This is a good initiation as my niece struggles aswell in grade 1. To keep them positive as its frustrating because they feel less worthy. As parents we get to forget to remind them how special they are. Thanks for overwhelming and positive idea. To our kids to our future
Hi Pholoso. Thank you for your positive feedback. It takes daily enforcement and a little empathy for what they are going through. With our love and support, they can achieve anything. Wishing your niece all the best.
This is such a big issue in most women’s lives. We want to be able to provide the best for our kids by earning a living but that unfortunately comes with often having to trust another person with your child. I watched that video and still can’t believe such people exist.
Nandi has been through a lot and her strength reminds me of her mom . She has theee most stable and loving background. Listening to her story, as older than her, She is my hero and my strength too. She makes me more positive and excited just knowing that everything is possible with the Lord. We just need to believe and give all to him. Thank you Nandi for such a moving story. Im very proud of what you have become. Only God knows . Love you always. Thanks to modern mom. Your stories are an ibspiration and not only appeal to single moms but to married moms too. Trust me its even worse when yoh have to gothrough tough times while having a partner.
Hi Khethiwe, thank you so much for sharing your special memories of Nandi and her mom. Indeed, everything is possible if we have faith. I appreciate your feedback regarding Nandi’s interview as well as the other stories on the blog.
wow i cant believe i know this lady. you remind me so much of your mom Nandi. wow my child i am happy to know that God is your strength. truly God is good.
An amazing and an inspirational young lady and love her to bits.
Nandi’s story is deeply heartfelt and totally agree with Khetiwe, definitly reminds me of her moms.
Having gone through some personal problems of my own, can’nt help but feel inspired and invigorated by Nandi’s courage and strengh.
Lovely pictures, love the article and you are my role model Nandipha…
I was a student with Nandi and spent a year in a small group with her and others. I can bear testimony to the fact that she is an amazing soul. So humble, so kind, so resilient. Absolutely beautiful
What a great article! This sounds exactly like what I went through after giving birth. It is a very dark and lonely place to be but talking to my partner about it and reading up on the symptoms really helped me get through it.
Thank you for the feedback Itumeleng. It’s a daunting process – document your “must haves” and determine your budget then go from there. Visit the schools and get a feel for the culture and environment.
As a first time mom-to-be I have spotted the Snappi Baby Chair in baby shops and from your article I now realise that it is certainly a baby must have!
With a 25 month old son and 12 month old daughter…feeding time is such a hassle….never thought of getting a Snappi Baby chair, but the more I read about it, the more I realise that it will be the necessary stress relief that I need! ! Thanks for the post!
I am definitely with Team 1. The day is to celebrate Fathers FULL STOP. While we acknowledge the great work that single moms do in raising their children without the fathers help, the day is to celebrate those fathers that are involved. Further I disagree that a mother can play a role of a father. Kids need both parents because they bring different things to the table. Single moms do their best under the circumstances but it can never equate to how life would have been had they had both parents around. This is not to put down single moms or trivialize their role or efforts. But how God created it (in my view) was that both mother and father would play distinct roles that the child needs. In a modern world I guess it opens up the debate of what happens in families where a child has two mommies or two daddies. Don’t have all the answers but let’s please leave the day to acknowledge and celebrate the awesome work that loving responsible fathers do.
Thank you for sharing your views Weli. You’ve raised some valid points!! I think it would be unfair to take away Mother’s Day or Father’s Day just because some parents don’t play their part – it shouldn’t take away from the parents that do and deserve to be celebrated. I also agree that the role of a mother and father are completely different yet equally valuable.
my only issue is the fact that I feel drained and all I wanna do is rest and rest and rest ,
my partner and I have 2 kiddies , a 3 year old and a 9 month old
he works in the night and I in the day so we only see eachother over weekends then take shifts with sleeping ,
im a working mother , also studying and finding it difficult to balance my time
my 3 year old is amazing buit I don’t have the energy to get off the couch when I get back from work
and
my 9month old is wonderful but I feel like I don’t give them enough time
Hello Nomsa. I’m glad this post provided some inspiration. It sounds like you really have a big challenge on your hands. Do you have any people that could help you, e.g. a nanny/parent/inlaws/sibling? I think you would really benefit from having some alone as well as time with your partner. Oftentimes, us mothers feel guilty about taking a morning or afternoon timeout over the weekend, because we already feel like we don’t have enough time with our children, but I can tell you now that it will make a huge difference. You will find yourself enjoying the time that you do have with them more and also feeling more in control of the situation because you’re not tired all the time. I hope this suggestion helps you.
Hi, Thando
I love the topic. I am so guilty of doing things in a rush. I will try your methods because I was doing introspection of my past 6 months and surely there’s alot I want to change especially writting things down and waking up before my actual time. Thank you and I am very proud of you!
Bullying in schools will never stop until the hrceiahy system, grades and the corporate modeled social system in schools change. Grading kids, from A-F, causes bullying. It oppresses kids. The principal is the CEO of the school, the teachers are the bosses, and you have to address them as Mr, and Mrs. while the kids privacy is lost, and teachers do not have the respect for children back. Teachers call kids by their first names. Anytime you have an oppressed group, children in school, they will be worse to each other than the people oppressing them. The slaves did the same thing, they were worse with each other than they were with their masters, their oppressors. When you don’t have the power to rise up against your oppressors, you take it out on your peers. We call it bullying.I think psychologists have failed children by not pointing this out and saying school is unhealthy for children.
Reading this brought tears to my eyes. I don’t like what is happening in my life.
I’m a new mom, married and our son 6months old. It’s my second month back at work and I’ve been miserable. I’m failing in all areas i.e. Being a wife, a mom and a professional. I work late and travel a lot which essentially means I’m neglecting my family. I used to be a top performer but I’m now being told my work is substandard 🙁
I want more time with my family and be able to be the person I was before I had our son. Is that too much to ask?
Rorisang’s favourite Disney Character is Princess Sofia..She’s relatively new to us moms who grew up on Princess Belle and Cinderella..
The Descendants is a definite must watch considering they never made sequels to our favourite movies growing up..I’d definitely want to watch it to get that silly closure i never got as a little girl..sounds like the perfect family treat
Hello Thando, my son’s favourite Disney character is spider-man, i think he likes it so much because his cousin likes it and because there is so much merchandise you can buy for the spider-man character. I love spider-man too. I know one of the Disney movies he really enjoys is the Lion King because he loves animals and I enjoy singing along to the film.
I would love to watch the Descendants because it sounds really interesting. We all grew up with Disney characters around us and it would be interesting to watch a movie about their Descendants.
At first I thought Luniko’s favorite Disney character was Mickey Mouse, but I soon realised I was wrong. As long as it’s on Disney Channel he will watch it and zone out completely.
The girls love everything Disney. And their favourites are an endless list that ranges from the princesses to the superheroes. But the constants that have always remained are Cinderella and her prince for Fifi and Minnie Mouse for Lesedi.
I asked Fifi why she’d want to watch The Descendants and she reckons it’s “gonna be so interesting”. She says it’s different from the fairy tales because it’s focusing on the villains. And she likes that the kids will be defying the parents and not turn out to be the evil kids they’re expected to become.
Lol, I’m not sure how I feel about defiance exciting her. I hope she doesn’t get ideas from that.
Such an insightful article. I’ve learnt kids are resilient and adjust quicker than we expect. I always wave good bye even if it would be met with tears and now we have a ritual of a big hug for mommy and blowing kisses! And I think now she gets the message that it means mommy is leaving without me
Each has it’s pros and cons. I’ve always had younger nannies but after having to deal with the drama that comes with a pregnant nanny I can see why one would prefer an older nanny
I have tried both Young and Old Nannies… Old nanny was a disaster for me to say the least, from lacking energy to wanting to boss me around,etc
I’ve now got two good(not great lol) young nannies (26yrs and 30yrs) that look after my 3 kids (3yr old twins and a 6 month old), I’m able to delegate to them without feeling guilty, they are hands on with my kids, they play together, giggle,sing and have fun— which i like.
My NON-NEGOTIABLE requirement is that the NANNY MUST have at least one LIVE child.
I made a mistake of hiring a nanny whom i believed had kids sometime back, when I asked her if she had a child she said yes, 2 kids! Fine she came, but over sometime i noticed that she was not very friendly with my kids and she would snap at them, had no patience at all, only to later find out that her 2 kids that she told me about were actually stillborn 🙁 and she carried this bitterness with her and my kids reminded her of the kids that she never got to hold in her arms 🙂
I wish all moms can read this! I used to be a teacher. But I do find in general moms just like to grab you in the morning to chat which is generally fine if it’s short but sometimes not if it’s long!
Oh and I wish principles would not admonish teachers in front of the kids. That also makes it harder for the teacher to obtain respect.
Hi Heather! I have seen how parents swarm to the teachers as soon as they arrive. It’s tempting to get into our issues as and when they arrive, but yes, we should be more considerate to these incredible people!!
This is so helpful and I am glad to know I am not the only being followed to the loo. My daughter even brings her toys along 🙂 I will definitely use these tips.
I have the worst nanny experience ever, both old and young. My child is only 2 years and I have already been through 6 nannys. I have come to a conclusion that they are all the same hey.
And this is really sad because I work and study and I need someone reliable for my child but it’s really not easy.
Most weekends I take my daughter to my mom because when she’s there I feel more relaxed and at ease, but I have a live-in nanny at home 🙁
Hi Thando…i could name them all i have been waiting for it to come to Johannesburg again. My favourite ones is Kidz Emporium because they have amazing clothes and Genesis Clinic will be there. That i know because i’m having my baby there next year!!!
Making sure the baby’s seat belt is properly installed and fastened before travelling
Bring along soft, appropriate toys.
Do not give your child heavy objects in car rides such as clunky toy trains or toys with sharp edges.
Thank you for your story Shoki. I’m even more inspired and excited to meet my little twin girls. I’m 24 weeks and so tired already! Today I decided to take bedrest from work for this week.
May God continue to bless you and your beautiful family.
From one Zulu mom to be! -Thank you Modern Zulu mom for the article
Thanks for the post, I have finally took the plunge and registered for my BBA qualification with Milpark Business School and updated my LinkedIn Account. I have printed this article and placed it on my wall in the office.
Before we get to the kids, I want to say how cool are those backpacks though??? I think I need one of each . As a mother of boys I am always looking for suitable fashion for them to wear, so I really the look of this will be check it out
Great posts, it is sometimes a challenge to jiggle work, family schedules and your personal needs on a weekly basis more so on a daily basis. But it it somewhat comforting to know that I am not alone… So thanks for that reassurance that most women try and seek on social media, it’s awesome sharing.
I found with my 3.5 year’s room I had to buy online a blackout blinds http://au.gro-store.com/gro-anywhere-blind.html
That was quiet helpful for me. If you are interested in one. Let me know.
Nice read thanks Entle.
This is so touching, thanks for always sharing your journey openly. It is indeed that we can change our black men to be better and more kinder especially if we groom them from a younger age. Keep on the fantastic work!
Oh babe, this is therapy on its own. You have learned to let go. Its amazing how time really works right? It brings with it compassion, forgiveness, love, contentment, acceptance and appreciation. This is so raw and beautiful. Love…
I am a natural girl, I have had natural hair for the last 3 years! Will tag you on some snaps on Instagram! One thing I am still struggling with though is finding the right products that will keep my hair soft & strong. Thats the reason why I would love to win the care package. ?
Wow what a wonderful read , sis’Noma is one of the powerful black women I look up too and she has played a vital role in my adult life. I am very happy to see her product Indalo Care grow so much.
I have not used Indalo Care before and I have recently chopped my hair , I would love to win a set of the Indalo Care products to assist in my new healthy hair venture.
This is so beautiful friend! Time, indeed, provides healing and a great perspective on things our younger selves couldn’t quite appreciate. Thank you for sharing. ?
Wow, its my first time to hear that theres a product specially created by our very own and a daughter of the most high God.
Me and my 8 year old daughter we just started our journey to a chemical free natural hair. This came at a right time because we were still trying out different products that are on the market. It will be a blessing to win a hamper from Indalo and we will gladly testify in the next few months about this amazing product. I’m pretty sure that by then my hairline (njibhabha) will be back.
I believe I really should take better care of my hair. I have been ‘wearing’ my beautiful afro naturally for about 5 years now. My constant struggle has been getting it supple enough to style it myself without always having to go to the salon, as it is quite dry and breaks so much that daily tiny balls of hair strands come off (this is no exaggeration). I tried different products but it’s as though my hair just sucks up all the moisture. Eventually I resorted to cutting 3/4 of it last year. I’m growing it back but I worry that once again I have to deal with the dryness. So, I’m hoping that Indalo Care products will bring an end to that ongoing struggle.
I would like to win the hamper because Im a mom to a 3 months old baby girl and I normally relax my hair. Now I want to cut the relaxed hair and start afresh naturally for my little girl. I know how a relaxer burns and dont want that on her as she will someday ask “mom why is your hair different from mine?” so I want her to grow up seeing no difference from her and her mother. This is just the best motivation for me to big chop.
FINALLY!!!!! This is what I have been searching for…..
I have been struggling to find products that will assist me with maintaining my natural hair for about 7 years now. I have literally tried everything,even some products from Zambia.
I have a head full of very thick and extremely stubborn hair. My scalp is generally dry no matter how much I moisturise it therefore my hair is forever brittle,breaks and difficult to comb and style. I’m also getting married on the 29th October and I’m planning to embrace my natural hair on the day.
I also have a 10 month old daughter, we cut her 1st locks a week ago and I definitely want her to go natural until she is old enough to decide how she wants to keep her hair. She so far seems to have inherited my hair texture etc. It would be awesome to start treating her hair with these awesome products now.
PLEASE allow my daughter and I to experience these Proudly South African Indalo care hair products…
My hair needs serious deliverance…. I really need this!
Please also let me know where i can purchase Indalo Care products.
Oh Wow great stuff.
My first time hearing about this product, I like the fact that it was founded by a woman and executed the idea into what it is now.
I’d love to win this hamper to explore new things and obviously write a good blog about it.
Job well done
Thanks for the tips on coconut oil especially as a hair detangler for mini-me’s hair. been using it for a month and now we can plait hair with no tears.
Wow sounds amazing my daughter uses my tablet more than me and she knows her way around it this one sounds amazing, will ave to get it for Abeerah soon. Lovely review
Self reflection is always good,helps us to improve who we are as well as become better people for those around us.Circumstances in life can surely dictate which way your life will go but it’s up to ourselves to make sure we steer it away from things that will hurt us.
Really enjoy your blog Thando. Even though I am not a parent yet I still relate to most of your articles and I think you are doing a brilliant job at motherhood.
Such a nice read, those are also personal traits I possess. I have one more though which I’m not really proud of, I am very impatient and I been battling it since I was a teenager how hard can waiting for something be? like seriously I should start an AA sort of group and be like Hi everyone my name is Anazo and Im impatient lol. I have found comfort in praying now. Each time I feel that itch I say Father God please intervene and help me wait a little longer. I’m
learning. Thank you for your blog.
I’m so happy for you, Welcome baby Khumo. I still can’t believe it myself that I gave birth to a girl 4 months ago. Enjoy every bit. looking forward to reading the pregnancy posts
Very very useful. My daughter wasn’t born in SA but we still had to ensure she was registered ASAP and also had to ensure she was added to our medical aid ASAP. So much admin but it all has to be done – sleep deprivation and all, but it is all for a good reason
We need to decide which to attend… lots of dates and venues means we have lots of choices, which is nice. Morningside, Rosebank or Brooklyn on the 16th or 23rd And Melrose arch on a sunday is also a very good choice
Very interesting!!!! I love learning about other cultures. Where I come from it is frowned upon for an unmarried lady to fall pregnant and the families would usually do everything to hide this fact and in some instances I have seen girls taken to the village and asked to leave the baby with grandmothers and the child is said to be a sibling of the mother. Thankfully this is changing now and there is a bit more understanding/accommodation
It’s always interesting to learn about other cultures – thanks for also sharing that with me. I think all cultures must have frowned upon it at some stage
Yay! This is brilliant! I’m going to take full advantage of this and kill two birds with one stone. I’ll take my niece and nephew along for the experience, while getting a few books for our own bundle of joy that’s on the way – I’m due in May, so the countdown is in full swing! We’ll pop by Morningside on 16 April. Can’t wait!
What a lovely post! Short and sweet. I always get carried away with telling peeps about my preggy journey I have so much to tell but I was a bit like you on some parts. I was anti social and stayed indoors most of the time. I also had an emergency csection in 2012 with my boy and opted for an elective csection with my little girl. I wish you all the best with her. oh nearly forgot my boy a month after giving birth he dropped a bomb and said “mama akasoze aphinde abesesuswini sakho ngoku ubaba mkhulu” (mom your baby will never be in your tummy again she is big now) where had he got that from? kids! lol
Hahaha, I think that’s his way of saying he enjoys having his little sister around in the REAL world vs. your tummy. Thank you, I’m enjoying her so much
Absolutely Cannot wait to see the little lady….(who stole my baby’s birthday hahah) All the best Thando, you inspire me so much, and are an awesome mom, those two babies are blessed to have you 🙂
Amazing how each pregnancy is different. Love reading snippets of other people’s experiences. Big brother must be enjoying his new role and sharing mom’s love.
Hope your skin goes back to being flawless
Ingenious tips ☺ Every new parent will be thanking the Author for these tips.
Thanks for linking with #ShowcaseTuesday linky and welcome to our little blogging community
Hilarious and completely accurate! This sould be printed and handed out to new parents so they can give it to their friends! Even the ones with children break these rules sometimes. #ShowcaseTuesday
Only reading this now lol you’d understand coz being a new mom it can get so hectic. I’m so glad I bumped into you when u were pregnant, and you got to share a bit of this story. So beautiful reading this ❤️❤️❤️
How my little cup cake luv books you cant even say anything when she is holding her Bambi Book showing mommy pictures and mumbling reading , will definitely be attending in Clearwater on the 30 April
I laughed while reading but you are spot on. With me its like the time I was pregnant I didn’t go for visits and didn’t want visitors. Having friends know these would really help. I will go have a read at Tshepo’s blog too
Thanks for this topic Thando. I attended 4 antenatal classes, and the nurses made it clear to us that breastfeeding was no child’s play. For some reason I took this for granted. My baby arrived and she latched on immediately, and I was told I had “perfect breastfeeding boobs”. She fed well, and I produced sufficient milk. My baby was underweight at birth and during my stay at the hospital, the nurses would top her up with 20 mls of formula, using a cup. They said I needed to do this until she was 3 kg’s. I returned home, and continued breastfeeding and topping up with formula. I thoroughly enjoyed breastfeeding and I produced a fair amount of breastmilk. Then I was given advice by an elder in the family to give the formula using a bottle instead of the cup, so that “the baby could get used to the bottle” before my return to work. The nurses made it clear to me that babies get confused between nipples and teats, hence the cup feeds. Within a few days, my child refused to latch on my breast as she was now confused between the nipple and teat. I was highly emotional and this made things worse because my baby would sense that I was anxious. I then purchased a breastpump, and was able to express and fill up the bottle. Again, nobody told me that I needed to ensure that I express as often as I could to make sure that I produce sufficient milk – as demand increased the supply. I was very sad when my milk dried up after two months of my baby’s birth. I tried jungle juice mixture, I bought Fenugreek (pills that assist in the promotion of breast milk – I googled this). I eventually gave up, and now my baby is on formula. As a first time mom, I had no clue just how tough breastfeeding could be. Like you say, society makes it seem as if it’s the easiest thing to do and we get judged when people hear that you’re not breastfeeding.
Wow, thanks for sharing Kim. I’m sure that many mommies will relate to your experience. So much more goes into it than we realise – second time around I thought it would be easier but it’s not.
I’ve been on Fenugreek for a week now and have also tried two different breastpumps
You did all you could and let that be your peace Mama.
Thanks for sharing Thando. For me breastfeeding was the most stressful part of this journey. My mom and aunt prepared me while pregnant as they also struggled with their kids (me included) but the superwoman in me had the illusion that It should be a walk in the park because I felt I had prepared (read) enough to master this thing. Fast forward to baby’s arrival and she did not latch on properly. Nipples cracked so bad that when she was crying while feeding, I was crying with her.
I also hope with next baby, this process is easier but we’ll see.
Tjo! moms I’ve had a breeze with both my kids and I love breast feeding more than anything in this world. Afew weeks ago I shared why I love it on my blog.
Really love sharing breakfast with my little 4 years old boy because we get to play around and experiment with different kinds of fruits toppings.You really don’t need sweet things to make your breakfast tasty and delicious.
It’s a great way to start the day with a family moment together. We only get to have breakfast together on the weekends and so we make these times count!
My children and I still stay at my home with my mom. Everyone helped me with the little one from the day we arrived from hospital and my 4 year old little boy felt neglected and I noticed. What helped was spending time with him when my little girl is sleeping. Fortunately she slept more in mornings so I would take my toddler for a bath and get him ready then we will sit together in the table and have breakfast together. Breakfast time helps me bond with my child it reminds me of the time he was still
a baby and depended on me. I guess we love it when our kids know they can depend on us.
We share breakfast every morning with the kids and I always tell them that breakfast is the most important meal of the day..cause I know that if they don’t eat breakfast then they won’t perform well at school. I also won’t concentrate at work..I love my family so much m and we meet when it breakfast cause we love one another???
I have four daughters, age 2 to 18, my household is extremely busy, but one part of our day is sitting every morning at the table having our breakfast, it is the most important part of our day and most important meal of the day. Good Food, Good Family
Breakfast is the most important meal of the the day having breakfast around the table together each day has made it meaningful time for our family to really connect bf the busy day begins
It is the most special way to start any day – those few moments of sharing a meal together while the sun rises are moments to cherish. They help us get each other through the rest of the day. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day so it is natural that we get our sustenance by eating nutritious healthy meals.
I have also shared this on facebook as well as twitter 🙂 (@shanithatsme)
Breakfast is me and my little one’s quality time as the house is quiet by then and it’s just us two. It is the most precious time for us and it makes my day, every day
I love sitting down with my two girls weekend mornings, each a bowl of breakfast, bonding. I work full time, and they both go to creche ( they have breakfast at creche) so weekend mornings are special to us 🙂
I love sharing breakfast with my little one because it’s the only time in a week day where we really get to chat about everything, she talks a lot and always changes what she wants to be when she grows up everyday. So its the best time where it’s just the two of us catching up on everything
I enjoy spending time with my four year old daughter because its the most important meal of the day and we get to chat about what we going to do for the day.
In the world we live in I am trying to raise my little one with the awareness of giving and helping those in need. My lil angel loves the idea that she is helping someone have breakfast just by eating hers which makes my breakfast mornings so much easier!
IIt’s important to fil a childs stomach with something nutritional so that his brain is healthy to observe daily teachings.teachings.Kelloggs was and still is my favourite
I love sitting with my girls and enjoying breakfast together cause it gives us a chance to start the day positively, full of energy and to always have a chance to say how much we appreciate each other.
Having breakfast together as a family allows us to start off our day in prayer. It also allows us to encourage and motivate each other for the day ahead. Saturday breakfast are a big affair as we tend to have a full English breakfast. Sharing breakfast has strengthend our bond as a family.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and having it with you kids allows you to bind and spend some quality time together. Shared on twitter my twitter handle is @b_balutto 🙂
For children, who are rapidly growing and using tons of energy in their sleep, a fuel boost in the form of a full breakfast is especially important. A hearty meal before school means energy to get through classes, extra-curricular activities and having fun, too. Not only are breakfast foods easy to prepare, there is so much variety that even fussy eaters my kids are sure to enjoy. For example, children are sure to love wholemeal toast with bananas and peanut butter and it’s a great way to get much-needed dietary fibre. Wholegrain cereals in dazzling natural colours and shapes, when paired with milk, pack in tons of calcium for growing bones. Enjoying breakfast with kids is a great way to encourage them to adopt healthy eating patterns and habits. I have tweeted for an extra entry @rehanaseedat
I love sharing breakfast with my little one because it gives us that time to bond as I am at work all day. i also love to watch his progress each day with his eating becoming more controlled and of course the glee on his face when I clap hands for the empty bowl!
I haven’t crossed the sibling child bridge yet but these are very helpful tips. It is always easy for us to forget that older siblings are kids too and need lots of attention. My SIL got her daughter involved a lot with her son, asking her help made her feel needed while mommy was busy with the little baby. Though being the child she was, one day she promptly told her mom to please return the baby brother to the doctor and get a baby sister instead because in her words “boys are too
Naughty” 🙂 if only it was that easy
The one tip I have heard a lot of people say is helpful is to try limit the number of changes in the older siblings life at the time a baby is born. So it might be good to put your toddler on school months before baby comes not when baby comes so toddler doesn’t think she or he is being sent away
Hahaha, your niece is too cute!! I love that tip on the changes, children thrive under a consistent routine.
You’ll be well-informed when number 2 arrives 🙂
I am also raising my partners little boy. I love him to bits,I haven’t had any problems with him.He even calls me Mama and he adores his little sister.
I also haven’t had any baby mamas issues.. Really loved this article.
I struggled with my older son being jealous when we arrived from hospital with the new born. When baby was asleep he would want to sit on my lap too and be held like an infant. Now he has really adjusted and adores his little brother. I involve him in everything and always assure him that his little brother loves him
Oooh sweet man. It takes them a while to understand and get used to the new members of the family. My son was so sad when he had to leave the hospital every night they came to visit. So glad your boys get along well and love each other
I really don’t like breastfeeding. I am still doing it nonetheless, but I just don’t enjoy the feeling especially when he just wont let go of the breast
Wow! It must’ve been really nice. I love the outdoor setting it must have been really refreshing for you. I stayed indoors most times of my pregnancy.I hated being seen out as a result I went out when I went for my Antenatal visits.
I absolutely love reading your blogs lately Thando! They’re so insightful and encouraging.
I was very hesitant at the idea of even thinking about baby #2 but I can safely say that I’m definitely planning on trying again soon.
