LOVE TO DREAM SWADDLED UP REVIEW

When we finally got the OK to bring Max home from hospital, it was 8pm on a Monday night. We decided to bring him home that night once the hospital finally did their discharge and referral paperwork (knowing what we know now, we should have savoured one last night of decent sleep!)

The first few nights were horrible. He didn't stop screaming, he didn't settle and he definitely didn't sleep. I was desperate for ANYTHING that might help.

That's when I found his Love to Dream Swaddle Up that I had won via their Facebook page. I had heard great things about these... Apparently their arms being up is more of a natural position for most bub and promotes self soothing. 

The Swaddle Up is so soft, and really hugged Max's body. I think he did prefer his arms up, especially since his arms were not often "wrapped" in while he was in the NICU due to his IV lines.

It has a zip which opens both top and bottom which is super handy for late night nappy changes where I don't want to disturb him too much. 

The purpose of bottom opening zip, along with a clever opening in the back, allows for baby to be strapped into a 5 point harness (in the car seat or pram) whilst wearing the suit.

Was it the magic answer to get Max to sleep? No! But really... He is not going to be a great sleeper (I've come to accept that). 

It did help him settle a bit easier, and it great because I don't have to try to wrap him once he has already dozed off in my arms... I can simply pop him in his bassinet and hope and pray he stays asleep. 

Daddy Mummerina loves it because he could not, for the life of him, ever remember how to wrap him properly.

A few of the mums in my birth group swear by the Swaddle Up and say as soon as they started using them their babies were sleeping 5-6 hours at a time (yes, I am jealous!)

You can get the Love to Dream Swaddled Up from their store here from $39.95

Does your little one sleep in a Love to Dream suit?

Disclosure: I was not compensated or remunerated for this review, I'm just a fan who wan this product in a competition. This review is my own and honest opinion. For more information see my disclosure policy

MIRA'S HAND PURE ARGAN OIL REVIEW

I remember the first time I tried 'Argan oil'. I bought a bottle of , lets call it...Dirty-Stinking-Liars Argan Oil and raved about it to friends, on twitter, in my old blog... to anyone that would listen. 

Through my online ramblings, I was introduced to (back then) new brand Mira's Hand, in particular their 100% Pure Argan Oil. I was due to restock so I ordered a bottle from Mira's Hand.

100% Pure Moroccan Organic Argan oil

  The first thing I did was read the bottle. Ingredients: 100% pure Argan oil. 'Hmm, cool' I thought. 

I picked up the almost empty bottle of Dirty-Stinking-Liars Argan Oil I was using to check the ingredients on that! I nearly died when I saw a list of ingredients I didnt even know how to pronounce (Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethiconol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Fragrance (Parfum), Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Yellow 11 (CI 47000), Red 17 (CI 26100) 

So when I have been raving about Argan Oil - it seems I haven't actually been using much Argan Oil at all. 

I spoke with Jamila from Mira's Hand and she said that some brands use as little as 4% Argan Oil in their ingredients. I try to use as many natural products as I can - so to think I was using all that crap on my hair, AND FACE, really pissed me off!!! 

As soon as I opened the bottle and poured a bit of Mira's Hand Argan Oil into my hand I could immediately see the difference. 

To start with - the bottle only allows for a few sparce drops at a time... which trust me, is all you need. It wasn't nearly as oily or greasy as the concoction I had been using. It didn't have such a fragant scent too it (which is obviously because it hasn't an additional 'perfume' added to it). And it just seemed to soak into my skin and hair a lot quicker. 

If you are using any kind or Argan or Moroccan oil, please please plesae please make sure you are using 100% pure Argan oil. Otherwise you may as well be using a mixture of cooking oils, perfume & chemicals on your hair. It's simple - check the ingredients - it should be one thing only listed - ARGAN OIL. 

All the hype about the benefits of Argan Oil only apply to products that are 100% pure Argan oil. So the benefits of argan oil don't apply to companies who make Argan/Moroccan oil product with anything other than Argan oil.   

