Being Brave with the Girls

Published on July 17, 2020July 16, 2020 by Mrs Wilson of OzLeave a comment

Since reviewing their first novel ‘Being Brave’ I have been following Sema & Hester’s journey and sharing their 1st book with all my friends who have daughters. I got to chat to the ‘Being Brave Girls’ this week, and asked them for their advice on how we can encourage our daughters to be brave during these uncertain times.

The Being Brave Girls

Hester Leung and Sema Musson are the co-authors of Being Brave and Being Brave Too, middle grade novels and personal development guides for girls on being brave. These books are inspired by their friendship and their daughters’ friendships.

The inception of our series began through the many years of talking about everything and anything. Our daughters are friends, and so we became friends! We have shared our life stories and struggles, from parenting to being working mothers, from stressors when we were growing up to relationships now. Therefore, our friendship led to the creation of Being Brave.

At the time of writing our second book Being Brave Too we find ourselves in quite unusual times. It’s like a parallel universe. We are in a world of social distancing. We are all at home. We are working from home. Our daughters have been schooled from home. We have replaced our weekend catch-ups with virtual coffees and lots of phone calls and messages. When before we looked forward to seeing each other on Saturdays at our daughters’ sports, we now look forward to connecting in a totally new way, more than ever needing to support each other in a most unusual year.

Social media becomes more pronounced as we think about what our new normal will be – one where we interact more online, where social media has an increased role for connecting with friends. We want to equip girls to manage the use of these tools positively. Our second book focuses more on this theme.

During this time we discovered that we need to remain soft and strong. We need to remain kind to others and be confident that everything is going to be okay. We need to stop the negative self-talk, that little voice inside that tells us we can’t do something or that we will fail if we try.

Here are our top five tips to help all the mums and daughters who need a little support on being B-R-A-V-E at this time.

Breathe — Breathing helps calms your mind and is a good way to relax. Try this simple exercise. Place one hand on your upper chest and one hand below your rib cage. Breathe in and count to 4, hold for 4 and breathe out for 4. Feel your tummy expand as you breathe in and shrink as you breathe out.

Relationships — Family and friendships are so important. They support and encourage you in times of joy and distress. They can give you a little confidence boost when you need it most. Give someone special a call today or send them a message to check in with them.

Affirm — Positive affirmations are statements that can overcome that little negative voice on your shoulder. When you repeat them and believe in them they can help you to make a productive change. Try these — I am kind, I am capable and I am worthy.

Visualise — What is the best thing that could happen? How would it feel? How would it sound? Using positive visualisation makes it easier to achieve your goals. In your mind it will be as if you’ve done it before! It makes your goals much more familiar and achievable.

Energise — Do what you love. For each of us, there are things that bring you energy and those things that zap your energy away. Find those things that fuel you and bring them into your day.

Sending you a little bit of hope and motivation at this time. We see you and we’re here for each other.

Find The Being Brave Girls at thebeingbravegirls.com or follow along on their socials.

You can buy their book here

Being Brave Too is due to be released late September 2020.

Making memories under the stars with Peninsula Nomads

Published on July 15, 2020November 29, 2021 by Mrs Wilson of OzLeave a comment

Adventures are everywhere, and most of the time they’re closer than you think.

You really don’t have to travel far to experience a true adventure, in fact, some of the greatest adventures can happen in your very own backyard.

In uncertain times like these, making an effort to do things a little bit differently, can make such a difference to how we feel and how our children feel. All a really good adventure needs is a smile, the smell of fresh air, sleeping under the stars and the understanding that it’s there for everyone to enjoy. There are no limitations when it comes to experiencing any kind of adventure and our aim is to create a memorable experience for all.

Peninsula Nomads was born from understanding the chemical & physical impact that comes from spending time outdoors. We delight in the smiles that our TIPI tent setups create on everyone’s faces, and we can truly see the impact of being at one with nature first hand.

Studies have shown that if we grow up disconnected from nature and the outdoors, we place less value on the natural world. If we or our children lose our connection to the natural world, we simply won’t fight for it. Apart from all the wonderful things we get to experience whilst outside, nature is a well known healer. Being outdoors, surrounded by loved ones, works wonders for your wellbeing and has been proven to dramatically reduce stress.

Making memories…..

We can all remember those childhood days where we used blankets, pillows and chairs to build a TIPI tent in the lounge. Blissfully happy memories of pretending to camp out, telling stories in your own little den live with you forever. Our imagination from then can become a unique reality today and without the need to move furniture or steal everyones blankets.

Whether you’re a parent looking for a unique night under the stars with the children, or a beautiful TIPI birthday party, Peninsula Nomads will bring that feeling of adventure to you, in style. In fact, Peninsula Nomads deliver a unique and special adventure to any event, from Glamping with your girlfriends, to intimate wedding setups, delightful date nights, pretty picnics or any other occasion where adventure, love and friendship are the fundament of the experience.

Peninsula Nomads is a local family business. We provide TIPI tent experiences so the entire family can “escape” and appreciate the smaller things in life that make for big memories. After living our lives from Europe to South America and now in our “new” home here in Australia, sharing genuine happiness, care and unique experiences is the core of our mission.

