Win a beautiful Surcare laundry kit worth £150!

Have you heard of Surcare? I have, and have been delighted to be sent a few samples for a review. It has been used by mums who want something extra gentle for their children’s skin and by people who have sensitive skin and suffer from eczema and allergies. The product is now widely available in supermarkets and has a number of benefits, including excellent washing ability at just 30 degrees, which I can confirm and is free from artificial perfumes or dyes.

The range includes laundry powder, laundry tablets, super concentrated laundry liquid, concentrated fabric conditioner and washing-up liquid.

Surcare have donated a beautiful laundry kit worth £150 as a giveaway to one of All Baby Advice followers. The prize consists of a willow laundry basket, peg bag from Ochre and Ocre and hangers with stunning cedar hearts and a bale of blue and a bale of white towels from the White Company, as well as a month’s supply Surcare non-biological washing powder, fabric conditioner and washing up liquid.

How to enter?

For a chance to win a laundry kit worth £150, 

follow the instructions below:

1. Leave a comment on this post including a way of contacting you in case you win (e-mail address or twitter ID) (compulsory)

and for extra entries (max 2) you can:

• comment on one of my non- competition/ non- gallery posts and let me know which post you left your comment on
• mention this competition on Twitter including @Kahanka and the URL of this competition post  in the tweet and come back here and let me know you did so, and leave your twitter name too.     
       

Please use a separate comment for each entry. 

 
Maximum 3 entries!

 

Only entries that have completed all the compulsory entry requirements will be counted!

Thank you! 

Terms and Conditions:

• The closing date of the competition is 30/07/2011
• The winner will be chosen at random from all entrants.
• The winner's name will be made available on this page and on Twitter. If the winner does not respond to our request for a postal address within 5 days, a redraw will take place.
• Competition is open to residents of the UK and Ireland only.
• The prize is non-refundable and cannot be transferred. No cash alternative is available.
• The All Baby Advice decision is final - please don't quibble.

And the winner is:

number 22

Congratulations to @superluckydi

Please e-mail me your name and address at allbabyadvice@yahoo.co.uk

The winner was chosen by Random Number Generator and Only entries that completed all the compulsory entry requirements were counted!

Gorgeous Mamas & Papas Famiglia Diamond Double Heart Bracelet!

When I was pregnant, I came across a company called Mamas & Papas, and fell in love with their fashionable clothes for future mums. When shopping there, I felt like in a different world. At that time I couldn't find maternity clothes I liked at many shops, and their products were just perfect.

Mamas & Papas are a well-known mother and baby retailer who specialise in such items as car seats, maternity bras and nursery items, just if you have never heard of them, which I doubt. I bought their maternity jeans, dresses, and tops. When we were thinking of what pram to get, we made an appointment in one of the stores and finished up getting the Mamas and Papas Pliko Pramette travel system. When Isabelle was a tiny 3 month old baby, we had a friend's wedding to attend, and I found a gorgeous M & P christening dress for her. When one of my friend saw the dress, she ran to buy it for her daughter as well. As you can see, we love M & P, and I would recommend them to everyone.

 Isabelle wearing a M&P dress

Anyway, when I was approached by M&P to review the Famiglia - Diamond Double Heart Bracelet, I was almost in tears. It was just so gorgeous and perfect for our darling isabelle. When it arrived in its beautiful box, I rushed upstairs to daddy's study and we both agreed that this will be svaed for her 5th birthday. I am absolutely sure she will love it, wouldn't you?

• A beautiful sterling silver bracelet with a double diamond heart tag

• Comes complete with a keepsake gift box

• Unsuitable for children under 3 years (due to small parts)

• A beautiful gift to treasure forever.

• Size: Expandable from 40 x 50mm

NEW ORGANIX Organic Berry Squeezy Competition!

Organix is adding a yummy new flavour to its Goodies Squeezy fruit purée range – delicious Blueberry, Blackberry and Pear. It’s an organic blend of fruit purées in a delicious berry flavour, and a tasty and fun way for toddlers (from 12+ months) and young children to eat fruit, and get one of their recommended five a day portions. This Squeezy comes with the Organix No Junk Promise, guaranteeing mums only the best quality ingredients are used and no unnecessary, artificial ingredients are added. That’s no added sugar, no artificial colours or flavours, and no thickeners - just 100% organic fruit for a tasty, healthy snack or a delicious dessert. Thank Goodness for Goodies, mum’s little lifesaver - fun, tasty toddler snacks, packed full of goodness and guilt free. The re-sealable cap makes this Goodies Squeezy ideal for mum to pop in her bag whilst out and about. RRP 89p (100g). Available at Asda, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose and Boots.

How to enter?

Organix have donated some yummy squeezies for 3 lucky All Baby Advice followers, 

each winning 7 squeezies. For a chance to win,

follow the instructions below: 

1. Leave a comment on this post, including a way of contacting you in case you win (e-mail address or twitter ID (compulsory)

and for extra entries (max 2) you can:

• comment on one of my non- competition/ non- gallery posts and let me know which post you left your comment on
• mention this competition on Twitter including @Kahanka and the URL of this competition post  in the tweet and come back here and let me know you did so, and leave your twitter name too.     
       