Mira's Hand 100% Pure Argan oil is the only product I have found that is just that, 100% PURE ARGAN OIL. 

What is your must have beauty product?

Disclosure: I was not compensated or remunerated for this review, I'm just a fan! This review is my own and honest opinion. For more information see my disclosure policy

REVIEW: WOW CUP

If you’ve ever watched an infant or toddler attempt to drink out of an ordinary sippy cup, you will probably have witnessed their frustration at not being able to find the mouth piece, or get any liquid out (because said mouth piece is around the wrong way)

There is a fine line between a cute little confused look, and a full blow toddler tantrum… and Hank has crossed that line many times due to him not being able to work out why he can’t get any water from his cup (and yes, I have taken photos of these tantrums to document as part of a ‘why my toddler is crying’ collection…mean Mummy!)

Enter the WOW Cup. It’s a 'sippy' cup with a 360 degree drinking edge. The innovative edge opens when you suck on it (yes, I’ve tried) and closes again after drinking, which means... NO SPILLS, halleluiah!

266ml WOW Cup from Howards Storage World

 

It is designed to help toddlers learn the skills to drink from an ordinary cup. It is free from BPA and you don’t need to worry about the risk of your little one causing themselves any dental problems due to prolong use of bottles with sprouts or teats.

Hank loves this WOW cup because he thinks he is drinking out of a cup like Daddy, and Mummy loves it because I don't have to worry about any spills or an impending 'Why-Can't-I-Get-Any-Water tantrum'

The WOW Cup is available from Howards Storage World and is $14.95

Has your toddler tried the WOW Cup?

Disclosure: I was not compensated or remunerated for this review, I'm just a fan! This review is my own and honest opinion. For more information see my disclosure policy

REVIEW: MUMAFIT APP

Some women are just made to be pregnant. They have a cute, yet distinguished baby bump. They feel amazing throughout their pregnancy. Their hair becomes thick and luscious. Their skin glows. They sh!t rainbows, basically!

I am not one of those women. I am the furthest from it. I do not, will not and can not enjoy being pregnant. I am eternally grateful that I am able to bear a child, and I am mindful that others would kill to experience what I am… but I won’t apologise for saying that pregnancy and I just do not get on well together.

I am at that stage of my pregnancy (and weight) where I want to be able to re focus on my well being goals. I want to get back on the health & fitness wagon (don’t use pregnancy as an excuse to get off said wagon… trust me, you will regret it!). However, at 30 weeks pregnant with sciatic nerve pain and Braxton hicks contractions... it would be medically unsafe for me to start pounding the pavement in order to lose the excess, non baby weight that I am carrying.

Which is why I am loving the Mumafit IPhone App.

 

 

The app is the brain child of Fiona Trewhitt (who is a mum to 3 kiddies), and has been designed by exercise physiologists for pregnant & post natal women. Mumafit helps you safely exercise at home during and after pregnancy. No gym membership or expensive equipment or work out gear required (literally… I do my third trimester stretches in my underwear some days!)

Both the stretch and toning chapters have done wonders to help my back pain and general tightness that has come with months of using my pregnancy as an excuse to be a sloth. The app also has a GPS prameter which maps your cardio workouts and daily tips which relate to your pregnancy.

 

Mumafit app is available from the App Store for $3.79, which is the equivalent to my daily weekly chocolate fix, and is worth every cent.

 

Does you have any favourite pregnancy related Apps?

 

 

Disclosure:  I was not compensated or remunerated for this review, I'm just a fan! This review is my own and honest opinion. For more information see my disclosure policy

 

HOW I WORE IT

As much as I love being a mum, I am getting cabin fever and am looking forward to a night out soon!!

I may or may not pass the days planning what I will wear when I go out for a night with the girls soon! This is my perfect outfit for a winters night out of the town.