A bit more about us….

We love creating special experiences for all our customers. Every detail is carefully curated and taken care of, whilst we completely customise your TIPI tent experience.

We work with lots of lovely local businesses to enable us to provide cookies, grazing boxes, adventures gifts, styling, glamping sleeping packages and lots more to make your experience a one of a kind.

“No valid plans for the future can be made by those who have no capacity for living now.”

Alan Watts

Written by Laura van de Kaa

We are still operating, so please get in touch if you’re keen to create an awesome experience in your backyard. All set ups and pack ups are done in accordance with the Governments Covid-19 social distancing laws.

Chats with Elmo & The Cookie Monster

Published on July 13, 2020July 14, 2020 by Mrs Wilson of OzLeave a comment

It may only be 9am, but the Wilsons got up for a 7am phone chat with none other than Elmo and the Cookie Monster from Sesame Street. There’s definitely excitement in the air this morning as we prepare for the 50th Season of Sesame Street which kicks off this Wednesday 15th July at 9.30am on ABCKids.

The kids prepped their questions, Elmo grabbed his snacks, and here’s how it went! *Heart melt

Monty- What’s the best thing about living on Sesame Street?

Cookie Monster: Me love singing songs with Elmo, going to Hooper’s Store with Big Bird, gardening with Abby, and baking in the Foodie Truck with Gonger.

Elmo: Elmo loves living on Sesame Street. There are so many fun things to do, but Elmo’s FAVOURITE thing to do is sing songs with Elmo’s friends. On Sesame Street we sing songs about letters, numbers, fruits, vegetables and even Snuffleupagus’.

Poppy- Who has been the funniest celebrity you have met?

Cookie Monster: The funniest? Oh boy, so many famous people coming to Sesame Street lately! Not sure who the funniest but they all fun. We had Joseph Gordon-Levitt Chrissy Teigen, Charlie Puth, Meghan Trainor, Misty Copeland, Elvis Costello, and Dave Grohl… yeah, they all came for a nice visit.

Me played new game with Chrissy Teigen called “Name that Fruit,” where Chrissy had to guess the fruit’s first names. Like Abe Apple or Breanna Banana. It pretty fun. chrissy-teigen-2-c-sesame-workshop-richard-termine

Poppy – We love all the music in Sesame Street, do you have a favourite song?

Elmo: Elmo’s favourite song is called ‘Elmo’s Song.’ La la la la, La la la la, Elmo’s song…

Poppy – Did you like Australia when you came here to visit?

Elmo: Elmo loves visiting Australia, especially the beaches to put his furry toes in the sand. Elmo swam with a dolphin when Elmo was last in Australia. That was so cool. Next time Elmo visits Australia, Elmo wants to learn how to surf! Elmo wants to try “catching a wave” and “hang ten,” baby!

Cookie Monster: Me did a foodie truck tour of Sydney–that was definitely a highlight! We tried a toastie, pizza, tacos, and finally a chocolate mint cookie for a delicious dessert! Me have fond memories of the sights, sounds, smells and cookies of Australia. You call them biscuits, right? Oh, me getting hungry.

Monty – What have you been doing to keep busy while staying at home on Sesame Street?

Elmo: Elmo’s Daddy set up video chat so Elmo can have virtual playdates and sing-a-longs with his friends. Elmo has also been doing Grovercise with Grover– that’s when Grover teaches you exercises. He falls down a lot. And Elmo’s also been learning mindfulness activities. Yeah, like belly breathing and how to calm down before bedtime. the-great-sesame-cake-off-1-c-richard-termine (1)

Cookie Monster: Me organising snack chats with me friends, making healthy snacks and trying new foods like hummus.

All me friends on Sesame Street been giving me recipes. Big Bird shared his Granny Bird’s sunflower seed cookie recipe, Chef Gonger gave me banana bread recipe, and Oscar gave me recipe for grouch goulash…. me not sure me gonna try that one

“As we mark our 50th season, we want to remind families everywhere of the timeless lessons Sesame Street has always taught. Everyone, no matter where they are from, is equally deserving of respect, opportunity, and joy.” Steve Youngwood, President of Media & Education and Chief Operating Officer of Sesame Workshop.

Monty -If you had one wish what would it be?

Cookie Monster: Dat an easy one. Me wish for a delicious cookie to share with all of me friends on Sesame Street.

Elmo: Elmo really likes the virtual playdates with Elmo’s friends on Sesame Street but Elmo can’t wait to go back outside to visit Hooper’s Store with Elmo’s Mommy, play with Abby and Rosita, and have a dance party with Big Bird and Snuffy. They make the whole street shake.

Poppy – Can you please give a shout out to all the kids who may be feeling sad or disappointed while they’re staying home.

Cookie Monster: There lot going on right now. Me talk to me mommy about how me feeling and she gives a nice warm hug. And sometimes you just need moment for self. Listen to your favourite song, or watch a favourite show.

Me also learn that it physical distance, not social distance. Me still get to see me friends and family, but in a whole new way, and me know that you can still see your friends and family, too.

