Alphabet Street Summer Mini Mag Newcastle by Penny Price

Summer 2012/2013

Welcome to the Summer issue of the Alphabet Street mini mag ! I have to say this Christmas has snuck up on me too quickly. It only seemed like yesterday that we started planning our Christmas promotions and now we are at the end with Christmas only days away.

This mini mag has been an absolute pleasure for me working with so many talented people. This issue we completed a full fashion shoot with the assistance of the very talented Liat Biderovsky from Lee Bird Photography and the ever so clever Belinda Ramanauskas from Styled by Belle. We hope you love it as much as we do. This issue is jam packed full of lovely, from Summer fashion to Christmas Gifts ideas and we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget activities to schedule in the diaries over the Summer holidays. Thanks to all our contributors this month including All Abroad Bay, Melbourne Mamma and Indispensable Me. This will be the last mini mag for 2012 and look forward to some wonderful things happening with Alphabet Street in 2013. Penny Price OWNER 3

Lee is an accomplished, award winning photographer who specialises in fine art portrait photography. According to her wonderful clients, who she prefers to call her muses, Lee is able to somehow capture the essence of her muses in the images she takes. The essence of childhood, innocence, family, joy, laughter and giggles. www.leebirdphotography.com.au

Belinda Ramanauskas (“Belle”) is the creative director behind Styled By Belle. With a background in strategic marketing and incentives, she has a passion for styling and creating WOW factor events. Belinda is mum to two boys, Aidan and Lucas, and wife to former AFL player, Adam.

Mini Mag www.alphabetstreet.com.au

Editorial: Penny Price All editorial and advertising enquiries e:info@alphabetstreet.com.au ABN: 89826197104 Photography: Lee Bird Photography

Tracey is mum of two , owner of Melbourne Mamma and a self confessed shop-a-holic. Melbourne

Mamma is a guide to what’s hot and where to shop for mums, babies and kids.

Rachael Spencer-Smith is owner of All Abroad Baby, a place that brings together shopping, parenting and travel inspiration for mums of little ones.

COVER: Our Model Ayla wears Oobi Baby & Kids Smock Red Dot Dress

Alphabet Street Privacy Statement: This issue of the Alphabet Street Mini Mag may contain offers or competitions that require you to provide information about yourself if you choose to take part in. If you provide information about yourself including email address, Alphabet Street will use this information to provide you will the products and services you have requested. We will not onsell you details to a third party and will used for our publication only. 4

Deck the Halls

The A-Z of Christmas 23

All I want for Christmas

The Anticipation of Christmas Summer Means... 33 Summer Styling 55

Summer Memories

Off the Beaten Track 62 with little ones 65 Holiday Happenings 5.

Deck the Halls

This Christmas with this wonderful selection of Christmas Decor!

1. Ruby Victoria Letterpress& Printmaking Christmas Garland RRP $24 2. LOVE MAE Merry Christmas Banner RRP $79.95 3. OXFAM Shop Capiz Christmas decoration from the Philippines RRP $14.95 4. Christmas Wreath- Tiges and Wience RRP $40 5. Robert Gordon Australia Wooden Advent Calendar RRP $89.95 6. Cradle Rock Santa Sacks: Stripey Reindeer RRP $ 39.95

www.minifashionista.com.au

Adamstown Pudding Kitchen Adamstown Pudding Kitchen is a charity organisation set up to help raise funds for the Adamstown Uniting Church and other missions and "Outreach" functions of the church. Puddings are available direct to the public via the sales office at the Adamstown Uniting Church. You may also order online.

Bunnings DIY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Santa Workshops Bunnings have free children's craft every Saturday & Sunday from 12pm. Through out December the craft will be all based around Christmas. WHEN: 15th, 16th, 22nd & 23rd December WHERE: Bunnings Warehouse

Captain Kids Christmas Party Head to the Lambton-New Lambton RSL Club for a fun family Christmas afternoon featuring balloon creations, magic tricks, Christmas Carols, prizes and a free lucky door ticket. Every child receives a gift from Santa. Entry only $7 for adults and children. Call 49572931 to register. WHEN: Sunday 23rd December 2pm-4pm WHERE: Lambton-New Lambton RSL

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Charity

K-Mart Wishing Tree Appeal Give to those less fortunate than ourselves this Christmas with a charity of your choice. The Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal is Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x;s largest Christmas gift appeal. Thanks to the incredible generosity of Australians, the Appeal has collected more than 5 million gifts for people in need over the past 24 years WHEN: From the 14th November until Christmas Eve WHERE: Find your local K-mart Wishing Tree.

Carols on the City Christmas Festival

WHEN: Saturday 15th December Festival starts 3.00pm - Carols from 7.00pm WHERE: Maitland No.1 Sportsground, James St, Maitland

This will be the 3rd Carols in the City event, previously held in the Maitland Mall. There were over 3,000 people in attendance last year, Carols has outgrown the Heritage Mall so it's moving to No 1 Sports ground Maitland to create a more family friendly environment. This year Carols will have more of a festival feel, with more rides, food stalls and entertainment through the afternoon, something for everyone! Community performance groups will be featured through the afternoon also. Read more...

Dinner with Santa at Megamania! Come and join Santa at Megamania for dinner on Sunday 23 December from 5.30pm. Kids will receive entry to Megamania, a kids meal & drink, as well as a special Christmas gift and visit by Santa. Adults have the choice 1 of 3 specially prepared meals from the in-house chefs as well as a yummy Christmas dessert & drink voucher. Read more... WHEN: Sunday 23rd December 5.30pm-9pm WHERE: Megamania Charlestown Square

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Extended trading hours Christmas Shopping

We all rely upon those evenings where you can sneak off without kids to finish the Christmas Shopping. Check out the extended trading hours at Westfield Kotara, Charlestown Square, and Stockland Jesmond, Glendale and Greenhills.