Top: Devon Dolman sleeve top from Killer Curves Clothing (gifted*) Leggings: ASOS Curve wet look leggings (similar here), Wedges; Emerson for Big W

I was kindly gifted the Devon Dolman sleeve top by www.killercurves.com.au to consider using in my How I Wore posts. I only had to put it on to know it would be more than a top I would consider! It is quite possibly the most flattering top I have every worn. It's the perfect length for leggings and if you could feel the fabric you would know why I never want to take it off! 

Stay tuned for an update of my first night out on the town in nearly 12 months! 

XOXO

* This product was gifted to me, however opinions are that of my own and have not been influenced. 

HALLOWEEN BOOK REVIEW; DARKHOUSE BY KARINA HALLE

If you are looking for a series of books to keep you entertained over the next few months (or weeks, depending on how quickly you read them) – I can highly recommend, in fact, insist you read the Experiment in Terror series by Karina Halle.

“A (very) mature new adult urban fantasy series that is scary, sexy and relatable, filled with the supernatural and things to go bump in the night
In a large, flaky nutshell, the Experiment in Terror Series is an eight-part sci-fi/fantasty/horror series that revolves around a pair of ghost hunters. Well, aspiring ghost hunters, anyway. After filiming a creep experience in her uncle’s dilapidated lighthouse, 22-year old Perry Palomino becomes a YouTube and internet sat overnight. She attracts the attention of Dex Foray, a producer and cameraman for a side that specializes in various webisodes, who convinces her to be a host for a low-budget ghost hunting series. The only problem is, neither Perry of Dex are entirely “with it” – I mean, they see ghosts, after all. And when the duo isn’t wrestling with their very notion of reality, they’re frapping with a working relationship that’s deep-cut with sexual tension. As the series moves on, leading Perry and Dex to new locales and supernatural situations, their lives become more and more intertwines, where they discover that ghost aren’t the only things the can haunt them” -Experimentinterror.com

It is an understatement to say that I am not a fan of the sci-fi/supernatural genre. Sure, I read/watched Twilight, but that is about as far as my supernatural experience has taken me.

I still wouldn’t count myself as a sci-fi fan, and would probably even be reluctant to read anything like this series by another author. It’s the two main characters, Perry & Dex, which keep me so hooked. I generally read at least 1 book a month, and I have never come across characters that captivate me as much as these two.
Admittedly, Darkhouse (the first book in the EIT series) started out a bit slow for me, but thank god I did continue reading through – by the time I was a quarter way through the book I couldn’t put it down. Ever since then, I purchase the next book in the series the day the author releases it, read it within the week, and then have to patiently wait a few months for the next book to be released.
I gave the first 5 books in the series for a friend as a birthday gift, and she read them all within a month.

Darkhouse (Experiment in Terror#1) by Karina Halle Kindle Edition FREE

The kindle edition is currently free on Amazon.com, whilst the rest of the series are on sale for $0.99 (kindle editions) for Halloween.
If you usually stick to reading chick lit – you must try Darkhouse. As much as I hope this statement isn’t an insult to the author, but I would best describe the series as a really is a well written and somewhat smutty chick lit (where there isn’t always the typical happy ending), with scary paranormal activity thrown in.

So if you aren't planning on trick or treating tonight, download Darkhouse and enjoy a terrifying story filled with sexual tension!

xoxo

I was not compensated or renumerated for this review. This review is my own and honest opinion. For more information see my disclosure policy

REVIEW: BODY FOR WOMEN PROTEIN POWDER

I was lucky enough to win a competition held over at The Fit Girl and won a goodie bag from Body for Women

Because I am about as technical as an ant – here is the run down on Body For Women’s Shaping Protein (from the experts themselves)

Women specific shaping protein.
Finally females have access to a delicious guilt free shaping protein that will have you looking and feeling great. This adaptable protein can be used in any situation from having a light meal to replenishing your body after a workout.


