PARTY TIME! A Tropical Hawaiian Moana themed Luau – Ruby is 4!

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Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment December 7, 2017 Claire, collected. A few weeks ago Ruby turned 4 and we celebrated with her best friends…
Claire, Collected. — 2 Comments December 15, 2014 Claire, collected. School’s out for the summer and we are thrilled to have discovered a uber cool,…
Ruby Turns 1: Cloudy With a Chance of CONFETTI. — Our baby girl recently turned one. Ruby is our third child so we were completely aware that she wouldn’t be too fussed…
Claire, Collected. — 3 Comments December 17, 2014 Claire, collected. Our baby girl recently turned one. Ruby is our third child so we were completely…
Santa Baby: A short story about a failed monochromer and a vintage Christmas elf named Won — Someone told me today Christmas is 7 days away. SEVEN DAYS. How did this even happen. So clearly I am not one…
Claire, Collected. — 6 Comments December 18, 2014 Claire, collected. Someone told me today Christmas is 7 days away. SEVEN DAYS. How did this even…
A Rainbow Room for Miss 8 — Christmas has been and gone and we are home from the beach house today making room for the new treats! I am…
Claire, Collected. — 7 Comments December 28, 2014 Claire, collected. Christmas has been and gone and we are home from the beach house today making…
kids, fashion, food, interiors, our life — 3 Comments December 31, 2014 Claire, collected. AND A DASH OF LEOPARD LOVE Having recently changed things around in Lily’s room a…
Claire, Collected. — 4 Comments December 31, 2014 Claire, collected. AND A DASH OF LEOPARD LOVE Having recently changed things around in Lily’s room a…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment February 2, 2015 Claire, collected. The moment I first saw the incredible label Little Creative Factory I knew they were…
Claire, Collected. — 2 Comments February 5, 2015 Claire, collected. So this was an accidental blog post. I wasn’t planning on it. There I was…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment February 9, 2015 Claire, collected. As a Mum of three kids each at very different stages of their lives,…
Claire, Collected. — 2 Comments March 7, 2015 Claire, collected. This week we have taken on a big transition and dropped one of Ruby’s day…
Claire, Collected. — 3 Comments March 9, 2015 Claire, collected. With only three weeks until Miss Lily’s Watermelon themed birthday party we thought we’d start…
Claire, Collected. — 5 Comments March 15, 2015 Claire, collected. Lily’s watermelon themed birthday party is only two weeks away and we are channeling all…
“You’re One in a Melon” – Lily turns 9 — Claire, collected. 1 year ago Categories: CELEBRATION Lily’s Watermelon 9th Birthday has been and gone and I’m so excited to share the…
Claire, Collected. — 2 Comments April 2, 2015 Claire, collected. Lily’s Watermelon 9th Birthday has been and gone and I’m so excited to share the…
Claire, Collected. — 14 Comments May 12, 2015 Claire, collected. I’m so excited to finally be sharing the details of Lily’s new fruity rainbow room,…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment May 18, 2015 Claire, collected. My gorgeous wee Second Cousin Miss Olive turned four recently, and to celebrate her…
Claire, Collected. — 2 Comments May 21, 2015 Claire, collected. Ruby and I were delighted to test run the beautiful Jimmy Cricket X Pax &…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment May 28, 2015 Claire, collected. I recently shared a few pictures of Ruby’s day out enjoying the Carrick Hill Story…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment June 1, 2015 Claire, collected. I’m always so excited to come across new designers with a point of difference. When…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment June 4, 2015 Claire, collected. OK people get excited, only one sleep and it’s National Donut Day!!! Alright, I know…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment July 5, 2015 Claire, collected. TOTEM-QUEBEC Juggling the needs of three kids of different ages with very different interests…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment July 25, 2015 Claire, collected. Because when you’re wearing monochrome polka dots, and you find wall like this, you…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment July 29, 2015 Claire, collected. After the huge amount of interest my kids were showing our beloved fiddle leaf…
Claire, Collected. — 4 Comments August 18, 2015 Claire, collected. Mountain Blanlket: White Fox & Co Honeycomb Ball Decorations: Poppies For Grace Cowa- Bunga Pillow:…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment August 19, 2015 Claire, collected. Product Listings: RUG: Armadillo & Co: Odds & Evie Lightening Bolt Light: Fromage La Rue…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment August 20, 2015 Claire, collected. Ruby is OBSESSED with drawing. In fact both my girls are. So when the husband…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment August 31, 2015 Claire, collected. Ruby and I loved test driving the natural rubber bath toys from Oli &…