Stay healthy and me sending you a big, virtual hug – and cookie – through the internety – Cookie Monster

Elmo: You can do a lot of fun things at home. Elmo loves building pillow forts, making obstacle courses, and going on a scavenger hunt with Elmo’s Mommy and Daddy.

Elmo is sending you a big hello and hopes Elmo can see all of you very soon.

This 50th season will launch in Australia on ABC Kids on Wednesday 15th July at 9.30am and will also be available on ABC iview and the ABC Kids app.

Sesame Street content continues to be available via ABC Kids each weekday morning at 9.30am. The episodes are also available any time on ABC iview and the ABC Kids app.

About Sesame Workshop

Sesame Workshop is the nonprofit educational organisation behind Sesame Street, the pioneering television show that has been reaching and teaching children since 1969. Today, Sesame Workshop is an innovative force for change, with a mission to help kids everywhere grow smarter, stronger, and kinder. We’re present in more than 150 countries, serving vulnerable children through a wide range of media, formal education, and philanthropically-funded social impact programs, each grounded in rigorous research and tailored to the needs and cultures of the communities we serve. For more information, please visit www.sesameworkshop.org.

Life, Loves and Lockdown

Published on July 13, 2020 by Mrs Wilson of OzLeave a comment

Lockdown is well underway *again here in Melbourne so it’s a perfect time to see how others are doing it!! Here’s a sneaky peek at ‘Lockdown Life’ from Melbourne’s best local biz cheerleader, charity fundraiser and all round good human!

Liz Paganoni – Life Loves & Liz

Staying home and not having to interact with others face to face, is the stuff Liz’s dreams are made of. Mostly. Wow. Is Liz a crazy lady? Sort of! She is an introverted homebody, so lockdown isn’t that uncomfortable for her in all honesty.

I’m now going to stop referring to myself in third person, because ‘weird’, and delve a little deeper into the situation. I’ll start with a brief introduction. My name is Liz. I’m a wife to Tom and mum to three babes, Ella (11), Alex (10) and Anna (about to have an iso 7th birthday). We are a fairly regular family. We work hard, and we play hard! We enjoy spending time with friends and family, we love food and drinks and hanging out together.

When Lockdown 1.0 hit, we were in the midst of a bit of a health crisis. Given it wasn’t mine, I’m not going to go into it any more, but suffice to say ‘Lockdown’ was somewhat of a blessing in disguise. We were able to block out all outside pressures and work through what happened as a family. Gone were the external pressures of work, school, sport and social things that pretty much kept us busy 7 days a week. So, it was a great chance to heal. On the flip side, not being able to access outside help was hard. Thankfully, with the assistance of a medical team (via phone), friends and family and plenty of messages, we were able to deal, and I am actually somewhat grateful for the lockdown. It was like a giant pause button had been pressed and we had time to stop.

Lockdown wasn’t all healing and dealing though, we also had the time to do other stuff, like clean out the pantry…and the plastics cupboard….and all the other totally boring stuff that ordinarily, the craziness of life helps you to put off.

For the kids, not going to school was HUGE. They’re all baby nerds and absolutely love school so they were devastated at not being able see their teachers and friends every day.

When the whispers of no school first began, we whipped up some lists and schedules quick smart and got into a great routine. We all had chores to do every day, we all had time allotted for exercise and we all made time for work. The most important aspect for us was the exercise component, making sure the kids (and I) got outside each and every single day for fresh air and movement. It’s easy to forget how much incidental exercise kids do every single day at school, before school and during play times as they run around doing whatever.

On the subject of school, we are really lucky. Our kids LOVE school (I’m yelling that out because that is how they actually feel about school), so remote learning wasn’t all that bad for us. Ella and Alex are very self motivated, sat down every day and smashed out their work. I’m so grateful for these two and how well they did over the period. Anna was a bit harder to work with but at that age, it’s to be expected. She’s in grade 1 and I’ve discovered she likes things done a certain way, at a certain time on a certain day. And boy, if you deviate from this unknown schedule, things are not going to be done! However, she must have learnt something as her reading has skyrocketed right up to grade 2 level. #Winning

I could probably write a 1000 page thesis on my thoughts about lockdown and iso but BORING. I guess my main points about getting through lockdown (which is actually me living my best homebody life) are these;

View it is an opportunity. An opportunity to ditch all the external pressures that take up so much time. An opportunity to bond as a family. An opportunity to clean the bloody plastics cupboard out.
Schedule your days. Schedule in chores. (The kids are home more thus can do more chores). Work in exercise/movement time (we found 2 x 1hr blocks within the day worked for us and work/school blocks. Having a schedule means you don’t turn into a PJ wearing couch potato *not good for your physical, mental or emotional health.
Set goals. This time round I’ll be walking every single day working up to running. You can check up on me on Strava if you like (Liz Paganoni) and keep me accountable! Walking each day means I have at least an hour away from the kids, self care, which helps me stay sane. 24/7 with the kids is hard right?! I also have work goals too. Lockdown is a great opportunity to work on things you might not normally have time for.
Make friends with online shopping…. and your local bottle shop. But also make sure you have AFD’s each week…because, balance! Buy from local businesses who have probably had the worst year ever between bushfires and COVID. You have plenty of time on your hands to find rad new biz’s to support after all! Spread the word of the local businesses you use. They will love you for it and you’ll feel good to.
Check in with others. Introvert or not, you still need to interact with others. A text convo here, a Zoom chat there, it benefits both parties. Make it a goal to chat to a different person each day?