Frontline Hobbies Christmas Windows

Each Year Frontline Hobbies unveils its Christmas Display across its shopfront in Hunter Street. The windows are usually filled with animated puppets moving along to a special Christmas theme each year. In the past we have seen Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x;s Elves busily working in Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x;s workshop preparing for Christmas Day. WHEN: From Sat 24th November -26th December WHERE: Frontline Hobbies-255 Hunter Street Newcastle

Gregson Park Christmas Carols

A popular local event in Hamilton with a great community atmosphere. Bring a rug and a picnic tea and line up for some free fairy floss. Lots of Carols to sing and be entertained by local lads Luke and Joel O'dea (X Factor Finalists in 2010). Presented by Hamilton Baptist Church. Low key fundraising for our grass roots community development projects in Nepalgunj, Nepal. 100% of money raised (donations at fairy floss) goes direct to Nepal - to help with children and adult education, micro lending for capacity building projects (such as mushroom growing). WHEN: Saturday 15th December 6.30pm9.30pm WHERE: Gregson Park Hamilton

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Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular Open every night, a magical event the whole family will enjoy! With exciting new displays of over a million lights plus festive food, beverages, Children‟s entertainment and Santa! Village Shopping and Cafes open later on selected evenings. WHEN: Every evening until the 26th January 2013 WHERE: Hunter Valley Gardens-Broke Rd Pokolbin

Islington Carols in the Park

The annual Carols in the Park, sponsored by the Islington Baptist Church, will be held this year on Sunday, 16th December, in Islington Park. A children‟s program involving games, face painting and other activities will commence at 4.30 pm. There will be a free sausage sizzle before the carols which commence at 7 pm. The Islington School choir will be singing during the carols. Glow sticks and glow bracelets will be available for sale during the carols. WHEN: Sunday 16th December from 4.30pm WHERE: Islington Park

Jesus

He‟s the reason for the season. Head to a Christmas Eve, Midnight Mass or Christmas day service to listen to the gospel and celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Jesmond Park Carols

It‟s on again, Carols in Jesmond Park! on Sunday 23rd December. Enjoy a BYO picnic or BBQ Tea from 6pm and the Carols will start from 7pm. The Carols are presented by the Jesmond Park Uniting Church.. WHEN: Sunday 23rd December 6pm WHERE: Jesmond Park

Kiwanis Club Charity Christmas Trees

There‟s nothing like the smell of a real Christmas tree and on Saturday 15ht December you will be able to purchase your very own from the Kiwanis Club Newcastle. Each year they sell real trees at Adamstown Heights , Jesmond and Cardiff to raise funds for Children‟s Charities. Cost- $45. WHEN: Saturday 15th December WHERE: Adamstown Heights - Top of City Road, Jesmond - Cnr Robinson Ave and Newcastle Road ( Cardiff - 161 Macquarie Road

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Love Can

Local church, God's House, is hosting the event for the second time to promote the Love Can campaign in the Hunter Region. The free festival will feature a spectacular Christmas lights display, photos with Santa and Mrs Claus, a Christmas parade, carnival activities and food for sale. Love Can began December 2010 and encourages the community that "Love Can" be the most powerful force in any situation. Why not bring the whole family along! Donate a toy, cash or gift card at the festival for the Salvation Army to distribute to those doing it tough in our region. WHEN: 21st- & 22nd December 7pm-1pm WHERE: Newcastle Foreshore Park

Maitland Regional Art Gallery

Childrens Christmas Party

You are invited to our Children‟s Christmas Party at Maitland Regional Art Gallery. There will be games, fun art activities and a special Christmassy snack to celebrate Christmas. WHEN: 15th December 2pm-4pm WHERE: Maitland Regional Art Gallery Please ring 4934 9859 or email artgallery@maitland.nsw.gov.au with RSVP

Newcastle Regional Museum Christmas Craft Workshop Don‟t tell mum or dad, but we are busy making and wrapping presents at a three hour workshop from 10.30 – 1.30pm on Saturday 22 December. Suits ages 4 – 10. $20 per child includes lunch. Bookings essential on 4974 1400. WHEN: Saturday 22nd December 10.30am-1.30pm WHERE: Newcastle Regional Museum Honeysuckle

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The Nutcracker 3D-Tower Cinemas

WHEN: Thursday 20th December 10.30am WHERE: Tower Cinemas Newcastle

A ballet world–first perfect for all the family this Christmas…Mariinsky Theatre‟s The Nutcracker In 3D is the world‟s first 3D Nutcracker ballet and is a sumptuously traditional production brought to life on the big screen. The ballet opens with a Christmas Eve party and a young girl, Clara, being given a nutcracker doll by her godfather, Drosselmeyer. Later in the evening when Clara sleeps, she finds herself in the midst of the Nutcracker‟s battle against the Mouse King and his army of mice. Coming to her Nutcracker‟s aid, he is transformed into a Prince and journeys with Clara to a spectacular enchanted island where celebrations are held in their honour. With Tchaikovsky‟s eternally popular score, the grand staging and exquisite costumes, this Mariinsky Theatre production of The Nutcracker In 3D will be the icing on the cake this Christmas

Northlakes Community Carols

Gaze at the Melbourne Town Hall this festive season and something wise might peer back at you from a particularly iconic piece of architecture, thanks to nightly projections from world-class projection designers, The Electric Canvas. The Electric Canvas has created a 3D model of the Melbourne Town Hall, and a team of eight artists and designers will celebrate Christmas in a playful and transformative way. Read more... WHEN: Sunday 23rd December from 5pm WHERE: Macquarie College Lake Rd Elermore Vale

Nativity Exhibition at Morpeth Gallery

At Morpeth Gallery discover hundreds of nativities in all shapes and sizes, made from all manner of materials – glass, wood, resin, tin, ceramic, pottery. Light-ups, musicals, modern and traditional. Every one of the nativities is for sale. WHEN: 1 November - 31 December 2012 WHERE: Morpeth Gallery, Green St, Morpeth