Crafter-noon Corner — Three days into Spring here in South Australia yet still not even a glimpse of actual sunshine. To say we are over…
Claire, Collected. — 15 Comments September 3, 2015 Claire, collected. Three days into Spring here in South Australia yet still not even a glimpse of…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment September 6, 2015 Claire, collected. Happy Father’s Day to my Gorgeous Husband. I’m so proud of the life we’ve…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment September 6, 2015 Claire, collected. Let’s be Frank – they had me at coffee! Lily and I were so…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment September 8, 2015 Claire, collected. Out and about in Adelaide today we could not resist stopping by this temporary…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment September 15, 2015 Claire, collected. Hurrah! Welcome to my first ever foodie feature, of course busting with loads of…
Claire, Collected. — 3 Comments September 16, 2015 Claire, collected. Lily and I could not believe our eyes when came across these super fun cactus…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment November 3, 2015 Claire, collected. They had me at grapefruit and watermelon!! I don’t think I need to go on…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment November 7, 2015 Claire, collected. Today Lily and I were lucky enough to go along to the Chief &…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment November 9, 2015 Claire, collected. Goosebumps Boutique Bedding have just released their latest collection ‘Down Yonder” and we LOVED…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment November 12, 2015 Claire, collected. I’ve always been a huge polka-dot fan. Clothing, furniture, decor, party ware, my love affair…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment November 14, 2015 Claire, collected. As Summer arrives at last it’s time to give our master bedroom a fresh…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment November 15, 2015 Claire, collected. Today was super fun. We went for a long walk, ate all the ice-cream, played…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment November 23, 2015 Claire, collected. We are always on the hunt out for clothes for our spirited toddler that…
Claire, Collected. — 11 Comments November 27, 2015 Claire, collected. Last Sunday we celebrated two years of Ruby with a sweet little party in the…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment November 30, 2015 Claire, collected. We absolutely adore the latest designs from our all time favourite summer play suit…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment December 1, 2015 Claire, collected. Ruby and I got our festive on today, and gave her bedroom it’s very…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment December 6, 2015 Claire, collected. We spent the weekend either beachside, poolside, or picnicking in the garden as Adelaide hit…
Beach hangs with Basil Bangs — Claire, collected. 8 months ago Categories: PLACES WE GO , THINGS WE LOVE Summer has not messed around this year, we’ve been…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment December 7, 2015 Claire, collected. Summer has not messed around this year, we’ve been hit with extreme temps over…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment December 15, 2015 Claire, collected. I don’t know about you guys but my kids are the BIGGEST snoops when…
Ruby got Star Wars’d — Claire, collected. 8 months ago Categories: INTERIORS , THINGS WE LOVE My now 12 year old was the BIGGEST Star Wars fan…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment December 17, 2015 Claire, collected. My now 12 year old was the BIGGEST Star Wars fan when he was…
Summer Starts Here — Claire, collected. 8 months ago Categories: Fashion , THINGS WE LOVE Soaring temperatures in South Australia for the first week of school…
Claire, Collected. — 4 Comments December 20, 2015 Claire, collected. Soaring temperatures in South Australia for the first week of school holidays has ensured a…
Introducing Doo Wop Kids! — Claire, collected. 7 months ago Categories: DIY , Fashion , THINGS WE LOVE What happens when a dance choreographer slash promotions manager…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment January 12, 2016 Claire, collected. What happens when a dance choreographer slash promotions manager slash radio host starts her own…
Back to School, Target Style — Claire, collected. 7 months ago Categories: Uncategorized The time has come, my baby is finally off to nursery school! Ruby has been…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment January 18, 2016 Claire, collected. The time has come, my baby is finally off to nursery school! Ruby has been…
In Paradise with Sunny Jim — Claire, collected. 7 months ago Categories: PLACES WE GO , THINGS WE LOVE Aussie summer is in full flight, every January I…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment January 22, 2016 Claire, collected. Aussie summer is in full flight, every January I say the same thing, “is…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment January 27, 2016 Claire, collected. Finally I have rescued my photos from our trip to Singapore late last year from…