Lockdown is hard but we’ve done it once and we can do it again, as long as we support each other. I believe in you all. And if I can help in any way, please let me know.

Liz xxx

You can follow Liz and her journey through life, loves and Lockdown via her website and on her socials below xx

Friends, family and The Spice Tailor

Published on May 25, 2020 by Mrs Wilson of OzLeave a comment

Friendship – मित्रता

Three Cheers!! ‘Little’ dinner parties are back on, and I am ecstatic! I delight in having friends over to eat with us. I adore the preparation, the laying of the table, the lighting of the candles. I love everything there is to love about getting together with those you feel most at ease with. Sharing a meal is so significant to me, even more so since we moved away from our nearest and dearest. It’s a great way for us to spoil new friends, build on friendships and create a real family atmosphere for our children.

Cooking a meal for others really is a great way to show how much you love them; and when I say meal, I mostly mean curry! Nothing warms my heart more than the air filled with the scent of India, the sounds of romantic Hindi love songs playing gently in the background, cutlery hitting plates, sharing plates being passed around and laughter gently powdering the air. Meals like this are the be all and end all for me, and I hope it’s something my children look back on fondly.

Family – परिवार

An ‘Indian Culture Night’ is a great way of getting everyone involved, whilst savouring some of the words most divine spices. There are so many wonderful things to explore when it comes to the diverse and vibrant Indian culture which makes it a great conversation starter. Saturday night was cold and wet here, so an Indian meal was the perfect way to warm things up. We popped Om Shanti Om on (best movie ever) whilst we got to work. We chatted, danced, and the children wrote place cards for everyone in Hindi. It was the sweetest touch to the table.

“There are so many options for people looking to create their own Indian meals at home. It feels to me that there has been a gap in the market for a long time to show people how they can introduce authentic Indian tastes and flavours to dishes beyond just curries” – Beloved chef Anjum Anand, founder of The Spice Tailor

स्वादिष्ट – Delicious

Thankfully, I was fully prepared to create a feast with The Spice Tailor’s incredible meal kits. They have an easy three step process to creating a restaurant quality meal that the children can get involved in. Hurrah! Glass of red wine in hand and three simple steps to create the most authentic curry to wow my guests!

These meals are not only easy to prepare, but they are thoughtfully created, free from artificial preservatives, colours, and flavourings which is always a good thing. The Spice Tailor use natural ingredients to create their simple to use, flavourful sauces, dahl and pastes which means even the least creative cooks can shine.

यादें – Memories

Creating a themed dinner party is so much fun for the whole family. Our table was full. Full of friends, of love, and of laughter whilst brimming with curries and rice, chapatis, naan bread, poppadum and pickles. It was a truly delicious banquet, that we all had a hand in preparing.

What a night to cherish; the beginning of the end of lockdown, celebrating travels to come, India, food, friendship and family; all before diving in to a tray of carefully selected Indian Sweets.

The fondest memories are made, gathered round the table.

In Australia you can find The Spice Tailor range in Coles and Woolworths

*We were gifted The Spice Tailor meal kits however, as always, these are my own words, and my own opinions.

Moxie gifted us a moment to treasure

Published on May 22, 2020 by Mrs Wilson of Oz6 Comments

I completely underestimated how I would feel when the postie handed me the box from Moxie. I have been researching, reading, chatting to other mums, and having the odd chat with my girl about what’s to come, but I still feel like I’ve not done enough to prepare her for the arrival of her monthly friend! *mum guilt. Talking periods has never really been something I’ve done (eek), or had to do *yet, so I have recently made more of an effort to open up and start the conversation in order to make it as ‘normal’ as it should be for a young girl.

I vividly remember being dragged through endless awful chats about periods with Ms King, the most ghastly matron at school. My little 9 year old friends and I were too terror stricken to ask questions, too horrified to touch the bible sized sanitary pad and god forbid we giggled! We sat wide eyed, aghast at the very thought of getting ‘The Curse’. Periods were something not to be spoken about outside of those four walls, and each one of us left class safe in the knowledge that whenever the day came, we would bleed to death! Thanks Matron!

Roll on a few years

I’m now well and truly ensconced in womanhood and motherhood, tuns out you don’t bleed to death after all, and now it’s my turn to teach my daughter about all things woman! **Cue little chubby angels singing… As if by magic, not long ago, I stumbled across ‘Welcome to your Period‘ by Yumi Stynes and Melissa Kang. If you’re a mama of girls and haven’t seen this book, you must grab a copy.

It’s like a bible for mums and daughters when it comes to ‘the curse, the monthly’s, Aunt Flo’s visit, Lady time,’ or what ever you like to affectionately name your period! **You’ll be glad to know Matron had no hand in the writing of this book, it’s simply packed with honest words from real teens and hot advice from the experts. Phew! This ‘monthly’s manual’ has been a fab way to start the conversation, answer the gross questions, and put to bed all the horror stories that come from the playground pow wows. It also encouraged me to buy a Period Pack. *I was hell bent on making my own, but.. life….