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Olive Tree Christmas Market

Choose handmade this Christmas!!! The Olive Tree Market is Newcastle's Handmade Art & Design Market with over 100 high quality stalls full of vibrant and exciting work. Enjoy our popular Christmas Market with extended trading hours for you to enjoy wandering through unique stalls. Meet the maker and take home beautiful gifts for Christmas. Enjoy a leisurely lunch with family and friends, listen to talented local musicians and take in the atmosphere of one of Newcastle's most loved community events. WHEN: Saturday 15th December 9am-5pm WHERE: Junction Public School-Union St The Junction

PNP-Portable North Pole

Experience the magic of Christmas with the PNP-Portable North Pole console! The PNP console lets you create personalized videos from Santa for the young and the young-at-heart. This is the 5th year Portable North Pole has offered a free personalized video message from Santa Claus to your loved ones! This year at a small cost there is also an option to have Santa phone your child . This is a must do for every parent who would love to see the joy on their children‟s faces when Santa send s a personalized message to them. WHEN: Until Dec 24th 2012 WHERE: www.portablenorthpole.com

Queen’s Speech

With the Royals head lining the media in 2012 and with the announcement of a Royal baby due in 2013, many of us will sit down on Christmas night to listen to the Queens Speech. Has it been another „Annus horribilis „ year for the Royals due to Harry‟s antics in the US? You will need to tune in to see. WHEN: Tuesday 25th December WHERE: ABC TV or online at www.abc.net.au

ReindeerCam.com

ReindeerCam is Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x;s official reindeer live feed. At 11am, 6pm and 9pm USA Eastern Standard time , Santa comes out to the reindeer pen to feed them. On various occasions he will check the mail or will be accompanied by an elf on his duties. On the back of the barn there is also a running ticker feed of all the children on the good list. This is a lovely festive treat for the children to see Santa feeding the reindeers by live web cam. WHEN: Daily until Christmas Day at 11am, 6pm and 9pm USA Eastern Standard time. WHERE: www.reindeercam.com

Residential Christmas Light Displays We make it an annual tradition to drive the streets with the kids in search for the best Christmas light displays in the residential areas. This year the annual Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x;s Warehouse Christmas lights competition is on again for 2012. Keep your eye on the addresses listed on the site and make your own decision on whose lights are the best lights around town. Such a lovely tradition for children to see.

Swansea Carols by Candlelight Carols by Candlelight is an annual event. This year to be held at Thomas Humphreys Reserve. It is the only Carols event run on the Eastern side of Lake Macquarie and services the areas of Swansea, Blacksmiths, Pelican, Marks Point, Caves Beach, Gateshead, Windale, Catherine Hill Bay, Valentine, Eleebana, Cams Wharf, Nords Wharf and Gwandalan. With the demise of the New Years Eve event at Swansea, the Carols has become the major community event held in East Lake Macquarie. The event was held adjacent to Swansea RSL for the past five years and brings families, the general community and surrounding districts together to celebrate and enjoy a festive event. The event includes entertainment, amusements food and fireworks. WHEN: Saturday 15th December 4.30pm-10pm WHERE: Thomas Humphrey Reserve, Swansea

Southlake Christmas Spectacular Christmas celebration, carols, rides, stalls, and grand finale fireworks display at 9pm. Featuring The Rough Diamonds, MC Toni McLean and community entertainers.. WHEN: Saturday 22nd December 4pm-9pm WHERE: Morisset Showground, Ourimbah Street, Morisset

Toronto Carols by the Lake

A Family Carols night with entertainment, food and fireworks. 6.30 - 9.30 pm at Toronto Foreshore. WHEN: Friday 21st December 6.30pm-9.30pm WHERE: Toronto Foreshore, Victory Parade, Toronto

Uh-Oh.... we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find anything for u! Now is the perfect opportunity to thank all our Alphabet Street supporters in 2012. We appreciate you staying with us from year to year and we look forward to providing you with even better and exciting things in 2013!

Vixen Donâ&#x20AC;&#x;t let greedy old Rudolph eat all the Reindeer food this year. Mix up an extra large batch of magic reindeer food so Vixen (the one in the middle who always misses out) can have some too. Mix oats and edible glitter together. Sprinkle on lawn on Christmas Eve so reindeers can find their way to your house.

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West Leagues Club Christmas Pantomine Sleeping Beauty Come along and enjoy this classic story with wonderful costumes and backdrops along with singing and dancing! Songs include: Hallelujah Day, Baby Face, Sing Hallelujah, It's a Lovely Day Today, Magic Nights, Get On Your Feet, This is It! Each Child 1-12 years will receive a Christmas fun stocking! $9.00 members / $12.00 Guest (adult or child) WHEN: Sunday 16th December WHERE: West Leagues Club-Hobart Rd New Lambton

Waratah Village Christmas Lights For a wonderful display of Christmas lights you can‟t go past Waratah Village. The official switch on was in November and will be lit up every night leading up to Christmas. Not only can the children be in awe of the wonderful lights but this year you can also be entertained on certain dates across December with choirs, magicians and brass bands. Click HERE to see full schedule WHEN: November -December 25 WHERE: Waratah Village-Turton Rd Waratah

Christmas or Xmas? Christmas has been referred to Xmas since the mid-16th century. The “X” in Xmas originally referred to x, the Greek letter chi, which is the initial word for “Christos,” or Christ, in Greek. In recent generations, Xmas is used much more controversially, because some claim that it attempts to remove “Christ” from “Christmas.” Xmas is often used as a form of shorthand for Christmas, and is not commonly used in formal forms of writing.

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Yummy Treats Christmas is the one time outside of Easter where there are festive specific foods or drink that are only eaten at Christmas. Spend a day in the kitchen with the kids and cook up some of your favourite festive and yummy treats! Check out the recipes for White Christmas, Christmas Cake, Christmas Pudding, gingerbread, Yule log and Egg Nog.