The ‘go anywhere’ jumpsuit — Claire, collected. 6 months ago Categories: Fashion Tags: Family , Fashion , Inverloch3996 , jumpsuit , mumlife , ootd , shopping I’m…
Claire, Collected. — 2 Comments January 30, 2016 Claire, collected. I’m always on the look out for clothing I can get around in chasing after…
Our Healthy Yoghurt Pops — Claire, collected. 6 months ago Categories: FOOD Tags: chobani , clean eating , clean food , Coles , FOOD , healthy ,…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment January 31, 2016 Claire, collected. After lots of requests via my Instagram account ( @ clairecollected ) here are…
Claire, Collected. — 2 Comments August 29, 2016 Claire, collected. One of my girlfriends had heard of a magical forest full of fairies (of course)…
Claire, Collected. — 3 Comments September 30, 2016 Claire, collected. My Hong Kong photo diary is getting pretty massive so to prevent one humungo post…
Claire, Collected. — 2 Comments October 4, 2016 Claire, collected. When the huzz has been on 14 overseas trips this year (and counting) and announces…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment October 19, 2016 Claire, collected. Yesterday I was lucky enough to #wakeupinstyle in Sydney and be part of a…
Claire, Collected. — 6 Comments November 2, 2016 Claire, collected. After a week-long hunt for a lost memory card I’m pressing on with this blog…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment November 21, 2016 Claire, collected. At the beginning of this year we said goodbye to Ruby’s ipad. It broke…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment November 22, 2016 Claire, collected. I often get asked for gift ideas for tweens and teens. I mean heck…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment April 14, 2017 Claire, collected. A few weeks ago, about a month after my brother passed away, a friend…
Claire, Collected. — Leave a comment August 13, 2017 Claire, collected. I love when I can share something that was a special part of my…
Claire, Collected. — 1 Comment August 24, 2017 Claire, collected. Today was Ruby’s first ever book week parade. She was recently gifted ‘Thelma the Unicorn”…
Claire, Collected. — Hello! Hi there! Welcome to my blog, a little corner of the internet where I share my life as an Australian Mum…
Claire, Collected. — Author: Claire, collected. Leave a comment December 18, 2016 Claire, collected. It’s been a MASSIVE year for us. Our renovation is ticking…
Claire, Collected. — CELEBRATION 11 Comments November 27, 2015 Claire, collected. Last Sunday we celebrated two years of Ruby with a sweet little party in…
Claire, Collected. — DIY 1 Comment January 12, 2016 Claire, collected. What happens when a dance choreographer slash promotions manager slash radio host starts her…
Claire, Collected. — EVENTS Leave a comment May 18, 2015 Claire, collected. My gorgeous wee Second Cousin Miss Olive turned four recently, and to celebrate…
Claire, Collected. — Family Leave a comment June 4, 2015 Claire, collected. OK people get excited, only one sleep and it’s National Donut Day!!! Alright,…
Claire, Collected. — Fashion 2 Comments January 30, 2016 Claire, collected. I’m always on the look out for clothing I can get around in chasing…
Claire, Collected. — FOOD Leave a comment January 31, 2016 Claire, collected. After lots of requests via my Instagram account ( @ clairecollected ) here…
Claire, Collected. — INTERIORS Leave a comment December 18, 2016 Claire, collected. It’s been a MASSIVE year for us. Our renovation is ticking along at…
Claire, Collected. — Kids Rooms 1 Comment June 4, 2015 Claire, collected. OK people get excited, only one sleep and it’s National Donut Day!!! Alright,…
Claire, Collected. — PARTY Leave a comment May 18, 2015 Claire, collected. My gorgeous wee Second Cousin Miss Olive turned four recently, and to celebrate…
Claire, Collected. — PLACES WE GO 6 Comments November 2, 2016 Claire, collected. After a week-long hunt for a lost memory card I’m pressing on…
Claire, Collected. — THINGS WE LOVE Leave a comment December 18, 2016 Claire, collected. It’s been a MASSIVE year for us. Our renovation is ticking…
Claire, Collected. — Travel 1 Comment February 2, 2015 Claire, collected. The moment I first saw the incredible label Little Creative Factory I knew they…
Claire, Collected. — Claire Instagram Contact me claire@clairecollected.com Recent Posts Out of the Cot – nearly Swatch the Eyes, not shady Over the rainbow for…
Claire, Collected. — Archives Leave a comment January 31, 2016 Claire, collected. After lots of requests via my Instagram account ( @ clairecollected ) here…
Claire, Collected. — 6 Comments November 2, 2016 Claire, collected. After a week-long hunt for a lost memory card I’m pressing on with this blog…
Claire, Collected. — Mini Zimi Leave a comment February 9, 2015 Claire, collected. As a Mum of three kids each at very different stages of…