What’s in Body
Female specific proteins from whey and soy to help boost your metabolism, control your appetite and tone your body,
L-Carnitine to transfer fatty acids to sites where they can be used for fuel keeping you lean and fit,
Calcium for strong and healthy bones,
All the essential vitamins and minerals females need including folate and iron to keep you energised all day,
Inulin to ensure a healthy digestive system,
Plant extract Hydroxycitric acid to inhibit fat production and help reduce hunger cravings.
Omega 3, 6 and 9

Basically, Body for women is the guilt free female shaping protein in a high-energy, low-calorie meal supplement ideal for the health conscious female.

This is not the type of shake where you have to have 17 of them a day and nothing else. It is designed to be the hit of protein you need after a workout, or as a healthy alternative as an on-the-go snack.

I tried the Swisse Chocolate flavour. 1 scoop + 200ml milk and I had a chocolaty goodness that I would probably drink regardless of benefits it contains. It was seriously delicious. A tiny bit grainy (but that could be my half assed attempt at shaking it up) but other than that, it tasted like any calorie filled chocolate milk you could buy off the shelf – except this chocolate won’t go straight to your hips

I don’t think my training schedule is hard core enough to warrant regular protein supplement – but I would be perfect morning tea snack, or even as a way to cure any late night chocolate cravings I have.

Do you use any dietary supplements??

xoxo

PRODUCT REVIEW; MIRAS HAND ARGAN OIL

Ok, so you all probably know how much of a Argan/Moroccan oil fanatic I am. If you missed it you can read about it here

I was using a product I got off eBay "One n Only" brand - and that you would probably find in your local hairdresser. Through a 'pro argan oil' post on Twitter - the founded and creator of Mira's Hand tweeted me to let me know about their up and coming range of 100% pure Argan Oil (god bless twitter!)

The product I was using was almost out - so I ordered from Mira's Hand.

The first thing I did was read the bottle. Ingredients: 100% pure Argan oil. 'Hmm, cool'  I thought.
I picked up the almost empty bottle of One n Only Argan Oil I was using to check the ingredients on that! I nearly died when I saw a list of ingredients I didnt even know how to pronounce (Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethiconol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Fragrance (Parfum), Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Yellow 11 (CI 47000), Red 17 (CI 26100)

So when I have been raving about Argan Oil - it seems I haven't actually been using much Argan Oil at all. I spoke with Jamila from Mira's Hand and she said that some brands use as little as 4% Argan Oil in their ingredients. I try to use as many natural products as I can - so to think I was using all that crap on my hair AND FACE really pissed me off!!!

As soon as I opened the bottle and poured a bit of Mira's Hand Argan Oil into my hand I could immediately see the difference. To start with - the bottle only allows for a few sparce drops at a time... which trust me, is all you need. It wasn't nearly as oily or greasy as the concoction I had been using. It didn't have such a fragant scent too it (which is obviously because it hasn't an additional 'perfume' added to it). And it just seemed to soak into my skin and hair a lot quicker.

I used it both Saturday & Sunday morning before my early morning swims and when I got home and brushed out my swimming cap hair - it still felt pretty good considering all the chlorine. In fact I didn't even use shampoo on Sunday morning - just rinsed my hair, put in some conditioner then some argan oil once I was out of the shower.

Regardless of if you chose to purchase from Mira's Hand or not (although I really think you should support small and local businesses - mind you they are making quite a spalsh on the beauty scene!) please please plesae please make sure you are using 100% pure Argan oil. Otherwise you may as well be using a mixture of cooking oils, perfume & chemicals on your hair. It's simple - check the ingredients - it should be one thing only listed - ARGAN OIL.
All the hype about the benefits of Argan Oil (it is referred to as liquid gold) only apply to products that are 100% pure Argan oil. So the benefits of argan oil don't apply to companies who make Argan/Moroccan oil product with anything other than Argan oil.
The Moroccan woman whom have been using Argan oil for hundreds of years, and reaped the benefits, did not use oils laced with other chemicals and additives.