ZZZZZZZZZZZ There is nothing like reading a Christmas story to the little ones on Christmas Eve before they settle down to dream of what Santa will bring them on Christmas Day. If you would like some recommendations of some of the best Christmas Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x;s stories click HERE.

All I Want for Christmas Tracey Cotroneo from Melbourne Mamma lists her 10 top gifts for babies, girl, boys and stocking fillers this Christmas!

Haba Whirligig Clutch Toy www.justtoynaround.com.au RRP $24.95

Bunny Rabbit Night Light RRP $18.95 www.naughtsandcrosses.bigcartel.com

Uncle Goose Classic Lower Case ABC Blocks www.buttonbaby.com.au RRP $64.95

Top Rainbow Twinkle Twinkle Little Star Wall Art www.lovejk.com.au RRP $79.95

Jellycat Boing Ball www.funkmelbourne.com.au RRP $14.95

Christmas Gifts Moonbeam Huggie Bear www.tinywardrobe.com.au RRP $29.95

Alimrose Fairy Doll Rattle www.littlebooteek.com.au RRP $18.95

Babies

Very Hungry Caterpillar Jack-in-the-Box www.tarbea.com.au RRP $39.95

2 in 1 Baby Gym Playmat www.elctoys.com.au RRP $65.00

Mesmerised Book www.hellocharlie.com.au RRP $12.95

Fire Fighter Builder www.moosaidthecow.com.au RRP $64.95

Prism Switch Kite www.kitepower.com.au RRP $45

Automoblox C9 Red sports car www.lucaslovescars.com.au RRP $55.00

Top Train Box Set by Tiger Tribe www.shop4toys.com.au RRP $59.95

Wishbone Bike RRP $239 www.melbournemamma.com.au/wishbone

Christmas Gifts Pirate Ship by Le Toy Van www.tlbc.com.au RRP $89.95

Micro Scooter www.microscooters.com.au RRP $179.50

Boys

Planks www.greenhatworkshop.com From $59.00

Explorer Case by Egmont RRP $36 www.orangesandlemonsboutique.com.au

Jurassic Dinosaur Bag www.buttonbaby.com.au RRP $34.95

"Spineless Classics" Alice in Wonderland www.spinelessclassics.com.au RRP $69.95

Princess Castle RRP $35.00 www.naughtsandcrosses.bigcartel.com

"Tiger Tribe" Dollhouse Box RRP $59.95 www.spoiltgiftandhomewares.com.au

Top Pink Retro Toy Play Kitchen www.hipkids.com.au RRP $199

Miss Ruby May Doll www.missrubymay.com.au RRP $59.00

Christmas Gifts Lil Fairy Door RRP $36.00 www.thelittlehomewarescompany.com.au

"Little Lamb Designs" Sterling Silver Bluebird Necklace www.littlelambdesigns.com.au RRP $60

Girls

"Living Like Lulu" Apple Baskets www.littletinkers.com.au RRP $89.95

"Tiger Tribe" Vintage Tea Set www.peanutgallery.com.au RRP $34.95

Mini Dollies Fairyland www.cradlerock.com.au RRP $24.95

Tiger Tribe Super Clay Minis - Flowers www.cradlerock.com.au RRP $4.95

Coq en P창te Paper Toys - Jet Set Pets www.littlebooteek.com.au RRP $15.95

Sweetie Petite Doll Kit-Daisy www.bubbabling.com.au RRP $20

Top

Funny Face Magnetic www.rudyandthedodo.com.au RRP $17.95

Makedo-Find and Make Flowers www.ittybittygreenie.com.au $11.96

Christmas Gifts Apple Patchwork Handbag RRP $9.95 www.oobi.com.au

Origami Paper www.enchantedbybooks.com.au RRP $9.99

Stocking Fillers

Scribble Down Dinosaur Encounter www.boyosaur.com.au RRP $8.95

Guitar Nano Blocks www.mudpuddle.com.au RRP $11.95

Kaboodles Craft Kits Create your own Picture Frame www.freerangeliving.co RRP $15.00

27.

Kate Anderson from Indispensable Me shares her childhood memories leading up to the big day! 28.

Christmas 1975. I was 6 years old and obsessed with the colour purple. My family used to call me the “Purple People Eater” after that strange novelty song. I wore a lot of purple clothes back then. So of course I wanted a purple bike for Christmas - well a tricycle to be perfectly accurate. I was probably old enough for a bike but the combination of poor gross motor skills and protective parents ensured it had to have three wheels. It was all I wished for that entire year. Nearly 40 years later Christmas is almost here again, and the underside of our tree is filling up with presents. My young girls are getting excited. This year they haven‟t really asked for anything “big” and quite frankly there is not a lot that they need. I am delighted by their restraint but anxious that the gifts we have organised for them are not very “magical” and not quite what Christmas memories are made from.

I am troubled, in a first-world angsty kind of way. What exactly am I trying to deliver to my girls? The best toy ever? The magic of Christmas? I am not sure. Perhaps I just need to travel back to 1975, to see Christmas through my eyes as a child... I can remember needing to share my fervent wish for a purple tricycle with Santa. Mum suggested writing him a letter, addressed to the North Pole. I was by then a competent writer - with my first year of school under my belt. I also drew a picture of a purple trike, just to make it clear. And I mentioned the colour purple, more than a couple of times. I also discussed my wish with Santa‟s special intermediaries, the ones I had access to on a daily basis. And though I can‟t remember the discussion - Mum and Dad tell me it was persuasive and convincing. My message delivered I presumed (well, hoped!) that Santa‟s elves were tinkering away in their workshop creating my special purple trike, just for me. So that just left the waiting and the anticipation. On Christmas morning I woke feeling strangely buzzy and jumpy. We had a couple of rules for this special morning - no one out of bed before the 7am signal from Mum. And then we were all required to head down the hall together. So you can imagine, waiting in my bed the anticipation was excruciating. I was far from certain that Santa had said yes to my request. It was a big present, the sort of thing I rarely asked for and could barely imagine receiving. I was almost afraid to get out of bed, in case of disappointment