MY BODHI CLEANSE

Leave a comment December 4, 2017 Claire, collected.

I’ve finally shared all the info on my first juice cleanse experience a couple months ago. If you live in SA and want to give it a go, head to BODHI CLEANSE website and use the coupon code ‘Claire’ to receive a 10% discount, more of my pics and my thoughts on the cleanse below xxxx Claire.

I’ve been wanting to try a juice cleanse for a really long time. I’ve always been super passionate about health and nutrition, however I am also a big believer in balance (hello chocolate wine and more wine on the weekends) and LOVE food so I never thought I’d be able to actually survive one ha!!!! I stumbled on Bodhi Cleanse a few months ago, a local Adelaide company making 100% organic pressed juice in recyclable glass bottles, and the clincher for me – DELIVERED to your door. I was feeling super run down and the biggest appeal for me was the massive hit of vitamins, I decided to give it a go.

The flavours are awesome. I’m more of a green juice and morning coffee kind of girl (then usually on to all the food) so the sweetness was a pleasant surprise to me. By the end of day one I didn’t feel hungry at all, it was actually coolish weather over the days I took on the cleanse, so I warmed up the Almond Milk night cap and sprinkled with cinnamon at night and went to bed feeling full – YUM. such a comforting and delicious way to end the day.

By day 2 I was getting a little peckish (read HANGRY haaaa! not really super hangry but hungry all the same) so I upped the fibre provided with the juices and added them to all my drinks over the first half of the day. It helped so much and I think more than anything what I was feeling in the morning were caffeine withdrawals because by the afternoon I always felt totally fine or if anything MORE energetic than I usually am during a post lunch PM slump! I was at this point looking forward to the cleanse coming to an end I can’t lie. HOWEVER.. randomly, by the end of day 3 I felt totally fine! I never would have thought I could survive a 5 day cleanse and while I was more than happy to indulge in breakfast on the morning of day 4, I could have totally kept going by that point! By day 3 I had broken the back of it and was enjoying the benefits of all those condensed nutrients – so much that I think next time I’ll actually try the 5 day cleanse!

You also receive as part of the cleanse this gorgeous coconut body scrub to help draw impurities from the inside out! so delish.

For those living in Adelaide you can use the coupon code ‘Claire’ to receive a 10% discount on any cleanse order (this is not sponsored content btw, just awesome people with a delicious healthy product that I’m so happy to endorse!) So in summary, I did the 3 day cleanse, here’s the info!

“This is the most popular Bodhi Cleanse program. In a 3 day cleanse you will receive 15 cold pressed juices, 3 nut mylks, a fibre blend, detoxifying bath crystals and a skin brush.
When doing a cleanse these juices, the fibre blend and fresh, filtered water is all you consume.
We believe that cleansing should happen from the inside out, whole body. This is why you will also receive a fibre blend to be taken daily and a delicious, vegan, cruelty free body scrub.”

My objective wasn’t really to lose weight, but I naturally did. More importantly I felt energetic and my skin was glowing afterwards. Since then we’ve been on a few holidays including the Hawaii trip, the madness of the end of school year has reeked havoc on my usually healthy diet, and now the silly season has well and truly begun. I’m absolutely craving these juices and I will definitely be trying the 5 day cleanse in January, I actually can’t wait! xx Claire

Unicorns and Rainbows, a birthday bedroom overhaul for miss 4!

Leave a comment November 24, 2017 Claire, collected.

Im not sure there is anything this kid loves more than unicorns and rainbows. After returning home from our holiday to Disney Aulani super inspired and Moana obsessed her ‘unicorn’ birthday party theme took a last minute turn towards flamingos, palm trees, pineapples and all things Hawaii. BUT to her delight her friends didn’t forget her other passions and she was totally spoilt in the unicorn gift department!

From Andy and I she received this magical unicorn linen and matching pjs from the latest Kip and Co Animalia collaboration (one of my fave childhood books I could not resist!) You can view the entire Animalia collection here: ANIMALIA X KIPANDCO . The Unruly Unicorns were of course our favourite, give us alll the magical enchantment please! (you can check out the quilt cover directly, here and the pjs here) but wow, how to stop there, am I eyeballing those peacocks for Lily or what?!

She also got this most gorgeous book Not Quite Narwhal, from one of her fave Aunties. I’ve found it online and linked it in here

And from some of her little besties this ride on inflatable Unicorn Hopper (you can check it out here!) The cutest little unicorn in a handbag (never not on her arm! sorry don’t know where that one was from!) and of course her light up Baby Flurry Heart – one of her absolute bedtime faves, you can find here>

But my favourite thing of all pictured here would have to be the sticker collection stuck all over the rainbow cushion ha ha!! Sooooo typical Ruby. Can’t bring myself to remove them! How awesome are four year olds xx C

Other items in images include:

Blue Bloomingville Toys play kitchen: Sweet Creations Boutique

Donut stool: Third Drawer Down

Donut cushion: Sack Me

Icecream Cushion: I Love Linen

Plush My Little Pony Assorted Collection: Mighty Ape

Our Disney Aulani Adventure

Leave a comment October 15, 2017 Claire, collected.