Please use a separate comment for each entry!

 
Maximum 3 entries!

 

Only entries that have completed all the compulsory entry requirements will be counted!

Thank you! 

Terms and Conditions:

• The closing date of the competition is 28/07/2011
• The winners will be chosen at random from all entrants.
• The winners' names will be made available on this page and on Twitter. If the winner does not respond to our request for a postal address within 5 days, a redraw will take place.
• Competition is open to residents of the UK and Ireland only.
• The prize is non-refundable and cannot be transferred. No cash alternative is available.
• The All Baby Advice decision is final - please don't quibble.

And the winners are:

numbers 5,12,37

Congratulations to @charliechinuk, @meedja and @ButtonF1Fan

Please e-mail me your name and address at allbabyadvice@yahoo.co.uk

The winners were chosen by Random Number Generator and Only entries that completed all the compulsory entry requirements were counted!

My weekend - the gallery!

Who can guess where I was at the weekened and whom I had a chance to see again?

It was lovely to see you "the gallery lady"!

Don't forget to check out the rest of the gallery posts!

New Venice Wrap Baby Towel - Review & Competition!

When I was sent the Koeka Venice Wrap Towel for a review, one of my friends who has a baby was with me and she was very pleased to help me with reviewing it as I let her keep this sample. I was sent a creamy version, and the first thing we spotted straight away, was its unique star shape. But that's not the only feature I have never seen on a bath towel before. It has a hooded head, which I have seen before, but also a giant kangaroo pocket at the base. 

When we bathed my friend's baby, we couldn't stop admiring how great this towel is. It was sooo easy to wrap the little one and keep her snug and cosy in this soft towel. Her feet were kept in place and stayed warm thanks to being inside the "kangaroo pouch". The designer has even thought of a hanging loop at the top of the towel, so that we can have it handy for the next bath time!

Using your Venice Shawl Baby Bath Towel:

• lie the towel on the floor

• lie your baby carefully on the towel

• pull the hood over their head for warmth

• tuck their feet in the novel kangaroo pouch

• pull one side flap over

• and pull the other side flap over

Product features:

• Its innovative design which creates superior snugness and safety for baby (with the hood and kangaroo pouch not only helping baby feel beautifully cocooned but also secure in their parent’s arms)
• The luxurious softness of its fabric (uber plush and cashmere soft terry towelling that wicks moisture away from baby’s delicate skin)
• Its easy care, with the high quality cotton terry being able to withstand machine washing at low temperatures to stay looking as good as new!
• The stylish cut of the fabric and colour options available (with the distinctive star shape design available in an unrivalled selection of 16 colours including traditional whites, jewel brights from cobalt blue through to fuschia and funky alternative colours including army green and silver)
• Like all Koeka products the Koeka Venice Shawl Towel is certified under the Oeke-Tex Standard 100 – providing reassurance for parents

How to enter?

For a chance to win one of two fantastic Venice Wrap Towels

follow the instructions below: 

1. Visit their website and let me know which colour you would like to get if you win in a comment on this post, including a way of contacting you in case you win (e-mail address or twitter ID (compulsory)

and for extra entries (max 2) you can:

• comment on one of my non- competition/ non- gallery posts and let me know which post you left your comment on
• mention this competition on Twitter including @Kahanka and the URL of this competition post  in the tweet and come back here and let me know you did so, and leave your twitter name too.     
       

Please use a separate comment for each entry. 

 
Maximum 3 entries!

 

Only entries that have completed all the compulsory entry requirements will be counted!

Thank you! 

Terms and Conditions:

• The closing date of the competition is 28/07/2011
• The winners will be chosen at random from all entrants.
• The winners' names will be made available on this page and on Twitter. If the winner does not respond to our request for a postal address within 5 days, a redraw will take place.
  
• Competition is open to residents of the UK and Ireland only.
• The prize is non-refundable and cannot be transferred. No cash alternative is available.
• The All Baby Advice decision is final - please don't quibble.

And the winners are:

Number 9 and 17 ( chosen using Random.org number generator)

Congratulations to Samantha (manfa.lou@hotmail.co.uk) and @rhodak09

I will be in touch soon or you can also e-mail me your name and address at allbabyadvice@yahoo.co.uk

Only entries that completed all the compulsory entry requirements were counted!

Have I done the right thing?

Before revealing what I mean by that question, I have to explain the whole situation what this is about. One of Isabelle's friends from school, is a bit of a trouble child, and she is very often very nasty to other children and also Isabelle. Last few weeks Isabelle keeps on telling me that this girl pushes her, snatches toys away from her and says naughty things to her.

I haven't heard anything from the teachers, but unfortunately, I have seen this girl while having tantrums, etc a few times already... as I seem to get along with her mum pretty well. There were a few times we came to visit them, and the girls were supposed to play...but every time it finished in a disaster. Then I said to myself, never more, it is not worth it! But as I like her mum, I felt strange refusing to come for a visit, so we did it again, and her daughter was a little terror again. This is definitely the last time we came for a visit, I couldn't not take it anymore, and just had to tell the little girl off and remind her that if she was like that she would never have any friends. It took a lot of courage, but I did it. Her mum's reaction was that she agreed, but why didn't she tell her that in the first place? Why was I the one telling her daughter that this is wasn't on? 