I failed dismally at breastfeeding my daughter (now 13 months old) and that really stressed me out! But now I know how to tackle it the 2nd time around and I’m really looking forward to it.
Being a 1st time mom isn’t easy at all but we all learn along the way.
Your encouragement is really appreciated!!!
Aah, thanks Tumelo. I’m glad I’m part of inspiring number 2 ☺️ it’s wonderful. At some points in the pregnancy I wondered how I could possibly have capacity to love more than one child, but it comes and the second time around you have a much better idea of what to do, although the learning curve remains steep ❤️
Such s sweet child!! Glad things are easier the second time around. I think knowing what to expect reaLly does help and having support and using it helps s great deal too
What would you be studying? Full time or part time? You are definitely one super mommy
What a perfect idea! We do this often, even tough our kids are a bit older, it is just easier to pick up food after the kids go to bed and catch up on a tv series we love or a movie or two we never got around to watching. I love being able to be right here and it is much cheaper than a night out on the town!
Absolutely Allyson. We often get stuck in the mindset that you can only do a date night by going out ☺️ I’m going to do more of these, it’s the beginning of winter in South Africa
My perfect date night is with my husband and two pooches curled up on the couch with our fav junk food and catching up on A Game of Thrones or any other series we have been missing out on and having a few glasses of wine and just chilling, relaxing and chatting.
We got married on the 23rd of April and all was so hectic that it is nice being in each other’s company.
My ideal date night in is popcorn and a movie or a couple of movies! Some warm blankets and hot chocolate as well is very romantic and relaxing. We should be watching comedies cause we both will enjoy that…a total #Chilled night
Hi Thando this is escpecially close to me, having a 7 year old as well and a 1 year 7 month old… my 7 year old completely adores his siblings, they all adore each other generally… it was difficult at first spilting my attention and trying to get them to “accept” each other.
My 7 year old has the same problem, he is not too keen on visiting and being away from his brothers, he would rather be bored at home, and he is especially bored when they are both sleeping or the middle one is sleeping.
Getting a babysitter is such a hassle so we order in and either watch a movie (after a long debate to find something we are both keen to watch) or in summer sit outside at night and have gin and tonics.
Ideal Date Night # lights out # candes on # soft smoothing music # Takeaways # glass of wine # enjoying each others company # real conversation # no distractions #no technology # 2 of us locked in our own world # shared on twitter
My ideal date night would be with my loved one at a romantic spot on the beach. This must be done at sunset, creating the most romantic setting, the time when the sky is filled with it’s “beautiful Red Colour!” We would enjoy a Sumptious home made dinner, not forgetting a bottle of chilled wine in an ice bucket. I would then have our favourite flowers & candles lit spread all over the place. There must be romantic music playing in the background and after Dinner we dance & while dancing I would whisper words of love to him ! We would end the evening by a Bonfire, having a braai and relaxed with a couple of blankets & lots of pillows on the floor and feeding each other with chocolate covered strawberries & whipped cream! While bundling up under the blankets all comfy & relaxed, gazing into each others eyes & laying underneath the shining stars!
this idea is super. Wish you had posted this when my baby was still tiny…he he…she is almost 9 months so we finally started going on date night and leaving her with grandma…i am gonna try this next time.
I actually love this post!
I will keep all of this in mind, when I eventually get a significant other hahaha….
You make out being a mother sound so fun! And I can’t wait to have kids one day, so I could also do the morning school run, and football games etc etc.
I will still share this, because I think everyone needs to do this with their other half.
It’s sounds fun!
The key is to start the date a little early (before it gets too cold at night). Do a treasure hunt at home where all the warm stuff is hidden strategically around the house. Give clues as to where to look. Then when all the stuff is found, you put em together. So it will be stuff like gloves and beanies and warm coats and soup. You know. Winter stuff. Then just add pizza and the DVD (which was hidden) and voila
My perfect Date Night In is
lying in bed with my feet up
eating pizza and cupcakes
watching a good series or a
movie, while my love paints
My toe nails. A girl can dream
Hi Thando thanks I am enjoying the blog. Motherhood is a gift, but it is a very difficult we need to support each other. All the best to you and your family.
This sparked some ideas for me because typically when we think of date night, we think of going out.We love staying indoors too and can never get enough of each other’s company.We’re moving into our new home in two weeks so the indoor picnic idea sounds perfect with good music in the background and we love playing crazy 8 (the card game) &my husband always insists on a reward at the end for whoever wins. It’s usually in the form of kiss or massage haha.
My ideal date night would be with my hubby,just the 2 of us away from the kids,the furbabies and work drama.a romantic dinner at our favourite restaurant,with a large pizza,large coke and a top desk slab,followed by a gud movie.just like the old days when we were still teenages dating.
I’ve always loved the juicing concept! Like you, Zulu Mom, I just love food, all foods! So as often as I can, I try maximise my healthy intake to cure the guilt I may have 😛 I absolutely love fruit and/ veggie juices. I’ve tried making my own simple ones but am really wanting to try a full on detox for three days. This would certainly help me learn more about the personal benefits and kick start my motivation to continue every so often.
From December after giving birth in November I’ve been in a weightloss battle and changing my lifestyle to a more healthy and active one. I’m trying other weight management products and believe that juicing would help me he optimum results. I’m stuck at one weight which won’t budge and I suspect the way my body uses nutrients in my body are not being utilised and broken down by my body alone and need assistance in terms of detoxing and bowel cleansing. I would love to win this so much.
You know Thando, having a baby thats sick most of the time takes its toll on your relationship. Hubby and I hardly go out because we are too afraid something might happen to him whilst we are away. So having a date in would be ideal, where we know our oldest son is playing nextdoor and our youngest son is with the nanny. Our ideal date in would be us relaxing in bed with series, which we don’t get to watch anymore because the Minions movie is on repeat. I would love for us to have some quality time to relax where we are not worrying or being busy with the kids, but just merely bonding, which is important as we are newly married too.
I love reading your blogs about your baby cause i feel like there is somebody who is going through what i am going through. My son is 4 months now and hes teething which is a challenge, but we are getting through it. I also have an older son, Lesedi who also loves his little brother and i involve him a lot in taking car of the bay whos name is Baatile.
Your an inspiration with all the things you do. Goodluck with your studies Thando, i know youll make it 🙂
I’ve got my big wedding day to prepare for so am in a healthy routine at the moment so this would be great to give me an extra boost with keeping it up 😉 especially during this winter ‘
I would love to try juicing because it will Help me with weight loss and boost my energy levels. I am following @nirmalajuice and @modernzulumom on twitter @rehanaseedat, facebook: rehana seedat and Instagram @rehanaseedat.5
I suffer from chronic fatigue and would like to add juicing into my diet, I’ve heard it is great to increase energy levels, detox your body and lose weight.
I’m really trying to change the way I interact with food and have a lifestyle change. I think juicing would be a great start in this new journey to a healthier me!
So since my baby is now 8months old today, I have no more excuses and since breastfeeding just makes me wanna eat more I need help!! Juicing is the answer!! Pls help me become a better me!!
Where do I start? I need to become healthier, I need to cleanse my body of toxins and I need to sleep better. That’s why I need to start juicing with Nirmala Juices.
My husband was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Juicing will be away to help my hubby to start eating. Drinking more healthy to combat his sugar. Liked . shared. Tweeted. Folliwing.
Oh, what a story! this is a truly blessed miracle baby. God’s light is definitely shining on him. May he grow to be a blessing to all that he’s going to meet in his life, and wishing the Nkosi family all of the best.
The lil prince is such a cutie Tsala..ya nor his going to be a chick magnet for sure.More than anything I wish nothing but joy and blessings for you and your wonderful family. …much love bozza yami
I guess I am a bit too late but I would have loved to start this juice regimen for health reasons mainly to become the best possible version of myself in the best possible healthier way
My son only turned 5months last Thursday and it looks like my breast milk has dried up. I’ve spent all morning reading up on how to fix this as I really enjoy breastfeeding him and I’m just not ready to let that go.
Oooh nooooo!!! Try breastfeeding and expressing as much as you can at work and home. Try the Fenugreek supplement from Dischem or Prolak. I used them simultaneously- check for pics in this post http://wp.me/p61pyW-nv
I love these update posts they make me see that at that stage I did pretty well with my little girl. Yes you’re telling the truth when you say time flies. I remember I was so pregnant and waddling then the next thing my baby is 6 months old and no longer dependant on my breast milk now. Gosh! don’t tell me about after bath times. I used to get angry because I’d think she’s tired and overstimulated and would sleep better if I bathed her but nope! she will start afresh and play. Moms let’s find out what is making these little people do this and how we can solve it ?
I have recently joined boot camp – and I am loving being healthy, eating healthy and I would love to give this a try as this blog post has enlightened me to all the wonderful benefits of Nirmala – please pick me & help me stay healthy! Tweeted @Roxi_23
I can’t believe how grown she is already!! How time
Flies… I love pictures so I did the new born shoot and one at 3 months and I’ve consistently done at least one professional shoot every 6 months.
You see to have this going from one baby to 2 thing bedded down… Well done mommy.
my baby used to be cranky in the mornings and I found bathing her in the mornings helped. And if it was a hot day she would get a bath at night too, but otherwise I found the bathing in the morning helped us more than the night bathing so maybe try that and just give her a wipe at night. It might help
Oh I love the idea of a shoot every 6 months, thanks for that. They grow so quickly it would be nice to capture those memories together. I’m really contemplating moving bath times, all the sleep-related articles tell you that evening is best but I want to see how morning baths will play out. How quickly one forgets ?. Big brother loves her more each day; says she’s almost qualified to play with him now LOL
Such a beautiful story and the best baby is fine despite the rocky start. Nothing more heart breaking that planning to breast feed and not being able to… That was one of the hardest thing for me but It taught me life happens best learn to deal with it And move on and in the grand scheme of things it wasn’t such a big thing
OH GOODNESS…just what I needed to read :-(. I’ve been feeling lonely and very resentful lately and those feelings are quickly followed by guilt. I haven’t shared these feelings with anyone as I thought it would make me look like I didnt love my son as much as I “should”. I love my son but I sometimes find myself missing the days when going out with friends didnt require days of planning and making arrangements before the actual event. The one time that I did manage to go out I ended up feeling guilty for actually having a good time and I had to cut the night short and rushed home to be with him.
You’re definitely not alone in those feelings. A lot of mothers experience that, especially in the first year of a child’s life. It’s like a right of passage. I also used to feel guilty about going out, but since baby number 2 I realise the importance of it – to keep sane and treat yourself.
This is post is so true. You feel bad for not having a life, then when you do get a life, you feel even worse for having one. I went through this when I went back to work. Thanks for talking about it and reminding us that it’s okay, it’s not easy, but it’s okay…
yes it does get lonely. i felt it when i was on maternity leave because everyone else around me was busy with work and other things. luckily i made a friend who was on maternity leave too so we got to sharethe time
My eldest girl is now just short of turning six, and thanks to Oupa, is now aware of the concept of getting paid for doing tasks. Sigh, I guess that means I now also have to come up with a suitable chores list for her! 🙂
You gotta love grandparents! It’s not a totally bad idea, as she can learn that money is earned, not just given. Maybe divide the tasks into “billable” e.g. making her bed and “non-billable” e.g. washing your car. LOL
All the best Thando with going back to work. Your feelings are understandable, I have made a note to myself that next time I am taking 6 months off (4 months not enough).
You will now have a toothless smile waiting for you after work and it will make everything better 🙂
Good luck with going back to work – I’m on day 2 and coping better than I thought I would. And thank you for reminding me, with your post, that I need to get to writing about this transition on my own blog.
I can just imagine, I’m on 6 months but the way time is flying I am beside myself with heartache of having to leave my little boy and mind you he is my third.
I want to enjoy this third month and then work on finding and training a nanny. It’s tough being a working mom.
Going back to work was the hardest part of this whole journey for me to do as a first time mom. It still saddens me that I dont get to see him reach his milestones as they happen but me being a working mom is a blessing for both of us and it’s a sacrifice worth making.
make the best out of the last 8 days and good luck with going back to work.
Ncaaw i love that. I love it too when my older son Lesedi plays with his little brother and tells him he loves him. It melts my heart. The other night i was sleeping with both my sons in my bed and my little one started to cry so i got him to make him a bottle of milk. When i returned to the bed i found that lesedi was awake and settling his little brother. I was nearly in tears, that he woke up to look after his little brother
I have started with Lesedi. he is 4 at the moment. he packs his own toys after he plays with them and puts his laundry in the basket. Now u have given me more ideas. Thanks Thando
My 7year old son loves soccer. Everyday after school he can’t wait to change into his clothes and start having a match amongst his friends. weekends are the same after breakfast he’d already be itching to kick a ball
My 12 year old is a Basketball player in the making. He eats, sleep and breathe basketball. He would be over the moon if his Mommy could win the awesome 12-13 year old hamper for him ??
My handsome nephew is 12 and he happens to be a style icon at his young age! He is also Autistic but that hasn’t stopped this aspirant boy from reaching for the stars. I know that he will be smiling for many dats if I gifted him with this fabulous hamper.
P.S Tweeted( @ anishasingh007)
Shared on Facebook!
By the way, this is an amazing blog, keep up the great work. You now have a fan…
So sweet, that’s the highlight of my everyday prayer, for my children to stick together. There is nothing as sad and hurtful as siblings who are overcome by their differences and battle to forgive each other or even see eye to eye. So much positivity in this blog.
I LOVE it. And I love the fact that they also run small. It’s been very hard finding pretty nursing bras specially in my size 32B. Certain companies seem to forget that even smaller breasts produce milk. Thanks for this!
My son loves soccer. I have tweeted @rehanaseedat
Following u via facebook, twitter and Instagram @rehanaseedat.5 I have shared giveaway post via facebook and twitter @rehanaseedat
My son is absolutely in love with cricket and rugby, he absolutely loves sport, we also always play touch rugby and we enjoy it so so much
???
My kids are absolute sport fanatics
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I’ve followed and liked your pages on every platform and I’ve also shared on each platform, I just had too, this prize is too AMAZING
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What stylish clothes, my little man is still a bit small, but my nephew is in 12-13 year old clothes… He is such a sport fanatic, he just loves being outside, and is really good at the sports he tries! Think his top picks would probably be Rugby and cricket, although his is also pretty good at athletics too
My son lives for soccer and cricket and is on both soccer and cricket teams at school. He practices for 2hours after school everyday. Would be awesome to win the 12-13yr hamper for him. He would be over the moon!
I use wipes for everything from cleaning shoes to wiping spills on the floor to cleaning the inside of my car to sticky hands and to clean me toddlers bum…
Well my son just turned 6months and we have introduced him to solids. Now as much as this is an exciting milestone to reach, it is also a very MESSY one. He tries to grab the spoon or knock the bowl off his feeding chair due to excitement which means by the time we are done we are both covered in food along with the furniture LOL. what also comes with introducing solids is the change in his poo resulting in us using MORE wipes to clean the baby.
I use wipes instead of tissues cause I suffer from severe sinus, use it to wipe sticky hands, faces and surfaces, to remove make up, to clean toys and even house plants.
I just love the soft touch baby wipes have as well as they alcohol free, I prefer them also on my face for make up removal on lazy nights lol and my face will be feeling so smooth like my daughters buttocks 🙂
These are so versatile and come in handy when even out of the house – such as going on camping and needing a quick fix when water and soap is not readily available! I always keep some in my handbag as well to use after eating at a foodcourt or eating while walking. In the household it is great for wiping away spills, and so gentle for make up removal!
Oh my gosh Thando!! I wish I knew about these during my nursing days 🙁 🙁 I searched high and low but could find nothing decent. These are really awesome. Great work to the founders!
I had a similar experience. It must be this “honourable A-cup committee” lol! But seriously, we need more of these stories told – to prepare future mommies that it MIGHT not be the “walk in the park” that they expect, as well as to avoid mommies that are struggling with supply feeling like failures.
Ah my honey!!! You did well though and thank God you’ve got an amazing nanny that you are comfortable with…I remember how hard it was for me to go back
I use Baby wipes for wiping my hands after pumping gas, mopping up small spills in the car, and cooling my sweaty brow after a run. In fact, wipes make ideal travel companions. Whenever I set off on the road, pack a small stack of baby wipes in a tightly closed self-sealing sandwich bag and put it in the glove compartment of my car or in my purse or knapsack. I have shared competition post via facebook and twitter @rehanaseedat
I Use baby wipes for cleaning…it’s the ultimate multi-tasker. I wipe dust off house plants.To remove any dust and get that brilliant sheen back, I give the leaves on my house plants a quick wipe down with a baby wipe. They’ll look lovely and shiny again after I have done that.
I use baby wipes to clean up after my toddler … floor, walls, face, bum, hands, feet you name it we clean it. we have baby no 2 on its way in September and will be using even more wet wipes to clean those pooplosions (the kind that go up their backs)
Lol my daughter also complains once she realises that she is alone. She is also 4months old. Im loving every minute and she is always happy and bubbly. She
I would definitely use the wipes for the new baby . wipe is hands , face . but would also use it for myself . wipe my hands after I eat or clean up . Could also use it for wiping of spills and marks in and around the household.
My experience/process was just the same, how ever before inhlawulo there was a got that had to be slaughtered ukugeza umuzi, that is only eaten by young maidens, the goat was slaughtered outside the gate.
My son took on his father’s surname with agreement of both families and he did not have to pay to have that done.
I have impregnated my fiancee and even paid loblobola and planning for the wedding,fiancee family said they charge me damage.is it right for them to do so? Please I need a reply
Hi Oliver, it differs from family to family. I’m not an expert on this topic, I would just suggest that you ask your family/uncles to try negotiate out of paying damages, since you have paid lobola. Start building that open communication now. Good luck and congratulations.
My sister has super dry feet and my advise to her ALWAYS… soak her feet in warm water use pumice stone to exfoliate dry dead skin then smother Vaseline PJ and Wear socks for like an hour or two. And see magic happen.
I personally use it to when exfoliating my lips on those dry cold winter days. Mix Vaseline PJ with brown sugar….. and gently message the lips. Feels amazing
Vaseline is so incredibly versatile. It’s a great lip balm! I use Vaseline to help moisturize, soften, and smooth lips – Yup. Use it at night as a lip balm and my lips are soft and smooth when I wake up.
When my babies were little I used to buy the expensive bum creams – tried all brands. One day an older mom told me to just use Vaseline and I never looked back. It worked 100% as a bum cream to protect baby’s bottom and it saved me a ton of money in the long run! I’d recommend using Vaseline over any brand of bum cream to any new Mom.
I ddnt know it hides split ends!?
You can also use it to ensure scents of perfumes last longer by applying it first on the areas you spray perfume on before the actual spray!
I love Vaseline I use it for my daughter frizzy hair works wonders, I use it between my thighs as they tend to darken. I use it under my eyes for keep wrinkles at away. I use it on my heals before I sleep and put socks on. I totally love #vaseline
I use it on my lips, on cuts and scratches and also on my eyebrows when I’m waxing.. I put it over the parts that I don’t want to get wax all over. My mum uses it when she’s dyes her hair so that she doesn’t get dye on her face and neck. I also use it on my dry nose when I have a cold.
• Petroleum jelly is hugely versatile, and it’s used all over the world to protect and heal dry skin, from dry, cracked hands to hard skin on heels, as well as for beauty purposes, like softening the lips or highlighting the cheekbone. I make a wonderful and inexpensive exfoliator! Just mix jelly with a bit of sugar or sea salt and scrub away! Soothing shoe blisters. Smear on a little bit of jelly on the parts of the shoe that rub against your foot. Bye bye blisters! tweeted @rehanaseedat and shared facebook
Hi there is a lady with 2 kids she is not married and the father of the 2nd child was also expected to pay damages. How many times can u fall pregnant from different men?and should they all pay for damages?
I use Vaseline religiously daily massaging into my aching joints. It helps to soothe the pain while moisturizing. I finish about 2 tubs a month. Really good stuff.
My Little one is 3 years old and I feel like I can relate. I’ve also recently just started studying. Between being a mom, a good partner, a student and my job it’s really hard balancing all of this when there’s only one me. But I take each day as it comes. I’m happy going to bed knowing that I gave each aspect my bed, although I tend to neglect the books until a few days before my exams. LOL!
Hi Thando. Such a wonderful article! Thanks for sharing. I’ve just returned to work (literally last week), and slowly adjusting to having to leave baby at home. I’m taking each day as it comes. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, young, modern mommies!
Hope the flu blues get sorted our soon, and that you get more sleep. That’s my eternal prayer for all moms! More sleep:)
Hi Mosa, thank you so much. Give yourself as much time as you need to adjust again. It’s a big change, I’m still trying to find my eet with a new routine too. We neeeed those sleep-blessings, lol
From birth, my mom used Vaseline on me and with growing up I found that my skin loved it and it always keeps my skin hydrated and moisturized, through the day.
In our household now, I use Vaseline on my 6 year old son, who I noticed quickly becomes dry with creams or lotions from being such a busy body. And also with the winter season upon us, my partner also started using it and loves the moisture and warmth that Vaseline gives him.
Hi I’m a new fan,no the feeling and its double of everything my side .My twins are 1+ and they both handfull.Your princess is adorable.love ur post and get well soon 🙂
Lameez, welcome 🙂 thanks so much for stopping by. Oh boy, I can imagine how crazy things must be for you. Wishing you double the blessings on everything
She has grown so quickly. I totally get you with the sleeping routine. I am going through that right now. I am struggling to cope at work because this week he just hasn’t been sleeping. I am really looking forward to the posts about the solids. Cant wait to see what recipes you will be doing
I have a dry skin especially in winter, this winter was different I hardly saw myself scratching myself because coconut oil came in very handy. Thanks for the tips,I’m addicted to it ??????? I use it for everything
I Mostly use vaseline for my cracked lips in winter, Its very useful to keep your face moistured during winter ,, Vaseline Has many uses and its sooo good
I use vaseline when I put up my hair in a high ponytail . I hate to use hair sprays so when I have that strand of hair that just doesn’t lay flat, I rub a small amount of vaseline on it. Does the trick!
What a sweet little Princess on that photo. Gosh so much sick in the house can have one totally exhausted. I do hope you are all way more healthy in the next few months. All the best with the studies and glad you have help
i remember when imy child was 3 weeks i could not afford a product for nappy rash i used it as it was my only option and oh boy it did wonders ill never trade my vaseline for anything else
Oh yay, finally a recipe from someone who doesn’t do well in the kitchen. I’ve been hearing so many good things about Nature’s Farms products, I have got to try this. Thank you
I’m all for upholding tradition, however not when it comes at a cost or compromising my integrity or beliefs. As a vegetarian i would have trouble compensating damages with an animal that is going to be slaughtered, but i would also have trouble with just offering money nonetheless. I see it as a form of extortion. yes, yes , i understand that i impregnated your daughter, SO WHAT! you’re not going to finagle money from me because of that. I find this particular custom to be quite nauseating and a serious breach of ethics.
That’s an interesting perspective, I actually never thought of how it could impact vegetarians. Thanks for your contribution to this very interesting debate
I’m going back to work on Monday, my job takes up so much of my energy and is stressful. Im planning to take it easy and reserve energy for my boy and my pumping sessions. Thank you so much for your article.
Oh gosh- I remember those days. You give great advice Best of luck – it is a tough transition. Up to today I still cook ahead – sometimes for the whole week’s evening meals. It just makes my days so much easier.
This is very interesting. I have so many questions on the topic. My husband had a child out of wedlock years ago. He never paid inhlawulo then. The family is now insisting that he pays, which we don’t have a problem with. In a case like this, whose cultural practice takes precedence? that of the baby-mama or that of the father of the child?
This topic interests me greatly. And I was lucky enough to stumble upon a blog who was doing baby led weaning and that interested me a lot so when it was time to do solids with my K I was armed. I hardly fed any purée but when we did I made my own purée. I couldn’t bring myself to use store bought types because I can’t stand the Taste and the look. And I liked knowing what I was feeding my allergy prone baby. I did a mixed baby led weaning: we used some baby cereal but what was essential to me was nothing with added sugar which was difficult to find. I fed baby mostly what we are just without the added spices and salt. And another thing I did was to allow baby feed herself. It was messy but it was fun. Plus it also gave mommy time To do other things while baby ate. I found we didn’t need lots of tools and I have to admit I was almost caught in the attractive and sometimes “useless” gadgets aimed at parents. Of course I got a few but quickly realized most weren’t essential and I could do with most of what we already had at home (who knew you didn’t need so many flashy gadgets).
A common tip is to feed baby one new food every three to four days so you can pick up if baby is reacting to a particular food. This was how we picked up my daughter was reacting to eggs and it turns out she is allergic to eggs.
Sorry I wrote an epistle. Can you tell I love this topic
Yes never return to work after a break on a Monday. I find returning on Wednesday or Thursday is a good idea. And I do this even when I’m out of the office for just two weeks.
Cooking ahead is a good idea. I’ve always done that and I find it saves me loads of time during the week
The one thing I didn’t do was have that discussion ahead of time with the boss. It is essential
My four-year-old daughter loves that they can fit in her pocket, plus she loves that during holiday camp days at school the boys don;t care that she is a girl when she brings her cars. She also loves the bright colours so she will be beside herself when I tell her about the Colour-Shifter cars which we didn’t know about!
My darling 4-year-old son, & now his 2-year old sister, are Hot Wheels super-fanatics! The collection is growing far too quickly than space allows. My sonshine simply loves that he can name them, & is always coming to me asking, “Mummy, what car is this?”
My son of 13 loves hot wheel cars. He’s got quite a collection over the years. My baby of 3 has also starting playing with them. I love them as they’re good quality and last. I can definitely pass on my oldest son’s cars to my little one
My daughter knows her revs and gets excited when she hears the purr of an engine. She gets that from her dad who sheds a tear when he sees a classic car on TV. Talk about sentimental! So gifting her with these iconic toy for her upcoming 13th birthday would be a treat. She is not your typical tomboy I might add as she told me she would be driving her Mustang in heels darling! So please wave that magical wand dearest Modern Zulu Mom( love that name)? My Motörhead princess would go vroom vroom for sure!