A recent study found that us girls would rather say anything other than the P word hence there are over 5,000 slang terms for ‘Period’ across the world

Enter Moxie’s Welcome to Periods Box!

If you know me you’ll know that I love a bit of research. Google is my bestie for pointing me in the right direction, I can often be found knee deep in magazines, and Instagram is my go to when I want the perfect gift! I want to see it from all angles, in all kinds of places, worn, thrown on the floor, lying on the kitchen bench, chucked in a pool! I’m all over it! I’m a massive sucker for a pretty parcel! Let it be known, I’m a packaging whore! I will always go for the prettiest box! Whether it’s cereal or makeup, a book or a t-shirt, wrap it up nicely (always with a sticker) and I’m all in! Hey, we all have our ‘things’!

Thankfully the gift I have just researched & purchased for my girl ticked all of my ‘boxes’ and many, many more. Moxie have not only carefully curated their ‘Welcome to Periods‘ box, but they have smashed goals in making it so much more than a box of ‘period paraphernalia’. From the wrapping paper, to the Freckleberry chocolate bar, to the tampons and hot water bottle, it was a gift I wished I’d bought my 11 year old self. *Luckily Moxie do heaps of boxes for those of us who have been in the game a while too. Winning!!

So, how did she take it?

I had no idea how my daughter would feel to receive a ‘gift’ like this. Before it arrived I wasn’t even sure if it could be classed as a gift or more of a ‘tasteful toolbox!’ Honestly I was a little nervous. Would she look at me as if I had gone mad? Would she cringe, grunt and then hide it under her bed? I couldn’t have been more wrong.

Watching her unwrap the gorgeous wrapping covered in hilarious little ‘tampon angels’, cooing over each and every treat she pulled out was a real tearjerker. “Oh I love this mum!” “Look at this!” “Did you see this one mum?” She was thrilled, and I was teary. My girl has everything she needs for the journey ahead, and it couldn’t have been gifted in a more glorious way.

Moxie have not only created a gorgeous gift for girls of a certain age, but they’ve created a moment in time for us Mamas. They have turned what was once a ‘cringefest’ filled with embarrassment and fear, into a beautiful, gentle and exciting pathway to womanhood for our girls.

Most importantly, Moxie have gifted a treasured date in time where Mama and daughter got to pause, chat, giggle and grow together. Moxie gifted us a moment we will treasure forever.

Here’s to raising good women, and here’s to Moxie for the helping hand!

*This is not a paid post, this is a genuine appreciation for a fab product, in amongst a whole lot of spectacular products for women of all ages. Check out Moxie now!

Small Biz Shout Out #4 – Rainbow Light Therapies

Published on April 3, 2020May 22, 2020 by Mrs Wilson of OzLeave a comment

I’m so thrilled to be gifting you this article as part of my ‘Small Biz Shout Out’ series. As the parent of a child who suffers with anxiety, it was comforting to chat to Kim from Rainbow Light Therapies to get a better understanding of how we can help our children process the plethora of information we’re faced with right now, without overwhelming them.

I know how fantastic Kim’s work is, as my own family have worked with her, and have had great success through her gentle and effective guidance. I trust Kim implicitly to give us all the best information when it comes to helping our children, so here it is.

Kim – Rainbow Light Therapies

Firstly, how are you feeling Kim, and how do you manage your emotions in the face of this unprecedented pandemic?

I am actually grieving at the moment. Grieving for a holiday that was 12 months in the planning and will now be cancelled. We were scheduled to go to Italy for 3.5 weeks in June/July this year.
Whilst grieving for that holiday I am trying to focus on ‘the good’ that may come out of this and to practise ‘gratitude’ wherever I can. Hopefully we will see a huge shift in humanity and, a shift that will bring us back to ‘us’ and ‘we’ rather than the ‘me’ mentality we seem to be in.
Managing emotions is tough, if like me, you are empathic, counselling people and are bombarded with Corona Virus news wherever you look.

TURN OFF SOCIAL MEDIA. Set strict boundaries and stick to them- Kim, Rainbow Light Therapies

How can we talk to our children about Covid-19 in the right way?

Talking to our children about Covid-19 is a personal thing. It’s like telling the kids the truth about the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus. It can be very individual. My advice is to keep it simple and factual. Kids have fantastic ‘bullshit monitors’ and will know when you are sidestepping or trying to cover up the truth. Tell them the facts in age appropriate language that they understand and then ask them questions. Test that they have understood what you have told them.

Do you think there should be a limit to what we are telling them?

I cannot reiterate enough that we need to tell the truth. Don’t tell them it is just the flu OR that it is not even as bad as the flu. What do you think is going to happen next winter when you the parent end up with the flu and your child remembers all those people dying last year from Covid-19? Dying from a virus that was the ‘flu’ or not even as bad as the flu?