Anyway, after this I kind of stop talking to the mum all the time, and then last Monday morning when Isabelle was in tears, and told me and daddy that she didn't want to go to school.....I knew I had to do something more about it. We agreed with daddy that there must be happening something more and I talked to the teacher that Monday morning after dropping Isabelle at school. Our Isabelle loves school and for her to say that, there really had to be a big reason. 

The teacher was aware of that girl's behaviour, and apparently they have talked to the mum a few times before, and now they are focusing on the girl to be more friendly to her classmates. The teacher and me, we both were in tears, I know she loves Isabelle and I know my Isabelle loves her teacher. I mentioned to the teacher I wouldn't want our daughter to be in the group with this girl in reception class next year. She kind of agreed and said that she has already made some recommendations to their future teacher and told her about the behavioural problems this girl has. We will see what happens after the summer holiday, but I just hope I will not have to deal  with this agian....

What do you think, what would you do? Is there anything else I should do or I shouldn't have done?

Meeting Karren Brady at the AVON launch of The Golden Rules of Networking in Business!

Last Wednesday I was invited to a fabulous AVON event, where Karren Brady, yes the famous Karren Brady, was advising us on networking in business and shared her golden rules with us. As I wanted to spread the word and share these with you as well,  I managed to shot a short video at the event, so sit back and get your pens and notebooks ready!

While Isabelle was playing Peppa Pig on ouriPad, I was listening to some fantastic advice. After Karren, we also had a chance to get a few tips from Avon's most successful representatives like Gale Reynolds. I have also learnt some very interesting facts about Avon. For example, did you know that this year Avon is celebrating its 125th global anniversary and they now have 6.5 million Avon Representatives in over 100 countries around the world? Isn't that impressive?

Interesting facts about AVON:

 
Back in 1886 a forward thinking David H. McConnell unleashed a revolutionary idea creating the California Perfume Company. A pioneering business that was soon to be rebranded Avon by McConnell, following a trip to Stratford-Upon-Avon. With his flexible door-to-door sales model he offered women the opportunity of financial independence. A whole generation of women was empowered by the company’s opportunity and a vast network of spirited, female, micro-entrepreneurs was born.


· Years before women had equal voting rights to men, Avon began offering women the opportunity to be the CEO of their own business and control their economic destiny.

· Today, Independent Avon Representatives start up their own self-employed direct selling enterprises with an initial investment of just £15, and with hard work and determination, can turnover anything from hundreds to millions of pounds a year.

· One in three women in the UK is an Avon customer


The Avon Foundation for Women was founded in 1955, with the aim of improving women’s lives. Today, Avon is the world’s largest corporate supporter of women’s causes, having raised more than $800 million globally. Focusing on the issues that matter most to women, the beauty giant has a dual mission to fund breast cancer research and care, as well as tackling domestic violence. As Avon’s global ambassador, Reese Witherspoon plays a crucial role in helping to raise awareness for Avon’s philanthropic programmes.

· As the company for women, Avon is committed to supporting the causes that matter most to women – breast cancer and domestic violence.

· Avon remains the world’s largest supporter of women’s causes, having raised and awarded over $800million to help improve the lives of women around the world.

· The Avon Breast Cancer Crusade was launched in the UK in 1992 to raise vital awareness and funds for breast cancer research, education and care. Avon is now the largest global corporate supporter of the breast cancer cause.

· To date, Avon UK has raised over £15 million for breast cancer charities and over £400,000 for domestic violence charities.

...and thank you AVON for such a nice treat!

Quack Quack Moo reviewed!

Sometimes I review baby products, which catch my eyes and as Isabelle is too old for testing them, I do so with the help of my friends who have babies. They love it, as they get their hands on some fantastic products for free. This time I was sent a few products from Quack Quack Moo. If you check the image above, that's how nicely they all were wrapped, which suggests they could be perfect gifts, really nicely presented. Of course, that is not the most important thing, but even that little counts!

And what did we test and what did we think of the products? I was able to test 2 of the products with Isabelle, the dribble bubbs seat protector and the dribble bubbs bed protector. I have to admit that our car is not the cleanest, and I really hate when Isabelle eats in her car seat and it gets dirty. You cannot imagine what I found there the other day... Anyway, this is a really cool seat protector, which you can also use in a highchair or on any seat you need to protect from food and drinks...and other things. As it is made using their special Dribble Bubbs technology, it absorbs and dries very quickly. Also the bed protector works on the same principle. Isabelle hasn't had any accidents for ages, but I think it's better to be safe, and don't forget to put it on top of your child's sheet. It's very soft, and can keep your child cool or warm when needed. 

My friend was testing the rest of the products, and the first thing she loved was the "moo" design, which I like as well. She has a few months old baby, and was really surprised that the dribble bubbs shoulder chuck worked so efficiently when absorbing and catching all the spits and vomits. The gorgeous dribble bib with attached length 'n' loop dummy fastener was also highly appreciated, as the little one is teething, and she can also make sure there is always one dummy to be found on the loop! The hooded blanket is cleverly designed so that you can take the hood off when needed, and can also be used from birth for swaddling.