But there it was, purple and shiny and BIG and just waiting for me to jump aboard. It was more beautiful than I had even imagined. I felt giddy and silly and smiley and just wanted to sit on it. After all the anticipation in the days and weeks leading up to Christmas I think I was in some kind of delirious shock. At that point it seemed like the world was perfect. And for a little while after Christmas, zooming up and down our concrete back patio - I'm pretty sure it was! As the years have passed the warm-fuzzy feeling generated by that Christmas and the purple trike have grown. All my childhood memories of waking up on Christmas morning and wondering what would be found under the tree share that same feeling - first experienced in 1975. It became the template for how Christmas morning was supposed to feel. Excited, expectant and with that added early lesson on the joy of delayed gratification. Now, as a grown up and a mother myself I also appreciate the pain and joy of my parent‟s journey that Christmas. They too suffered from gift anxiety, wanting me to have the best possible Christmas, with the most perfect present. And apparently a purple tricycle was not an easy thing to find. In those days before internet searches my parents just had to spend time doing the legwork. Mum visited a lot of bike shops and Dad spent a lot of time letting his fingers do the walking in the Yellow Pages. He tells a tale of the mad 100km round trip to a warehouse in the city, just two days before Christmas to pick it up. Halfway home he panicked. What if it wasn‟t purple? He hadn‟t even checked. Unable to face the possibility of delivering the wrong colour, he jumped out of the car and ripped open the box. All good and safely delivered to be hidden in his shed till Christmas Eve. So there is little wonder that I too LOVE the experience of playing Santa for my children. And why I want it to be special and magical for them both. We also make our girls wait until an agreed time before racing down to open their presents. A growing body of literature has linked the ability to delay gratification to a host of positive outcomes, including academic achievement, psychological health and social success. But I doubt that was ever my parents intent. Like me, I am sure they simply loved watching our eyes light up on Christmas morning as we ran into the family room to discover our special wishes (no matter how big or small) had come true.

Christmas Memories “At the age of 7, I received a gorgeous musical jewellery box with a dancing ballerina from my Nan. It makes me sad to think I no longer have it, given she is no longer with us. However I thought I was the luckiest little girl in the world when I received it. So beautiful, delicate, graceful and very special; everything my Nan was. Although such music boxes are not rare, I can still recall unwrapping it on Christmas Day and watching the dancing ballerina for hours. The box would hold all of my precious little knick knacks and would sit proudly on my bedside table. With 3 boys of my own, I cannot foresee giving anything similar as a gift but I do look forward to the day where I can possibly give such a gorgeous gift to my own granddaughters at Christmas time.” Natalie - marketing professional, mum of 3 “I was beyond excitement the year I got my Evel Knievel stunt cycle for Christmas. Its the first year that I can remember asking Santa for something and actually getting it! And the only toy I remember from my childhood that actually did what the TV ad showed it doing! I spent an entire summer jumping the bike off the end of tables and benches and one time (our greatest triumph) from the edge of the pool, across the water and onto a lilo. I was a legend in my own backyard. The only downside was that poor old Evel was the only boy doll in the house so he often got kidnapped by my older sister and was forced to play „tea parties‟ with Barbie. I wish I still had my Evel. I reckon my son would be interested in it for about half a day! Mark - builder, dad of 1

““A gift from my parents – my beautiful tin of Derwent pencils. 36 in total. Apparently the 72 seemed a bit excessive to those in charge of present giving. I treasured those pencils, always keeping them well sharpened but not too sharp. Often reordering them in number/colour/shade order, just for the joy of it!? Many an average work of art was created over the years with those pencils. I loved the colours and how well they drew. Yes, I have given a set of Derwents to my own sons. They are to be shared. They are even watercolour too which means you can use a wet paintbrush to create water colour type effects. The boys love and treasure them and

they too make sure every last one is packed away each time they complete a session of creative exploration. They don‟t spend the time to put them all back in number/colour order....but I must confess, I have done it once or twice for old times‟ sake.” Rochelle - marketer, mum of 2 My most wonderful present was my first 'big girl's' bike that I was given by my parents the Christmas I turned 10 (sadly that was 30 years ago). It was a BSA bike, an English brand, that my Dad had hunted down in Melbourne because that was the same brand of bike as he has been given when he was a boy in England. It was bright red with a silver pack rack and a little wicket basket and white rim tyres, a brown leather seat and BSA in white lettering on the frame. So retro! I rode that bike until I was 16(!!!) and I had truly grown too big for it then. It was the best present and it meant that I could ride around the neighbourhood (no helmet!), ride it to school and visiting my friends - the freedom! Dad kept it in the shed when I moved out of home and I was so, so sad when it was stolen when my parents were away on holiday a few years later. I would love to have it now for my girls.” Nat - illustrator, mother of 2

“My very own watch, given to me by my parents. I thought it was absolutely great. It made me feel important. I was a „someone‟ with my watch on. I had a school friend who coveted my watch and in turn for allowing him to wear my watch for a period of time he would give me money to go and buy peanut butter sandwiches from the tuck shop (Imagine – nuts at school!?). Now in my forties, I no longer wear a watch and haven‟t done for years. I‟m too prone to breaking them and besides, the time is now on my phone, lap top or upside down on someone else‟s wrist when I need it. I think I would perhaps buy a watch for my sons, but I wouldn‟t want to get them a digital one. It would have to be a handsome analogue version so that they could learn to tell the time the old fashioned way.” Stephen - international man of mystery, dad of 2

Kate Anderson is mum of two girls and owner of Indispensable Me, a Publicity, project management and administration business in Melbourne.

30.