A few weeks ago Ruby and I were lucky enough to visit the Disney Aulani Resort nestled on the shores of O’ahu, Hawaii. With her teenage siblings still in school term this was a special treat for the minniest member of the family, I love to grab one on one with each of my kids when I can, and this trip was a great opportunity for Ruby and I to do just that. My only regret, not staying longer and getting the rest of the family to join us when school term finished! The resort was a family paradise with a side of magic – the Disney characters are all on vacation, and you get to holiday with them! The relaxed vibes and gorgeous setting full of activities and seaside adventure make for an ideal family focused escape.

Getting there was a breeze, an over night 10 hour flight, Ruby slept pretty much the whole way and was fresh and ready to go as soon as we arrived. Here she is straight off the plane discovering our gorgeous homely room for the first time!

The rooms were so comfortable, we were in an ocean view villa, with a fully functioning kitchen and living space it was a complete apartment and I found the abundance of space so useful. With so much on each day Ruby needed the occasional nap, I loved that I could chill in the living room or on the balcony in the sunshine while she slept in the separate bedroom. And check out this view!

Brimming with waterslides, a water playground, diving, several pools and that stunning private beach our days were jam packed full of fun in the sun! We travelled with our gorgeous friends Pete and Harlow (@thedaddyfashionstylist) . Ruby and Harlow had so much fun exploring the resort and playing all day together!

Ruby was SO excited to find this special treat waiting for her in our room after a morning by the pool!

And that was all just in our spare time! The activity choices were endless one of our favourites was the catamaran experience. Dolphins galore, a spectacular tour of the coast line, and swimming with the turtles – this outing was an absolute treat.

Another favourite was the Aulani Luau! A bountiful feast of traditional food, music and activities for the kids. The girls loved meeting other children from the resort and making their own frangipani necklaces and bracelets with their gorgeous hosts. After a great meal (and delicious cocktails for the adults) the concert began. Those following on our instagram stories may have seen the girls dancing with Minnie and Mickey and completely captivated by an appearance from Moana herself! Followed by stories of local legend and traditional music, the Luau did not disappoint.

storyboard016

With jam-packed days full of activities the girls were always keen on some extra swimming time before or after dinner, sometimes both! Sunset swims would have to be some of my favourite childhood memories , and it was so nice watching Ruby and Harlow laugh themselves silly swimming until the sun went down creating memories they’ll also treasure for life.

One of our favourite places to eat at the resort was AMA’AMA, the perfect venue to watch the sunset and if timed well kids could enjoy stories with Uncle and appearances from Moana by the fire pit which were held both pre and post sunset every night. This was our view from dinner, take me back!

Breakfast at AMA’AMA were also amazing and a beautiful way to start the day with a consistently sunny and spectacular view of the resorts private beach

The characters breakfasts at the Makahiki restaurant were an absolute hit withRuby and Harlow, such a great way to get up and close and play, sing dance and take photos with all their favourite Disney friends! We went twice in the end, I’m pretty sure the girls would have happily gone every day! And at a totally reasonable price ( $20 per child for full buffet breakfast and character meet and greet!) you really could! Ruby was a bit nervous about having a photo at first but was so happy joining in the activities and dancing with the other kids at breakfast. By the end of the trip she was courageously taking pictures with them all. She is so thrilled with herself looking back on the pictures, she has brought them out proudly every morning at home to show her siblings! 🙂

Ruby’s absolute fave activity of all was probably the Moana ‘transformation’, one of many gorgeous Moana themed activities available at the resort . Ruby and Harlow had so much fun and their little faces when they saw themselves ‘transformed’ in the mirror will stay with me forever. Walking around the resort afterwards I think they were actually convinced they will the REAL Moana. It was the most gorgeous thing. Of course two hours later they wanted to go swimming, how could we say no we were in tropical paradise ha ha! But the photos are Ruby’s favourite to look back on now we are home.

Other experiences we adored were of course Aunty’s Beach House – possibly the most gorgeous, tranquil and homely ‘kids club’ we’ve ever visited. Ruby and Harlow loved the comedy night and also just playing with other kids from the resort. The staff were so friendly and kind and the space had the happiest vibes. It was the perfect place for Ruby to play while I visited the spa! Again if I had stayed longer ( no less than 7 nights next time!) I would have treated myself to the spa more than once. Superbly designed the Laniwai Spa offers a huge variety of relaxation and luxury treatments. So brilliantly designed you would have no idea you were within a resort heaving with excitement and children’s activities! The perfect place to rejuvenate!