The only Argan Oil product I have found to be 100% pure is www.mirashand.com.au. Check out their website for other Argan oil products and many more ways to use Argan oil.

** Depsite what it may read like - I did actually purchas this product and have not been paid for this review. I just honestly think anyone who thinks they are using Argan oil should check the ingredients. Don't be fooled into thinking you are using a natural product , when you are more-than-likely using one that has toxins added to it**

xoxo

REVIEW: SHELLAC NAILS

I am a self confessed nail picker (and ex nail bitter). Up until about 12 mths ago I had acrylic nails for as long as I can remember... So it was only just recently that my nails were FINALLY back to normal strength. I kicked my nail biting habit, and replaced it with a nail picking polish.

I'd heard about Shellac and thought it sounded too good to be true...
- doesn't damage your nails
- colour and shine lasts up to 4 weeks with NO CHIPPING
- costs less than an acrylic infill

So I treated myself and got a "Hollywood" red on my toes and a "crystal" pink on my nails (in time for my engagement party)
All in all it does look fantastic, and perhaps if you were a bit more dainty things would be different, but only 1 week later the polish is started to lift on probably 8 of my nails... I am trying so hard not to peel it off.
I do love it on my toes - but i think before I go again, I will go to a nail salon for a EPA pedi first (the salon who does the shellac is a proper beauty salon... As opposed to a nail bar) because my toe nails look flawless at the moment, but my heels could do with a good buffing.

You can read more about Shellac here http://www.cnd.com/Products/Color/shellac-hello.aspx

Have you had Shellac... What did u think???

To

PRODUCT REVIEW: AUSTRALIS TINTED MOISTURISER

Some mornings I am too lazy to apply a 'full face' of make up
Some weekends I let my face get wayyyy too much sun (tutt tutt, I know)
Some seasons of the year my skin gets VERY dry.

As you can imagine, all these things, make finding an everyday foundation a pain in the backside.

Then I heard about Australis' Paparazzi Perfect HD Tinted Moisturiser and remembered how much I used to love the Australis' tinted moisturiser I used back in high school. I considered waiting until I needed more foundation - but at $15.95 it didnt exactl break the budget.

This stuff is incredible, legit. It provides enough coverage to mask my uneven skin tones and sun spots, but still shows my freckles (seriously, who can resist a splatter of light freckles over the nose??). Plus it is super dooper quick to apply - I basically just apply as I would a moitsutriser.

And it lasts allll day and over night (as I discovered when I fell asleep before removing my make up the other night).

I don't feel as if I am wearing a heavy foundation and my skin definitely feels and looks dewey all day. I use my much loved Moroccan Oil on my face (and hair) as soon as I get out of bed then about 30 minutes later I put the Tinted Moisturiser on - the combindation is like a match made in heaven.

I am considering going and stocking up on Paparazzi Perfect, as it's been just my luck lately that when I find a product I love, it is not long until it is discontinued. Praying to the beauty gods this doesn't happen again.
xoxo

ARGAN OIL MAGIC

A few months back I had been hearing about argan oil (moroccan oil) a lot. After a bit of a google search and you tube - I found out it is meant to work wonders for dry, fizzy hair. I didn't need any more convincing.

I purchased a bottle off ebay for around $25.00

It is pure amazeballs. Seriously. Not only does it act as an incredibly light anti frizz serum (which smells delicious) but I also use a teeny tiny bit on my face each morning as a primer - because I have insanely dry skin at times. I read somewhere that Sophia Loren used to moisturise a bit into her skin each day!!!

To read a more scenific description (what, amazeballs isn't descriptive enough?) check out Mira's Hand blog (which includes some other uses)

On the beauty front - I've recently discovered two great Aussie beauty sites where you can read reviews and compare products etc
http://www.beautyheaven.com.au/
http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/
I would highly recommend checking out these sites for more information on Argan oil (or any other products)

Now I am off to lay in a tub of Argan oil. Pfft - I wish.... back to the moutain of paperwork it is. Le sigh!

xoxo
Karina