So our verdict is: Fantastic products!

Product features:

• ground breaking technology called Dribble Bubbs - a triple layered waterproof protection system made using organic bamboo towel, a waterproof middle layer and a soft organic cotton bottom layer.
• The majority of products are made with organic bamboo towelling
• All products are machine washable, suitable for tumble drying and feature a funky cow print on the underside. They are eco-friendly, environmentally sourced and made in the UK.
• The range has been developed by an inventive and entrepreneurial mum of two, Leanne Curtis Cobb, after she became fed up with the baby products on the market that just didn't work for her.

Soap & Glory Righteous Body Lotion Reviewed!

Don't you just love it when you can put some nice cream after having a shower? This time I was sent the Righteous Butter Body Lotion for a review. The jumbo size will hopefully last me for a while, and the first thing to like about this product is definitely the pump and how easy this lotion is to apply. It smells great, and you can get it just for £10.00 - 500ml!

Butter the Devil you know: Apply The Righteous Butter™ Body Lotion all over after showering, paying particular attention to your rough spots (like dry heels, dry elbows, and knobbly knees). Leaves skin softer, smoother and more supple! Conditions dry, flaky skin and reduces rough spots (on elbows, heels and knees).

What’s inside that counts?

• Shea butter nourishes the skin with vitamins A, E & F, it helps sooth rough skin and treats skin irritation

• Aloe Vera cleanses & conditions the skin leaving skin as soft as velvet

• New dynamic moisture trap matrix – helps to hold hydration in longer!

• Fabulous fragrance combines a blend of bergamot, strawberries and mandarin, with floral and fruity mid notes and musk, amber and warm vanilla

Preview of Mima Kobi and Xari Pushchairs!

On Tuesday morning I went to attend the press launch of the new Mima Xari and Kobi pushchairs. As Isabelle is too old for a pushchair, I have to admit that I didn't know much about this new pushchair. When I arrived at the bistro of John Lewis branch on Oxford Street, and saw the Mima Kobi and Mima Xari, my jaw dropped. I have never seen anything like that. I fell in love with it from the first site and was just praying to be expecting another baba to be able to get one of these! I can tell you, that it's not just the look, but all the fantastic features both models have. I wasn't surprised it was designed by a well- known Dutch designer Davy Kho, who has also created the extraordinary Bloom Fresco highchair. If you like that kind of design, you will love these new pushchairs.

Check out my short preview or if you really want to have a proper look and listen to what the designer said about his masterpieces, watch the longer second video, which you can find at the end of my blog post. Trust me, it's worth watching it!

Anyway, I am sure you cannot wait to hear about the 8 innovative features I was admiring. Here we go:

• the revolutionary cocoon pod seat which unzips to reveal a carrycot that takes just 15 seconds to be converted from the seat pod for a seamlessly smooth transition
• the ergonomically supportive material used - EVA foam material, which provides a firm supportive shell for your baby, similar to a car's bodywork. It also has a unique finish which lends the pram an instantly contemporary feel as well as unique barrier properties that make it an ultra hygienic material
• fluid form: the canopy hood has 3 curved sections that pivot back and layer on top of each other or fan out, to create minimal, partial or total shade; the seat features 3 recline positions and can be made forward or parent facing; the seat has 2 height positions
• intelligent growth, they are designed to grow with your family and each pram starts life with the carry cot that unzips from the seat cocoon pod
• sleek lines
• space for baby: the designer has ensured that the design of the mima cocoon seat pods creates ample space between the tiers for baby and child
• lightweight, compact aluminium chassis, (L and Z shapes never seen before), quick release wheels and ultra compact fold, both prams can be folded with the seat in
• storage solutions: the Mima Xari has 2 lidded baskets that close with a magnetic fastening and the Mima Kobi has a unique lidded, zipped and roomy pod that functions both as a buggy store and when released, as an ultra contemporary change bag, complete with adjustable handle

I love them both, what do you think?

 

Great IMAX Experience with Johnny Depp!

Last Saturday we dropped Isabelle off at our friend's place for her first whole night sleepover. She was very excited and us too. I was given 2 tickets by BFI IMAX to review the new Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides. I was soooo excited and it was kind of Father's day present for daddy as well as I also organised babysitting and a night out for us...which we haven't had for a very long time.

When we were on the train, I was just checking the e-mail from the PR, and almost had a heart attack. I didn't check the date he had put the tickets on the side for us, and it was saying the following Saturday's date. Daddy just looked at me and asked what was wrong...When I told him, he started laughing and we agreed that this couldn't spoil our night out! Luckily the box office had no problems with changing the date on our tickets and we got still very good seats.

After two glasses of red wine I was ready to experience IMAX again. Last time we came here to watch the " Tangled" movie with Isabelle, so it was daddy's turn this time. While watching trailers for some other movies, which "Born to be Wild" looked fantastic ( can imagine Isabelle enjoying all the orphant animals, they were sooo cute!), we were munching on Pop corn and sipping our drinks, which we were able to bring in plastic cups from downstairs. 