I am passionate about working with children and families to heal, empower and inspire them to manage their stress and anxiety in a natural, holistic way – Kim, Rainbow Light Therapies

Do you have any great resources you can recommend for parents who need a hand with calming children who are feeling worried at the moment?

Here is a list of free resources that I have written and produced to help our anxious kids and teens.

Articles for Parents to Read

Top 9 Stress Busters for Kids and Teens
https://rainbowlighttherapies.com.au/top-9-stress-busters-…/

More Stress Busters for Kids and Teens
https://rainbowlighttherapies.com.au/more-stress-busters-f…/

5 Tips for a Calmer Sleep
https://kiddipedia.com.au/5-tips-for-a-calmer-sleep/

Article for Teens and Adults to Read

Just Breathe (Breathing Techniques for Kids, Teens and Adults)
https://kiddipedia.com.au/just-breathe/

Managing Teen Angst (A Guide for Teens and Parents)
https://rainbowlighttherapies.com.au/managing-teen-angst-a…/

Meditations for Kids

Secret Garden Meditation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFdk3OFRA60&t=100s

Happy Place Meditation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGBkPC_Gt1E&t=432s

Meditations for Kids, Teens and Adults

Progressive Muscle Relaxation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ogoK18lnBA&t=3s

One Minute Meditation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3IRaKHc8azs&t=79s

I also suggest Cosmic Kids Yoga for yoga stories and meditations.
https://www.youtube.com/user/CosmicKidsYoga

Jason Stephenson has some wonderful kids meditations also.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDmAYm1rH8TZpwHyiav8npnsSmkHcwSCw

Obviously some children will feel worried about the pandemic, however when would you recommend that parents seek further help for their child? What signs should they be keeping an eye out for?

It’s important to keep an eye out for any changes in behaviour eg: onset of nail biting, more frequent stomach aches and/or headaches, trouble falling asleep, trouble staying asleep, angry outbursts, withdrawal from the family, loss of confidence, negative talking etc. Just to name a few.Keep the lines of communication open, ask open-ended questions (questions that require more than a one word response). If you feel you need help then get it. The strategies I outline really do work – I have a son with autism and high anxiety and they work on him.

I am working online at this time providing counselling for kids, teens and adults as are a lot of other folk. I am also running “Parenting Strategy” sessions online -Kim, Rainbow Light Therapies

What can parents do to better manage their emotions and therefore help stop their children’s feelings escalating?

Monkey see Monkey do! Your kids will emulate exactly what you do. Parents need to set a good example. Set healthy boundaries like turning off social media. Don’t watch the news coverage 24hours per day. Exercise. Eat well. Keep to a routine. Even just a basic routine will help as we all suffer less anxiety when we know what is going to happen next, so, set up a daily planner and stick to it (allowing for fun time, downtime and blocks of time for things to go pear shaped).

Stay home BUT stay connected. Get the kids to show you how to do a group chat online via Skype or Zoom so that you can “see” your tribe and stay connected. Think outside the box. Setup games nights, birthday parties and other celebrations via online methods. Research shows that connection lowers stress, anxiety and depression – Kim, Rainbow Light Therapies

Kim is working online at the moment. She offers a range of services including Kids and Teens Group and Individual Managing Anxiety Sessions, Kids, Teens and Adults Reiki Workshops and Intuitive Healings, Kids, Teens and Adults Spiritual Development Workshops and Individual and Family Counselling Sessions for the whole family.

You can get in touch with Kim by emailing her – kim@rainbowlighttherapies.com.au

You can check out more from Kim via her website, and by finding her on Instagram , Facebook & YouTube

Thank You!

Whilst many, many small businesses are letting go of staff, and popping the ‘closed’ sign on the door for the last time, thousands more are trying their absolute best not to become a victim of the Covid-19 Pandemic. That is why it is crucially important that we all make sure we are researching before buying and making a real point of ‘shopping small’. By sharing these posts you are sharing this small business with your friends and you are creating a chain of exposure for each and every business we feature. Imagine the difference you could make, just with the click of a button!!

Who can you support next?

Liv xx

Small Biz Shout Out #3 -Elly VValler Design

Published on March 31, 2020May 22, 2020 by Mrs Wilson of OzLeave a comment

I am so excited to introduce you all to Elly Vvaller. Elly is not only a beautiful person, she is also the creator of some insanely gorgeous hand printed paper goods! Yes that says hand printed!!!

I had a good chat with Elly and asked her to share her story, so that you could all be encouraged to reach out and support her.

Elly – Elly VValler Design

I’ve been running my own business since 2015. I started whilst on maternity leave, got my first big retailer early on and the rest followed!

Originally from the UK, I’m now based in Sweden where I run the business from my peaceful home studio.

I have always been creative and am an illustrator at heart. For that reason, when I started my business I decided to specialise in beautiful hand foiled greetings cards and prints. I sell these worldwide via wholesale and through Etsy for those of you who love putting pen to paper or wrapping gifts in delightful designs.

The current climate means that I’m having to be a little more creative in how I work and what I’m producing. I’ve found my new print at home files are doing well and I’m hoping to offer a bespoke service where I ship products direct with a personal message. Fingers crossed!