P.S loved you in Facebook
Tweeted(@anishasingh007)
Both my girls into cars!! So them being obsessed with hot wheels is a no brainer. The girls love hot wheels cause ‘they super fast mom and did you see how they go through the loops’ I love them cause it gives Mom some time to do her own stuff while they obsessed with the track 🙂
These cars are classics, and because of their exceptional quality, they have been around for years! I loved playing with cars growing up, and think Hotwheels are products which are targeted to either gender which is great! They are prefect for small hands, and my little boy has just started to show an interest in them, cant wait to start growing his collection
If i may ask, in a case whereby a woman is impregnated by the married man n the woman was already having a child, does a married man pays for damages and again what is expected from this married man to be done as culture is concern?
Oh boy – I remember those days of having little ones and a slightly older one. We had 3 under 3 for a while just after the twins were born. It was hard – very very hard. Today the admin is huge – and I can actually not work and do it all. Hence the au pair.
Eww! Kwaze kwaba nzima.. hang on mommy. You can always find solace in the fact that you’re doing the best that you can. When you do feel like the load is getting a bit too heavy and need the assistance, even if it’s just an hour or 2 to yourself, never be too shy to ask for it. 🙂
Eww! Kwaze kwaba nzima.. hang on mommy. You can always find solace in the fact that you’re doing the best that you can. When you do feel like the load is getting a bit too heavy and need the assistance, even if it’s just an hour or 2 to yourself, never be too shy to ask for it. 🙂
This is my main concern about having a second kid. I don’t want to rush Harley out of the role of being the baby, but obviously she will have to get a different kind of love and attention when a newborn comes along. Thanks for sharing the truth of just how hard it can be!
I totally hear you Zoe. I have a 7 year gap and in the beginning the guilt was still there, even though he’s out of the baby stage. If you get there, you will find a way to make it work, trust me. It’s manic but it works out.
I’m still on maternity leave and I can’t imagine what it’ll be like being a mom of 3 working full time. As backward as it may seem, I really think that moms should stay home period and look after the house and develop the kids. I feel like we’ve put ourselves in situations where our standard of living is so high that moms need to work to support it, whereas we can do without the extras, live in smaller homes and just stay at home. I’m super nervous about getting back to work. Can’t I just win the lottery?!
Dont sweat it my darling you’re doing great. My kids have a 4 years age gap and it feels guilty to say”hayi” to my boy whereas the little one just does all they want and doesn’t get a “hayi” too. It will feel like you’re doing favouritism whereas he got away with things when he was the same age as his sister. I love how detailed you write and it feels like your story is mine ?
I think its ok to feel bad here and there but don’t beat yourself up about it. Much love mommy
Reading this post it is as if i wrote it, I have a 4 year old and a 3 months old. It has been chaotic and i also feel i don’t give my 4 year enough time. Before the newborn i was always on point everything figured out and i had a working schedule. I don’t think i will go for baby number 3 even though i would love to have a girl someday. I am thinking if i had hired a helper before birth maybe things would have been better.It tough being a mom.
My son simply loves all the different kinds of cars and races them against each other. I love them because they are strong and durable. My little one even haas old cars from his brothers that have held up very well after 9 years!
Damages are paid once only. That’s why the firSt pregnancy has two cows and a goat. The other pregnancies are one cow only. The cow that comes with the damages cow is slaughtered outside the homestead cos ngamanyala. Whoever passes by takes a piece of that. The goat is slaughtered to cleanse the virgins. If you impregnate after paying lobelia before the wedding, you pay. This motivates the mkhwenyana to hasten to take his fiance home in a form of wedding her.
Hey Sibu
The second cow, when is it slaughtered?
And if a girl is not a virgin n her first pregnancy is a miscarriage. How does this nhlawulo thing works?
Feedback will be greatly appreciated.
I know how you feel,having 3 kids has been the most challenging period for us.I feel guilty about not being able to put all three to bed and read them their bedtime stories but I also remind myself that I’m doing the best I can. It will get easier with time once baby girl grows older and try to get assistance of q nanny or a night nurse.
I know from a previous post that you were havihaving some milk supply issues. Is it better now? What helped? Is baby girl in formula feeds during the day? Love your blog by the way ☺
Hey Mmapula, thanks so much. I appreciate that, I found that Fenugreek tablets helped. Yes, she is on formula during the day and I breastfeed exclusively in the evenings and on weekends.
My little guy also had that pattern of waking at 10pm for a feed, like clockwork. I just let him be as it was a chance for us to get snuggles in as well. Now at almost a year, he wakes around 11pm but I’ve left his bottle in his crib so he just reaches for it and helps himself, no more issues.His separation anxiety was definitively heightened at 8 months, but he’s getting much better and more independent now. He eats everything and is getting braver when it comes to trying to walk, we better start child proofing properly now lol. Enjoy your lil one.
Thank you for this post in fact blog. I am particularly appreciative of the sleeping issues part of this post cause I am still struggling at 16 months! I have just downloaded a copy of sleep sense and I didn’t know about it before, I am already learning a lot and can’t wait to get started thank you Mmapula. I am also not a fan of the cry it out methods so I have been rather struggling. Thanks to you all for sharing.
Hi Thando! Thank you for sharing this experience! I love how you included both options for moms – making your own, as well as the convenience of the Purity pouch! Thank you 🙂
Awesome ideas….. I have already started on one….. custom made celebration cakes. Must say it’s all trial n error. Started with kiddies party planning but haai wasn’t for me…. The day after to collect the party furniture! Would leave me feeling lime ????
Hy got a problem I am a nguni /numbered married to different tribe now my problem is my inlawz paid kangaziwe n svulamlomo(introduction fee) the inlaws are saying according to their culture for the lobola I must give birth St n on my tribe it’s a taboo can’t do dat please help I am caught in between what am asking myself is what if their son is the 1who has a problem
What’s gonna happen to my marriage
Yum, seen it in the shops and social media but yet to try it. I’m quite fussy about food so not always open to try new brands, I’ve been disappointed one time to many. Plus I’m a spaghetti girl at heart. And the occasional screws/fusilli
That’s great! I also did the 10K and have been running for a while now. Yes that’s nike Lady is Bosssss! I also regretted not doing the 21K , cause I felt like I could run more after completing the run??. Running gives me life, not only health wise but it’s my time to meditate and brainstorm some ideas lol.
This is so beautiful to read. I absolutely enjoyed the authenticity of the story man. Thanks for sharing and all the best to the mom for her dissertation 🙂
hi can i ask if u have second child defferent father the first child they didnt pay inhlawulo and the second father want to pay it…it wont be any problem?
Congratulations mommy, it was also my first marathon did the 10km as well. I thoroughly enjoyed it, felt I could have ran another 10 km so i’m going to start training for the 21km will start with the dischem in Jan
hey can I ask Im pregnant for the second time same father but my baby father didn’t pay inhlawulo for the 1st child so must he pay inhlawulo for both of the kids? ?
Right after he was born I had a c section I heard him cry as they took him out he was then handed to me for the skin to skin. From all the crying soon he was on mommy’s chest he was quiet I was so overwhelmed with joy
When I held my angel pie for the first time, I didn’t want to let go. Our first bonding will stay with me forever especially since she was delivered by the nurse before the doc even got to me. I was so scared that something would go wrong,thus it was priceless.
As with any other relationship, bonding with my baby is a matter of building trust and familiarity, and this occurs naturally as we spend time together. The moment I first bonded with baby was when he was born. I love to Talk, sing, play read, or recite a poem to my baby. Spending quality time with my baby are one of the many ways I bond with baby. I have shared post via facebook, twitter @rehanaseedat and instagram
Sorry to hear about your hospital stay mommy glad you better now. Being away from the kids for two weeks must have been hard, rest so you can recuperate fully. Ja eish thank you for the reminder to sort out school things now
On the 15th of June this year at midday I gave birth to my son Harvey… It was one of the most overwhelming days of my life, quite chaotic. But that night once everything was done, the visitors were gone and the nurses gave him to me in the middle of the night to nurse, I felt THAT bond. He looked at me and I looked at him and I felt a rush of incredible love! He cuddled close to my chest and as exhausted as I was, I did not want to sleep… I just wanted to hold him and stare at him. Five months later and we still have an incredible bond!
Oh Thando, I’m so sorry to hear about you being hospitalised. I missed your insta post. I’m glad you’re feeling better. I’ll keep you in my prayers.Hugs and kisses to your little ones.
I started bonding with my baby as soon as I found out I was pregnant, used to have chats with my bump lol, the bound just got stronger and stronger with time.
About a month ago when I could feel my baby moving in my tummy! what a magical moment. The love that formed and realization that I am going to be a mummy 🙂
My son was prem so i cudnt hold him for a few days.but wen i did it was priceless.even feeding him throu a tube in his nose was the perfect moments.his my Blessing.
When the doctor placed my little boy on my chest I was feverish with glee. How is it that I never felt this feeling before ? I felt alive and blessed to finally have held this beautiful baby. He was healthy and happy.I cannot get enough of him. He completed me.
When I got pregnant I was angry with myself and rejected by the father. It took time for me a while to accept it. I had gone for a 5month check up and they told me no heartbeat ?. At that moment even my heart almost stopped beating, tears automatically running down my cheeks as they transferred me to another room to get another ultra sound and that moment changed the rest of my life. All of a sudden there was not a heartbeat but 2 heartbeats! From that moment a magical bond was created, until this day my twin boys and I are inseparable.
The pain was unbearable. I was worst I’ve ever felt because it was my fourth birth I thought It would be easy. Sore. But the minute they handed Alex to me my heart melted my world collided with this instant touch, feelings love. A means to protect this precious Angel. Love is instantly
Love is looking into that little face and saying hush darling Mamma got this.????
Being able to call yourself a mom is one of thee biggest blessings one could ever ask for. I would personally say that the first time I started bonding with my little man was when he was still in mommy’s tummy. When he kicked for the first time. You know during your pregnancy you go through a roller coaster of emotions and body changes…In the 1st few months you know you are carrying precious cargo and the body changes and evident weight gain also confirm that.. But for me the emotional connection was not so intense as I was constantly worried on how things were for him in there.. Once I started feeling those small kicks that feel like little butterflies flying in your tummy the connection with my nuna was immediate. It was some reassurance that my prince is perfect and safe in there. As the kicks grew stronger…our bond grew even stronger..The more kicks the happier I was as I knew he was happy and healthy.. Our bond grew even stronger when I saw his cute lil face and when we breastfeed… There is something about breastfeeding that makes us just gel… he would stare at me and I at him and here and there a cute Little smile would pop up then U would know that nothing in the world really matters???
The first time I bonded with my baby was the instant he started breastfeeding, which was literally a few minutes after he was born. My first born boy. I think in that moment I was so in awe of the fact that he was mine and how beautiful he looked, instantly captivated and an unforgettable. Our bond has grown so much, and now at nine months old we connect more at bath and massage time, when he is calmer and enjoying each others company.
honestly the precious moment I really bonded with my daughter was when I got back home and she wouldn’t sleep, she was cranky and fussy. very restless then I took of my top and took of her vest and placed her on my chest and she fell right asleep. that’s when I really realised that we have a connection so deep. I was so overwhelmed with love and thanx giving.
I had a rough pregnancy from the moment I gound out I was carrying a life inside of me. I had just lost my job and my husband had lost own job 6months before. I cried painfully because I was stressed about how this little one would be cared for. I wasn’t happy and woke up daily with a sore heart and panick. Months went by and at times, we had to ask for assistance just to buy food so that I could eat properly as we ate one meal a day and we were afraid the baby will suffer from that. I started a little business then and slept 4 to 5 hours working on a few orders I managed to get from clients. My body was in pain and I was hungry but most money went to paying rent and ensuring our 2 year old ate. My husband and I would walk hours looking for clients and I endured the physical pain because it felt easier than waiting for him to go out daily. He has been through so many interviews but we’ve not succeeded yet. We became homeless a month before our son was born in November. I gave birth in the streets whilst working until the last hour to ensure baby will atleast have nappies and clothes. My husbsnd and I cried soooo much when we held him and strangers were helping us. We have never let him go out of our sight, we marvel at God’s work through him. He is perfect in a difficult situation. We named him Rainbow because through him, we have faith our prayers are answered and that storms will pass. He is our rainbow, a simple of newness. I realise I loved him soo much when he held onto my breast the first day he arrived and the paramedics finally gave him back to me to nurse as we were taken to hospital. He lovingly reminded us, “you 2 are ny life even though you never spoke much to me in 9 months due to your depression!”. I have given birth to my heartbeat once again. Now its time to continue knocking hard on doors until they open so that we continue faithfully in the calling of parenthood.
Had a c section at a local hospital so wasvsedated with lots of drugs and very little help after. Only once the drugs actually wore off about 18 hours later was I really able to hold her on my own and that’s where I fell in llove. I didn’t get the instant hand over of my bundle of joy like most mothers but when I did, it was equally as rewarding.
I really struggled with that skin to skin contact immediately after the birth of my second son because of all the medication i had take during my Caesar. When the nurse gave me my baby to have our skin to skin i just couldn’t hold him. As soon as the meds started wearing off that is when we had our first bonding moment. It really took my breath away to feel my baby’s tiny body up against my own body. Both our bodies heat giving away the smell of a new born baby. Every time i think about it i cry and smile at the same time. It is amazing to just watch your tiny innocent human. Even at 10 months we lie in bed doing our skin to skin and it really helps calm him down
I would love to try the diaper wallet. My struggle with wet-wipes is real. My little boy takes the plastic cover off of the wipes and we always end up throwing away wipes because hey have dried out. I have even resorted to using one of the tupperwares in the kitchen to keep the wipes in, which is not as pretty to carry around and it is not as convenient especially when trying to open the Tupperware lol
Love all the products, its a very difficult chive, however the bottle and dispenser caught my eye, never seen a product like this before, would love to win this for my baby due in march
Hey, great review of products.
I like all three but if I have to choose then it would have to be the diaper wallet. I’m also always on the GO and this would be of great value.
I love the diaper wallet, wow, this will make my life so much easier, always such a hassle to find the diapers in the diaper bag lol, if I find the diapers then I usually cant find the wipes, love this invention.
Wow, wish I had heard about these products sooner, the Bottle + Dispenser sounds amazing! I hate having to fiddle to put the milk in the bottle…Looks like a lovely range
Id definitely love to try the diaper wallet, cause we travel alot since Daddy stays in a different town. It will be very convenient than having to pack nappies lose on the bag
It was right after they cut me open like I was in some scary movie then I heard her cry the doctors shouted its a girl and I smiled without even seeing her. A nurse brought her to me and her tongue out and laid her on top of me and let her suckle on my boob and boy the way she suckled I was like”girl who taught you that! I mean you just arrived but you’re already this advanced!” I knew from that very moment that my life was about to change. Now from that very moment I wanted to breastfeed all the time. She is a year old and I’m still enjoying breastfeeding her.
The day I found out I was pregnant, I thought that was the day I fell in love with my Khumo but little did I know. I gave birth on the 11th of Feb 2014, that time I was doing my final year practicals and had decided I am not going back to school and will stay home to raise my son and again I didn’t have the money to pay my fees for the year.
The night I gave birth was the happiest day of my life, I had made my decision, I will stay home to raise my son, ow well God’s plans were completely different, I received an SMS congratulating me on getting a bursary, two minutes later I receive a call stating I should start with my practicals in 5 days. I cried for hours not knowing what to do or feel.
I left my Khumo at 10 days to finish up with school. The day I left home, I realised the love I had for my son, was to great and unstoppable, my heart was filled with rage at the same time with enormous love knowing I need to do this for him, so much fear, worry anxiety, my thoughts were unstoppable, will he remember me, is he sad, does he need me right now, it was too much to bare.
I’m beyond grateful to my mom and dad, they raised umnotho wami to be the big spider boy he is today.
Today his 2 yrs and 9 months and I would not trade this experience for anything.
Really excited to try the fresh food feeder. My little missie is 4 months and just starting out on solids. She is also using her hands to self soothe and I think this product is perfect perfect for dual purposes. Also will help with the first stages of teething! Can’t wait to get the rest of the feeding products!
Wow,never have I thought I would be a mommy again, the excitement of having to baby shop I remember the days when I was getting ready to welcome Buhle I only did the shopping last month. I guess I had a mom back then to help with what was needed. I’m very excited that I can now feed my baby veggies and fruits, whilst I’m drafting this to the forum I have my partner with looking at the products… I am certain I’m going for ALL of them as I believe there are all a necessity not a luxury especially now that I have the father of the baby and nanny.. without my mom I need to find ways that are safe for the baby, I’m super excited about this venture.. more ready and matured. From you modernzulumom I’d love the bottle nothing beats fresh mostly not wasting…?
I would love to try the Bottle and dispenser this would absolutely make my night’s easier and would save me from throwing away unused milk in the morning…
Hey. Our process is pretty much the same. I’m a tswana girl who was impregnated by a Zulu guy. He paid damages, our daughter uses his surname but he didn’t pay for that. We weren’t aware that he had to, lol. No regrets though.
Hi wt if a family brings a born child and wants u to pay damages bare in mind you have to bring the girl while she is pregnant how do.u deal which such case
I think I need to do more of this too. I want to stress less this year and enjoy being with my son instead of stressing of all the things I need to do.
I LOVE the bottle and dispenser! My whole breast feeding journey has been was at first wonderful and then turned into a nightmare with my son Max screaming and fussing with EVERY feed from 8 weeks old (he’s now 4 months). After seeing a lactation specialist today, it turns out I have one breast that flows way to fast & inconsistently & one that flows way to slow… ? I have to give him formula with the fussy feeds now & that midnight and 2am feed kills me! ? I’d love to try something super convenient like this to help me with my “dodgy boob” situation! Ha ha ha!
Great post! We used to pay school fees up front for the year, till we discovered that our discount was actually only 5% and we could earn more keeping that money in our own investment account and paying monthly.
Also, shopping around for schools and comparing what they offer versus the costs.
We recently moved our girls to a new school, they are still in private school but we are now saving R60 000 a year! WINNING!
Oh my word! Sjoe, this is giving me something to think about. I thought it was much easier with the second one coming – but you speak the truth. Though it might seem easier, because you freaked out on Baby 1, the workload is more. There is actually two wanting your attention and that needs to be clothe, fed, etc. You really find out these things once you get there. This post is an eye opener. Strongs mama, I am sure you are doing a great job.
Thank you so much Mel – it’s easier in some ways and not in others but you know what, it is literally double the blessing and I wouldn’t change things. xx
My daughter is overweight but she always carries healthy lunch to school and always eats proper nutritional meals at home. Her typical lunchbox is low GI bread with (ham, cheese or polony), fruit and either almond or cashew nuts. She no longer has fruit juice because I’m worried there’s too much sugar in it, so she has her lunch with water.
Hi,I’m a sotho girl who got impregnated by a zulu man. The mother of my boyfriend is the one who first noticed that I was pregnant since I was temporarily living with them. My question is,since my boyfriend’s mom and his family knew about the pregnancy and saw it,was it still necessary for my mother to do go and alert them of the pregnancy?
Hi Thato, that decision is usually made by the elders and differs from family to family. You may still be required to do so if that is what your family requires.
Thank you,love this post.My son is a very fussy eater,one thing he loves is water,where can i get small bottles of water to pack for his lunch box?Can i find just plain still water or do they only sell sparkling/flavored.
I love the fruit idea,even though he comes home having eaten one slice of bread at school,he also loves fruits,so i am going to try the fruit,i had thought it might not be enough for his lunch.
Amazing post! You know i have even taken my kids to Limpopo to my inlaws because we found a private school for much cheaper than any of the surrounding schools
Thank you for this post Thando. We’re moving back home after so many years away. I had no idea where to start looking for a school. This post has been very helpful. Cheers for the link.
Wow this is a beautiful post Thands. Congratulations on everything that God has blessed you with and more. Good luck with your new journey in your 30ties, I know the best is still yet to come.I’m very happy for you.
My son’s birthday is on the 23rd of December…how awkward is that? Almost impossible to plan a party over the festive season.
You did a great job Momma!
3 decades sikhulile bo also turning 30 and somehow i can relate to this post, i two am a mother of two had my daughter at 21( remember how I cried for days thinking my life was over,even though I was independent then own place & working)
i’m much calmer now, don’t stress much as I used to. Just enjoying life as each day is a gift not a right. 30 is a big milestone Thando celebrate it mommy you have done well, may God continue blessing you and yours ukhule ukhule
Every time I read your posts I can’t help but think “we are so similar, we could make good friends” lol but as for baby no.3 we are def different where that is concerned! Great read mommy
Heeeppppiiii! I’ll be turning 30 end of this year, and I’m so terrified. I feel like I’ll miss my 20s so much, and I’ll officially be an adult. Oh well, such is growth 🙂
Dear ModernZuluMom
I am a mother of a 20yr old girl who got pregnant in 2016. We took the girl to the boys homestead. The father whos wife passes away promises to bring his son to my house so that the families can dicuss the matter. But since then they never said a word. The girl was ill and admitted in ICU for a week and could not write her matric exams. She had C-section delivery that cost a lot of money at a private hospital. Up to date nothing has been heard drom the boys family. They want the child to take their surname through telephonic converstion with the girl.
What must we do to get the damages and expences we carried due to this pregnancy?
Yes you can call it a birthday party! And yes that is winning doll on every level! Well done and again I’m going to copy this idea when my one turns 1 ???
I absolutely love this idea.My baby girl is only 7 months and I’ve been thinking of throwing a party when she turns one,however I don’t know that many people with kids. The photoshoot idea is awesome.
This is amaziiiiinnngggg!!! I’m counting down to my 30th, and my daughter’s 1st birthday too! Loooove the photos! Please share who your photographer was:) Thanks so much!
Came across this blog and I must say I’m loving it .Please do not stop. It feels like I can relate to you on so many levels and feels good having someone who feels the same way
I’m so I’m love with every piece of detail…
Guess what? I have a Khumo too???
And wait for it… she’s turning 1 next month.. 22 April to be exact…
I’m also in the line of copy cats.
Well done mommy!
P.s. that board.. where?
I am a new mom to a 5 month old baby boy Nsika and an aunt to a 2 and 3 year old. When these 3 play together or eat it becomes such a mess but they have so much fun playing and growing together. Nsika learns new tricks from Bayanda and Lwazi daily and the love between them is so evident! Baby wipes make our life so easy even when going out for pinics, we are able to clean them up with such convinience!
Wipes are such a lifesaver! We use them everywhere . I keep a pack in the car , in the stroller basket , in my gym bag and all over our home. It’s essential for meal time on the go. We use it when my LO has had a little fall in the park .I’ve even used to to remove a stain from a bridesmaids dress at a wedding .
My son Zibabalo Mgojo is 20 months old and ADVENTURE is his middle name. He has now started noticing that we sit on toilet seat and will demand to be put on the toilet seat even though he has a diaper on. I guess it’s time for potty training LOL. He is also very independant. He fusses about dropping his own bowl in the sink after meal-time, which means I have to carry him AND his bowl to the sink. One other adventure that gives me headaches is his love for plants and flowers. He spends most afternoons in our tiny garden, picking flowers and “fixing” the the garden. He always comes back dirty?
Harvey James is now 9 months old and crawling all over the house! No matter where I put him down he has one destination in mind – the cat food!! He scuttles up to the bowl that has the pellets in… and throws them all over and pushes them around. I have to rescue him before they all go in his mouth! Wet wipes are definitely being used for more than his butt now.
I’m a new mom to a 10 months old baby girl, my princess is so active and in her developments, she is crwaling all over the house n she is working with furnitures she is keeping us very much on our feet. So we constantly have to use wipes to wipe her hands coz everything she grabs goes straight to the mouth. Feeding time has become a hustle she just wants to grab the spoon n everything so wipes are very essential for us, we still use new born Johnson n Johnson wipes.
Zano is such a lady now. At a year and a half I am convinced she should have been a boy. From keeping up with her nephews to only loving rough games it’s hard for Mommy to keep up. I must admit that when she started at Top Tots this year and when she got there she was just looking at exploring and running around playing I panicked thinking why isn’t she sitting around like other kids. I spent a lot of time think she had to sit down and wanted to limit her crazy exploring thinking other mommies would judge me. I have learnt that my child has an amazing mind and is curious about the world. She has made me better because of it. Nothing great than seeing your child be so curious and independent. Mind you she doesn’t allow me to teach her anything at all but wants to teach herself. My baby is unique and so special. Even when she gets up to the worst things sometimes
We no longer have plants inside the house cause my toddler always takes out the leaves of the plant and tries to replant them and she’s strong willed lately she wants to eat all by herself so every feeding time means the floor is wiped 3 to fm4 times a day thanks to my toddler who decided it’s time tmfor her to feed herself
I always keep a pack of wet wipes everywhere I go, in the car, in my handbag and in my childrens school bag. I use them in almost everything , from removing makeup, taming unruly eyebrows, cleaning my kids toys. I use them the most when I go out to public places.
first time mom, Nkanyezi is my 20months old doughty she is soooo adventures to the extend that our kitchen its hers,the low kitchen unite its her playing area we hard to remove everything and put some real plastic plats spoons caps for her to play with not small toys neee. She loves feeding her self and don’t try and help the worse is that anything she eats I mean anything she wants spoon and dish lol of cause not sweets, Gossh the love for floor mop she will spill milk water chips etc. like she is always waiting for something to be spill for her to mop lol I think mop is my child’s best friend
My daughter has a variety of adventures, it varies from finger painting which then turns into body painting and ‘baking’ mud pies to drawing with chalk on every surface imaginable. As a mom of a toddler, I feel one can never have enough wipes that’s why I keep it everywhere.
Wet wipes are still a lifesaver with the girls – and they’re 6 & 4. They both went through a “change baby doll using a million wet wipes each time” stage. Baby boy is just shy of 8 months so we still have years and years of wet wipe use ahead of us. ?
First time mom and my 10 month old boy is always exploring his surroundings at home. The other day I turned my back for 15 seconds and there he was in the pot plant digging with his hands in the sand, everywhere just about to go into the mouth. Luckily I caught it in time. The adventures of a crawling mom.