 Born to be wild!

And what did we think of the movie? I am not going to lie and can honestly say that it was much better than I expected. I love movies with Johnny Depp, and all the previous Pirates of the Caribbean are my favourite movies. This one is no exception. Sometimes when they make sequels to very successful movies, they are not so good, but this was brilliant. We both loved it, even daddy, and he isn't easily pleased when it comes to movies! So I give it a huge A+!

National Child Safety Week - ISOFIX System will be requied by law!

New research released today to coincide with National Child Safety Week, reveals millions of parents around the UK are breaking car safety laws and could be putting their children at risk. Commissioned by Britax to highlight the importance of car seat anchoring system ISOFIX, the report found that one in five often let their children travel without sitting in a car seat and a quarter of parents do not even know how to fit their child’s seat.

The research showed that the most common problems parents face are difficulty in getting the seat to feel sturdy, not being able to pull the seatbelt round and not knowing where the seatbelt goes. All of these problems can be easily removed by using an ISOFIX compatible car seat, which are secured by simply clicking the seat’s frame into anchoring points built into the car, rather than using an adult seatbelt, yet half of all respondents did not even know what ISOFIX was.

The ISOFIX system is easy to use and is designed to make it very difficult to install incorrectly – research has found that only 30 per cent of car seats are installed correctly when using an adult seatbelt, compared to 96 per cent of ISOFIX seats[1], making it the safest way for children to travel. The anchoring technology also means that the seat is connected securely to the car, reducing the impact of forces in a crash by controlling energy management. As of February 2012, it will be required by law that the ISOFIX system is integrated into a minimum number of seats in all new cars, making it more important than ever for parents to understand the benefits of the ISOFIX system.

As well as difficulty in understanding how to fit car seats one in ten parents admitted they were “too lazy” to ensure their children are sitting safely in a car seat at all times. Almost a third said they didn’t always have time, while a similar amount don’t feel that car seats are necessary, and a fifth would be happy to let their child travel in a car with someone who didn’t provide a car seat – despite the law stating all children under the age of 12 must use some form of car seat unless they are taller than 135cm (4ft 5in).

The government introduced the law in 2006 to reduce the number deaths and injuries caused to children involved in car crashes, and it was hoped that it could save up to 2,000 children’s lives a year. But five years on, less than 40 per cent of parents actually understand the legal requirements when it comes to putting their children in car seat. What’s more, the new research released by Britax today shows less than half of parents had their car seats fitted properly, and most admitted to forgoing safety and buying a cheap option rather than the best one for their child’s size.

Mark Bennett, Child Safety Expert at Britax, commented “It’s very worrying that this research has revealed that so many parents are breaking the law by not securing children in the car properly. Parents are always hectic and being in a rush is something we can all sympathise with. But it’s imperative that parents take note and adhere to the laws set in place to ensure their children’s safety when travelling in a car. We have listened to what parents have said about fitting child seats and we know that parents find installing them confusing and don’t always feel that they have the time to use one. Car seats which are installed incorrectly will not be as effective in protecting a child in the event of a collision, so it’s very important that we encourage parents to use car seats correctly every time. That’s why we want to spread the word about ISOFIX. ISOFIX is an incredibly quick and easy to use system which is almost impossible to get wrong. What’s more, we are also now incorporating universal Top Tether technology into some ranges, providing a third anchorage point to limit rotational movement and further increase safety”

Adrian Walsh, of RoadSafe, said “RoadSafe's mission is to reduce deaths and injuries on Britain’s roads, so we’re concerned that this vital message about child safety laws and the importance of using a car seat gets through to parents in the UK. We hope that this campaign by Britax will encourage more parents to think twice before letting their child travel without a car seat, as they could be breaking the law and, more importantly, putting their child in danger.”

Nifa Mclaughlin, Editor of parenting website Gurgle.com, said “Many of our members on Gurgle.com find car seats confusing and tricky to fit – when you have a million and one things to do, you don’t want to waste time fitting a fiddly car seat. As a mum myself I know how short of time parents can be, but it’s imperative that car seats are secured correctly to ensure they will do their job. The most important thing for all parents to be aware of is that car seats exist to protect our children in crash situations, and this is why it is a legal requirement to use one up to the age of 12. ISOFIX seats are so quick and easy to install – there’s no excuse not to!”

For more information about the safety benefits of ISOFIX, visit www.britax.co.uk/safety-centre/isofix

iPad application - AppyDayz - review!

One of my twitter buddies has asked me to review her latest application. I had no idea what to expect as we mostly chat about our passion, which is running, and my training for the marathon and her training for 10k run as well. She is the founder of a great website, http://www.climbingtikes.co.uk

As I don't have an iPhone....yet, but have an iPad, we downloaded it there. And what did we think of it? Absolutely brilliant. A must have for the days when you want to do something with your children and you don't know the area. Just click on the region you are currently in and it will give you all the activities you can do there. You can filter the results not only according to the region, but also age or activity types! Well I say, well done and am very happy to be owning this fabulous app on our iPad!