ELLY VVALLER_Greetings_Card_Hello_Sunshine

As a small business owner, I’m continuously looking at working harder on my social presence. I feel that it’s so important my customers know who’s behind the brand and understand that there’s more to me than my stationery. I am currently working on a brand new website that combines my love for vintage, styling and illustration, so watch this space!

Collaborations are at the top of my list! Do get in touch if you have a great idea!

At times like this we all need to remember we’re in this together! It’s unthinkable that every single person and business is affected by Covid 19 no matter how big or small they are. I truly hope we can learn to see the positive take aways from this situation we find ourselves in. I’m hoping that over time we relearn the joy of snail mail, slowing down and most importantly, staying in touch. Writing is our historical archive and we don’t want to lose it in a time when text and zoom is king.

I am lucky in that I haven’t had to make too many changes to my way of working because of the pandemic. However, I have made it my goal to create more of a presence on social media to really reach my customers and show them who I am and what I am creating. I’d love for you to reach out and find me, see my work, like what I do, and purchase something that may brighten someone’s day just at the right time.

Elly xx

If you would like to get in touch with Elly regarding wholesale or purchasing something to make someone smile, please email her directly at @ellyvvallerdesign@gmail.com or you can reach out to her through Instagram

Thank You!

Whilst many, many small businesses are letting go of staff, and popping the ‘closed’ sign on the door for the last time, thousands more are trying their absolute best not to become a victim of the Covid-19 Pandemic. That is why it is crucially important that we all make sure we are researching before buying and making a real point of ‘shopping small’. By sharing these posts you are sharing this small business with your friends and you are creating a chain of exposure for each and every business we feature. Imagine the difference you could make, just with the click of a button!!

Who can you support next?

Liv xx

Small Biz Shout Out #2 Love Gwen Jewellery

Published on March 27, 2020May 22, 2020 by Mrs Wilson of OzLeave a comment

The first time I spoke to Corinne, and heard her story, I just wanted to reach out and hug her. However, due to social distancing and all that, I am only able to show her my love by sharing with you, her story. This is not only a tale of bravery against the odds, determination and love, it is a story that will make you realise exactly why shopping small is so damn important. Keeping talented people like Corinne supported should be the first thing we think when we are looking to buy. Here is Corinne’s story!

Corinne – Love Gwen Jewellery

I have always been an artist, I did sculpture, painting and in my 20’s I started as a young apprentice under my now mentor Lisa. I worked with Lisa for 13 years, after begging her to hire me! I learned from a strong woman doing it on her own and have now followed in her footsteps.

After having my two children Beau (7)and Gwen (4) I was inspired to create jewellery that made me and my customers capture the love that our children, siblings and partners had brought us.

My little Gwendolyn inspired most of the pieces you see on my online shop. Gwen is a free spirit and from the minute she was born, my desire to create and inspire kept growing stronger. Don’t get me wrong cleaning up my 4-year-olds vomit while breastfeeding my 6-month-old DID also inspire me to do something more with my day to day too BUT mostly I have always been a maker.

I had been dreaming about starting Love Gwen Jewellery for years but the universe decided to give me one giant kick up the ass to get my jewellery out there.

I was working for another jeweller in a tiny shop when I was robbed, in broad daylight, on my own. 5 men smashed through the windows and threatened to kill me with hammers. It was the most terrifying moment of my life. In an instant I thought I would die and never see my family again. They left with jewels and money and I was left coping with PTSD and raising 2 children under 4, whilst my husband went to work. It was one of the biggest challenges I’ve ever faced.

After that, I could never work in a shop again, I could barely cope with my day to day. My work was always such a huge part of who I was creatively, so how would I work again and heal? Love Gwen Jewellery was finally born. It healed me from my trauma and made me see how much making others happy with my jewellery is what I have always needed to do. I could breathe when I was making and I could learn to be a good mum again too.

Two months later, I hit another bump in the road. Cancer. I had grown a tennis ball size tumour in my armpit. It seems my stress and anxiety from the robbery had manifested into a huge lump. I still remember when the doctor told me. I skipped into the office thinking I was untouchable, I’d been through enough yeh? Wrong. Apparently I still had some battles to go. In the coming weeks I had major surgery and survived. Now missing an armpit and with one boob slightly lower, I was ok. I still kept Love Gwen Jewellery going and I remember doing all my Christmas orders 1 month later in a sling after surgery. Once again Love Gwen saved me.

It has been 3 years and between routine scans, anxiety, and support from family and friends Love Gwen Jewellery has thrived.

I shared my love and made pieces that people truly cherish – Corinne

I’ve had Abby Gilmore, Constance Hall, and Celeste Barber all tell the world they loved their Love Gwen pieces and it has been an amazing ride. My hubby and my kids are so proud and they tell their friends at school, that mum will make them jewellery. My son Beau has brought home a few little girls bracelets for me to fix which I love.

All the jewellery I make is made with my own two hands, and every piece is personal. I promise it’s made to last.- Corinne

I do a lot of custom pieces which I LOVE and engagement rings.