My twin girls love outdoors , playing in the sand, painting, kicking ball with their brothers and copy them, rolling on the grass and make tricks.They always Messy they love the Indoors too.They enjoy baking with daddy and mommy,scratching out the cupboards ,climbing on stuff and much more.My girls are learning a lot and they explore too 🙂
My daughter is now 16 months and she has started daycare. Her adventure mainly starts when I drop her off at daycare. Everyday her teacher tells me she is a teacher herself, she doesn’t like being told what to do but always shows others. Their classes are in categories according to their ages where 9 months old to 1 year are Babies
1 year 1 month old to 1 year 6 months are Teddies
1 year 7 months to 3 years are Monkeys
3year 1 month to 4 years are Tigers
Then 4 to 5 years are Lions. I’m told that my baby attends all classes everyday because she’s running from napping. She is a Teddy and when its their napping time she will go out of class to the next because she’s avoiding sleep. When its the monkeys nap time she will then move to another non-napping class. When we arrive home I bathe her and she falls asleep right after that till the following morning ?
Her teacher says she constantly looks for any vibrant side and she’s there if they’re quiet in a certain class she knows not to go there.
Yes to this idea! Unfortunately I’m suffering from the first mom bug and want to have a big 1st birthday for Kai. But hubby and I are totally doing the only family thing for the next few birthdays, until he can actually appreciate (and remember) them hehehe. Happy birthday again to both of you!
“Keeping both of them clean, happy, fed, and alive is quite the challenge” ? the way I’m feeling this with only one tot! I applaud you for keeping it together especially while juggling all of the other adulting stuff. A few meltdowns here and there are necessary and totally ok. God knows I’ve had (and continue to have) my share of them. Just when I think I’ve got this motherhood thing down, I realise I don’t. Have no idea how two+ kids will be eish.
Hello great blog. My Lil one is turn one and I was looking at doing the board for her. Do you mind sharing where I can get one made around Johannesburg.
Thank you.
I just stumbled through this piece of writing and i felt a mixture of emotions.I know the pain of going through loss and the road of recovery accompanying it. I attended the same High School with Nandi. I recall her heartwarming smile and enchanting eyes which could warmingly pierce through the hardest of souls. I knew whilst reading this piece that she’s the kind who will get over any hurdle because her piercing features were an indication of a positive soul who would survive the harshest of storms.
Essential ingredients and things we take for granted!
For me my four things are –
Eat well (which I’m not so good at sweet tooth problem).
Exercise – this I don’t compromise on. I go for a run/walk 5-6 days a week even if it is just a short 3 or 4 KM and I make time to go to the gym 2-3 times a week too .
Quality time with family. Because our schedules are so busy I make this a priority and try to ensure we do something together as a family once a week even if it is just going to church
Me time- i used to think it was a cliche but I’ve come to realize it is true. Better me equals better wife and mother. So I make time for myself even if just an hour to do nothing but be me. Sometimes I just nap in that time other times I go for a walk or read
I also insist on hand washing when we get home after being out. And like you I never send my child to school sick. Scared of them getting worse and making others sick too.
Ps: how is your little boy growing so fast already that he uses an antiperspirant! Stop growing so fast little one
Oh my toddler is full of antics. Just last night she told me she was applying sudocreme to her tummy because she wants her tummy to be nice . When I quizzes further she said she wanted to remove the lines on it (yikes the things kids see us do, I apply tissue oil which she queried about a few weeks ago ) 🙂 🙂
I believe the first birthday is for the parents to celebrate surviving the first year. And whether it is big or not a party is a party. And whilst they might not remember it there will be pictures to remember the day!
And yes you had a party just not a big party! Photo shoots are always a winner more memories and in your case small party meant less clean up.
Still can’t believe Khumo is one already. I remember you being pregnant
That just looks like the perfect way to
Celebrate turning 30! So much fun and I hope you have been using the camera! And 10 bags… that must be a record
I haven’t worked on my birthday in 5/6 years or so. A colleague used to take her birthday off and I started doing it too. Now on my birthday I run 7 Km because July is month 7, then spa for a massage and meet up with a friend (done that for two years in a row now) and/dinner with hubby and K
My morning routine(ingredients) includes but not limited to the items below
1. Bible reading and prayer
2. Reading – business or fitness related books
3. Stretch or yoga this really depends on how time I have been snoozing a bit much lately.
4. Journal my thoughts ” What would make today great? “
This post actually relates to me so much because that is the journey i am on right now. I actually have a lot more than 4, but i will stick to the brief 🙂
#1-Exercise
I have been procrastinating joining the gym since my baby was born and now he is 1. This year i decided to sign up for the gym. This ingredient works hand in hand with another ingredient of mine because i wake up early in the morning and go to gym before going to work. It really keeps my energy levels high throughout the day and after work i have time to spend with the family and make dinner.
#2-Waking up earlier
I have started waking up earlier than anyone in the house just to prep for everyone’s day and to spend some time with God. This makes a huge difference to my day because i am much calmer and i am organised which filters through my day at work.
#3-Reading
You cant just have a healthy body you need to have a healthy mind too. So when the kids are in bed and hubby is catching up on late night tv, i lay in bed with a book. I make sure i read every night. Currently i am reading Stormie Omartiaans 3 in 1 prayer book. It really prepares me for my evening because it guides me on my prayer and helps me think of new things to implement in my life starting the following morning. Reading also assist me in preparing for my sleep because i am one of those people who can overthink themselves to death. So the reading gives me god things to think about which in turns puts me into a good space before heading to bed.
#4-Eating Healthy
I know everyone says it but its actually very difficult to do and makes such an impact to your body. I was either too busy where i would skip meals and with me having low blood pressure, it really did not assist as i was always having dizzy spells. On the other hand, i would eat too much junk throughout the day because of stress and would end up feeling sick and bloated. Now i am learning to eat balanced meals and trying not to skip any meals. I have actually cut out fizzy drinks and chips completely from my diet and its made a huge impact on my appearance and on how i feel. I still need to work on cutting the chocolate out, but i am having it in proportion 🙂 I am also drinking alot more water because i no longer have fizzy drinks.
I am really enjoying the journey i am on, it helps me to remain calm throughout the storm
I made some promises to myself while I was pregnant with my youngest last year!
1) Mothers guilt was also a huge biggie for me. After I had my 1st son I completely lost myself to motherhood and woke up one day and could hardly recognize myself. I made a promise to myself that never again! My kids won’t die if I’m not at home for an hour or two. My kids won’t die if I’m doing something I like. My abilities or my value as a mom isn’t measured by absence but rather the quality of my presence.
2) Healthy eating at the table
When you eat good,you feel good. I take my time to plan our meals as a family and it has double benefits because I teach my children good eating habits and make a family event of every meal I make. Whether it’s over breakfast with the hubby once the kids are at school or bonding with the kids over after school snacks. We sit at the table, we bond, we connect and we chat!
3) workouts
I never miss a week day! It sets the tone for my whole day and I feel like a million buck!
4) Movies on my own
I got to the movies in my own, for some me time 1 Thursday a month and I don’t compromise. It’s my date with myself❤
My ingredients are:1- Walking everyday which has helped me lose weight. 2- No more sugar and bread in my diet and I have seen amazing result. I feel so much healthier and happier. 3-Time out for myself away from the kids with the girls to just chill, giggle, cry, shop and have some fun. 4- Accept the things that I cannot change and have no control over and look ahead at what better things may be over the hill.
My 4 ingredients to being a healthier me starts with my state of mind
°Start living within my means, I will stop wishing for things that are beyond my reach and start saving for those I can afford.
°Go back to doing Yoga, it used to clear my mind and keeps me strong and a beautiful body
°I will go back to eating my 5meals a day Breakfast which is compulsory, Lunch and dinner with 2 snacks in between these meals and drinking 3litres of water to rid my body off toxins
°Stop procrastinating. It is my big disease because since I pride myself with working very well under pressure but after that the effects are felt because I get fatigued. I will plan my day starting from when I wake and make sure I follow my plan strictly.
Hey ma wakhe heeeey!!. I absolutely loooove your blog. I’m about to settle down and binge read on it. It looks really good hey.
Okay i don’t feel comfortable entering this competition coz i haven’t suppoted you long enough? blogger/reader guilt. I’m just new here even though lord knooows I need me some trainers since some people made a personal shopping mall out of my storage box this year and am too broke to buy new trainers. Lol.
love your ingredients Thando must copy no4: We used to have date nights every week Thursdays were ours nomakanjani, I used to buy countless vouchers on groupon so we always had things to do together away from the kids angazi what changed but this is a must.
1) Loving & appreciating my body: This has been a struggle of mine especially after my second baby. Knowing what is good for me has helped a lot,society tends to box this beauty thing and I’ve come to realize that I don’t need to be a size 8/10 to be healthy,beautiful. beauty is relative, it’s important to be kind to our bodies be in tune as they say we are what we eat so eating healthy,exercise is imperative. One cant out gym a bad diet,have cut out a starch,sugar (struggle as i have a sweet tooth for days) to try maintain a healthy lifestyle.
2)Good night sleep- As I get older im loving my sleep i use to survive on little if no sleep at all but now I cant. For me to function and be happy 7 hours at least is a must,good sleep leads to a better mood,clearer mind, stronger immunity & much more so please don’t disturb this mommy when shes sleeping.
3)Spirituality,meditation : We are often so busy with juggling everything that we don’t take time out just to breathe deeply just to regroup,recharge so meditation is a daily practice i have to just zone out for a few minutes connect with myself, my God.
Spiritual knowledge realigns that sense of self,important for finding that greater meaning & meaning in my existence.
4) Gratitude: I’m grateful for the little things , I know there’s a lot that I want to do,achieve but it’s important for me to know that im not where I used to be.
1) Choose me first. I think we need to make us no.1 in our lifes so we can take care of 2..3..4..5.. etc better. No one wins if No.1 is not happy!
2) eat clean. I started 2 years ago eating clean. No sugars, low carbs and healthy meals for all.
3) enjoy being active. This year i started running with my beautiful labrador. He is an amazing running friend and makes the run/jog so much fun. We both love it and tend to run even when normally I would say no.
4) Positive energy produces positive results. I now just choose to surround myself with happy positive people and I am also like that. It’s a win : win
hi.I impregnated my girlfriend, I’m from zim and she is SAcan, and her family came and notified my uncles and a date was set for inhlawulo. but now my uncle is insisting that on the day we go to pay inhlawulo we must also go with part of ilobola.I’m willing to go pay inhlawulo for now but proceed with lobolo at a later stage due to financial contrains.am I required to pay lobolo the day we go to pay inhlawulo?
shout it loud,go out and reach others who have not heard of it .it is real Dr Natasha HERBAL Center is really doing a great works within and outside just try it and you will testify just as i am testifying now, My name is Melissa Cole from London i have this infection that lead to womb blockage and there was no hope at all the hospital i went said nothing but that there on hope for 4 years that i have waited no child then i came across Dr Natasha HERBAL Center now and she is a wonderful native herbalist who told me she can do it but i was scared because she was a lady but since i had no child i have to comply with the rules and regulation and now am carrying my child just try it and see your time to celebrate has come . you can reach Dr Natasha HERBAL Center via email : pregnancyherbs@gmail.compregnancyherbs@gmail.com
I have recently started an online course @UCT myself. I am on my 3rd week now. I agree with you, it is definitely not as easy as I thought it would be. Well, I have a 2month old baby and a 2 year old toddler so for me it is not easy managing 2 small kids and studying. With that said though I must say, UCT does a lot in terms of assisting and making their online campus feel as close to the physical campus as possible. The forums are also a good way of engaging would with other students as you would in a lecture. I am definitely taking up another course after this one just so I don’t get delayed in furthering my studies while my kids are still small. actually I think for me online learning is the best cause it cuts out the time I would spend travelling to and from campus(time is so scarce nowa days) and it allows me the liberty of being in two places at once 🙂
First of all I would love to say your blog is beautiful,clean and easy to navigate. I am a first time to a now 10 weeks adorable Boy and I find myself referencing to some of your old articles and its good to know that I am not too bad with this motherhood thing and I love how you engage with your readers.
Anywhoo back to my comment, my favourite baked goodie has to be my mum’s baked scone, I used to baked these with her all the time and now I make them myself and soon I will be teaching my son the family recipe 🙂
Loved reading this update Thando. I so admire fellow working and blogging mamas, but you’re also studying on top of that?! *applause* I’m going to check out the We Said No page too, thanks for sharing.
Hi Thands, thank you for always keeping us up to date with whats happening in your world and motivating us on being a super woman. I don’t know how you do it but you make it look so easy.
My favorite baked goodies are biscuits which I love to bake when I want to relax. This is an old recipe my mom taught me when I was young.
The ingredients are:
Flour
Condensed milk
eggs
cream of tarter
Bicarbonate of soda
sugar
vanilla essence
you mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and then add the flour as the last ingredient. stove on 180″c
Hey Thands, thanks for always sharing your motherhood journey with us. You make being a super mom looks very easy.
My favourite baked goodies are biscuits which my mother liked to baked for us while growing up.
Recipe :
16 cups flour
1 tin condensed milk
2 packed bicarbonate of soda
2 packet cream of taster
4 eggs
2 cups sugar
2 spoons syrup
Mix all the ingredients well until smooth except flour together in a bowl and then add the flour once the mixture is smooth. Cut the dough, pretty heat stove on 180′
This is a big bake , you can decrease the ingredients to make a smaller dough.
Been keeping an eye for a new post.
So our guy’s new word is ‘Mfethu'(Xhosa slang word for ‘my brother’). The other day he said ‘mama mfethu m hungry’ hahahaha.
We are new in Jozi so we are still discovering places and things to do. So most of the time we are playing games indoors (karaoke our most fave fave)this is sort of our first winter here. We welcome ideas by the way of what we could get up to in and around the Centurion area. We recently discovered The purple Cow and Moyo Zoo lake.
Some nice outdoor places in centurion to take advantage of the winter sun during the day:
Irene dairy farm – the kids can see farm animals, watch cows being milked and there is a jugle gym to play. There’s also a restaurant for the adults to chill and grab a bite.
Rooihuiskraal Historical Terrain and Animal farm – great for picnics and braais whilst the kids run around and play
We love to make a mbawula outside and we all sit around(I have three boys and the youngest is 5) with our blankies and braai marshmallows and drink hot chocolate, tell ghost stories and have some awesome laughs and family quality time at no huge expense.
Some nice outdoor places in centurion to take advantage of the winter sun during the day:
Irene dairy farm – the kids can see farm animals, watch cows being milked and there is a jugle gym to play. There’s also a restaurant for the adults to chill and grab a bite.
Rooihuiskraal Historical Terrain and Animal farm – great for picnics and braais whilst the kids run around and play
My son loves his cousins to bits. we are based in Johannesburg and they are in Klersdorp. Twice a month we have to go visit them. They are the same age group, with my son turning 6 in July and they just love each other. They are learning new things and every time on our way back I will get to hear about what they got up to and he will be feeling and acting like a man.
He makes me laugh so much cause every time his dad is not around he calls himself “The Man Of The House” I guess that the swag!
One of our winter activities is having a movie marathon. Each member of the family selects their favourite (PG-appropriate) movie to watch in a day-long marathon & then pass popcorn ?!
Last week we went for a winter hike. These are to accommodate my 2nd born, Vuyani. He doesn’t like indoors. So we go on a winter hike in a park. Collect items we find and glue them to sturdy paper to make a beautiful nature collage.
My kids also enjoy baking cookies.
Everyone makes their favourite recipe, with Mommy’s help of course. Yesterday we made scones after doing our homework.
Oh wow my son Austin who is currently 5 would love this hamper as he starts Grade R next year, he has been asking me to get him cool clothes cos his big brother doesnt wear spiderman. He is very fussy about my choice in clothing for him and prefers to dress himself in the morning lol.Austin is my youngest son,I have 3 boys and 1 girl.Our favourite winter things to do as a family are movie nights at home under the covers with Milo, popcorn and lots of snacks.
Oh thank you so much for sharing. We will most definitely go check it out.
We are milking the last days of my maternity leave so the more places the better!
Wow! The Jordan Kids winter collection is dope, I have a 4yr old son who is obsessed with tracksuits and he wears 5-6. Our winter favourite activities include having a reading picnic in our bedroom dressed in our onesies, doing puzzles, jumping on the trampoline ( which brings out the inner child in me) and playing hide and seek.
My 5 year old little boy who is also called Lesedi, who is actually not so little now because he is a big brother of which i am reminded all the time. He loves new clothes and looking good and it is always nice to take new clothes for him when we visit him as he lives with his grandmother in Limpopo. Anyways so fathers day is coming up and they are having a do at school where they need to dress like their dads and this would be awesome if he won this as his father already has a Jordan Tshirt so now they can have matching clothes on the day. As i said, my little boy is in Limpopo so i don’t see him everyday, but the last activity we did together in the beginning of the winter was to go buy pizzas and chill in the park playing on the swings under the bright sun. Nothing keeps you warmer than playing under the sun
hi Mamah, my son is soon to be 5 his name is Siphosethu. we are family of chefs :-), and our most loved winter activity is def playing around in the kitchen. more like he is the taster, his 7 old sister does all the staring and ingredient arrangements and his 11 year old brother does all chopping. the most loved meal that just warms up the whole house is Amadombo and lamp curry….it kinda includes baking and cooking all at the same time, while warming up the whole house.
Our favorite thing to do this winter is horse riding, my son has recently taken liken to it. We spend our Saturdays at the Soweto equestrian for lessons, this hamper would be ideal to keep him warm as he practices well I have a cup of coffee to keep me warm.
Our favourite thing is exploring outdoor.We enjoy seeing creatures you don’t normally see on hotter days,baking mud pies, we play in the colourful leaves strewn on the ground, splash in puddles and dance in the rain. I don’t know why but we’ve always enjoyed winter way more than summer
Hi. What is the procedure isisu si ka bikwanga because of uku kipita and the baby daddy and his parents passed on and now the child’s family on the mothers side are demanding inhlaulo for a child that they didn’t bring upbecause the baby daddy mother bright up the child at the baby daddy’s house. Minding that even the parents of the baby mama passed on. Now her family are demanding a lot of money.
Great post. I am studying online at UCT getsmarter (in my 7th week) online and it’s also pushing me a lot. I have A toddler and an 8 month old. The flexibility of great. I agree with your post to make things happen for oneself, as I believe it’s important to show my kids that I can learn and aspire no matter age or status. Thanks for the great post.
I don’t have a grandmother. I do wish I had one. Both have passed away. when I was very young.
What I do get to see is my mother with my brother’s son. The sweetest love kaGogo that I have every seen in my life. My first reference of having uGogo in my life. The cuddles on the couch while watching Cake Boss and defending him when his parents want to smack him. Buying him everything cute she see’s in the store and merely reciprocating with warm arms everytime my nephew says “huggy”.
Visiting my grandmother and eating home baked biscuits is one of my best memories of her. Even todate smelling freshly baked biscuits takes me back to those special moments
oh geez my grandmother was a awesome baker – she made the most amazing savories especially her samoosas – It was her passion. I loved being in the kitchen growing up watching her – like a professional chef. her recipes are like none other…totally whole meal food cooked with love….
I used to love staying at my Mormor’s house (Mormor is Swedish for mothers mother) when I was little. she used to wake us up in the mornings with milo and a marie biscuit before we used to head to the kitchen where she always made us fresh orange juice. she would also always make sure we weren’t left out on our siblings birthdays and ensured there was a prezzie for us to open. I am glad she is still alive today at the age of 87 and has lived to see her great grandchildren
My gogo uMaNgcobo is no more but she was the best gogo ever. We used to visit her @ KwaMashu when school were closed. The best moment with her was when she would make tea and we all ask her to leave some for us, lol! We wouldn’t want her to make for us but we wanted the left over of what she was drinking, so she will tell us to get cups and we will all get a little bit :). Love her to bits
I share a name with my grandmother, Nompi. So she likes talking to me about how she used to be as a young woman so I think she expects to see her young slef in me??? So as she talks and talks and talks, lol….. we sip on some tea with my fav flavour of Ouma rusks, buttermilk.
My favorite moments with Gogo has to be when I came back from the hospital after giving.How she taught me everything about Motherhood and she took care of us. Made sure every need of us was taken care of. Only for her to pass away 5 weeks later. When baby was only a month old. I will remember her mostly for the last month she shared with us❤️
My favorite moment with my grandma was sitting on the veranda and listening to her tell me stories of our ancestors while we drink sweet tea and dip fresh bread into it.
I used to call my granma Kiki, my fondest memories of her is how funny she was. She would make jokes at the most awkward moments. And how she made summer so fun…she loved watermelons and ice cream. In winter she would make the most delicious soups from whatever she would find in the frigde. So with my Kiki life was so easy and fun…if I had one wish to make, it would be for my kids to know her. But fortunately I still have my mom who is the best granny for my kids and my nephews.
I did not get alot of time with my grandma but I do remember when I was younger how I used to enjoy eating her cooking everytime I got back from school. I used to always worry her to make egg chutney for me and it was my favourite dish. I used to also tease her by saying one uncle likes her and she used to get so mad at me . Those are my sweet memories of her
Wow I dont have a grandma on both my parents side they past away a long time ago. I envied children who went to visit their grannies during school holiday and always felt left out when other children brag about their grandma.
My favourite moments with my granny are 1) When we visit her ezilalini and she wakes up very early in the morning to pray for all of us calling each of us by name. She has 6 children who have gone and had at least 3 children each so imagine a long prayer with each person’s prayer personalised to their life 🙂 For me that is such a great expression of love and awareness and a lesson of how deeply to love when my kids and their kids and so on. I also loved the most recent love stunt she pulled when after my wedding which was on a Saturday she woke up early on the Sunday to wash my wedding gown so that it can be crystal white again when they take me to my new family and she said the whiteness of the gown carries a message and the gist of that message is that I must present the family well always 🙂 oh I could go on guys 🙂
Aaaaah Thando this is such an emotional subject for me hey. With both my babies I didn’t have an elderly person living with me and teaching me staff like it’s usually done so I did a lot of reading to help myself. It’s a difficult and rewarding journey am glad you are talking about it to help a new mom out there 🙂
May Gogo’s soul Rest In Peace! Kids surprise us. They understand more than we think and it is essential we are upright with them within reason! Thanks for these tips very helpful and a great reminder
Such a terrible thing to have happened to you Mmatshep. So sorry for your loss. May the Lord be your comfort and give you more than what you’ve lost. Sending cyber hugs your way.
I think we don’t recognise the grief that comes with ectopic pregnancy. We often perceive it as phantom pregnancy, something that never happened. When in actual fact the baby was there, their tiny heart was beating. It is a heartbreaking experience to hear that heart beat, only to sign it away to nonexistence.
My mind cannot reach far enough to imagine your pain but one thing I know for sure is that God is working a miracle in your favour. He will never leave you, infact He is close to the broken hearted, He will provide you with the strength to get through this storm. You are in our prayers.
Thanks for sharing!!I experienced two ectopic pregnancies and only realised why it is actually so traumatic after reading your article. It is like an abortion except it feels like its not really your choice. Good luck going forward, God has reasons for everything, even though we dont always understand them. I know He has something special planned for you!
Thanks for sharing on this topic!! Appreciated as always!!
Change can be so overwhelming. My young family and I are going through so many changes, all at once and it’s like there is no ending. I suppose this is to be expected cause we are in the building phases of absolutely everything our lives entail.
We recently got married. Moved cities. Had unplanned baby no2 while still adjusting to baby no1. I moved into a new job, husband kicked off his business. Now we are moving suburbs to be closer to my work place. All this while we are away from our friends and family. It’s a lot I wont lie. But taking a moment in the middle of it all to reflect on why you are doing all that you are doing helps. As well as reflecting on the progress you have made. Also understanding that you are in the process of building a strong foundation for the well being of your family and future of your kids is comforting.
Our kids are small now but they are growing so quickly, we want to make sure that we stabilise life as much as we can now for them. It’s a mission and a half, it’s draining but it’s not impossible.
I have two beautiful daughters and they love to play teacher school game. It’s so funny hearing them play and act like teachers and kids. I remember playing this growing up as well.
I have two boys 5&8. They love playing shop-shop. They pack out toys and other items in the house price it and use monopoly money as cash.Funny how they change their accents and speak like grown ups while playing.
My 5 year old loves cops and robbers and he runs around the house with a stick as his gun and all I hear is ” ba, ba,ba” and “got you!”as he ‘shoots’ the robbers…then after all the running he is ready to sleep.
This is brilliant ! I love they have done this and your little man is a pro! We will definitely be entering, my little guy’s favourite thing to watch on you tube is “Ryan’s toy review” haha.
Time is the most valuable gift you can give to your children as we can always make more money but we can’t get the time back…we would like to try the Fruit Chutney Flavour #CheeseCurls
A Cheese Curls picnic sounds perfectly amazing. We are extremely partial to picnics. We had one just this past Friday <3 I'm a faithful cheese flavour girl, but I'm indian, so ill be happy to give the chilli a try <3
This is our go to snack with my 18 months old baby and 7 year old niece ,we’ve tried 3 of them excluding the fruit chutney ones so I would love to try those. #cheeseCurls
I love this post, spending time with our lil ones misy be number 1 priority. Just came back from a mommydaughtercation with mini-me & ot was the best wknd ever. I would love to try the fruit chutney flavour #CheeseCurls
I’m all about the fruit chutney flavor. It’s so good! I have tasted all the new flavors. Every month when I go grocery shopping I get 10 packs for R100 special for the family.
Ok so now this is not easy to choose, as my family each have their own favourites!! Mine is the Chilli Cheese cause I like it hot, my son Keagan is a Fruit Chutney my Daughter Shea is the plain cheese and my hubby Wayne is an Cheese and Onion Freak!! So our family would have to do one of each #CheeseCurls #FamilyFun
Aah sisi :), yet again i find help from your blog. I’ve been feeling extremely sad over the passed two months ( 6 months after giving birth) and I couldn’t understand my mood swings. A feeling of being overwhelmed, I would want to release a loud cry but nothing would come out. I went from “my daughter is so cute” to “why won’t you just shut up” when she cries. Everything about me or my life felt stretched. Till I recently went on my first ever therapy session and was diagnosed with PND. This post makes do much sense to me right now
Your journey is inspiring me so much!and a huge congrats for finishing the race. I’ve been running on and off for a while now and it’s been a dream of mine to finish a half marathon one day.