You can download the App from here http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/appydayz/id436681688?mt=8#

3 Word Gallery!

" eat them all "


Don't forget to check out the rest of the gallery posts!

Fitness Tuesday - Week 48!

I don't know what's happening with me, but I feel tired all the time and just don't feel like doing any exercises at all. The weather is just awful, so cannot go for a run, and because of attending some press events, I wasn't able to attend my spinning class last week and will not be able to do so this week either. On Father's day I woke up, the sun was shining and I got dressed and went for a run. I can tell you, that I couldn't wait to come back home, I actually didn't enjoy it....What is going on? I really hope, that this will change soon, as I love running, don't I? I trained for such a long time for the marathon and loved running it, I still remember the feeling after finishing it...so what is wrong with me?

And how did you do last week?

Don't forget to come back every Tuesday and add a link to your post on how it went, leave a comment here and please visit as many of the others' posts as you can & comment on them too. We are here to help each other. Can't wait to see all your comments & posts. 

And if you like, you can add our   "Fitness Tuesday " badge to your blog;)

Yummy Honey Biscuits for Daddy!

So right now I am sipping my favourite Nesspresso coffee and munching on the yummy honey biscuits which we baked with Isabelle for daddy on Father's day. I am not a great honey lover, but these are delicious. I know honey can be very good for you, but I just cannot stand the smell of it and also the taste, it's just too sweet for me. But in these biscuits you cannot really tell there is honey in them.

So what will you need to make aprox. 30 of these biscuits:

• 120g unsalted butter
• 120g sugar
• 1 large table spoon of honey
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 level teaspoon cinnamon
• 180g self-raising flour

1. Beat the butter and sugar together in a bowl until they are creamy.
2. Next, beat in the honey, then the egg yolk.
3. Add the cinnamon and flour and mix into a soft dough. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour.
4. Shape about a teaspoon of dough into a ball, roll it in a little sugar and cinnamon, and put it on a greased baking tray or cookie sheet. The mixture should make about 30 biscuits.
5. Put the biscuits into an oven heated to 175 C/350 F/gas mark 4, for 12 to 15 minutes.
6. The biscuits are ready when they are golden-brown. take the biscuits out of the oven, let them settle for a few minutes, then put them on to a rack or plate to cool.

 This recipe is from a book called Honey Biscuits by Meredith Hooper.

Child Safety week - TOTSEAT Savannah Competition!

TOTSEAT OFFER FREE CHILD ACCIDENT PREVENTION TRUST BOOK WITH SALE OF EVERY TOTSEAT DURING CHILD SAFETY WEEK

Totseat, the most versatile and safe travel highchair on the market is underpinning its commitment to safety, by giving away a fantastic 48 page CAPT (Child Accident Prevention Trust) guide to toddler safety ‘Now I Can Crawl I Can…’, free with every Totseat bought during Child Safety Week 2011 (20-27 June).

'Now I can crawl, I can ....' is produced by the Child Accident Prevention Trust and outlines how to avoid household accidents which remain the second biggest killer of children in the UK (second only to cancer), with those most at risk being in the pre-school 0-4 age group.

Summer’s here and with al fresco dining one of the best ways to while away a few happy hours, it’s worth investing in a Totseat – the most versatile, high quality and lightweight travel highchair available.

The ideal companion for ‘babies who lunch’ the Totseat comes in its own tiny travel pouch – perfect for slinging in handbags and changing bags – and thanks to its innovative design fits dining chairs of all shapes and sizes.

So wave goodbye to the stress of finding no highchairs or filthy highchairs in your favourite eaterie and instead pack the Totseat so that you and your little one can always dine in style!The Totseat is ready in seconds, lets your little one sit at an adult chair the same as everyone else, and if it has been subjected to a particularly fun and messy lunch can even be slung in the washing machine! The Totseat comes with a lifetime guarantee and costs £24.50 from www.totseat.com.

How to enter?

For a chance to win one of two fantastic Totseats (in the very funky Savannah design pictured), 

follow the instructions below: 

1. Leave a comment with your correct answer on this post, including a way of contacting you in case you win (e-mail address or twitter ID) (compulsory)
   How many different types of dining chair design does the Totseat fit:
   a) 1- 10
   b) 10 – 20
   c) Hundreds!

and for extra entries (max 2) you can:

• comment on one of my non- competition/ non- gallery posts and let me know which post you left your comment on
• mention this competition on Twitter including @Kahanka and the URL of this competition post  in the tweet and come back here and let me know you did so, and leave your twitter name too.     
       

Please use a separate comment for each entry. 

 
Maximum 3 entries!

 

Only entries that have completed all the compulsory entry requirements will be counted!

Thank you! 

Terms and Conditions:

• The closing date of the competition is 20/07/2011
• The winners will be chosen at random from all entrants.
• The winners' names will be made available on this page and on Twitter. If the winner does not respond to our request for a postal address within 5 days, a redraw will take place.
  
• Competition is open to residents of the UK and Ireland only.
• The prize is non-refundable and cannot be transferred. No cash alternative is available.
• The All Baby Advice decision is final - please don't quibble. 