Mini Sandcrabs Short Sleeve Rashie - Bondi RRP $49.96 Swimshorts - Aqua Tom & Teddy RRP $31.95 Penguins Swimshorts RRP $49.95

Eyetribe-Frankie Ray Sunglasses Picnic-Pink Gingham RRP $29.95 Cancer Council Kids sunscreen From $9.95

Roxy Kids Go Fish Thongs RRP $19.99

Stay cool this summer with these must have summer items for little ones! Penny Scallan Drink Bottle RRP $19.95

Saltwater Sandals-Shiny Yellow Minibots RRP $69.95

Tilly & Otto fedoraespresso RRP $15

Hide & Seek Cindy Cover-Up Purple Feather RRP $44.95

1. Pool Parties

Newcastle Council's five swimming centres often play host to a range of events in the summer months for the community to enjoy. The events are family friendly and are a great way to spend the day with friends. Each of the five pools will be hosting a fun, family pool party this summer! These events will include giant pool inflatables, and entertainment the whole family will enjoy. WHEN: Feb-Mar-Dates TBA WHERE: Beresfield, Stockton, Wallsend, Mayfield and Lambton Pools.

2. Outdoor Cinema Watching movies under the stars is a wonderful experience for the whole family to enjoy. There are a number of Outdoor Cinema options in Summer with a wonderful line up of family flicks. Newcastle Permanents Cinema Under the Stars is back for another year to entertain family in Newcastle and Maitland. Pack a picnic and head to King Edward Park on Saturday 19th January for a screening of Disney Pixar‟s BRAVE. On Friday 25th January, families can head to Maitland park for a wonderful screening of Dr Seuss‟ The Lorax. Both movies are FREE.

WHEN: Saturday 19th Jan & Friday 25th Jan Gates open at 6.30pm for an 8pm screening WHERE: King Edward Park=19th Jan Maitland Park-25th Jan

Summer Night Flicks is screening two family films over the summer holidays in the wonderful setting of Maitland Gaol. Maitland City Library presents Summer Night Flicks, free movies for the whole family to enjoy under the stars at Maitland Gaol! On the 11th January, families can watch a screening of The Muppets. Can three Muppet fans reunite Kermit and the gang to save the Muppet Theatre from an evil oil baron? Come along and find out! On the 18th January families can Watch Red Dog, a charming tale of Aussie larrikins in the Outback and the dog who brought them together. Based on a legendary true story, it will have you laughing, crying, and falling in love with the characters, including Red Dog. Bring a picnic, a blanket, family and friends. Popcorn, ice-creams & drinks available. WHEN: Friday 11th January -The Muppets Friday 18th January –Red Dog Gates open 6pm WHERE: Maitland Goal. Charlestown Pool Outdoor Film Night Bring along a blanket and enjoy a film under the stars at Charlestown pool. This is a FREE event WHEN: Friday 18th January 7pm-10pm WHERE: Charlestown Pool

3. New Years Eve 4. Australia Day Celebrations Celebrations Newcastle foreshore will be hosting New Years Eve celebrations for the whole family. Celebrate New Year's Eve in Newcastle with fireworks, entertainment, food outlets, amusement rides and more at the Newcastle Foreshore Park. Stop for a snack at the food stalls available, purchase a meal or simply bring your picnic hamper to the Newcastle Foreshore. Fireworks displays will be fired from Horseshoe Beach at 9pm (the main display) and Midnight (bringing in the New Year). WHEN: 31st December WHERE: Newcastle Foreshore

Grab a flag and head on down to the Newcastle foreshore for an action-packed program of events. The excitement continues all day on the Harbour and along the Harbour Foreshore. Click HERE to see the full program of events down at the Harbour . WHEN: January 26th 2013 WHERE: Honeysuckle Australia Day Celebrations at Lake Macquarie. Lock Saturday 26 January into your diary to come along to the Lake Macquarie Festival at Speers Point Park.

Head to the Hunter River on New Years Eve at this family friendly event in Maitland. The one on one annual Duck run is back for another year.. Try your luck and buy a rubber duck, race starts 6.00pm News Years Eve. Followed by fireworks at 9.00pm

WHEN: 31st December 6pm WHERE: Hunter River Maitland

This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x;s celebration is going to be bigger than ever with a wide range of family-friendly activities planned. The Farmers markets will kick off the day from 8am and then throughout the day there will be markets, amusement rides and local musical talent on the main stage. In the evening concert, you will be entertained by Australian artists Chris Sebastian and Adam Eckersley .

The day will finish with a spectacular fireworks display at 9pm. WHEN: January 26th 2013 8am-9pm WHERE: Speers Point Park Lake Macquarie

Summer Styling Photography: Lee Bird Photography Styling: Styled by Belle Hair and makeup: Simone Clarke Youshiki Scissor

Charlie wears aqua check shirt RRP $24.95 & yellow shorts RRP $24.95 from Cotton on Kids.

Ella wears Fabrik lemon picnic smock RRP $69.95

Zac wears Organic boy's custard tshirt by La Queue du Chat RRP $35.90. Available from Little Frenchy & Jimmy Navy Shorts RRP $49.94 from Oobi

Charlotte wears girls summer dress from Eternal Creation RRP $64.95

Ayla wears butterfly t-shirt Target RRP $14 and Shorts Gumboots RRP $34.95.

Scarlett wears Night Owl Together Dress from Minti RRP $45.95

Charlie wears aqua check shirt RRP $24.95 & yellow shorts RRP $24.95 from Cotton on Kids.

Ella wears KissKiss Organic blouse in pink by La Queue du Chat RRP $51.90 and Organic girl shorts pink stripe by La Queue du Chat RRP $34.90 from Little Frenchy.