My Logy bears favourite Emoji Toy has to be the Olaf plush toy, he loves all things cuddly and he loves the Frozen movie. I still have to watch it atleast 3 times a day. I would love to win this for him.
Definitely the emoji chatties. My kids would totally love this prize. They have just watched the emoji movie and thorougly enjoyed it. It is so important for the kids to show their emotions.
Essential reminder! Feels like the year has sped past and November just started the other day and we are already into day 12
You know we don’t buy much Christmas gifts. K is at an age where she doesn’t care much and last year she wanted to even know why we were buying her presents since it was Not her birthday but the birthday of Jesus 😆
Wow what a fantastic hamper, my kids love the chatties they interact and they kitties get all freaked out. Cats Children and Chatties load of fun and laughter!! #DisneyEmoji #DisneyChatties @Cazker1
My little person is a cuddler, so I think she’d love the Emoji plushie the most! Or it would be a tie with the Chattie, as that would make her giggle (and she’s a little chatterbox herself haha). 🙂
Ohhh wow these are so cool!!! My twin boys would definitely love the Swapsies and I came to this conclusion because I remember when I took them to watch the Emoji movie, they fell head over heels in love with Gene because he could make multi expressions. They tried to make his expressions and looked like they were constipated or was it choking and eating sour worms at the same time?? I’m convinced Swapsies are for my twinnies ?❤️?
Oh Wow. How awesome is this microwave i need this in my life with a hubby, 4 kids and work, cooking has become more of a chore.Thanks for this review now let’s hope Santa spoils me with this microwave Christmas 🙂
My little chatter box daughter loves the Disney Emoji range but she’ll love the Emoji chat bubbles so she can express herself more with the toys. This would definitely be ideal for her as she’s always chatting away. #DisneyEmoji
I have been waiting for Black Friday specials to buy a new microwave and this looks like one to buy. I need it for the weekly meals that are sometimes such a drag after a long day at work (even if it’s just mini-me & I).
Oh my word! My 4 year old son will go crazy over the #Chatties! Since he’s a chatterbox himself, he always makes funny faces and has actually started impersonating Disney characters too ???. We are forever watching cartoons (Disney Junior to be specific). He’s just a huge fan
Emoji chatties. Resi absolutely Loves Disney’s Minnie and Doc McStuffins – this character gives her confidence and hope that she can heal her dolls and the rest of us
My daughter love the Disney Emoji Mash’ems Mystery Figurines.There no great joy she get when she opens a capsule and to see which character is inside.As it keeps her want more and wants to collect the entire collection ,which means leaving mommy broke.Which mommy doesnt mind at all.lol
My kids are huge fans of Disney and so am I, My son will love Disney Emoji Chattie Olaf as my son is always helping others and a happy go lucky guy and my daughter will love Disney Emoji Chattie Minnie Mouse as she loves everything about Minnie Mouse and she likes dressing up like Minnie Mouse #DisneyEmojiSA
Oh my word! I am so glad that I’m not the only one who remembers on their way home that the meat is still in the freezer – haha! The quick defrosting option would suit me perfectly!
I love the convenience of online shopping. Saves me so much time and stress. Will definitely check out the kids section. Coordinating the kids’ outfits is super cute! I so it as well.
I had stars in my eyes when we started out 7 years ago…I had my 9 yr old daughter, he had his 7 yr old son (1st marriage) , and the little sister of 3yrs from his second marriage (I’m lucky nr 3).
Growing up I always thought I don’t want children. My daughter was difficult after birth, until about 4 months old, when she grew into this friendly, lovable chubby little angel. I relaxed and loved motherhood so much I wanted 6 kids (never happened as I got divorced).
I met my husband on my 40th birthday and fell in love with him and his children. Became wife and mother again…
Wife nr 1 was ok, nr 2 was a bit of a challenge though…back and forth career woman and eventually agreed that we take 6 yr old daughter to stay with us as she was becoming too much of a handful and mom could not handle her. I was in my element ; I read bedtime stories, braided hair , rushed from work to help with schoolwork while cooking…all the “fun”stuff working mothers do…
But every Sunday night it was a challenge to get little lady into OUR way of doing things…the other two adjusted so well… By Wednesday (after all the scoldings and crying) the little lady would eventually abide by our rules and by Friday she would not want to go to mom again…
This changes with the moods however…when she’s got her way with us she wants to stay, otherwise she wants to go to mom (who spoils her with goodies and gadgets to make up for time not spent). They’re besties… Sometimes Daddy tries to compete, but we’re not that fortunate (what with 3 children to feed…)
Needless to say she’s grown and at 10 years old she thinks she’s 20….and I’ve had enough…my house is always a war zone as she fights constantly with big brother who feels he’s not respected by her or the father (Dad always scolds big brother as he should bear with his little sister). Big sis is the quiet type and stays out of harms way (not healthy I know).
I’ve really tried everything…sometimes she calls me mommy and my heart misses a beat…but mostly she doesn’t because I’m the teacher and she DOES NOT LIKE TO BE TOLD….
It’s such a vast difference when she’s not there and I feel guilty for the way I feel…
I have ONE question :” How do I tell her father I think she should stay with mother and visit us rather?”
Oh mommy! She is so adorable!
All the best with this new chapter of your lives. We have decided to send our little one when she turns 3 years old in January 2019. At the rate she is going, we may need to take her sooner. She is too advanced!
What a great blog!
As a mother of 2 (beautiful) daughters, I always thinks (and worry) about the skills that they will need for the world of “WORK”. The digital world really scares me, so I worry sometimes as to whether I am not putting them at a disadvantage when it comes to technology, e.g. only last week my 11 yo received her first cell phone AND she’s not even allowed to use it during the week.
My advise for is to be THE BEST THEY CAN BE and my advise for them will be to choose a highly skilled industry in which the workers need to do the job in person (e.g. doctors, psychologist, dentists….trade jobs like electricians and plumbers). Luckily my eldest wants to be a doctor but we know ofcos that by the time she’s in grade 10 (currently in Grade 6) she would have wanted to be every profession under the sun (hairdresser, pilot, teacher, etc)!!!
Its a scary thing to know that my child’s future and education is my responsibility. If you make the wrong decision or dont make the necessary provision or right decisions regarding their eductaion, then they could be affected by all of that… thats why you need to plan and make sound decisions regarding this to ensure they are sorted no matter what happens…
Khumo is just the sweetest. All the best to her as she embarks on this life-long journey of learning and discovery!!
Nandi will only be starting next year (she will be 3 turning 4 in June 2019) and the thought of her first day at school is already giving me serious sporadic anxiety attacks!!
Hi there Thando,
I don’t know if parents can prepare their children for specific future jobs. We don’t know who they will be or what kind of world they’re going to live in.
I think all we can do is encourage them to be inquisitive and adaptable. Encourage them to read, ask questions and to look for answers. Encourage an entrepreneurial spirit and teach them financial responsibility, how to be good citizens and good friends and partners. In other words, teach them life skills. That’s, in my opinion, the job of a parent.
The rest is up to the child as they grow up. We should allow them space and freedom to create their own futures free from our expectations and fears.
As moms we have the intuition about our kids strengths & weakness, so I encourage her passion and whats she good at, feeding on that passion with words of encouragement, kids need guidance and as mums we thrive on doing what we feel is good for their emotional wellbeing as well teaching them to be independent & responsible..to become the shining stars they are…#LibertyBack2School
I’m currently pregnant and all I can think about is my baby’s future. With all these changes happening in our world, you tend to be overwhelmed as a new mom.
This post is actually echoing my thoughts. So scary and sad at the same time at the rate of how technology is taking over our lives.It definitely has its pros and cons and adjusting to something we didn’t do(like using a tablet instead of books at school)does take time. Oh well I guess change is good.
I love this post. The week before my daughter started school i has such anxiety. the night before i was nauseous and shes only in Grade 1.
Its so scary at the moment will all the decisions being made and sometimes we just have to follow. Im trying to raise her to be bold, confident and independent. To make decisions based on sound advice and to question everything around her. As parents we can everythingwebelieve we can for our kids and much more too
Thank you so much for this blog post very informative and educational.
My little boy started Grade R this year and we taught him a few things on being independent and to respect and learn new things from his peers at school. We encourage him on pursuing his dreams even though he is only 5years . He loves drawing and we always tell him he is going to be a great artist in future.
Yoh! The career topic has always been the most challenging of topics, with the rapid growth in technology, it’s always difficult to make career choices.
Being an Educator by profession and a mom to a 5 year old in Grade R, had opened my eyes any ears a lot. We can’t force children into any career path, my son is very tech savvy and wants anything and everything to do with a gadget, and when I try and teach him about different careers he always tells me he wants to become an F1 race car driver ( I know right) or someone who designs PS3’s lol.
I guess his answers somehow show us at home what career path he likes.
I teach Grade 12, I see many students struggle at career exhibitions with their choice of careers and choose the easy way out come January, because they are afraid of challenges.
As parents & mentors or career guidance counselors, we should allow children to decide their own career choices because ultimately they’ll be stuck in a career that doesn’t fulfill them
Hi, thank you for this very informative article. My daughter started grade R and she is not in a big primary school. At the moment I am in a hunt to find a her a school for Grade 1 next year. The cost of primary education is so expensive that it made me realise that I need to start saving for her tertiary education. It’s so easy to say I don’t have any extra money to save but I think if you make that decision that saving is one of the first things on your budget list it becomes easy. I have a Liberty EduCator Risk benefit for my daughter to take care of her education should anything happen to me, this year I aim to take the Liberty’s Education Builder for her so I can ensure that her tertiary education is taken care off.
Wow such an informative blog post and quite shocking to me as a parent because i havent really thought that far yet. I do worry if I will be financially equipped as a single parent to pay for my childs higher education and that does stress me out a lot.
My daughter will be going into grade 1 next year, So you can just imagine the panic, I think its really sinking in, the reality of her starting “big” school.
I really do believe that we are at a much better position then our parents were in terms of preparing our kids for the real world.
I remember when i told my parents I wanted to be a professional chef after being accepted into law school. I will never forget my moms disappointment : ( However i will forever be greatfull to my late Dad who believed in my dreams. Years later i am a qualified chef, who majored in consumer science and am now working in corporate as a training and development specialist in the hospitality industry.
To cut a long story short, since my daughter started school, I have encouraged her to do as many extra mural activities as her little body can take. So she does ballet, Build Em Brix which is maths, science and architectural principals being taught to kids using lego. She also does swimming and recently just joined the Experiment Club, which teaches them about science experiments… yes yes i do sound like a chinese mom : ) These extra murals all come at an extra cost but I made a decision when i had my daughter, I want her to one day choose a career that meets her full potential, I want her to believe that nothing is impossible where hard work has been invested. So my partner and I have made some sacrifices to make sure that we give our daughter thee best foundation. The extra mural activities have taught her discipline as well, a skill she will later use in any career. I always use Bonang, Chad le Clos and Lynette Ntuli as my perfect examples of parents who invested in their kids dreams and passions, not only with money, but with support as well. These three individuals are all doing sooo well in their respective fields. So buy more books,educational dvds, take more educational trips, invest in that good tutor, invest in that brilliant sports coach! Save to pay for that training weekend and always do better!
I want my daughter to know and believe that hard work pays off in the end and that Rome was not built over night. I want her to know that whether she wants to be a scientist, professional swimmer, Chef or own her own furniture making company, She needs to work hard for all of that to be a success.
So moms lets invest more, read more, educate ourselves, educate our kids and motivate them to be future leaders. Never has the future looked so bright with all this technology and doors that are constantly opening for our young people. We are at a much better space than where are parents were, We have all the resources to produce all these future leaders
Thank you so much Thando for this wonderfull topic, I just went on the Liberty site: ) Yep Chinese mom tendencies
It’s delightful to see kids work or play together. Watching their group dynamics, how they work and communicate within the team, are all so fascinating, especially when they’re still quite young.
In fact, a study1 revealed that children with strong social skills as early as when they’re in kindergarten are more likely to thrive as adults. Children who are able to collaborate learn how to share and give credit where it is due.
Being able to work well with others also opens up your child’s world. It teaches them to move away from “me” thinking to “we” thinking.
Hi Thando. What a great blogpost. I love these kind of posts which are informative and add value. Education is something that is so close to my heart. My parents literally put everything into our education. We didn’t have much money but the way that they saved and planned for the future was so smart. We really need to be doing this early. My son is only 2 years old and we set up an education fund for him and future siblings from pregnancy. Any amount that parents can save and investment makes a big difference for the future.
Great post. This is such an important topic. We were so anxious and careful when looking for a school for my lil girl trying to see which school is “ahead” and as you say most of our South African mainstream schools aren’t there yet.
We let our girl be as independent as possible and think out of the box as much as possible. I don’t stress anymore when she builds something else with he Lego as opposed to what is on the Lego box (lol).
The future is scary but we as parents we have to embrace it otherwise our kids will be the ones teachings us like we had to teach our grandparents about whatsapp :). I have started attending small Robotics and AI training sessions at work just to understand because we can’t run away from all these technological changes.
Most importantly is investing in their future. I have one education policy and God willing this year I add on unit trusts just to make sure there’s no stress come tertiary time.
Yho. Nna I’m scared of the future, especially as a South African citizen because jobs are so scarce. I feel this responsibility to create jobs through entrepeneurship but heyi, my dreams scare the hell out of me.my chosen field of study chemistry and biochemistry seems like it will be a sustainable and still relevant one in the future as u said for medication as people live longer, diseases etc mara when more immediate things like school fees delaying your education and progression, its hard to be optimistic and look foward to a better society you know. Mara I’m really interested in the voice of the coming generation. Ours was feesmustfall, the previous brought us democracy. . .
Hello, For me it would be,firstly would my child be happy, comfortable and safe in the school I chose for him, Financially can I afford to send my child to the school I chose and did I plan and save enough for his future. #LibertyBack2School
Everyone is so focused on making sure their child does coding and anything related to tech oft and the sciences. I’m totally fine with it. But aim encouraging my children to develop their talents in the creative arts. A robot won’t ever be able to tell a joke, write music or paint. The human mind was built for problem solving and that won’t happen without creative thinking. (I’m hoping I can steer my children down another path -think: the artist, stand up comedian – musician, etc then they will always have a job)
I have met with many teachers and schools. Unfortunately, our education system is lacking and hasn’t evolved much since I was in primary school. Children are being over assessed and over tested. Not enough time is given for children to play and master skills.
Education is expensive. And it’s stressful paying for 3 children’s school fees each month.
Iam a widow of 3years boy,then I meet a marriedguy.they don’t have any kids in their marriage,so it happened that we sleep together then I fall pregnant 8weeks and some days.when I ask him about his tradition,he always say they don’t have.iam confused because heis a zulu guy.please help
Loved this post it was certainly enlightening and informative.
I was widowed at a young age and left to raise our little girl on my own.
Being a single parent finances are a struggle but I will ensure my daughter has the best education and will encourage her to be the best she can be and follow her dreams.
Its a very challenging journey raising a daughter on my own but with hope and faith I continue to.
i have 3 children my oldest daughter the inhlawulo was paid,but since my parents were dirvoced my mother was the one who received the money because i chose to stay with her after the dirvoce now my dad wants all the children to be paid for as well is this ryt,he was never even in the picture i think he has meet with them once.is this fair on my mother
I don’t have kids but my niece is is grade 4 so this blog post would be perfect for my brother who has financial struggle . saving should play a big part in our lives
Thanks for your post, it is so relevant! I have 3 children. My oldest is in matric this year…time goes by so fast! I remember her first day at Primary School and how emotional it was to say goodbye to her. Fast forward 12 years and here I am wishing time would just slow down. She will apply to study IT. In your post you mention the technological advancements and the need to keep up, so I’m confident she is making the right decision and I know she enjoys it. My second child is now in High School this year! She was just a baby a few years ago! And my youngest is starting nursery soon! My heart can’t take it! I just want them to be happy and do what they like, if they are happy, I am happy 🙂
Lovely topic for every parent… i have 3 kids going to school. I try my best to listen to their day at school. Being at stay at home mom i realized how expensive school stuff are.i do struggle at some days but hey we not perfect. I love my boys n will do my best to help them
Ok.. this post just made my brain dive into overdrive.. sjoe.. my kids are in Grade 1 and 2 and they are just really at the beginning of a long school career. Its so scary that they are going this route with no text books.. kids love technology so perhaps this will be great for them – still scary to me nonetheless. School fees and aftercare fees not to mention all the other things during the year, stationary and school uniforms, are huge, and it will keep going up. I worry about further education like university fees, jobs are scarce and the kids need to go study. Here’s to hoping I find that pot of gold or that hitting the lottery jackpot 🙂
Scary but informative post. I have a grandson whose education I definitely worry about. Choosing the best school on a budget is a concern so saving for education from the start is a must
The future is becoming more scary by the day. As a parent it’s such a struggle to be hands-on with school work, especially when working shifts. I try my utmost to read up and stay in the know as to better assist my girls. Also saving for from day one has become essential especially with the rising cost of living.
Hi Thando! Gr8 blog but so scary indeed. We all wish the best for our kids but external factors always play a role in what ultimately happens. As parents we need to be as involved in our kids lives as possible. Keep in touch with educators regularly and advise and teach our kids to the best of our ability. My 6 year old had a birthday yesterday and asked me to buy him a doctor set, which I did, he also downloaded a hospital game a few months ago which he loves and asks to visit him aunt in hospital as she is a doctor. So I’m hoping to build in his fascination with all things medical and hopefully he can dedicate his life to helping people.
totally true that technology is a big factor in education and the types of jobs for the future. Do we not see how tech savvy the young ones are these days.
You totally got all the points right on this article.
Was just thinking about this the other day. I think more than anything we should be preaching ‘entrepreneurship’ because it seems like the only way our kids will ever live comfortably, even if it’s something on the side. There is no guarantee that you will find your dream job that pays all your bills and leaves you with a fair amount to invest in all the things that matter to you. Whilst not all our kids will be entrepreneurs but let that be an option for them as opposed to advising them to being employed by someone else. It’s important to help them discover what their strengths and weaknesses are from an early age so that they can easily choose the field they want to specialise in, whether they decide to be the employer or employee.
I do not have children of my own, but I have two younger sisters, and I want the absolute best for them. Apart from the financial worries, which can be very daunting at times, eg: school fees, transport, uniform, stationary, extra activities etc.
I worry most about their emotional well being. Schools have become such hostile environments, with bullying on the increase, and with the workload steadily increasing as they become older, I worry about the stressful impact it will have on them. You constantly worry about weather or not you’ve done enough in supporting them, and providing them with the advice and encouragement that they need.
Putting your kids in private schools and sending them off to extra muruals all good but not been involved in the whole process becomes a big stumbling block in your kids future. Although my two girls attend afterschool i make sure im 110% involved in everything. I want them to know im more invested in they future. I am an open book, before supper we sit down one on one and discuss they day, they teachers, they friends, who did what, how was they lunch, did they make someone feel special today at school, was there a subject or essay or lesson they did not understand, I ask them to read to me everyday, I put up new words on our chalkboard in the kitchen and ask them to find the meaning then use that word the whole week in new and different ways, im on the school board and opt for the school fundraiser as I want to invest in my child receiving a good education, I dont want to put pressure on them as your school years should be memorable and enjoyable. By spending that time with your kids really makes a huge difference in they home and school enviroment. I should say im like a single parent, they dad works away from home and they see him every six months for two weeks, i know it has a huge impact in my life and in my two girls especially when there are activities or meeting at school or functions, getting to see both parents and then just me attend, but I make sure I dont miss a single function, parents meeting ect, children emotions are all over the place especially as they grow up, dont ignore the signs, dont push then away, or shut them up, when they asking 100 of the same questions, give them those unexpected hugs, and always uplift them telling them they doing a good job ect.
My kids both own cellphones and tablets, and have access to the internet and Wi-Fi its not a luxury but I feel with today kids they need to be savy and independent I monitor the games and apps they download, my eldest loves to draw and we got her a doodle pen for christmas, it something she loves and it brings her joy creating art, I would love for her become a lawyer or doctor, but I can only guide her but will always support her in her own choices, maybe she will be the next amazing artist who knows, my youngest whos 6 tells us she wants to be a mommy like me, caring, so I tell her a good choice would ne a nurse or caregiver but as she grows up the choice is hers to make and as a parent i will guide and support her. I dont want to be the one putting and directing them in a field of work where they are not happy.
There is so much to consider as your kids grow older… Im constantly stressing on whether we are doing enough to save for our kids schooling and all the extras which come along with it! Now days its not just the education you have to consider, its all the extra murals which we feel our kids have to do, otherwise they will be missing out on something! The shift in careers is also a big one! I just hope that when the time comes, we as parents are prepared!
Wow cc, you looked so beautiful. Our culture is indeed beautiful, I don’t mean to judge but there are people who don’t want to do these things in the name of religion. I feel culture or tradition still has its place even though you have certain religious beliefs. Congrats and I am glad everything went well.
I loooooved this post Thando and I honestly learnt so much – the traditions are so beautiful and symbolic. Can’t wait to read about the most recent celebration 🙂
Thanks for the tips. I read this at a perfect time after two days of not sleeping because of a 19 months old boy. In future may you please cover the food you serve your daughter i am struggling a bit.
I am not a mommy yet but I love your blog, it is so informative and relevant when the time comes I will so be ready for it. I was also inspired to go back to school and finish my honours degree. Big ups to you mami!!!!
Thank you for this. Since coming back from December holidays I haven’t gotten back to the bedtime routine and it’s taking its toll on the quality of sleep I’m getting since we sleep so late. I’m going back to the routine tonight.
That whole daydreaming thing … I’m 1 who at times thinks I’m putting my thoughts out to the universe and attracting what I want kanti niks mntase ndiyaphupha nje, so now I try to dream with a vision type planning – aligning my goals … it’s hard! I’m such a instragram (and it kills my time) junkie so now I get limited data just enough for important things and it’s working. Happy Birthday honey ??
thanks for sharing Thando, I guess I’m not the only one to be less decisive and self reliant I always confirm my decisions even though I know what I want. I am learning to trust my self and be bold in in the things I want without consulting anyone no matter how wrong I am that’s the only way to learn and grow.
This is a very critical matter and a sensible one, be that as it may be, i would vividly disagree with the man who impregnated you. i believe in zulu cultural that this custom is practiced as it is a primitive one. Maybe it is he way of dodging the consequences of his actions. Go to his home and practice your cultural custom, if then he refuse to grant you entrance, i would suggest to take other measures legally. there is maintenance court for such people not unless he is trying to deny the paternity of the child.
I swear you are heavenly sent, you have no idea how much i needed to hear ALL that you have shared. My head wonders daily thinking of how i can finally stream line my “purpose”.
When i start a project i fully deliver and that usually confuses me because i often think “this is it” until the birth of something even more exciting in my head pops up LOL.. and its hard holding back as a creative person but i appreciate your take on “have a plan” which in most cases is very hard to stick to but also vital to maintain sanity through the confusion if you know what i mean lol…
Thank you, printing this one to keep in my diary 🙂
I recently discovered your blog and i am loving every post i go through! This specific post has left me emotional because of the authenticity and vulnerability that we as moms tend to think is unique to us… To find it in truth in another mom and the confirmation and affirmation that your best is good enough is reassuring and inspiring!
Thank you…
Thank you so much Mama, I appreciate your comment. That vulnerability is definitely not unique to a select few, we are experience similar emotions and trials. Thank you again!
No.2 Thando! The final paragraph! That is so me. I share so much, I communicate a lot – too much at times and I used to be so good at ” shielding” my private life. Oh well, I’m in with you on this.
Love these tips Thando it’s so important to focus on healthy eating as it has long benefits for our families and children learn from us that the healthy options are really the best ones. I love the suggestions which are easily implementable that you have included
So glad you have found them useful Lindz! We all need the reminders from time to time. Nutrition is one of the priorities that we shouldn’t compromise on.
Love this post. We try to be a very health conscious family. Biggest challenge at the moment though is consistency. We need a constant reminder and this post serves just that. I’m definitely bookmarking this.
i am a Zimbabwean guy and i impregnated a Zulu girl. I want to marry her but as informed the first process is this hlaulo. What is the possible maximum charges i am to pay??
Balance is as much a dreaded word as change!!! We live in a world where there is so much demand on our time that finding a balance seems like taboo. The one thing I’ve learnt that has helps a great deal is learning to say NO! In the past I would quickly say yes thenfind myself running wild to get everything done. Now I say NO and I don’t feel guilty about it! Like you said healthy mommy happy family. And I also need to model a good behavior for my family.
Ooh that illusive balance we all search for. I have recently learnt to accept more help.( I’ve been the I can do it all mommy and it’s exhausting). A friend recently offered to stay with mini-me on a Friday afternoon/evening 2 give me some me-time & at first I was stressed coz it “ruined” my schedule but it was so great 2 do something for me. I went to watch an adult movie (imagine that?).
I think it’s important to slow down especially on weekends because we are chasing time the entire week
Yes to more help T! It’s funny how WE become the attached ones, I’m glad you have your inner circle to support you. After all, we were raised ‘by the community’.
I can relate to this so much. Sometimes I weep in bed thinking how im failing at balancing our lives out. But I feel so much better knowing Im not the one
You are never alone mommy, I think we just need to keep talking openly about our struggles. It’s one of the most difficult things to accomplish – I don’t think balance exists
Great piece!
I don’t have balance, my time is taken so much by tv soapies, I know I’m guilty. I don’t have kids, yet, but imagine I don’t have balance now, what would I do when I have to take care of my family! I am struggling to punctual even at work. When I am meeting my friends, I am the last one to arrive. At a mall with colleagues, I am the last one to get back in the car, sometimes they wait for me a couple of minutes because I can’t get in at a shop and go straight to that particular object I came for.