 

And the winners are:

 

Congratulations to @rhodak09 and @Fluffy_Mummy

I will be in touch soon or you can also e-mail me your name and address at allbabyadvice@yahoo.co.uk

Only entries that completed all the compulsory entry requirements were counted!

Keep your belongings protected by contents insurance!

Sponsored post

If you are a regular reader of my blog, you know, that we travel very often. By "we", I mostly mean me and Isabelle, but very often it involves daddy as well. We often fly to Belfast to visit daddy's grandparents, but that's usually just for a few days. As my family live in the Czech Republic, we fly there quite often too as it is quite a short flight away, and sometimes if you book in advance, you can get some very good bargains. During Christmas and summer holidays the prize goes up a lot, but that doesn't stop us from leaving our house sometimes for a few weeks. This summer me and Isabelle are planning to spend 6 weeks over there. Unfortunately due to daddy's new job, he will not be bale to come with us.

I know that my parents were always concerned when going on holidays about leaving their house and especially my mum was the whole time thinking about what could happen when we were away. I have to say I don't have a problem with this. Maybe it is as we go away all the time, and maybe it is that we have a home contents insurance and if something happens we will be covered. I don't think there are many people out there without this essential insurance.

I would say there are a few things to do before purchasing your insurance. Luckily daddy was the one in charge, but I know he did a lot of research and was comparing what you can get and was making sure he read what will be covered, and the terms and conditions properly. Every household is different, so when you look for the insurance make sure that it's the best and most suitable for you and your family. What works for your friends doesn't neccessarily have to work for you. For example, some people have at home laptops, a lot of jewellery, expensive bikes, and then you would probably need to add some extra cover to the standard policy to include these items. As I say, be careful and choose your cover wisely, so that you get covered everything you want to have covered, as you don't want to think you are covered for something you are not!

I think it's always better to pay a little money every month for your insurance, than to be sorry when being burgled or imagine what would happen if your house was on fire and you were not covered...Also when you are away, don't you want to relax and not to think about what could be happening with your house? I do, and am sure that you do too.

Happy Father's day, we love you, daddy!

It has been 4 wonderful years since you have become a father to our darling Isabelle, and I can still remember the first time you were holding her and couldn't stop looking at her. She was such a perfect baby, and is a very good girl now. She adores you, and even though we went through a few stages when she wanted mostly mummy, she is definitely mote and more daddy's girl these days! She looks more like you, and there are a few gestures you both do. She loves you so much, and when we are away she often mentions how she misses you. The last time when we were away, on our way back to London, I asked her:" Did you enjoy your holiday, would you like to stay here longer?" Isabelle looked at me and said:" I liked the holiday, but want to go back home to my daddy, he is alone, I don't want him to be alone!" That says it all. I had to turn my head away, as I was about to start crying, as I can see how much you mean to her and how much she loves you, and that makes me very happy.

So here is to you, daddy: " Happy Father's Day! We love you!"

What have we been reading?

I have been given a few books for reviewing by GMC Distribution, and let me tell you what we thought about them.

I chose the "What is it like" to reach the top of the world's tallest mountain? To survive a shark attack? To fly with the US Air Force Thunderbirds? To find out, Jeff Belanger conducted interviews with twelve ordinary people who just happened to do extraordinary things-and then turned the interviews into adrenaline-packed, thrilling stories told in the first-person voices of the interviewees. You might know that I ran the London Marathon not long ago, so my favourite was a story of Dean Karnazes who ran his first Marathon when he was just 14 years old and absolutely admire his greatest running challenge to run fifty marathons in fifty states in fifty consecutive days. Well, that's what I call a challenge!

Includes WHAT IT'S LIKE…
To Be Attacked by a Shark * To Save People from a Burning Building *
To Walk Across America * To Experience Combat *
To Fly with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds * To Survive a Tornado *
To Be Struck by Lightning * To Sail Through a Hurricane at Sea *
To Blast Off into Space * To Walk to the North Pole *
To Run Your First Marathon…and Run Fifty Marathons in Fifty States in Fifty Consecutive Days * To Lose Both of Your Legs to Frostbite…and Climb Mount Everest

Title: What's it like
Author: Jeff Belanger
ISBN: 9781402767111
Price: £6.99
Publisher: Sterling
Pub Date: May 11

Isabelle loves books by this famous author, the illustrations are just gorgeous. Babies yawning, babies bathing, babies sweetly slumbering: day is done and it's time for bed, in this brand new board edition of Gyo Fujikawa's classic book. This book contrasts the children's nighttime rituals with the horse that sleeps standing up, the lazy sloth that snoozes upside down, and animals that doze the winter away. Parents and children will find this book a lovely way to say “good night.”

Title: Sleepy Time
Author: Gyo Fujikawa
ISBN: 9781402768200
Price: £4.99
Publisher: Sterling
Pub Date: May 11

One lovely, lazy day in the meadow, rabbit decides it's high time he and his animal friends plan something fun. He convinces the group to have a race, and off all the critters go, running faster and faster-to the collective big surprise that awaits them at the end! But this time the rabbit is as surprised as all the animals whom he previously used to play tricks on! After 30 years out of print, this springtime delight from the beloved Gyo Fujikawa is back in a board book format. This is a very funny book, which makes Isabelle laugh every time we read it.