Over all we just had the best time. Not once did we feel stressed or exhausted. The breezy resort made a family / child focused holiday literally feel easy. No stress, no rush, no long lines. The entire thing was so well done. We will definitely stop by again next time we are in Hawaii!

XX Claire

DIY Thelma the Unicorn Costume

1 Comment August 24, 2017 Claire, collected.

Today was Ruby’s first ever book week parade. She was recently gifted ‘Thelma the Unicorn” from a special friend and it has quickly become her favourite book so her character choice was a no brainer. A quick look online at local costume shops and I realised I was going to have to get crafting. I have very little craft skill, cannot sew (I would love to learn!) so trust me this is dead set easy. Infact the headband and tail were so simple and effective I think I’ll make a whole bunch of them for Ruby’s upcoming unicorn birthday party (assuming she doesn’t change the theme on me between now and then which let’s be honest – highly likely!)

You will need:

Headband: I used one we already owned (from Seed) with existing ears and added the horn. You could easily buy a plain headband from Spotlight or similar and make the whole piece from scratch.
Glitter cardboard: for horn
Wool (any colour you like!): for horn
One piece of firm white felt
Pastel coloured wool: for tail
Hot Glue Gun
Scissors
Ruler
Pencil
Pink leggings and t shirt (ours were Big W)
Ribbon: for hair
Clip or safety pin (to attach tail to pants)

Cut cardboard into shape as shown above. All the unicorn headbands I had seen in shops had tiny little horns. We wanted this one to be extra. And super fabulous! So I did a test run on a scrap piece of paper and in the end went with approx 20cm per side. Roll paper into shape and snip off the base end with scissors (so it will sit flush on the headband) and secure edge with hot glue gun.

Using dabs of glue from hot glue gun wrap your wool around the horn to create a unicorn ribbing effect. Cut two pieces of felt and attach one to the bottom of the horn (using hot glue gun). Trim away any excess felt. Glue the horn to the headband and then cover second circle of felt in glue also and secure on the under side of the headband (as shown below). Voila! So easy.

For the tail I cut 24 pieces of wool all one metre long. This was too long in the end I shorted it a little but a metre was good to start off with. I knotted the top, braided the tail and knotted the bottom with a small piece of wool. Using a hair brush (tip if you have a pet brush use that! I didn’t, Ruby’s hair brush did the trick eventually but took longer) smooth out the bottom of the tail, then straighten it with hair straighteners. Attach clip to the other end and your removable unicorn tail is ready to go!

And now for the fun part – accessories! The sparkly light up Sketchers were a no brainer, stars on the sides of course because THE FAME THE FAME THE FAME. They are so Thelma. And Ruby has wanted a pair forever so it was the perfect excuse ;). I adore this faux fur stole from Milk & Soda. Unfortunately it was freezing so she ended up choosing her Rock Your Kid jacket instead. Also sooo fabulous. And the sunnies (also Milk & Soda) couldn’t be more perfect for the theme!

Messy ribbons in hair for the easiest unicorn mane!

That’s it! This was so fun to put together. Could easily be adapted for My Little Pony or a non character unicorn costume too. Most importantly, Ruby loved it and had the best time at her first Book Week parade! 🙂 xx C

Who remembers Flik Flaks’!?

Leave a comment August 13, 2017 Claire, collected.

I love when I can share something that was a special part of my own childhood with my kids. I love the memories it conjures when I see a revamp or even just that a toy that I adored as a child is once again available. My Little Ponies, Barbie, Furby, Polly Pocket are a few I’ve enjoyed handing down to my kids and remembering how much fun my sister and I had playing with them ourselves. Monopoly, Twister, Battleships, Cabbage Patch Dolls. Does anyone remember Keepers? WHAT HAPPENED TO KEEPERS. Now that’s a toy that should have lasted the test of time. And then there’s those that didn’t make it for , er, obvious reasons. Slap bands (hands up whose parents terrified them with the story of the kid who ended up with stitches after a slap band gone wrong embedded in their wrist and had to be surgically removed) oh and moon shoes? tiny trampolines attached to the feet of small children I mean what could possibly go wrong? HA!