Please advise me. I have a son with this guy and my family didnt go to report to the guys family as our families live apart so now he wants us to take the child to his family so they can see the child then pay the damages but my mother insists that he must pay damages first before the child meets his family, Im soo confused please help
Life can get really challenging, I am definitely not getting to everything.
I like to take as much time for myself as I can, especially in the evenings as we do early bedtime for the kids. So at least I know most nights I can catch up. Think of it this way…no such things as balance only ‘balancing’ a constant juggle 🙂
I agree not to fill up the weekend, is a good approach to be more rested on mondays.
Hi Thando. I agree that a microwave is extremely useful, but I definitely can not live without a fridge. As a working mum, it helps me to store food and milk for my baby for the times that I am away from home.
Toaster my kids love toast though i’m not bread person i enjoy having a slice of toasted bread with jam done by my 9 year old daughter on a Saturday morning. It once broke and she and her brother nagged for days for me to get a new one.
Hi Thando, for me it would definitely be a stove/oven. I love cooking and baking, it allows me to try out all the different meal recipes I get from the cooking shows that I watch with Siba’s Table being my favourite 🙂
I have to agree with you, for me it also has to be the microwave, I heat, cook, defrost, bake and grill in this magnificent machine, easy peasy lemon squeezy, quick and easy for this working mommy.
I guess as a working mom it’s difficult to say which one but for me definitely it’s a kettle. Immediately after jumping out of bed i’m thinking a nice cup of coffee just to plan my day ahead.
I simply cannot live without my defy hob stove , I really struggled with the last few months when my old one broke and I was trying to get a new one but thank God I got it now
Definitely my fridge – can’t live without it. In terms of food safety and keeping dairy, fruit and vegetables fresh – I personally think the fridge is one household appliance most families can’t live without.
I can’t live without my blender for my all time smoothies. I can make any combination with whatever fruit in the kitchen. Without my blender my life will be boring.
I feel your challenge , we have been in the same challenge as well the past months due to also renting as we will be moving houses soon ,we just cannot leave without a microwave especially having a toddler in the house that I have to prepare food for like e.g noodles or eggs, warm milk as it has also helped us to prepare food as our stove has been giving us a problem and thinking we cannot buy the owner another stove , microwave it is
This is a very difficult one, but it has to be the fridge. As a working my mom i tend to cook a lot on Sundays especially for my toddler and freeze the meals for easy meal preps in the week.
I can’t live without my oven. Having two boys 1, and 3 years old I find the oven most useful when I have to get them bathed and changed and I can just pop supper in the oven while getting them done.
Adult friendships are hard and definitely need more work as time goes on.
Thank you for this post. I loved it especially since I’m at a point where I feel like friendship is a bit of a myth.
It’s difficult to maintain and get that balance Sini, but it can be done, with patience, love and mutual respect for our individual values and “situations”. Friendships can also work in cycles, where we grow apart and then together again. Thanks for reading and sharing your views Mama.
Thank you for this…personally this stood out for me in your post “friendship requires a great amount of mutual hard work and attention, but sometimes our periods of personal growth, require extra doses of self-care or isolation that may take away from our friendships.”
Those that want to grow along with you will be there and those who want to stand aside and watch will stand and watch. Take whatever words were spoke of you as a wind passing by, it does not need your energy, be grateful for those hurtful words as they can only lead to your growth as a better woman, mom and wife.
Someone once said to me “Protect your family” that is your priority before any friendship, true friends must be supportive and equally encouraging you to protect your family.
No, thank YOU for this comment. I honestly did not know where to even begin addressing the matter but you’re right, it doesn’t deserve my energy and I need to prioritise my family above all.
I have to be honest the shock of a friendship I had always believed was for life shook me to my absolute core!
It wasn’t till allowed myself to mourn it like i’d taken the time to mourn ‘romantic’ relationships or the loss of someone close to me Thato was able to truly move on. Somethings aren’t always supposed to be forever, and I think that’s what makes the ones that are that much more special! People who belong in your life stay and those that don’t stay, never did!
Keep perspective. I love that.
Life is busy, if one cannot reach out when you need or expect them too it really does not mean they don’t care… I love this.
I can definitely relate to this. Yes adult friendships are hard but what’s even harder is keeping things together on your own side of the fence. And that’s what holds priority in my life, my family and my own sanity. I honestly try maintain as many friendships as I think are worth my while but I do that based on how much I can give. The same applies to with what you let into your life, youare in control. Keep the negativity out.
Dear modern zuku mom
I have a question which i really need ur perspective. So i hv a baby from another family nd now pregnant again bt not fir the same father. The first baby father payed for izintombi, ihlawulo nd wacela. So now i dnt know if it acceptable ukubika isisu okwesibili coz ngokwazi kwami sisu sesibili asibikwa nd uyahlawula kuphela bt in a way that inciphisa inkomo zelobolo. Ngeke kusafanA nokokuqala lapho kukhona ingeza muzi, ingeza msamo. If kunjalo amaFamilies ahlangana kanjani kuthi azikubo kwengane if sisu singazobikwa.
Plz help my maternal side of a family can be very greedy i know so i would’nt like kubona kudlalwa ngabantu. They do things by judging the family so my knowledge of zulu culture practise really helps in difficult times. Thanks in advance.
Dish washing machine,with me being in Cape Town it saves a lot of water,with me working most of the time and being a student on the side it saves my resting time a lot.
The kettle is the appliance I can’t live without, just because I’m always nose deep in the books but I get up every now and then to make tea. And on the rare occasion that I have nothing to do, guess where I’m gonna get up and go? To the kettle. Ngiyatifela nje ngelitiye. Uma basho natsi ngifute Mkhulu.
Wow! This is interesting, im also so sensitive when it come to friends because they become family to me. I have some of the most longests friendships in time and I have had to cut ties with many of them. You will also notice most “friends” will start avoiding you when you are pregnant or just after getting marriage. Im not really sure what causes that but, like you said; I’ m here for those who are here for me
It’s really hard between work,school and our families haibo kunzima, but i always say if it’s important to you find the time- make time. Last saw my girls (squad) 1st of Jan:-( and before having kids we used to see each other twice a month if not every weekend.
This was such an enjoyable read and really got me thinking. I think self evaluation is so important too. Often I walk away from friendships that never flourished (Not that this is an everyday thing hahahahahaha), but I think going forward I need to evaluate myself, and question whether I actually made the effort from my end. Also this which you said: “A bit of selfishness and retracting from the rest of the world can sometimes be the only way to save and look after ourselves.” That is too true. The friendships which I still have, and are still going strong, is because of the distance we gave ourselves from time to time. Adulting is hard, and sometimes we need to put our friendships aside, give our personal lives attention first, then focus on friendships.
Hi morden zulu mom i have 3kids from 1father who already paid inhlawulo for his kids. So now i have this difficult mother who i feel she is greedy and i have informed her about the baby father he wants to pay for inhlawulo. Now since esontweni engakwazi ukuya coz unecala lokumithisa kunzima. So umama uthi ingane inhlawulo u6 cows ngoba intombazane and no uyifuna yonke. Manje inkomo njengoba ibiza 10000 iyodwa manje lomuntu sekfanele akhokhishwe 60000 haaa cha ngiyanqaba. So ngabe kumele ngenze njani and anginamuntu ongangisiza since nobaba engakaze ahlawulelemuntu kithi and i feel ugreedy nje ngoba akakaze ahlawulelwe umama but imali uyibiza njengoba injalo. Plz help
Hey Thando, this post resonated with me so much.
What I love about reconnecting with friends is that even after months of not seeing each other, it’s like no time has passed at all!
When you find yourself regularly sharing the same space with a friend – be it a friend you met at gym, a friend from work, a friend from a dance class, a friend from a support group, a friend from university… if you no longer find yourself in the same space, somehow the friendships dissipate, because, well, life happens and as you said, we grow. It’s important to make the effort to stay in touch, especially with the good ones.
Thanks for writing this post.
Raylene
xoxo
Excitement overload!!!! I mean like I a kid in the candy store haha….
You remain my daily inspiration. THANK YOU! I cant emphasize enough how emotionally rewarding this event will be to all moms, such deserving moms.
We do tend to lose yourselves in motherhood. Such events are crucial for mommy’s self check “Am I still on the right track? how do other moms do it all in one life? ”
Impressive accolades from each one of these mamas. Best of luck with the event Thando, although I know you don’t need it. I so wish I could attend. But I hope I’ll be able to come to the next one, God willing.
Even though their say time heals but I have learnt to leave with the pain…But some days are better then others. Thank you very much for your love and support.
What I love about UniKitty are the things she believes in and those are the things I would love my daughter to grow up believing also. • Always be yourself
• Don’t be afraid to dance
• Stay positive!
I believe that this three will make her happier in a world where they will try make you out to be something you are not, I never want her to be afraid of anything and to always be positive even on her hardest days
One thing I especially love about the Unikitty cartoon is just how happy it is.
The lack of real cynicism in it kinda gives it a bit of its own identity in a very negativity-centric animation era.
The whole show’s purpose is just to make you smile, and I really love that ( Cape Town )
What I love about UniKitty always being positive like my son would say “Mama we make mistakes but we must always try again “, he also loves dancing just like UniKitty even though he isn’t that good.
This is such a great initiative. I actually need to change the recipient on my card. And I’ve been putting it off. This is the reminder I need to get this done ASAP
I find that I exercise more control when I shop online. I leave things in my cart for a day or two to think a purchase through. But if I’m in a mall I go wild and so do the kiddies LOL (K thinks it’s the best place for tantrums and I have to write a thesis before convincing L to go). Let me know if you try it.
Hmmmmmm…. sadly there is a fine line between baby blues and PPD. And sadly as women of colour we are made to believe “we” don’t go through such things. Hopefully we get help when required and we know the repercussions can be big if we don’t seek help
It was my first time watching UniKitty this morning and reading through this mini blog really affirmed that she is a ball of warmth and happiness. Much like me with my nephews and nieces, I love that she is very protective over her Prince PuppyCorn.
I will be watching more of her fo sho!
I love that Unikitty is full of enthusiasm and creativity and always making sure her people are happy. She gets angry whenever someone makes her brother and puppycorn upset and hates negativity. Would love to take my boys to the show at Grand Arena
Hiyeeeee…
When I hear that I know I have lost my daughter to the t.v screen as she watches unikitty.
I love how unikitty teaches my very shy daughter how to always stand up for yourself… and that in doing so, doesn’t mean you are being a bad person and how unikitty just oooozes happiness… I know my daughter is in a good mood when she finds herself singing the theme song even way after the cartoons had ended!
Unikitty sounds and acts ust like my daughter. She loves to dance, my daughter is a dancer too and never afraid to try out new things. Unikitty also doesnt like to see her brother upset, just like my daughter. She is very protective of her little brother.
Oh wow, thanks for the introduction to Unikitty. Definitely something i will find myself unintentionally watching with my boys.
Unikitty is a very loving, caring, kind and cheerful character with an infectious laugh/giggle, which I know my almost 2 year old will certainly giggle back at.
She is also very chirpy and optimistic. Her personality will rub off on the kids for sure.
Wow I think I need to introduce my kids to UniKitty. My son loves Ben Tennison (Ben Ten ) JHB. He is obsessed with Ben 10. He likes him because he is a hero that he can relate to (age and size wise). He loves the fact that he is seems to be a normal boy but with extra-ordinary powers to save the world from the bad.
I know all about the “new girl” feeling, haha! It’ll disappear before you know it Mama! Well done on your achievements, and I’m so proud of your journey!
Also, I love that you’re wanting to lift others up as you climb higher, and may God bless you abundantly Thando.
This one really hits home. I recently got married and became a new mom, its so difficult to keep up especially because you have a home to take care of. I’ve seen my friends go out and I wasn’t there, I felt left out but then again I realised that my life has changed and that I have new priorities. It is really hard to maintain friendships especially when others are not making an effort.
Congratulations on your new job Thando. i have also taken a decion 2 leave an industry I’ve been in for 10 years ? to say I’m anxious is an understatement especially coz it comes with a lot of change that will rock my well oiled mommyhood routine. But we shall conquer and WIN
In-fact i have three of my favourites you can say i am a germ-a-phobia; Personal Care Wipes; Instant Hand Sanitizer and last but not least Dettol Nourishing Bath Soap with natural olive and almond; if i don’t get one of the three eish i will be in trouble:) when i get home. And i think i must get one of those disinfectant kitchen cleaner i always wipe my kitchen top with sunlight liquid soap i will definitely add that to my list. Great blog…
I love the fact that unikitty is mostly interested in making sure everyone is happy and ridding the kingdom of negativit.
Unikitty is a force to be reckoned with if anyone gets in the way of spreading her positive vibes, especially if anyone makes her own little brother and best friend Puppycorn sad.
With a boys crew, Unikitty’s positive vibes and sibling love really helps me maintain the peace when sibling rivalries creep in, would definitely love to take my minions to this one, hope I’m not too late
I love the dettol liquid hand soap, we always keep a bottle near the sink in the kitchen and have tried to teach my toddler to always wash hands, we try teach by example, so he sees us washing and he follows suit!
I absolutely love the Dettol liquid hand soap. With 2 kids, I want to make sure their hands are clean especially when they get home from aftercare etc. I also love the Dettol hand sanitizer.. I always keep a small one in my handbag for those emergencies 🙂
I love all Dettol products but my favourite of all is the Dettol Antiseptic liquid I put a drop of it in water before my kids take a bath and I feel assured that they are protected from all sorts of germs that can give them diseases.
im inlove with the dettol even tone soap for thr first time using it saw a major difference in my skun tone and also the dark patch of skin between my thighs started to fade so i have been using it ever since.and the luquid hand wash we started using since my sister has a new born we need to be careful .
Hey… i was once pregnant then had a miscarrige l, then pregnant again by the same person my mother has passed on bt my father is still available. he requested my aunt (umamkhulu) to deal with the proceedings seeing they in kzn and we in joburg….. The guys family has paid half of inhlawulo bt my aunt has split it out to his son my younger brother and grandads who wer availed during the proceedings without giving my father anything….. is it allowed???? will it put no harm to my living child???
Hi i felt so much better after reading this, i honestly thought my lil one was just being too extra. Its cute at times but honestly sometimes i just wanna sleep and rest because well am a working mom, its not easy.
Hi Leila, I’m so glad that you could relate to this post and that you now know that a lot of us moms and babies go through this phase. I hope it gets better soon xx
I didn’t realize pizzas are so easy to make. Think we will give it a go this weekend! I love my royal baking powder because its been around for years and it never lets me down in all ny baking!
My late Mom swore by Royal Baking powder as none of her bakes were ever a flop. So to continue the tradition of non flop baking- I always use Royal baking powder.
Is there even another brand for baking powder except Royal?
Well for me royal baking powder is a household necessity, I actually don’t think there is a black family whos mom doesn’t have a tin of royal baking powder in the kitchen to use on good old fashioned Dikuku and for us modern age moms and kotis to wipe up a few pancakes for breakfast or cupcakes that the kids can decorate themselves and keep them entertained. Royal baking powder has been there at many weddings and funerals in black families with just a tea or two the results are magical and if left out one will surely know when the baked goods are left falling flat. There is sure power in Royal baking powder
Absolutely love this Thando. I too sometimes fall into the trap of comparing myself to other mothers but luckily I know how to quickly remind myself that parenting is not about that. It is no different to each one of us having a personal and unique life journey. There really is no generic way to go about doing it. What works for another family won’t necessarily work for mine or my children. Us mothers should learn to not put so much pressure on ourselves. Chances are if you take a step back and look at your kids with a different eye, you will see they are happy, healthy and thriving and you are allowed to take some credit for that.
We are all just winging it and sooner we learn to embrace and celebrate our differences in adoration of Gods colorful and vasertile creativity the better
the chances of raising kids that are self aware and proud to be. Thank you so so much Mama for this insight.
Royal baking makes baking fun and easy! I have never been disappointed when baking something with Royal baking powder, whether it be cakes or crumpets for breakfast!! We tried the pizza, what a hit with the whole family!!
I was totally inspired by this pizza recipe, I made it for the family last night and it was a hit 🙂 – I had never thought of making homemade pizza before.
I love Royal Baking Powder because I am guaranteed of a perfect outcome to my baked goodies everyttime, whether I am making scones or pizza.
Hi guys, please help
if I impregnate a girl and her family told me to pay 4 cows for the damage, is that realistic if I am not marrying her anytime soon??
My baking skills are just fine (well praised by my kids ALWAYS, and that’s all that matters much lol), and Royal baking powder does me a whole good because it won’t allow me to loose. It’s a special ingredient that ensures I get joy even if I doubted myself.
I love Royal Baking Powder SA because it never fails me as a mommy who loves baking for her kiddies, I always get the best results and compliments from my family when I use a family favourite Royal Baking Powder when I bake.
I love Royal Baking Powder because it is a key component of my mom’s chocolate cake recipe. She passed away 2 years ago and I treasure her recipe more than anything else in my life. The Royal Baking Powder is the only brand I use and I can be assured that my cakes will always come out the oven fresh, moist and beautifully risen!
Because it never disappoints 🙂 My mom used this when I was growing up and I always have in my cupboard.. not just for baking, but it makes my creamy mash potatoes fluffy and light.
Hey mommy you are amazing I can imagine it’s not easy as a busy mom. My husband used to travel so much with work like we would be lucky if he was home for a whole week it was difficult and sure does take its toll on your relationship and the kids.Things are settled though now he decided he was missing out on so much that even though the money was great.
one you mention that is very important is support in terms of family & family that makes things easier and also supporting your partner to follow their dreams you don’t want to be the one to hold them back let them flourish because in the end it’s for the benefit of the family not just him.
True Twana, you have to keep the right perspective and look at the benefits for the whole family. You raise such a good point, moving and being away from home is difficult on them too! I’m so glad your family is living together again.
thank you for sharing this took me back to the time where my husband and i lived a long long distance marriage, it was all we knew from 2009 until 2014 and we survived. Although i wish we knew some of the things you have highlighted on this blog lol… thank you.
Momma, I do not know how you do it, but kudos to you. It really does sound like a difficult situation to be in, and you one has to be very mindful in how they approach the situation. Thank you for the tips.
Thanks for the article, I feel so much after reading it and knowing that I am not the only one going through this challenge is a huge relief. I have a daughter who is 8 years old who still wet the bed and I won’t lie it has been quite depressing for me because after my divorce I had to move to a bachelor apartment and I currently share a bed with my daughter and this means I have to wash the sheets every morning and sometimes I wake up wet too. I would love to win because this will help bring my daughter’s confidence because I see how disappointed she becomes when she wake up wet and this mean our room will smell fresh and clean.
Firstly thank you for a wonderful post interesting and enlightening to read and for the giveaway love to win for Little Emily she just started potty training and this prize will be well used and greatly appreciated.
Wow I wish these were around when my daughter was going through this. It eventually passed. I would love to win this for a friend who’s son has this problem, he has just turned 7. Thanks 🙂
I’d love to win cause my 4 year old daughter is having some bed-wetting problems. At times it seems like we winning and others it’s just hopping from one bed to the other in an attempt to get some sleep.
I’m so happy that you’re sharing this with us. I have a 9 year old nephew and a 10 year old niece who are seriously struggling with bed wetting. We have tried everything. This has really lowered their self confidence, this means no sleep overs for them. We’re hoping for a turn around before they hit their teens.
I would really love to win this because as a first-time mum bed-wetting can really be scary at times I’ve read a lot of tips on how to handle bed-wetting and I think I’m ready since we also starting potty training with my daughter this would be an awesome hamper for my daughter.
Our challenge came without warning and it was too sudden for words. Our little girl was successfully potty trained with a few years of dry sleeping. Then out of nowhere, we were changing pyjamas and sheets daily. We also thought it may be late drinks to not been awoke at night. So we limited drinks and put on alarms to wake her but nothing helped. A thorough medical check couldnt find anything physically wrong with her. Thats when we started our daily talks, affirmations and love with her. We began to asure her of our love daily as it was evident she was embarrassed. It was not over night but a lot of effort and time speaking positive to her that things began to be positive and improve. She is now growing so well and she conquered. Now we potty training our 4th baby and moving into nappiless nights step at a time. Though we are having some wet messy nights still at this time, we are very much determined. It would be great to go through the journey with huggies as a partner.
Wow awesome read! Thanks for those tips and pin point that it’s a child fault to accidentally pee on the bed I really get upset when my 3rd child wet the bed while potty training because my first two never give me hard time now my knowledge increased thanks to you we can’t control the situation. I would love to win these for my toddler my fourth child which is potty training at the moment I would love to try and recommend them as well as all my friends get child same time and we all struggles for this stage. I enjoyed reading your blog all the time ❤️❤️❤️
This is an amazing giveaway. I would reallly love to win this for my babygirl. I would love to give Huggies dry Nights a test as we have not used them before? thank you for the great information above, I truelly enjoyed reading.
My challenge has been Zano being too independent. We got the day right finally but evening time she refuses to put on diapers. I bought a pack of dry nites recently recently which she loved because of the feel and look of it. She loves the indepence of waking up and taking off the diaper herself so they would help alot in terms of that.
At times she makes a mistake at night and wakes up so embarassed the next morning, When does it get easy ?
I actually got one before the launch. People actually complement me at work about how nice I smell. I have always been obsessed with Peach smells so I will try that next
Thank you for this post Thando, we’re also in the same boat and it’s not easy at all.
I felt this cos I’ve also been there so many times 🙂 : even on the days when you desperately want to drag him back into town to deal with the babies for a change (yes, I’ve been there)
Sooooo…How amazing is this blog Thando! So proud of you, and yes I am only paying attention now because Im a new mommy(9 months deep) and it’s been a trip. Having read your blogs from the jump has actually eased my heart to know that I’m not perfect and I’m allowed to make mistakes, and that each journey for mommy and baby differs. I’ve put myself under so much pressure in the past 9 months, and reading your blog has just made me question that notion…Thank you! Also good to know that when I get to this stage of bed wetting I’ll have a pretty good idea of how to handle it lol! ?❤
Is it fair that my sons family wAnt me to pay ilobolo for my son in order to change his surname to mine 2 cows in cash and 2 cows zoboya, wheres I did pay inhawulo,,,and the mother of my child has passed away a year ago??? Why they are so greedy?
Hey mom, I can imagine it’s hard. I only have a week or few of the year where husband has to go away because he’s on a job as a musician. This is so true “Don’t assume that your partner has the ‘better deal” and it’s hard not to think those negative thoughts. Strongs and well done for keeping a positive attitude.
I came across your blog in 2016 but whenever I feel down or I need motivation I always come back to read old stories. You have helped me stay motivated and positive.
Thank you so much for these useful tips. I was faced with bedwetting with one of my son’s. He would hide it away until I found where he had hidden his trunkies under the bed. Clearly embarassed and thought mommy would be upset. It carried on for a long time. It’s for this reason that I kept him away from sleepovers even Sunday school camps and school camps. Bedwetting is not something people talk about. I truly appreciate this post and has given me more insight to what the possible cause was. Would love to try the DryNites.
I would make this smart choice because I want continue to educate by son about the importance of oral hygiene so he can continue this tradition with his kids as well. But also to make it a tasty and fun experience for him.
Thank you for sharing another wonderful competition. I would love to win this for my family . I have two daughters aged q14 and 7 . I would love to introduce more ways for them to look after there teeth mouth and gums . This will be a confidence boost for my eldest as she is always worries about bad breath .
I have 3 sons and nagging them endlessly about dental hygiene is exhausting. I’d love to give them something new and fun to experience and hopefully get them more invested in their dental health!
This would be super nice to win this for my kids who sometimes forget to brush their teeth, so they can gargle and have there teeth and there breath smelling fresh and clean
I would make this smart choice because using a mouthwash after brushing is an essential part of maintaining clean teeth, fresh breath and healthy gums, while preventing tooth decay.i would love my family to adopt this healthy oral habits
I will most certainly make this a smart choice as it will make dental health care fun it will encourage and motivate them to take care of their oral hygiene. The bright colours and flavour will entice them no more nagging them….
This is so exciting and love to win and can’t wait to see reactions after using this products.
Thank you for a interesting and enlightening post.
I would make this smart choice because their teeth are for life and if well cared for they can avoid all the traumatic dental procedures one has to go through if the teeth are not taken care of.
My 8 year old son just lost his front teeth and with me having to remind him all the time to brush his teeth, the Listerine Smart Rinse would definitely be a cool addition to the dental care routine. And with my 20 month daughter imitating everything her brother does, it will make things much easier when she can use the Smart Rinse as well.
I’d make this smart choice for my boys because as they are getting bigger and becoming more independent they are wanting my help less often especially when it comes to brushing. A good mouthwash would ensure that any spots they have missed would still be germ free.
A smart choice for sure with three kids its a nightmare encouraging dental care this will certainly help me to stress less as this will be super fun to use. No more yelling at three of them as they can use it with ease and have a healthy mouth teeth and gums.
A dream come true product
Thanks for this post. My hubby is also working in another town and even though he comes home on weekends, it does get really difficult trying to do everything – especially the afternoon/evening rush. Sometimes I just want to cry but then have to keep it together for the kids.
i think its much harder for him as he misses us terribly especially our 20 month daughter – as he feels he’s missing out on so much with her.
This would make a great option and smart choice for my boy because when he was much younger he suffered from recurring tonsillitis and was constantly put on antibiotics which caused his teeth to wither away, his big teeth are starting to come in and we want to give them every opportunity to grow strong and healthy, this mouthwash would ensure that every spot is covered in his mouth
Smart of them to include a range specially for kids. This will ensure that my boys will maintain healthy gums and help prevent tooth decay. It’s a bonus that its sugarfree too. When we’re running late in the morning for school I’m always worried if they brushed their teeth properly. I will definitely make this smart choice for my 3 boys. Thanks for reviewing this product and introducing it on your blog.