Scarlett wears Lexie Pink Chevron Dress RRP $49.95 from Oobi

Zac wears T-shirt Cotton On RRP $14.95 & Shorts Cotton On RRP $16.95

Charlotte wears Little Horn Balloon Heart Tee in Pink RRP $34.95 & Organic bloomer trousers pink stripe by La Queue du Chat RRP $56.90 from Little Frenchy

Ayla wears Smock Pink Forest Dress RRP $34.95 from Oobi

Zac wears Dragstar Tee RRP $29.98 from Monstar Kids & Mossimo Shorts RRP $59.95. Hat-Stylists own

Charlie wears Mossimo T-Shirt RRP $30 & Beastie Check Shorts RRP from Oobi RRP $49.95. Hat from Gumboots $19..95

Charlie wears Blue & White Fish Swim Shorts RRP $49.95 from Tom & Teddy

Zac wears SonnyBoy "Noah's Arc" shorts RRP $32 from Summaskye. Gumboot sunglasses $9.95. Hat Stylists own

Scarlett wears Yellow stripe Bathers Gumboots RRP $29.95. Hat Pumpkin Patch RRP $24.99. Sunglasses Gumboots RRP $9.95.

Alya wears Roxy Aqua Stripe Bikini RRP $49.99 Sunglasses Gumboots RRP $9.95.

Charlotte wears Fabrik Miami Bikini RRP $49.95 Hat Gumboots RRP $19.95. Sunglasses Gumboots RRP $9.95

Ella wears Roxy Rash Vest RRP $49.99 & Roxy Beach Shorts RRP $45.99

From Left: Ayla wears Oobi Out to Play Playsuit (Cherry check) RRP $44.95 . Scarlett wears Fabrik Explorer Jumpsuit Lattice Print RRP $69.95. Charlotte wears Oobi Amalie Tiered Sky dress RRP $49.95 Ella wears Oobi Carmen Dress (Cherry Check) RRP $44.95 . Zac wears Dragstar Tee RRP $29.98 from Monstar Kids & Mossimo Shorts RRP $59.95. Hat-Stylists own

Scarlett wears Fabrik Explorer Jumpsuit Lattice Print RRP $69.95 Charlotte wears Oobi Amalie Tiered Sky dress RRP $49.95

Charlotte wears Oobi Tinkerbell Marshmallow Dress RRP $49.95 Scarlett wears Oobi Anastasia Dress Marshmallow RRP $69.95

Ella wears Paris Pink Kaftan from Kaftan Kids RRP $32.00 Ayla wears Read + Bell Coco Kids Tunic - Watermelon RRP $35.00

Summer Memories

Sights, sounds and scents quickly evoke memories of when we were small. We asked some Alphabet Street friends to take us back in time to their childhood summers.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s me with my sister!

What a cutie!

Sisterly Love

Julia Whitney Owner of Rudy and the Dodo

Andrea Rembeck Owner Tutu Du Monde

Alex Riggs Founder/Designer Oobi Baby & Kids

Julie Lemmon Owner Cradle Rock

Kate Nelson Owner Meetoo

Amanda Evans Designer/Director Cocoome Organic Sleepwear & My Munchkin Home

All Star Pet Minding Newcastle & Lake Macquarieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s answer to complete pet care when you can't be there! Fully insured, police cleared and lots of happy clients * Dog Walking * In home overnight stays * Doggy Day Care * Cat & small animal boarding * dog grooming & home visits. Phone: 0410 552 430 for your school holiday needs

Did you enjoy the odd backpacker-style adventure before your little ones arrived? If you look back on old photos and feel nostalgic for those days, All Abroad Baby has some top tips on how to do the road less travelled with very little ones. 62

B.C. (Before Children) my husband and I were

the intrepid travel types. We caught the overnight train from Thailand to Laos with the locals. We canoed down the Mekong and did homestays with traditional Laos families. We drove from Darwin to Sydney over six weeks, camping all the way. We even climbed 3726 metres above sea level to the top of Mount Rinjani, an active volcano on Lombok in Indonesia. Then our little monkeys came onto the scene and we kissed our Bear Grylls days goodbye. “We never did get to Machu Picchu. Oh well. Maybe in another life,” we‟d thought… Don‟t get me wrong, we adore our little ones and wouldn‟t change our new lives as doting parents for anything. But when our second arrived, we realised we hadn‟t been struck down with Panicky Parents Syndrome, like we had with our first. Before long we felt the need to regain a sense of our old selves. After all, nothing makes kids happier than seeing their parents doing things they love. Could we really go camping with a baby and a toddler? Or take a trip to one of our favourite destinations, South East Asia, and venture beyond the tourist havens? Sure we could. We stuck to a few handy tips and off we went. Did anything go wrong? Two small mishaps: while camping, our airbed sprung a leak and we had to buy a new one. In Bali, we forgot to bring Vegemite (our toddler‟s daily staple) and paid the equivalent of $13 AUD for a small jar! Here are All Abroad Baby‟s top tips for intrepid travel with little ones:

• Travel in summer

The best part about holidaying in summer is that you don‟t need to worry about heavy coats and clunky shoes, which overload your suitcase or luggage allowance. Packing light is one of the keys to having an enjoyable holiday – no one wants to cart items that weigh more than your baby.

• Take a lightweight stroller

Think light in regards to everything – even your pram. If you‟re flying, an umbrella stroller (called this due to the way it easily folds) is accepted as hand luggage on most airlines (double check with your

airline first). This means you can keep your stroller with you right up until you board the plane.

• Pack your own nappies & formula

If you‟re going to a foreign country and you have a favoured brand of nappies, take them with you (or contact your hotel and ask if your brand of nappies is available). In Bali, nappies were nearly twice the price they were in Australia. The same goes with formula – it‟s a good idea to take it with you if you‟re going overseas.

• Hire a driver with kids car seats

Hotels can arrange a driver with kids car seats to pick you up from the airport. You may even be able to book a driver for a few days so you can venture to places you can‟t get to on foot or by public transport. We hired a driver in Bali, this cost $60 AUD per day and we went all over the island.

• Find out about baby bedding

If you need your hotel to supply a portable cot for your baby, ask them if they provide cot bedding as well. Not all mid-price hotels do (as we once discovered). You may need to bring your own cot sheets.

