfection.

STEP ONE: SELECT YOUR POOL MATERIAL Concrete – this is the most widely used method for pool construction in North Queensland due to its versatile nature and its ability to be shaped to fit all sorts of backyards.

Fibreglass – Easy-to-install fibreglass pools are also easy to maintain, affordable, strong and come with a smoother surface for scratchfree swimming.

STEP TWO: FINALISE THE FENCING The construction of your pool is only one minor element to transforming your backyard into a tropical sanctuary. In addition to your pool choice, you will also need to consider fencing around the pool area.

All Queensland pools must be registered on the State Government’s Pool Safety Register and must be fenced in accordance with the Queensland Development Code. Glass, steel and timber fences are common choices for homeowners in FNQ and many pool installation companies can quote on both pool and fencing construction.

STEP THREE: ADD YOUR EXTRAS You will also need to decide on the decking (concrete, tile, timber decking, etc.) and the décor such as outdoor table settings, deck chairs and additional luxuries to help enhance your outdoor oasis (outdoor bar anyone?).

www.placidpools.com.au

www.tropicshade.com.au

24

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

WITH THE BLOCK’S CARO & KINGI www.placidpools.com.au

Floating Colour Changing Frog on Lillie Pad www.luminouslights.net.au (RRP $25.00ea)

Luka Barstool www.vipfurniture.com.au (RRP $179.00 $161.00ea)

Natural Rubber Ball www.earthtoys.net (RRP $18.00ea)

Peter Pod Hanging Chair www.vipfurniture.com.au (RRP $799.00 $499.00ea)

www.pakmag.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

25

pakmag HOME

Outdoor

SUMMER FUN

North Queensland is all about outdoor living and spending time outside with the kiddies is a great family activity. And more time spent outdoors means less chance of the kids making a mess inside the house! Adding little changes to your garden or yard can help you enjoy more open-air family fun this summer.

Add an element of adventure with a baby or kids’ swing.

Stimulate imaginative development with a backyard cubby house, perfect for pretend play.

Give your kids their own outdoor space to play. A child’s picnic table (with clear plastic overtop) provides a great place to do crafts, painting, play doh and other activities that you really hate cleaning off your clean living room floors.

For mum and dad, enjoy a break from the kitchen with a BBQ and relax and rejuvenate in a resort-style setting (complete with pool, comfy deck chairs and a beverage in hand) but in the comfort of your own backyard.

Timber Outdoor Play House www.earthtoys.net (RRP $499.00ea)

Weber® Spirit® E-330 Premium Turners Home Appliances www.weberbbq.com.au (RRP $1199.00ea LPG) Outdoor Table & Chair Set www.earthtoys.net (RRP $349.95ea)

26

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pakmag.com.au

Concrete Pots and Tasmanian Oak Stands www.bespokedesignerliving.com

RECIPES

pakmag

HEALTHY RECIPES Coconu tC

Christmas Ice

Lentil Soup rry u

C

m a e r

ARE PREP TIME! F O D AHEA GAN. VE REE. EN F GLUT

INGREDIENTS 1 cup coconut milk 1 cup raisins 1 cup currants 1/2 cup cranberries 1/2 cup slivered almonds* 5 ripe bananas (approx. 500g) 10 medjool dates, seeds removed

THY HEAL IFT! AS G STM .

CHRI N VEGA EE. N FR E T U GL

INGREDIENTS 4 tablespoons coconut oil 1/2 teaspoon concentrated natural vanilla extract 1 teaspoon mixed spice 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon cloves

HOW TO MAKE 1. Place the coconut milk, raisins, currants, cranberries and almonds into a medium sized saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for 5 – 10 minutes.

2. Place the bananas, dates, oil, vanilla and spices into your food processor and blend at high speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

3. Combine the two mixtures and pour into a silicon loaf tin.

Place in the freezer to set for 6 – 8 hours. If you are making this days or weeks in advance it will still be delicious but the consistency will change and you will need to slice the ice cream with a knife and serve it this way.

4. Serve. Eat. Enjoy. *for a nut free version omit the almonds or replace them with toasted sunflower seeds ICE CREAM RECIPE CREATED BY

Check them out online: wholefoodsimply.com on Instagram: wholefoodsimply or on facebook: /wholefoodsimply

1 x 500ml Glass Jar 100g Organic Red Split Lentils 90g Biodynamic RainFed Medium Grain Brown Rice 30g Organic Long Thread Coconut 100g Organic Green Whole Lentils 5g Sweet Paprika 5g Himalayan Pink Salt 5g Cayenne Pepper 10g Mild Curry Powder HOW TO MAKE 1. Layer all ingredients into jar, pushing each layer down firmly to fit them all in. Attach a tag with the following instructions to the jar.

2. Add 5 -7 cups of stock (or water) and bring to a boil.

Simmer until lentils are soft (approx. 1 hour). For a richer, creamier soup, add 1 cup of organic coconut milk.

3. Before serving stir in 2-3 handfuls of spinach or kale for an extra boost of vitamin C and top with coriander.

RECIPES BROUGHT TO YOU BY Get your ingredients from The Source Bulk Foods.

Check them out on facebook: /TheSourceBulkFoods Short on time? Pick yourself up a pre-made jar from The Source Bulk Foods.