Title: Surprise! Surprise!
Author:  Gyo Fujikawa
ISBN: 9781402768224
Price: £4.99
Publisher: Sterling
Pub Date: May 11

Isabelle's collection of his books is slowly growing. This book is packed with more than 900 STICKERS-and loads of fun! Featuring Richard Scarry's beloved Lowly Worm, Huckle Cat, Mr. Fix-It, and other memorable characters, this chunky book offers 100 pages of playtime activities. Preschoolers and kindergarteners will enjoy learning to draw, filling in missing words and images, completing dot-to-dots and mazes…and, of course, decorating the pages with the hundreds of colorful, appealing stickers. We are planning to take this book with us on our long summer holiday, as there are so many activities that I am sure Isabelle will never be bored again and will also help her be ready for her reception class this September!

Title: Richard Scarry's Big Busy Sticker & Activity Book
Author: Richard Scarry
ISBN: 9781402773143
Price: £11.99
Publisher: Sterling
Pub Date: May 11

Spatone Apple - Liquid Iron Supplement Competition!

I don't know how about you, but I find it quite hard to keep an eye on getting all the necessary vitamins myself. I am a mum, and concentrate on doing so for my daughter...but somehow often forget to do the same for me, which is not great. I was doing great when pregnant with Isabelle, and breastfeeding, but since then...

So when I was sent the Spatone Apple for a review and competition, I thought it could help not only me but also other mums who are in a similar situation. 

There are a few fact you should know about this products:

• a natural iron supplement (Spatone Apple) with added Vitamin C to aid the iron absorption and support the immune system
• great for women as menstruation and pregnancy both increases the body’s demand for iron and over 91% of women aged 16-64 in the UK do not get sufficient iron from their diet, so iron deficiency amongst women is very common
• great tasting
•  no need to mix apple flavour means you can carry it with you in your handbag or keep a supply at work, ready to take a shot when you need it
• The additional Vitamin C in Spatone Apple helps you to absorb iron, that’s why each sachet of Spatone Apple includes added vitamin C. Spatone Apple is available exclusively from Boots priced £9.95 for 28 sachets (4 weeks supply)

How to enter?

For a chance to win one of the 3 Spatone Apple ( 4 weeks supply), 

follow the instructions below:

1. Leave a comment on this post including a way of contacting you in case you win (e-mail address or twitter ID) (compulsory)

and for extra entries (max 2) you can:

• comment on one of my non- competition/ non- gallery posts and let me know which post you left your comment on
• mention this competition on Twitter including @Kahanka and the URL of this competition post  in the tweet and come back here and let me know you did so, and leave your twitter name too.     
       

Please use a separate comment for each entry. 

 
Maximum 3 entries!

 

Only entries that have completed all the compulsory entry requirements will be counted!

Thank you! 

Terms and Conditions:

• The closing date of the competition is 20/07/2011
• The winners will be chosen at random from all entrants.
• The winners' names will be made available on this page and on Twitter. If the winner does not respond to our request for a postal address within 5 days, a redraw will take place.
  
• Competition is open to residents of the UK and Ireland only.
• The prize is non-refundable and cannot be transferred. No cash alternative is available.
• The All Baby Advice decision is final - please don't quibble. 

And the winners are:

 

Congratulations to @pandcands, @clareandtribe and loopinloo

I will be in touch soon or you can also e-mail me your name and address at allbabyadvice@yahoo.co.uk

Only entries that completed all the compulsory entry requirements were counted!

Isabelle having Fun with Spot!

Would you believe that Spot is 31 years old? When Isabelle was a toddler she used to love his books and she still does. I received a set of Spot's books for a review, and we decided to share some of these with her younger friends, as lift-the-flap books are not suitable for her anymore. And what books did we get?

Spot’s Baby Sister

Sally and Sam have a special surprise for Spot - a baby sister! Follow this adorable little puppy as she romps around the house with big brother Spot. The perfect story for a family expecting a new arrival, and children will love lifting the flaps on every spread!

Spot says Goodnight

It's time for bed, but Spot has lots of 'Goodnights' to say before he can settle down to sleep. A classic lift-the-flap, this book follows the fun of Spot's bedtime routine in a way all toddlers will appreciate and enjoy. Perfect for cuddling up with at bedtime.

Spot’s Favourite Things

Spot has lots of toys, but which one is his favourite? And can you guess his favourite place to visit? Use the clues on the chunky tabs to find out about all the things that Spot loves, including toys, the seaside, the farm, dressing up and school.

Spot’s Big Holiday Sticker Book

Isabelle loves the sticker book, and  we are planning to take it with us for her long summer holidays, which she will be spending with her cousins and grandparents in the Czech Republic. I think it is a great collection of many activities (stickers, mazes, colouring-in and matching pairs activities) , that will keep her occupied for a very long time and will also help her with learning and getting ready for the reception class which she will be starting this September. A great book for pre-schoolers. Don't forget to check oiut the Fun With Spot website for many puzzles, downloads, competitions and games to play!