• Check out vaccine recommendations

If you are going overseas, visit your doctor and find out if your children need any vaccinations. Recommendations can change, so don‟t go off information you were given several years ago.

• Take a portable chair camping

You will need somewhere to prop up your baby. Camping means no carpeted or wooden floors. Just dirt, stones, grass and flowers – all the things babies love to put in their mouths. If your baby isn‟t in a high chair yet, a seat like the Bumbo® will do the trick. We took our portable IKEA high chair because the legs detached.

• Test airbeds before you go camping

Unless you fancy an unexpected trip to the closest camping supplies store, inflate your airbeds at home and see if they deflate!

All Abroad Baby is a website that brings together global shopping, parenting and travel inspiration for mums of little ones.

School Holiday Snapshot

There are so many wonderful school holiday activities throughout the summer holidays that we can‟t list them all however check out some of our favourites below;

MRAG-Séraphine Sushi

Join the crew from Séraphine café to make your own sushi. Choose from our freshest and most colourful ingredients to create a summertime feast. It could be messy and it will definitely be lots of fun and very yummy. Read more... WHEN: 15th Jan- 10.30 am – 12.30 pm WHERE: MRAG-High Street Maitland COST: $25 members /$30 non-members

Cartooning for Beginners

Learn how to create caricatures and cartoons from animals and objects at our workshop with Newcastle Herald cartoonist Peter Lewis Read more... WHEN: & WHERE Thurs 10th Jan 10.30am at Newcastle City Library Tues 22nd January 9.30am Morisset Library COST: $15

FREE Kids Movie-Cardiff Panthers Tinker Bell and the Secret of the Wings

For the fairies of Pixie Hollow, the Winter Woods are strictly off-limits. But when a mysterious force draws Tinker Bell to cross the border into this unknown world, she discovers a secret that will change her life forever. Read more... WHEN: Tuesday 15th January 10.30am WHERE: Cardiff Panthers COST: $25 members /$30 non-members

Blackbutt Reserve Junior Rangers

In the January school holidays the Newcastle Permanent Junior Rangers theme will be 'Aquatic Action' where children (aged 6-10 years) will go dip netting in the ponds at Richley Reserve, boat making/racing, and have a photo with a reptile for a take home 2013 calendar. Read more... WHEN: 21 - 27 January 2013 WHERE: Blackbutt Reserve COST: $16.50 per child and $3.50 for photo/calendar

Swimming, stories and super fun activities

Council libraries will be hosting a day of fun the pools! The day will include obviously lots of swimming, but also story times and fun activities for the kids. All activities are free. (Normal pool entry fees apply) Read more... WHEN: & WHERE •Monday 14 Jan – Lambton •Tuesday 15 Jan – Mayfield •Wednesday 16 Jan – Beresfield •Thursday 17 Jan – Stockton •Friday 18 Jan – Wallsend COST: Normal Pool Fees Apply

JD‟s World of Magic

International award winning magician Joel Howlett is back with a brand NEW SHOW. Enjoy magic, juggling, puppets and more fun than you can wave a wand at. Read more... WHEN: & WHERE: Fri 11th Jan 2pm_Newcastle City Library Tues 22nd Jan 2pm-New Lambton Library Fri 18th Jan 10am-Swansea Library COST: $7 Bookings essential

My Fine Feathered Friends with Storyteller Bronwyn Vaughan

When Miss Peacock falls asleep in the park, a passing bird lays an egg on her head! What is she to do? Storyteller Bronwyn Vaughan weaves together a delighful story incorporating story, song, music and puppetery. Read more... WHEN: & WHERE: Mon 21st Jan 10.30am Charlestown Library Mon 21st Jan 2pm- Wallsend Library COST: $10

Junior Fishing Workshop

Give your child the opportunity to learn to fish during the school holidays. The day involves fishing techniques such as knots and rigging as well as casting, size limits and ethical fishing practices. This workshop is designed for children ages 8-14 years. $40 fee includes rod and reel, shirt, hat, tackle kit and show bag for the kids to take home. Read more... WHEN: Wednesday 16th Jan 10am-2pm WHERE : Thomas Halton Park, Croudace Bay COST: $40

Make your own puppets!

Make amazing puppets out of recycled material with local artist Ken O'Regan from 10am - 12noon on Wednesday 9 and 16 January 2013.Ages 6+ . Bookings essential 4974 1400. Read more... WHEN: 9th & 16th Jan 10am-12pm WHERE: Newcastle Regional Museum COST: $10

Magnetic Mosaic Masterpieces

Children will make a magnetic jigsaw puzzle using colourful drawing techniques, and the exhibition as inspiration. Ages 6-10 years Read more... WHEN: Thursday 17th Jan 10.30am-12.30pm WHERE: Lake Macquarie Art Gallery COST: $20 per child

Newcastle Region Art Gallery School Holiday Workshops

Join Gallery educators for workshops inspired by Art & Australia Collection 2003 – 2013. Inspired by the work of Amanda Marburg (pictured), children will create multi media representations of their own three dimensional plasticine models. Read more... WHEN: For children 5-8 years 10.30am – 12.30pm For children 9-13 years 2.30pm – 4.30pm WHERE : Newcastle Region Art Gallery COST: $15 per child

WilderQuest rockpool warriors – Glenrock State Conservation Area.

Hey Kids, come along and join a Discovery Ranger and the team from Waterwatch (Hunter Region Hunter Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority) to discover the wonders of our rocky coast line. The Waterwatch team will bring along specialised tools to help you get up close and personal to the creatures that live within the rockpools. Take home a WilderQuest bag with your very own artwork drawn onto it by you. Lots of hands on activities for the kids. Read more... WHEN: Friday 18 January 9am-11am WHERE: Merewether Baths, Merewether Beach COST: Child $15 per person. Two children $25. Three children $35. Adults free.

alphabet street

would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a safe and memorable New Year! See you in 2013!