Being a busy mum time is off the essence,worrying about lunches,homrwork,flu aaahhh the list goes on,but at thr start and end of each day i want only best for my son and therefore i would make the smart choice as i know his germs shall stay at bay he can continue to smile and play and i shall save some time yaaaaayyyy
I don’t have a financial adviser ,bring a 23 year old first year student at varsity I have learned some of the hardshipsof not planing for your life ahead but whatever questions I have about finances I just relate them to the financial advisers at the bank I use
I do have a financial advisor but I must say I first had an encounter with one in 2005 when 21yrs old and it was basic such as a retirement annuity. 4yrs ago my life changed so much I always joke arpund that I did a 360 degree change as I had my first child and got married the following year then 19 months after I had my second child. So much had changed and I knew that financially as well I will have to relook at my finances since the retirement annuity alone is not enough. We still need to have a one on one with a financial advisor to adjust everything else and consider the current family change as well as for future planning. So much can happen in such a short space of time and often we leave behind the necessary financial planning that needs to take place with the new family adjustment.
My financial discussion occured at the weirdest place,the maternity ward 11 years ago being a new mum for the first time little did i take into account actually what 9months before birth could have on my life and let alone think ahead for years to come.As i lay there my hospital plan just rocketed to staggering amount i ended up in a converstion with an amazing lady l,she was a financial advisor by proffesion.And little did i know she some how magically had been reading my anxieties and thus our relationship begun.Ive learnt so much from her over the years that i cannot put to words how much it has helped me.11 years later and guess what im rewriting my own histroy but with a twist of good i am a mom to be again and im ready for all that shall face me.Ladies it helps alot to be heard and to be guided.
I don’t have one.. but I think I should. We have one that comes around to our work too discuss pension fund. and then gives us advice, and I have a RA that I took out many years ago with a broker, can’t even remember his name. It’s a scary worry about how I will finance my children’s education.. and they are just over a year apart in age.
I Have a financial advisor called Bheki with Old mutual. I was referred too by a friend of mine. I needed to start saving some money for my daughters education and also make decision of taking a life cover or not. My retirement plan was taking with Old mutual too but not with Bheki. After 3 years of having a life cover i noticed that me buying a house this year i needed one and the one i have helped me to make my process of buying a house easier. Financial advisor is needed to help you make the right decision money wise because saving for the future of our kids is vital
I do not have a financial advisor and I am definitely going to seek the services of one as Soon as I gain employment I am a widowed mommy and currently unemployed.
I realise the importance of having a financial advisor and need to secure my daughters future and my retirement once I am employed again.
Thank you for a interesting and enlightening post.
To all the moms out there stay blessed and treasure your loved ones and ensure they are financially secure as I am definitely going to soon.
Life is difficult enough and being a single mommy is even worse but with correct advise and financial services It will be better.
I have three kids and my spouse’s job is high risk as a security guard I definitely need to help advice and to be educated about financial planning budgets annuities etc.
I have been delaying this for to long you now have motivated me to make change for the better for me and the kids. Thank you for this post.
I have a financial advisor where I currently hold my retirement plans. Problem is I never know the right questions to ask them, your post has been so informative and i know now what type of questions to ask to get the right answers… thank you
My kids are aged 8 and 7 and I have to remind them daily to brush. I would love to have that bit of extra help in the dental department that this listerinesmart rinse offers. This will completely excite them having to rinse their mouths with the brights colour Listerine thanks for the opportunity
I recently met with a new FA and oh my gosh, they made me feel like I wasn’t doing much with my money. So I went back to the drawing board and I realized just how much money is wasted in things I did t really need. Thank you for this. ZeeMthombeni
Don’t have one purely because I always thought I was managing my expenses very well. After reading this, I discovered I haven’t done anything at all. Considering it heavily. Thanks Thando
Here I was busy looking for best school with best educational curriculum for my kids. Then being thinking of you whether you have posted about such topic before, I had to go through your old posts until I get this. Very helpful Thando. Thank you, all I wish for is if we had one in Midrand.
When I got married 8 years ago a FP was the first thing that my husband and I saw together. I must admit though that we are due for a revision because like you a lot has changed in our lives and our circumstances.
To be honest I always thought one needs to earn a lot of money to be able to have a financial adviser. Knowing what I know now I wish I started enquiring earlier in life seeking for financial advice. I am happy now that conversations around creating one’s wealth and ensuring that we break the cycle of living from hand to mouth is more accessible.
I am one to write long essays, i promise to try and summarise. I have never been good with finances even though I started working in my teenage years. I only acquired a FA after my Twin boys had started preschool. This came about after fighting with their father for school fees and even maintenance court could not get me any justice on this. I sat down and thought, the Twins only have me so as a mother what am I going to do considering I already work 2 jobs to sustain us? What would happen if i lose those 2 jobs and decided to consult an FA as i had no clue on what to do with what i earn that can somewhat secure the Twins future. I am glad I did it because there are positive changes and a concrete foundation for the Twins on a financial perspective.
I currently don’t have a Financial Adviser cause I don’t have any finance to advise on.
I have been unemployed for three years and struggling to find work.
It is important to educate children from a young age about oral health. Also to take them to the dentist every 6 months for a routine clean and check so that taking care of their teeth becomes a priority.
I will luv to teach my daughter how to take care of her teeth. And to make good choices.m teaching her from a young age, ia the best. She will grow up doing the right thing and using Listerine throughout her life.
I do not have a Financial adviser that I can trust always feel rushed and over power from them.so I basically research on the internet and make a decision.
Honestly I would really love to try these for my kids as sometimes I can smell something horrible even after brush now we can defeat bad breathe with listerine for kids
With 4 kidsto care for, I need to ensure each other is given time and care to grow in a healthy way. Recently one of them has had to have teeth removed and this made me extra vigilant in oral hygiene. I was also feeling so terrible as a parent, feeling like I let her down & could have done better for her. The last mouth wash I bought was just to burning, they all ran for their lives!
Growing up my family always had timeshares, we had the most amazing holidays away in self catering accommodation, from sun city to Port Alfred I really believe we utilized it well. Its something I’ve been seriously considering as my own family starts to grow up and I think long term would benefit us more then standard hotels .
So iv never thought of getting time share always considered it something that was out of my price range. I’ll actually give it more research we’be been thinking of setting up more regular vacation time with the family.
Hi Modern Zulu Mom?
We’ve been talking about having regular holidays with my family but affordability was our main issue. I’m definitely researching more about timeshare but from this post, it seems to be a sensible route for ensuring we take vacations.
Thanks for sharing ??
My experience with timeshare has been through friends who have it. Every year our friends go away to their timeshare, I just love the consistency of it, holidays can often just be best intentions for the year and without proper planning it becomes undone or super expensive and reactive excursion.
I have been thinking of getting Timeshare for my family because honestly December staycation is overrated my daughter gets bored and I run out of ideas on how to entertain her. Most importantly I need to pull hubby away from work our marriage is suffering we need to reconnect and spend some quality time together.
I do not have it but would love to get it because I feel so bad that I can’t take my daughter and son anywhere, I know they are young and won’t remember much but I would still like to make those memories you know and not just take them to spur all the time, I want them to have experiences i never had as a child.. It saddens me when they don’t go anywhere holiday time..hubby doesn’t work and its all on me so I want to just take a break from life’s responsibilities because I am exhausted but unfortunately its not possible at the moment.. I think with timeshare going away would be a given, no stresses about where to go etc and it seems affordable so why not.. definitely going to read up more on this
I don’t have any timeshare experience… In fact the only time we go away is with my parents timeshare. We literally cannot afford timeshare yet… But hopefully next year will be better for us and I can give my kids memories filled with family fun that my parents gave me and my sibling ❤️ This is such an awesome giveaway that is so much more than just a giveaway… This will give a family lifelong memories ❤️
I do not have Timeshare, i would consider getting one because we love to travel, as a mom who just started discovering herself. I love to get some time off and spend some quality time with my boys. With timeshare might end at my dream destination 🙂
I don’t have time share but I would consider it. It’s very hard affording anything in this tough economy. Our last family holiday was 2 and a half years ago. That’s how tough it has been. Everything is so pricey . This would feel like saving up and the. Taking a great vacation now and then
Currently I don’t have time share and I’m thankful that you shared this informative article. I remember once we took a vacation to durban and whilst we were on holiday we came across a group of telling selling this vacation club timeshare only to find out that It was a scam and the company was not legit. You’ve really opened my eyes now and I know what to look for when buying time share. Everything has become so expensive this days and taking vacation seems to be breaking that savings account or too much spending unnecessarily on your credit card meanwhile there’s opportunities available to us which are cheaper to consider when going on holiday especially now that I have a family of four we’re always stuck between pleasing the kids and making sure they have fun and also something beautiful for the adults to enjoy as well and this can really hit hard on the pocket.
I don’t have timeshare, but it definitely sounds like something I would consider. I love going away with hubby and the kids.. but unfortunately unforeseen things in life happen. It really sounds like a great investment.. I mean, who doesn’t love getting away for a week-end.. its just awesome 🙂 fingers crossed.. hubby and I will be celebrating our 10 year wedding anniversary and would absolutely love to go somewhere special.. with the kids of course 🙂
I have never considered timeshare because I always thought it was too expensive. We’ve put off a family vacation for so long as during the school holidays prices sky rocket and having to pay holiday accomodation, travel costs and other expenses in one go, gets expensive. Your post has really changed my mind about timeshare and made me realise how important getting away with your kids are. They grow so quickly and one day I would like them to be able to tell their families of the awesome family vacations they had growing up.
I do not have timeshare as I normally thought that only rich people could afford this luxury. After reading your informative article, I really need to invest in this. We take about 6-8 holidays per year i think this would really benefit my pocket in the long run as I spend a lot of money on accomodation
After reading this post I would definitely consider getting timeshare. I honestly had no idea how timeshare worked and what it meant to have it. Now that I’m a Mommy, it makes so much sense to invest in holiday time for my family. Great Post Thando! Thank you
I don’t have a timeshare experience yet but would definitely love to have one. As a single mother, finding the balance between work, taking care if your baby and taking care of yourself is very hard. I can only spend time with her after work and currently cannot afford a holiday due to responsibilities of parenting. I’d love to go on holiday with my child, to make her see that time spent together is possible, even though she’s young I want memories and I want to have them with her by my side.
4 months away from welcoming my first ever, brand spanking new, tiny-toed cadet, and already the anxiety of how to make his life experience on earth worthwhile keeps me up at night. Not wanting to be known as simply a “baker of humans” only, I’ve been looking at ways to ensure and invest in spells and spells of adventure for my little king, just as any aspiring genie would. This is the first time I’ve heard of timeshare, to be honest, and it reads as a possible tool towards securing frozen moments that would go in our proverbial collage of “The Adventures of Sugarbean and Mamabean” that I pray to embark on the minute he gets here. Timeshare is an answered prayer to our mom/son duo! Sounds like the perfect inaugural holiday experience for me and my little bean! ??
Such an interesting article, thank you babe ❤️
So great to read from the perspective of a modern young mom as time share often seems a bit outdated, and also something our generation wouldn’t consider. I would definitely look into this. Always love your suggestions! Crossing fingers that we are the winners ??❤️
I have always thought it was expensive and the packages i found online affirmed it.Me and my friend and the kids love travelling,we use a certain hotel membership card which gives us discounts on our stays.
However after reading this piece,i will definitely be doing more research on it and what it has to offer.
We do not have timeshare but it sounds like an amazing way to get some vacay time with the family…my hubby had a colleague who owned timeshare but he could only go to that one place and not to different resorts and he was tired of the same place all the time so we would pay his yearly fee(not sure what fee exactly) of about R600 and we would get a week at Ngwenya Lodge in the Kruger… hood to see that the destinations can be changed.
I love omelettes… Milk/ Fresh Cream , Cheese, Shredded Bacon, hint of Cayenne pepper and Mushrooms… I always make sure that I use a non-stick pan and nice fresh rolls / homemade bread…
My Favorite is a delightfully delicious Cheesy Chicken Omelette
Filling of:
Shredded Left over roast or grilled
or fried chicken, butter or margarine, sliced tomato, onions and peppers, crushed garlic, grated cheddar cheese and seasoning of salt and pepper.
If you want a hint of a spicy taste add paprika or chilli flakes
A light and fluffy omelette made with large eggs and milk together with this tasty filling
Served with a garden salad.
I love making omelettes as it’s quick and yummy and fills up the whole family.
3 different peppers(green yellow and red)
Diced bacon
Onions
Jalapeno
Spinach
Feta cheese
Omelettes are quick to prepare it’s healthy and versatile can enjoy it for breakfast lunch or supper.
I like to make a omelette with a filling of chopped onions, peppers, mushroom, ham and cheese.
Tasty and my 3 kids love it.
We do have The Holiday Club timeshare. I believe its great value for money. We get to visit amazing luxurious places that we normally wont have a chance to. The facilities and accommodation units are alwayss amazing and more than we expect. Booking is easy and quick especially during off peak seasons plus there are always discounts.
I didn’t care much for timeshare before I was a parent. Now I hve to think of things to do on school holidays and create environments that enhance the time spent together. I have asked around about how timeshare works since two colleagues shared their experience of timeshare that they have and have been enjoying for the last 34 years
Hello
Well I’ve never really experienced that… And it’s weird because for the first time ever in my life, around June I told my friend that I need a little break from a lot of things that happened this year, I knew I can’t afford but I was just too excited at the idea and thought I’ll just save up and eventually I’ll have enough, long story cut short, I couldn’t.
But I would consider investing in this because besides the fact that I love luxurious things, I stay with people who aren’t my real parents and they have done way too much for me, so I’d love to invest as much as I can to show my love and appreciation… And, I think everyone deserves a break every once in a while, life can be overwhelming
I have a 2-year-old girl, and we haven’t potty trained yet because she got really anxious when we went to buy her a potty. She cried hysterically at the shop, and the fact that she had been dealing with constipation didn’t help either. I am really anxious and frustrated as I am expecting another baby, and pregnancy is just messing up with my energy levels. I am planning to start with the training tomorrow though because she is showing signs that she is ready; like she just doesn’t cooperate in the whole nappy changing routine and we had to throw away a fresh nappy because she ripped it off. Plus constipation has been taken care of. Trying to channel some positive vibes…
No never had timeshare ,as my partner hates the 1 hour 40 minutes long meeting and they say you get a guaranteed holiday but nothing given ,many bad experience and will not invest in timeshare
I do no have timeshare, I am considering investing in timeshare because I never have cash to take my family away on vacations and I have a colleague at work who has timeshare and I always envy how she is able to take her family away for vacations and I would like to do the same for my family as well.
My timeshare experience was through my mother. It wasn’t a good one though! She joined a club where she paid for her time share but it ended up being closer to a scam. Every time we would want to utilize it to go on holiday, there was be a huge fee or lump sum we would have to pay and we thought, well what is the point? So right now we are looking to see more options. This blog post has been very helpful! My wish is to win this experience because out of the 4 years my mother has has hers, we have only gone to one holiday in the Drakensburg and the reason she got it in the first place was to live her dream of traveling but it ended up being a financial nightmare! So I will definitely be sharing this post with her on how to find a better timeshare and what it is actually about and how it is suppose to benefit our family. It would be lovely to spoil her with a much needed holiday that she has not been able to have! Fingers crossed and lots of love xx
My late parents had timeshare and the endless memories that came with the road trips and travelling throughout South Africa will always stay in my heart. I have a 4year old daughter who I think is the sole reason why I should invest in timeshare. She deserves to see the rest of our beautiful land and not be penalised by her mother’s shame of being a single mother and worrying about what people say.
I do not have timeshare; but what i know is my family has not had a break since the birth of our daughter who is a year; due to financial constraints and after birth costs and sickness after labour; it has been rough; the were days wher my partner didnt know if i would make it to see our daughter; i had complications and been in and out of hospital most of this first year. We have not been able to give our daughter a 1st birthday party; but a short holiday could renew our spirits and give us time with her without having to rush to the 8-5 job.
Thanks so much for sharing this informative piece! I didn’t know about timeshare until reading your blog post and I must say it makes so much sense. My family and I have not been on holiday in years and this is due to the extensive financial planning that goes into going on holiday. Something like this would make a once a year holiday a guarantee and help so much in bringing my family even closer together than we are already. It’s so important to have time away to relax and recoup before tackling another year’s challenges. Definitely spreading the word about this!
Hello Modern Zulu Mom
I haven’t experienced timeshare and it is actually my first time hearing about it but based on your review it sounds amazing and it appears you really had a good time with your family.
I last went on a holiday with my family in 2014,my parents hit rock-bottom in 2015 and 2016 but we are managing right now
We would really enjoy the experience plus my Mom will be turning 50 in December and this would really lift up her spirits
I’ve always purchased Biostrath Tablets and Syrup for my kids it help with exam stress, memory and concentration. My eldest is 19 and done with school she was more of a visual learner. Making study notes and having me test her afterwards. I find that preparing your child way ahead of exams helps them cope better especially having older kids in higher grades who have to write two exam papers on the same day.
First time I hear about timeshare. I’ve always thought of one day being able to buy a holiday home. The holiday home would only be in one destination though which would force my family to go to one place all the time. With timeshare we would certainly be able to explore and tour our beautiful country more. Traveling isn’t only relaxing and a time to re-energize but it comes with a lot of learning especially for the kids. My wish is for my kids to learn and be open and certainly be appreciative of many cultures and ways of living. This I realize would happen through timeshare and with not much cost. But certainly a huge benefit of going to many places or at least not being bound to one destination. Costs of purchasing are also not expensive as that of buying a holiday home.
We haven’t yet had a family vacation because as the mother I always think it a daunting task ☺️? packing for everyone because that way I know no one leaves anything.
This is really sad. If there are any other campaigns like this one, please do write about them. Someone has to do something, children don’t deserve that…
#1120under5
Hi Thando, thank you for your exciting and very informative piece. I honestly never knew platforms like Timeshare and the Vacation Ownership Association of South Africa exists. My fiancé and I took our first family vacation in December last year with our then months old daughter. Things have since then gotten more complicated as our baby girl grows older, we require more quality time and vacations to unwind. Timeshare makes so much sense for us as it’s extremely affordable, offers tailored options and allows for one to regularly vacation whenever and wherever. What stood out the most for us is that it’s a safe space as long as it’s under the VOASA. We will certainly look into becoming shared vacation owners ourselves. Thank you for this eye opener!
I don’t have timeshare but it is something that my husband and I want to get as it’ll be “guaranteed holiday” that we’ll take. Especially with the busyness of life, there’s nothing better than taking out time to relax, reconnect and make memories as a family. Now with our little one growing up fast and enjoying the outdoors it’s always a good idea to have a holiday and that’s the notion behind having timeshare.
Heyy . The most I’ve actually heard about timeshares comes from American movies ( my wife & kids ). I didn’t even think that you could get them in South Africa but had I known this , it would be a thing I looked into . Knowing you have accommodation for your holidays & you okay today’s price is soo convenient .
I have had very bad experience with my family. Buying time shares was like having a bad credit for a holiday we didnt have as yet. We would be harassed when we couldnt pay as though we had already went on holiday thus owing simething. That whole exlerience and the treatment left a bad taste in my mouth. So much so that I am afraid when I hear the word “timeshare” ??? I would love a holiday though, am a mom of 4 and a breadwinner. Life is challenging!
Hi Modern Zulu Mom, I enjoyed his article of yours on exam prep, and agree with everything you’ve said. Thank you for your contribution to the betterment of our children’s lives.
If you’d like to talk a bit more about education and how parents can really help their children, I’d love to advise or do an interview with you for your readers.
Who knows, maybe I can get a prize or 2 for your followers to benefit from as well 🙂
For many years Twin saver has been mine and my families trusted go to product for toilet papers, tissues and even kitchen paper towels. The quality that twinsaver delivers throughout the years for me and now also for my kids put my heart at ease. Because even when im not around them I know my kids won’t have torn noses from rough toilet paper brand.
well let’s start by saying twinsaver is a life saver always comes in handy in the car when my four year old is spilling juice or food in car. I have tried the no eating rule in the car but i have failed only in daddies car they don’t eat.
and they just love pulling the tissues even if they don’t need to.
I love how versatile twinsavers are…they accommodate everyone from the baby to our teenager. The baby is sensitive but these are as great as sensitive wipes. Our teenage likes cool looking staff so she is able to get her cool packs. My husband has sinuses and they dont irritate him at all. We travel with these and they accomodate all our mess from the house to the car.
Being a woman and constantly trying to be a lady (though much harder now with a baby and toddler 😅) Twinsaver tissues go with me every where. Used them in moments where the red robot comes unannounced. Moments of joy and of course sorrow. Growing up it was more of a luxury product because of its quality and many versions. I now have a box in each room of the house for all those booboos the little ones make. I think it’s safe to safe it’s a product I cannot live without. Thank you for thinking of us mom Thando, you sure alleviate some burdens. My son is going back to school and I need to take boxes of tissues, paper towels etc for all the learning and playing they do (of course wonderfully developing with the help of Twinsaver).
My 2 year old daughter started nursery school in June last year. This was no planned (had nanny problems). This came with a runny nose and flu that was not ready for. Twinsaver tissues came in very handy and are very soft for those little noses.
I love Twinsaver as it has been a trusted brand for generations. My 80 year old grandmother has it in her wardrobe and bedside table so we all can cry our eyeballs out on her bed because it’s never too far to wipe the tears away. My mom and I have adopted the same. I have 2 kids, girl and boy so my 8 year old girl always has pocket tissues in her bag as a budding lady. Being a single mother of the two is tough so these come in handy all the time…. Thanks for the brand update
I would love to wjn the Twinsaver hamper it is a standing item on my shopping list and I use it for everything! From blotting the oily T-section in my face, for spills in the car when I need coffee on the move, to having one in hand when I have to eat lunch hovering over my laptop. Twinsaver = Lifesavers
I feel you on limiting screen time, I try to not even take my phone out my bag from the time I get home till baby girl goes to bed… it’s tough though! We got this
Wow this is amazing. I would absolutely love to have a Trunki. My daughter is 4years old turning 5 nxt month. We travel a lot, I love planning small adventures with my family. Packing is a hassle at all times. If the zipper doesn’t give in, it’s the bag that’s too small. I have never really found the proper travel bag for my sunshine. The Trunki would solve just that. This would be the ultimate birthday gift for her
Who doesn’t love Twinsaver? I mean from toilet paper to paperplates and serviettes. Twinsaver offers a wide range of everyday essentials for me and my family. Twinsaver has a perfect balance between softness and strength, It is also the no. 1 tissue brand in SA. My whole family loves Twinsaver.
Travels with my grandson would be a dream if he had a Trunki. It looks great in size and no extra bags for him would be necessary. It would also be so much easier as he could easily cope with handling a Trunki
I have twin girls age of 4 .Its double of everythig wherever we go and its a chaos or a struggle for us when travel,always hav to take two bags .This super awesom ,top qaulity and spacious will be a huge help no more broken bags for me or going through bags or carryin it the girls can move it themselves and with fun too.
Twinsaver has been used through generations of my Family,I love its versatility, as you can use it for different means, anytime anywhere. Twinsaver is a lifesaver and it continues to be and will be for even many years to come.let’s continue spreading the love and teaching the new generation of the great benefits of the Twinsaver brand.
Twinsaver is part of the family, always their to support us through sickness, heartache and even laughter. We can always count on twinsaver to comfort us
My 5 year old princess would absolutely love her very own Trunki 😂, packing for her weekend trips to her dad would definitely become more fun! The size is just perfect , the bright fun color designs and the wheels are just the cherry on top 🙌🏽! Trunki would definitely be used a lot in my household (pushing her around on it ) packing it away is the only problem i would have to worry about 😂
Twinsaver has been the brand I associate with softness and quality. With having a baby, I have not had to second guess using it for her. The MOMents that Twinsaver has shared with keep me assured it will always be there to Save me.
I have been using Twinsavers for many years and God willing will use it in the year to come all for my children suffers from Allergic Rinitus and have forever a runny and nose .when the start sneezing the it sounds like a band making music LOL.
Love your pages and live Twinsavers.
I would love to win this hamper because I have an asthmatic child who suffer with allergies which means itchy watery eyes and a runny nose all year round. I go.through quiet a few boxes of tissues for school a year even though only one is asked of us… I Only rely on Twinsaver as it’s gentle on the skin and long lasting
Twinsaver have been in my family for many generations Every happy or sad moment twinsaver has been on hand and to the rescue The quality is good the packaging is amazing trendy that can we left anywhere in the house cause it looks great I love love the colors
I love Twinsaver products cause its quality you can trust.
Its a brand that’s been passed down from generation to generation.
Whenever we visited my granny when we were children everywhere there was always a box of Twinsaver tissues and its always on top of her shopping list.
one thing I love about you is your authenticity, co-sleeping whether it’s in the same room or same bed is still an uncomfortable topic to some groups of parents, I find it so disturbing how moms in this generation still undermine other parenting decisions just because they feel theirs is the best. I even doubt that people actually take into consideration how different we all are as human beings and the choices we make let alone the structural diversity or if we will ever get to respect one another on basis of parenting decisions at all. Sama is 2,5 and I’m still cosleeping (same room) I loooveeee having her in our room, I enjoy the morning cuddles and she’s only a step away for me to reassure her back to sleep during nightmares. Now that she’s closing in to 3 years We plan to send her back to her room coz it’s good for her development.
As moms, we really aren’t kind towards each other sometimes. I don’t know why we do this (maybe trying to make ourselves feel “better”?!). Enjoy having her in your room, she’s only little for a short while. Lots of love.
Twinsaver has always apart of our household when I was growing up whether it was toilet paper or facial tissues.
My grandparents always had a box on their dressing table. My gran father used twinsaver up and until November when he passed at the age of 91. My grandmother used twinsaver until she passed at the age of 81. So yes Twinsaver has been apart of our family for many decades.We are 13 gran children and 19 great grandchildren, every single one uses twinsaver.
I enjoy because It is so soft and gentle on my skin, and does not effect my sinuses or allergies.
I love seeing their individual personalities grow day by day and how they exceed my expectations (my 5yo daughter for example plays golf!!- that is just awesome).