When I was contacted and told Flik Flak were turning 30 I couldn’t resist. I still remember my first flik flak like it was yesterday. I was 7, it was my first ever watch. It had a yellow face blue hands and a red band and I loved myself SICK in it. 30 years later Flik Flak watches are still around and the designs are better than ever. Water resistant, shock proof, swiss made and MACHINE WASHABLE. OMG right? You can view the full range HERE>

July/August is 6 weeks of intensive birthday celebrations in our family. If you live locally and don’t know 50sixone or if you’re visiting our city, there is basically no better place for a (very!) special treat (dentists look away!). Their freak shakes are off the hook, and my kids favourite – unicorn bowls!!! you can view the menu here: 50sixone. I dare you to try the ‘snapchatthat!’ xx C

Reflection and healing, Kangaroo Island

1 Comment April 14, 2017 Claire, collected.

A few weeks ago, about a month after my brother passed away, a friend and I escaped the city and got away for a child free weekend to Kangaroo Island, after what can only be described as an utterly devastating start to the year.

I don’t love that term, start to the year…”oh poor you, you had a shitty start to the year, there’s always next year” mmmm, nope. The start to that year will be shitty too, and the next, and the next. This isn’t going away. He’s gone, and nothing will change that. But, well, I guess this year is the worst of them all. It’s all so new and we just don’t know how to exist without him. I hear with time I will adjust, that it will never get easier, but I will learn to live with it. I don’t even know how that makes me feel right now. Numb, mostly.

I guess we saw the escape as an opportunity to talk things over, get some fresh air, and to perhaps clear our minds. My friend Alice lost her father only a few days after I lost my little bro, the huzz (Andy) was about to set off on a two week business trip, so some me time was so absolutely necessary. I had been to KI with the family (will add those pics here one day too! Great family holiday spot) but had always wanted to try the Southern Ocean Lodge retreat. This was a great opportunity to reflect, and start the (seemingly impossible) healing process, surrounded by some of South Australia’s most spectacular views and beaches. We laughed, we cried, we hiked, we ate, we drank, while breathing that crisp fresh air deep into our lungs. For me, all the while wondering why I was still here, watching, feeling, seeing this amazing world, breathing it in, and that my brother couldn’t be. The feeling was bitter sweet. Too painful to bear but I guess what I could feel for the first time since his passing, was that he was there, all around me. All of a sudden while away from the hospitals and the familiarity of home, the pain I felt around his belongings or when visiting places we had been together so regularly, well here that pain was dulled a little. While standing on these cliff tops the surroundings brought me a tiny little particle of peace. A little bit of reassurance maybe, that he was still here – part of the universe just like me, and that even though I can’t see him, he’s out there, he is all around us.

We only had time to get away for the weekend, so it was a whirlwind trip. Below are some photos of the absolutely divine Southern Ocean Lodge, the local walks, beaches and views. And some other hikes and restaurants we enjoyed visiting while we were there. I’m smiling in a lot of these pictures, I honestly feel a bit weird about that. Because I don’t think I’ve felt true happiness at all this year. But these moments were fun, and taking this step towards healing my now stone heart, it felt important for me. My family need me, the happy me, and slowly – somehow – I’ll work out how to get her back. We only get one life each, lets make the most of it. It’s nice to be back blogging. See you around here again soon. xx Claire

Southern Ocean Lodge

Remarkable Rocks

Seal Bay

The Enchanted Fig Tree

I do not even have the words to describe how amazing this restaurant is. Owned by the incredibly talented Hannford & Sachs it is nestled and completely hidden under the canopy of an ancient fig tree it literally feels as though you are walking into a fairytale. The beauty of the tree, the quality of the food, the magical experience is one for the bucket list that I can promise you. I will be back! And if you enjoy your G & T Pop in on your way home to the Kangaroo Island Spirits and purchase a bottle to take home – may have done that too! 😉

Stokes Bay & Snellings Beach

Out of the Cot – nearly

Leave a comment December 18, 2016 Claire, collected.

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It’s been a MASSIVE year for us. Our renovation is ticking along at what seems like a reasonable pace, but as timing would have it, our short-term rental was up 3 weeks out from school finishing, leading to a chaotic end to the year single parenting (husband had a perfectly timed work trip to Boston and London – kill me now) commuting from our family beach house.

Because of the randomness of our year, moving house a lot, belongings everywhere, Ruby has remained in her cot much longer than our other two did. With a fierce reluctance to move on, and the fact we are in-between houses for atleast another 3 months, a cot conversion seemed like the perfect fit to keep her feeling safe through the chaos. I’ve never bothered with one before, have just transitioned the kids straight into their big beds, but this time around, this has been the perfect path!

We have the Oeuf Sparrow Cot, which I purchased from Out of the Cot here in Adelaide when Ruby was born. To my delight they had the conversion in stock, ready to go. If you live in Adelaide, and have an appreciation for scandi or beautiful and unique children’s decor in general, Out of the Cot is just so divine. They have furniture, linen, toys, decorations from some of the most gorgeous brands. Stunning canopy’s like this one from one of our faves Kip & Co. It’s so worth a look in store to see everything set up so perfectly, but if you’re not local, you can check them out online: here.