My jewellery is sterling silver and gold, nothing is plated and all links are soldered, it really is made to last a lifetime. My jewellery won’t change colour or snap, never to be seen again the junk jewellery pile!

I make pieces for baby to adult, that will last their whole lives and it makes me so happy that something I made will be with them forever – Corinne

Another thing I do at Love Gwen which I really adore, is I get kids, or adults to write their own names or even the writing of a loved one that has passed, and I turn it into a name necklace for them. That is truly rewarding work.

In times like these

Unfortunately jewellery is generally one of the first things to go when times get tough. It gets pushed to the back of the to do list. My customers are mostly Mumma’s who deserve to treat themselves and want to honour their families in jewellery. So when Mumma is trying to survive, she puts her wants and needs last.

It’s also a very hard thing to promote when you know people are struggling. We are all struggling.

Changes

I like all small business owners have had to make changes to the way I work. I have recently eliminated postage costs to customers. For now, I will pay for that. I have also made sure I offer sales whenever I can. My product quality will never change. The price of gold keeps going up but I’m keeping my prices as they are. I have been offering to send gifts directly to the receiver, so no one needs to leave the couch (the best part of online shopping!). A lot of mums won’t be out shopping for birthdays, and Mothers Day, so I’m happy to wrap it up and pop it in the mail on their behalf.

To all my customers I want to let you know I am still here! I will be here for that birthday you can’t celebrate, that mum you can’t catch up with on Mothers Day, that 1st birthday that got cancelled. That Christening that you couldn’t go to.

What better way to show someone you love, you’re thinking of them, than a piece of jewellery that will last them their lifetime – Corinne

You can support Corinne by checking out her beautiful range at Love Gwen Handmade Jewellery

You can also find Love Gwen Jewellery on Instagram and Facebook and Pinterest

You can also email Corinne Barlow if you have something you may like to commission – corinne@lovegwenjewellery.com.au

WORLDWIDE SHIPPING AVAILABLE

Thank You!

Whilst many, many small businesses are letting go of staff, and popping the ‘closed’ sign on the door for the last time, thousands more are trying their absolute best not to become a victim of the Covid-19 Pandemic. That is why it is crucially important that we all make sure we are researching before buying and making a real point of ‘shopping small’. By sharing these posts you are sharing this small business with your friends and you are creating a chain of exposure for each and every business we feature. Imagine the difference you could make, just with the click of a button!!

Who can you support next?

Liv xx

Small Biz Shout Out #1 Cakes by Carter

Published on March 27, 2020May 22, 2020 by Mrs Wilson of OzLeave a comment

MELBOURNE

I’m so happy to be introducing you to Lisa for #1 in my ‘Small Biz Shout Out’ series. Not only does Lisa create the most incredible cakes right here in Melbourne, (I’ve eaten a few) she is also a genuinely good human. If ever you wanted to support a small business, this is the one for you. I mean, great human and gorgeous cake… Is there a better mix?

Hello everyone! I’m Carter – Lisa Carter. My dear Qantas family, in Melbourne, where I worked for many years helped create the name of ‘Cakes By Carter‘ on a lonely nightshift, and the dream has been moving slowly since then.

Cakes by Carter was created out of a passion for home baking after making my first wedding cake back in 2002. Now, 18 years on I am still baking and specialising in cakes; all kinds of cakes. I offer novelty, wedding, proposal, baby reveal, cupcakes… you name it, I can do it! I also have a unique talent for decorating cookies using the freshest of ingredients, all hand made by me. Vegan, gluten free and egg free are some of our frequent requests, so no one is left out!

Cakes by Carter is a loyal member and of the CDAV (Cake Decorators Association of Victoria) and I have a genuine passion and love for what I do. I am proud to be a 6 time winner at the Royal Melbourne Show & Red Hill Show.

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on my business. From weddings to birthday parties, and all other events on hold, Cakes by Carter has had most bookings cancelled. For my small business this is huge. Looking at an almost empty booking diary is not what I was expecting at this point in the year.

Being home based and always maintaining a certificate in food safety, I can guarantee our practices are safe and adhere to new Covid-19 measures as put in place by the Government.I have recently updated my practices to include the addition of hair nets and face masks while continuing to wear gloves as always – Lisa Carter

To Melbourne, I would like to say, I am still operating. I’m still filling my kitchen with beautiful baking smells, and I would love to create something for your loved ones, especially at a time when we are all desperately searching for special connections.

Let me, Cakes by Carter help you surprise your loved ones, friends or work colleagues with a contactless delivery of cupcakes, cookies or a cake. If you know someone who has to stay home for their upcoming birthday why not have a gorgeous small cake delivered right to their door?

You can support Cakes by Carter on Instagram & Facebook

Thank You!

Whilst many, many small businesses are letting go of staff, and popping the ‘closed’ sign on the door for the last time, thousands more are trying their absolute best not to become a victim of the Covid-19 Pandemic. That is why it is crucially important that we all make sure we are researching before buying and making a real point of ‘shopping small’. By sharing these posts you are sharing this small business with your friends and you are creating a chain of exposure for each and every business we feature. Imagine the difference you could make, just with the click of a button!!

Who can you support next?

Liv xx

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