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The cot converter has been the perfect pathway from cot to big girl bed for Ruby. She was completely reluctant to move out of her cot at all, but is delighted to have some independence. And I now have time to work out the perfect bed for her room once the renovation at home is complete.

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This year was the celebration of 100 years since May Gibb’s gumnut babies were born. An iconic Austrlalian author, her stories were such a big part of my childhood, my siblings and I loved the classic stories and illustrations and the adventures of those adorable gumnut and wattle babies. When Kip & Co collaborated with linen to celebrate the event I was so excited to be able to share such a magical piece of my childhood with Ruby. We’ve been enjoying these fairy tales about conservation and the magic of the Australian bush so much, such an important and beautiful contrast to the international tales that have become our mainstream. You can find out more about May Gibbs and her bush fairies, here. Ruby is her newest fan!

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Safe to say Rubes is absolutely smitten with her enchanting little set up at the beach house for summer! Now to choose her big girl bed! I’m thinking bunks, but cannot decide. Maybe something like this Oeuf Bunk, I’ve always loved it but as Ruby grows so do her interests and at the moment it’s all about enchantment. So I’m thinking maybe something more girly and whimsical like an Incy four poster, or even something classic and upholstered like this. Decisions decisions, watch this space! xxC

Swatch the Eyes, not shady

Leave a comment November 22, 2016 Claire, collected.

I often get asked for gift ideas for tweens and teens. I mean heck it’s not surprising I have more of them than I do preschoolers! There really is sooooo much available for the little people these days – as soon as they hit the tween and teen years gift giving gets a whole lot harder. It’s time for that to change, from now when considering content I’m going to make more effort to keep an eye out and share our big kid finds. Especially when they are as fun as this is! So here’s the first one for the Christmas list!! 🙂

Lily and I were in hysterics creating this content to celebrate the release of “Swatch – the Eyes“! We are all familiar with the Swatch brand and their super fun, always unique watches (if you’re not you can check out some of our favourites: here). Fans will not be disappointed with the addition of sunglasses to the range. To say Lils was in her element would be an understatement. It is the perfect fit for her. With interchangeable snap on fronts (complete with lenses) the 35 styles allow for 245 DIFFERENT matchmaking possibilities! A different look for every mood ? They change here like the wind – we need them all!

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With so many fun styles it was really hard to narrow down a favourite. But here’s the top of Lily’s Christmas wish list: ‘the eyes of benno’ (the all white – shown above against the black) ‘the eyes of audrey’ (black and white polka dot photographed above against the pink) and ‘the eyes of connie’ (the pink – shown above against the aqua). And the fun is not just for kids, I’ll take ‘the eyes of vicki‘ please!

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With interchangeable click on faces (each sold separately) the possibilities are endless!

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You can check out the whole range of “Swatch the Eyes”: HERE

“Her future is so bright, she has to wear shades.” 😉

Over the rainbow for play-dough!

Leave a comment November 21, 2016 Claire, collected.

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At the beginning of this year we said goodbye to Ruby’s ipad. It broke and we made the decision not to fix it, and deleted the apps she was obsessed with from our phones. While we weren’t (still aren’t) opposed to her enjoying a moderate amount of screen time each day, it was the behaviour we were seeing after interacting with the ipad that was the problem. Think Britney Spears circa 2007 and you have a vague idea of the epic meltdowns we were witnessing. So we said goodbye. Instead Playschool and the occasional Disney on the big screen are pretty much the extent of her screen time. Sitting further back from the screen seems to be far less addictive. She generally walks away before i’ve even needed to switch it off. And her mood stays constant (well as constant as we could possibly hope for considering – threenager) PHEW!

So, craft is a thing here. Although I leave most of the messy stuff for nursery school -playdough we can handle. We recently discovered Happy Hands Happy Heart through a friend and just had to rave about it here. The most beautiful scents EVER. The texture and consistency is to die for. And the gentle colours so divine.

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Founder Emma is passionate about play based learning and wanted to create an all natural product mimicking colours and scents found in nature. Think Cinnamon, Chocolate, Lavender, Lemon, Blood Orange, Vanilla, Spearmint and Grapefruit. Its a sensory explosion packed away neatly in the most gorgeous easy to open jars. We’ve had ours for months and the colours and scents are still going strong. And despite not being overly speedy in packing it away each time (so me) it is yet to dry out!

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