What I love about my kids growing is they become individuals with a mind of their own.❤❤❤Thank you for the opportunity. Would love to win tis awesome giveaway it would be a tremendous help.
What I love about my child growing is to be able to see the world through her eyes , to see this lil person who’s life depended on me when they were born- growing and being molded into a person with their own personality and thoughts…it is an awesome feeling !!!
I love witnessing each of my 4 babies’ personalities come out. They are so alike yet super different. The unity and love they have for each other, out of all things I pray for, I desire they always carry each other throughout life!
I love how independent they become, its a privilege to see them turn into young respectful men.
My eldest is 12 years old and he is real gentleman at times.
My youngest is 2 years old and he already has a will of his own.
I love the conversations we have … They getting smarter & cheekier by the day . 😍😍😍😍 Not forgetting the amazing growth pattern from laying to sitting , walking & now running circles around me
I love that they are more independent as they grow (and sleep more!)…develop their personalities (my daughter is sweet and kind while my son is such a comedian lol) But with that comes so much anxiety especially when starting big school!❤️
Oh I really hate that they growing up soooo quickly but hey they have to how else will they take care of me when I’m old lol Well what I love is that they learn new things every day Challenging them to do better at everything that comes their way
SO i love this personality that they develop and to watch how with each season they to change and become what we have never imagined, how their mins think and that compassion and love they have towards everything they come into contact with, that strength an never faulting thoughts and great big dreams that they aspire to follow
I love the curiosity and eagerness to learn of these little humans 🙂 as they grow the numerous questions thats asked and its such a proud feeling to educate, after all its said educate a child and you educate a nation and the little hands that want to help be it gardening to baking to cooking etc. Such fun and memories to treasure as they grow up so fast.
I love watching my son growing into a strong and healthy boy, full of laughter with never a dull moment, I love the fact that he has such wonderful manners and is respectful to others, I love when he acts like spider man running around with his cape, or even when he crawls around the floor like Max the dog panting for water or a biscuit, healways make me laugh and shout as well. Most of all I love the fact that my son made me a mommy and I love him with every breath I breathe, I am eternally grateful to have the honour and privilege to raise him into a fine young man.
I love how they are so different, each with their own personality and will! How they have definite likes and dislikes. And so much more independent. Its such a privilege watching them grow up!
I love that they are strong, independent and can look out for each other,are respectable, responsible and outspoken ,have a fun, exciting side to them and are healthy
What I love about my kids growing, is watching them learning on a daily basis. Our little boy never ceases to amaze me with his quirkiness and ability to entertain me on a daily basis.
I am a mom too, similar to you I had a grade 4 last year. I however didnt know about this product. After reading your post I will go get some. I always associated the brand to babies. My mistake as I missed the opportunity to give my daughters a better start.
I love watching them growing because their own beautiful personalities come through year after year. I’m sure you have noticed that our soon to be 11 year old now feel they have voice in our family. An equal one at that. Cayleigh is louder about her thoughts and when she feels we are being unjust.
I worry about my kids nutrition as they lead such busy active lives and don’t get in enough veggies.
Holding thumbs for the competition, would love to try this for my kids and as for the Makro voucher, our kids are now allowed to take trolley bag to school due to spine but the bags after R950 . 😊
Would love to see some content on this, maybe a future blog post. Their bags get so heavy from grade 4.
Nestle I only heard good things bout it. My daughter is only turning 2 n what i good way it would be if I can win this hamper to start her on . Would love to win this
My little one is 8 and in grade 3. For me every moment from the time she opened her eyes to her first was an amazing journey but for me the most important and amazing thing is how she has developed this little personality. We call her madam speaker, she stands up for the good at school, if someone is being bullied she fends for them. She shares her lunch with kids that dont have lunch and even shares her spending with those less fortunate than her. She makes me to proud.
watching them grow into these inquisitive, interesting personalities.brave and enthusiastic about everything, balls of energy always bouncing everywhere!
I love seeing them grow, being curious, ask innocent questions and love that they say ‘I love you mummy ‘ because I asked myself if I am a mum as my first baby couldn’t breath at birth.
They growing so well as they are following a healthy lifestyle with eating healthy, lots of Nespray, engage in sports and learn well. They are well mannered, have amazing personalities and independent!
Since conception to growth for myself its been thus far a real life fairy tale,watching my son.All these memories entrantched within my soul and heart forever.No matter of time can ever earse this.What has been most remarkable though and one though as stood out is that we as parents always debated whom he shall take over,whom he shall resemble,who’s temperament he shall have but as he grows we see a unquie individual marked with his own personality l,strong willed,independent with the perseverance to survive and live life to the fullest.that for myself is the most incredible thus far.Watching my son blossom
I love seeing them doing the things I’ve taught them. Like saying please and thank you. And walking away when someone says something hurtful or does something they know isn’t something we do.
Camy is growing into a little lady.
Love watching her grow she is 5yrs old. The manners she has the respect, From a newborn now into a little girl who loves to be with her animals and painting So awesome to see her grow she is like a miniature version of me hahaha such a delight to see her growing taller her hair is longer, her cute smile soon she will be all grown up will miss this years
The one thing I love most about my kids growing up is their just enjoy life to the fullest they just wane play than they happy even my eldest wen hr play with hrs small brother they laugh like its their last n they so energetic I wish they can stay so small but they have to grow up n they grow so quick
Ayanda Tumi is just 3 yrs I so adore see him growing up the milk teeth falling off to learning to ride a bicycle to trying to write his name. Its all these things and more that I enjoy watching as he grows speaking to gogo in Zulu makes me so fill of pride. These are the wonder years to watch my boy grow.
I wonder what he will do next or say next I wonder so much and motherhood is a awesome journey.
I love that they are becoming independent i.e. doing things for themselves and they able to express their likes and dislikes. My daughter just started grade 1, so she is also making new friends; trying new things she joined a speech and drama class.
What I love about my kids growing, is getting to see my kids shape themselves into the amazing people they are, every single day. They teach me things daily that I never would’ve known without having kids. On the first day of Grade 1 my youngest son who was very anxious hugged me with tears rolling down his cheeks and told me You are the best mommy. I love my new school. I nearly cried. What I love about my kids growing they are more matured than I was at that age, their vocabularies are advanced and they are always eager to learn new things. Being a parent is amazing.
I loveseeing my kids growing strong, healthy and happy. My kids are everything that I need to look after every time and their healthy is on my hands, as I always buy them Nespray I have no more worry about their healthy ❤
What I love about my child growing up is his passion for learning new things.. his mind is like a sponge when it’s comes to general knowledge and he amazes me by being able to learn his Afrikaans orals in a day.. he breezes through school with A aggregate since Grade 1 and now on grade 5 he has been.acing his class tests.. he draws amazingly and he just makes me so so proud
My boy will be turning 4 soon and I have loved every single moment watching him grow into the little package of dynamite that he is. First smile, first word, first step, first day of school and every single first that I get to experience has my heart beaming with pride and joy. Motherhood is an absolute blessing!
Im a young mom of 2 and there’s nothing I love more than seeing my 2 girls grow into independent individuals. They are so loving and caring of each other and everyone around them. Literally inspires me to be a better person every waking day.
Congratulations once again Thando! I really enjoyed this post, and as a private person myself – I have made a promise to myself to share a little bit more about myself on my online channels. Congrats on the YouTube channel! 🙂
Ahhhh… words fail me!!! Congratulations and super excited for you and your family. Very well done on your first episode honey!! You continue to inspire us Mama 🙂
Wow thank you so much for this post. My son just started pre-school this year, i didnt know that these so many extra things a parent must always consider. I have been trying to enroll him for swimming lesson but unfortunately the place that provides them only does them during the week, and well my schedule during the week is very tight. Thank you so much for the educational blog.
The extra costs honestly frustrate me! Awesome post.
My son has OT which sets me back R1880 a month (if I don’t consult with the therapist as that’s an extra R380), my daughter has weekly speech therapy which is R1600 a month.
Since it’s the beginning of the year, they’ve signed up for paid extra murals, termly fees aren’t bad but in January we pay annual registration, that set me back R780 between my two babies and then the term fees came to R2620. I hope they don’t opt for anymore:)
Shu Pali, I feel you girl. Before I was informed that my son would need speech therapy, I hadnt considered it as part of my monthly expenses. All the best with the extra interventions this year, I must say, they are beneficial.
Extra mural activities for Nolo who is 4years old alone is a lot. I realized last month that we are going to spend more after paying her school fees. at first I didn’t want her to do extra mural activities at school as I thought she’s fine but in Jan all the different activities were presented to them and each day she was filled with excitement. already we had swimming lesson t the gym which was once a week on Saturday and this year we changed it to twice a week during the week. that is on Tuesdays and Thursday. Because the other kids are doing the extra mural activities and she loves some of them, the first week after that she didn’t attend but came home talking about the other kids attending. Luckily her school only allows two activities per child. We finally allowed her to do baking on Mondays for R400pm and play ball for R350 per month. her gym budget is R1030pm (Gym membership at R230 & R800) which sets us at a total of R1780pm on extra mural activities.
Weekends she wants to be entertained and we always budget for that including those holidays which she visits granny. they always call for money regardless of how much you’ve given them.
Our kids budget is costly and indeed it’s advisable for us to spend while saving for their future correctly. This year I bought her a money box to teach and cultivate the culture of saving money for her. We also have a box for saving our sunday church money for offering, we don’t touch that during the week unless we putting in money for sunday.
Oh Moshala, I love the money box idea! It’s really important for us to pass on these critical life lessons. The costs really do add up hey! PS. Baking sounds sooo cute, I can only imagine the cute and yummy stuff she will be preparing for you.
I love everything. I love every little moment, the unexpected giggles, the never-ending learning, the sweet little kisses, the amazing peace that washes over their face as they sleep … I love watching them grow into new clothes, outgrow old pants and shoes .. I love how they love me, their innocence and curiosity, their love for the world and all things in it. I love to watch them marvel at new experiences and squeal with excitement over every little thing we take for granted. Watching our children grow is a second chance to love and appreciate our life and the world around us.
I have 2boys that goes school Grade4&5 .Then its my twin girls going to pre-school in 2020.my boys have extra mural, extra activities like music ect.its a struggle but your post help me alot and love it ..inspiring too.
Love your blog and how I can relate it to; we have recently moved our son to a new school and the fees have are more than double what we were paying before including after care; then there is swimming that he has been doing for about 3 years now and that is R 530.00 with chess and Phyzz Ed R 380.00 together(he wanted to do more but I had to curb it at two due to costs). He went for an assessment last week and I am anticipating that he will either need speech/occupation therapy meaning more money being spent. We do what we can to afford them the best
Thank you for the post, very informative. My child is currently too young to attend school, however, I see great benefit in parents preparing themselves by saving for a child’s education from as early as possible. I have read numerous articles which indicate that in South Africa, the inflation on education costs exceeds inflation on other goods and services (scary!!). So I think it’s a great idea for us to stay informed so that we can make beneficial long term financial decisions.
Woow Thando, you such a inspiration to some of us as your colleague,
You such a humble soul my dear, I have always enjoyed our interactions. Keep up your great work here and external.
Hi Thando, thank you for the great post. So, at my place of employment, it is actually an admin requirement to create an annual development plan. However, the first time I did one, I did not appreciate how it could contribute towards my career. I did not take the time to personalize the plan to myself as an individual. I also did not perform regular reviews of where I was in terms of my plan. I have thankfully learned from my mistakes. I fully agree with you that if we put plans in place and monitor them, it can make a world of difference both in career development as well as overall satisfaction with your career. As a plus, I also create a “vision board” of my annual goals (both professional and personal). I find that being able to visualize my end goal motivates me to work harder towards it.
Hi Li, it’s such a pleasure. I’m glad you see the value in creating a tailored development plan for yourself to steer your career and remain focussed about where you want to be. I love the vision board idea and how you bring your dreams to life through it. I’ve just done another blog post on how you can keep motivated on that vision.
This is so dated I know but my daughter’s 1st birthday is coming up and I’d also to do that milestone board for her. Could you please share details of where you got yours done?
I just live your you always find ways to capture and inspire my to push further in life. You’ve summed up the day so well and didn’t leave anything.
As for me this year I’m stepping out of my comfort zone and challenging the power in me. I’m going for that seemed impossible because I didn’t act to make it possible. Her I am working on my goals daily to make them possible
I’ve stopped waiting for friends & family to tag along and when they disappoint me I end up not going anywhere. Here is to me going all out on my own to learn and explore new things in life.
Mosh, it was so inspiring to spend the day with you and hear the big plans you have for this year. I’m behind you 100% and well done for putting yourself first and pushing yourself to be the best you can be. Thanks for reading the post x
OMG OMG OMG OMGGG……. Inspiration galore!! Nox is a power house, i recall texting her the other day just thanking her for existing in the world. Thank you so much Thando for sharing this, i hated missing this event but you’ve just shared everything I needed to hear! Keep soaring MAMA!
Thank you Mama – so much great work happens behind-the-scenes and it was my honour to play a part in communicating this work. Our future is bright indeeD – there are lots of positives to celebrate. Thanks again.
This is such an exciting project Thando. I am so glad there are initiatives like this that try and close the disparities in our education system, especially at ground level. We need to set our kids up for success, not failure.
Thank you Karabo. It was an honour for me to be part of this initiative that will see lives changing. You are spot-on, we need to do everything in our power to set them up for success. I appreicate the support.
Wow, this is so beautiful mommy. Well done on make her dreams come through and of cause getting involved in the planning. I remember with Nolo’s first birthday(Minnie Mouse theme), I just got one lady and honestly wasn’t happy with her work.
Second birthday was very nice. You won’t believe I got a lady from Polokwane🤦🏾♀️to do the whole birthday party which looked very nice. She was turning 2yrs and already loving Sofia which eventually became the theme.
I’m planning her birthday next year when she turns 6yrs, she would have graduated going to grade 1. I don’t know what she’s going to ask for and I’m definitely going to get involved in the different planning stages. I’m not good at hosting even planning an event, hence I opt for experts in such fields to assist me.
This year will continue traveling to celebrate her birthday. I won’t host a party until next year
Awesome post. I didn’t know about carrying a toddler, I have been lifting him up and also putting him on my back. I almost killed myself mos. I think I need to speak to someone, my memory loss is stressing me as it affects my kids.
I’m forgetting everything too Mama, you’re not alone there. I think it’s okay to carry your toddler as long you don’t feel discomfort. For me, it’s definitely a strain. I don’t think we can get away from that completely, because they do need us.
Mommy, this is so interesting. I had a smooth pregnancy where I was never sick and enjoyed every minute of it but emotions where like the Cape Town weather. With me having crocodile tears, it got worse during my pregnancy.
During my pregnancy I experienced point no.8. I literally couldn’t go pee the entire night. I remember doing the trips to the toilet, around 3am I started blaming swimming for my struggle that evening. I swam a lot during my pregnancy and that’s the only thing that kept me sane. At around 5am, I text my gynae as I was in pain and she responded promptly and told me to go the hospital to be admitted at maternity ward. Before 10am she came to check up on me ang put me on treatment. The following day she was very happy with how I was responding to medication. Later that afternoon she came to check up on me and I was fine, she assured me that all was well and that the next day I should be discharged.
In the evening my partner came to spend sometime with me and he doesn’t like hospitals but had no choice. There I was excited ang bragging about going home the next day. He left around 9pmand around 10:30pm I started having stomach cramps. Rang the bell and the sister came to check on me and the baby, only to find that we are fine, She gave me a glass of water to drink. About an hour later i had serious updorminal pain, rang the bell and she came back. Checked up on us as usual because I was in pain. a lot happened so fast and ended up delivery a premature.
All is history but the experience taught me a lot.
Thank you Thando for always sharing with us, looking forward to more…
I had an easier pregnancy with my first and with my second I had more troubles. Nausea until into the third trimester, migraines and I actually took sick days during my pregnancy which I felt very guilty about. I was just so incredibly weak and dehydrated a lot of the time. Acknowledging the struggles does not make us ungrateful. Growing a human being inside of you is a BIG JOB and taxing on the mother. and if there are aches and pains you must acknowledge that.
Oh, I know all about that guilt. I drag myself to work no matter how I’m felling. Hydration is such an important one and something I’m not too disciplined about. Grateful we have healthy babies.
One always assumes that its easy not knowing its so much work to put in and constantly working on yourself and your brand. Great detailed article, your work is always of pleasure to consume. We can’t wait for your ebook.
This is my first pregnancy and I am finally in my second trimester. Sadly I have Hyperemesis gravidarum (severe morning sickness & vomiting). And I get headaches and leg cramps at night. All of it is tough for me as I am not used to being sick (only ever have a cold/flu).
I am actually grateful to be unemployed this year as I cannot do much because of all the not so nice symptoms. Also grateful for my partner and my mom.
Oh mommy, I’m so glad you found this post. Very sorry about your Hyperemesis and I hope things settle down for you soon so you can get to enjoy some parts of this. Either way, the reward will be amazing. Shout out to your amazing support structure!
Loved the practical advice in this video. Thank you for sharing your experience so far. Looking forward to reading more as you continue with this journey.
This post jumped out at me for some reason. I have been struggling to figure out where exactly I want to go career wise (or actually it’s more like- now that I have my family, how can I make sure they are the priority while keeping me happy). I will answer the questions you posted above and have an honest session with myself to figure out where I’m going and what I want. SO thank you Thando- as usual, your content is on point!
Hi mommy, I would have loved to attend this one…where will we get details on the next coming in September and would like to get an email update when you have a new article on the Blog. I love your Blog, keep up the good work mommy.
Clicks Made 4 Baby Dryprotect Diaper Range now has improved absorption and fit, as well as a wetness indicator to ensure baby stays dry and comfortable between changes
My daughter llooooovvveeessss giraffe’s! She has slippers, pjs and a trillion toys! I would love to get this for her! Will make her a super happy little girl!
My kids are crazy about all animals, they even want to be vets when they grow up. My son’s favorite animal is definitely the ki g 9f the jungle, the lion and my daughter’s favourite is cheetah. I think these cards are so awesome, we collected all the Dino cards as well 🤞🤞🤞🤞
My daughter was 2 when my son was born. I then read somewhere that I should spend more time with her especially when the baby arrives. During my pregnancy with my son, I would have a tea party with her at every chance I got and i continued to do that when my son was born. It was the best advice ever. The two of them are very close but also fights alot but that I blame on the teenage hormones.
My son is starting with potty training and I absolutely love that they have the pull ups for toddler’s and it’s really inexpensive. Another thing I enjoy is the wetness indicator to ensure baby stays dry and comfortable between changes.
I love travelling alot but money can be a problem most of the time in order to go to places on your bucket list overseas, Thailand, Mauritius, Disney world but that doesn’t mean one can’t try new lodge or resort in your town, province or other provinces. It’s about try something new, making memories and refreshing one’s mind.
I love traveling because I come back home a better person with a new perspective on life. I travel for fun, creating memories with the family, to recharge, to learn & site seeing.
I love nature (forest type of life), listening to the birds sing and the serenity that comes with it. It’s always peaceful and I get time for some self-introspection while at it. I’m not much of a sea person but Cape Town seems to bring out the best in me.
I also love Mpumalanga (Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon/Nature Reserve, Bourkes Luck Potholes), Limpopo (Venda, Magoebaskloof & Bela Bela).
The garden route Durban – Cape Town not sleeping in hotels but B&B, the best feeling ever though I never got to do the bungee jumping in Tsitsikamma. I enjoyed the zipline, it was amazing. Would do it again and again. Think I must give bungee jumping a tryout in Soweto this summer
Travelling is the best, I must say. Whether it’s with family, friends or solo travel. I love it, I learn a lot when ever i’m away
1) Itumeleng’s second big surprise was “her Mother” who came to Johannesburg to surprise her at her surprise baby shower (I literally sobbed while watching this beautiful moment)
2) Followed BAVARIA on Instagram (Follower no.520)
I’m 18 weeks pregnant. What a great giveaway to keep my pregnancy mood swings at bay especially the car charger and powerbank for those times when my phone dies, which is twice a day. And the portable braai and cooler set which allows me to take a break from cooking on the stove and a perfect excuse for hubby and me to slip away for some “us time”.
Goodluck on the birth of your bundle of joy Itumeleng and hubby!
Itumeleng’s second big surprise was “her Mother” who came to Johannesburg to surprise her at her surprise baby shower
Got so emotional watching this, mothers are priceless
Seeing her mom after so long. Mom’s are our support system especially when you are pregnant with your first baby. I was In tears, I’m so happy that she got a lovely baby shower and the best part was seeing mommy.
Her Mummy!!!!
Bavaria bought her mommy to her from Harare… this was so so special as my mum lives thousands of kms away from me and i yearn her hugs and kisses..
Not only am i enjoying the benefits of Bavaria and it yummy flavours but Bavaria is our go to drink as hubby and his brother have been sober for the past 7 years and are celebrating their 8th sobriety birthday this coming week. its such an amazing accomplishment and our family are so happy & proud
Itumeleng’s second big surprise was “her Mother” who came to Johannesburg to surprise her at her surprise baby shower…So nice of her mom wish I could also have a baby shower like this #Dueinseptember
Firstly you are looking amazing!
The answer to the question is her mom, her came for her special day.
We all as woman need people especially other important woman in our lives to show up. Sometimes life gets busy and we get so tired up with everyday in and outs that we forget to SHOW UP. By this I mean we don’t make those calls to our friends and sisters, the ones that might need us the most.
My new years resolution this year was to be more present in my friends life, we started making time at least every 2-3 months to get together and spend time with each other. We are mostly mums and so happy to drink Bavaria 0.0% , my friends and myself can enjoy feeling like adults without putting our selves and family in danger.
It’s so important with the raise in woman drinking their wine during the day at play dates ect, that we take a step back and realise how bad it is. I can’t imagine getting stopped by a cop in front of my kids and being arrested because I have 2 glasses of wine.
Anyway I can go on about this but won’t. Thank you again for amazing content and also educating us.
The baby shower was supposed to be on sutaday she get birth Friday 3 am her mom was de one coming from Swaziland to see de two tainy tweens a gel n a boy
The big surprise was for Bavaria and hubby teaming up to bring her mother all the way from Zimbabwe.
This is amazing.
I would just like to say. You are blessed, Fortunate and lucky to still have your mother by your side even if she’s a call away. I am first time expecting mom and I’m facing this pregnancy with so much joy and also fear, about whether I’ll be as good as a mother that my mother was to me. It’s time like this when we need our mothers the most to teach us a few things they haven’t taught us yet, raising a baby!
Happy women’s month and safe delivery on the little one.
Also, hoping to win this hamper 😋😋
You are doing so well, your little ones are lucky to have you as a mum.
You have given great advice about breastfeeding, I just wanted to find out if you have any advice on weaning a toddler off the breast?
I have stopped breastfeeding my baby full time and I no longer have a milk supply, but I often find that when she is needing comfort (or wants to sleep) she either reaches for her pacifier, and if she can’t find it, she goes straight for my boob!
Thanks for sharing your beautiful story and life with us. You inspire us mothers that we are never alone and we are stronger than we perceive ourselves to be. I always look forward to your new blog. Your passion for life fuels life back to us and for that I thank you! Stay blessed!
Thank you for sharing momma😍
Which formula brand are you using? Im exclusively breastfeeding, My nana is turning 2 months next week and I feel sometimes the milk is not enough for him as he is always breastfeeding when awake
Thank you very much for this. My husband is the one taking care of the kids, whilst I work in another province. I’m home every weekend and it’s been seven years of this long distance marriage. I guess it’s TRUE that absence makes the heart grow founder. We a very close, the kids are growing so well. Its painful inside sometimes, but life is going on. And we have achieved a lot in the past seven years. Thank you.
It’s very beautiful. Can’t wait to see the master bathroom. Hopefully I can borrow from some of your ideas when we finally begin our 3rd building project. Love the bath tub in the kids bathroom. The bathroom also looks very spacious, a plus for building instead of buying right?
Stunning!! I’m loving it. We went for light grey through our most of our interior too. Can’t wait to see GM the kids’ rooms and kitchens. I need inspiration and I’m tired of looking on Pinterest We moved in 4 months ago and I have yet to do zero interior. Building fatigue set it plus our wallets ran dry 🙂
Amazing how time flies!!! And soon you will be doing the 3 months update and before you know it one year.
I also thought we would struggle going from 1 to 2 especially with no family support structure but one way or the other we have survived and it is always interesting to see how one copes
Amazing how time flies!!! And soon you will be doing the 3 months update and before you know it one year.
I also thought we would struggle going from 1 to 2 especially with no family support structure but one way or the other we have survived and it is always interesting to see how one copes and wonder why we ever doubt our abilities
Wow this is beautiful mommy 😍 we’re also building and I’ve been getting a lot of inspiration from your IG stories. I love what you did there with kids bathroom. Color scheme is so important!
Hubby was also mad at the base color I chose for our new home. But Ke happy wife happy home.
Wow this is beautiful mommy 😍 we’re also building and I’ve been getting a lot of inspiration from your IG stories. I love what you did there with kids bathroom. Color scheme is so important!
Hubby was also mad at the base color I chose for our new home. But Ke happy wife happy home.
Ouh, this is so beautiful & specious as well. Your kids are enjoying the new home and the colorful bathroom
Couldn’t agree with you on tint compromising on the kitchen & bathroom, it’s the best decision ever
My kitchen is done but still need to install a tap next year when we do the bathrooms. I’m definitely going for the same brand and will sure to visit CTM when that time comes
Wow , I am on my last week of maternity leave. I have been worried and stressed about my baby feeding. I will not be able to express during the day because of my work environment so I have to start mixed feeding because my supply will decrease. I was worried about formula not being prepared well or the water not being warm enough. The Perfect Prep is exactly what I need. The feature I like is the temperature of the water and the hygiene.
This would make my life so much easier as I have a 4 year old, 1 and a half year old and number 3 on the way with two babies on a bottle it’s going to be a bit challenging but with the feature that gives you your bottle at the perfect temperature always that will make it even more easier also the fact that your bottle is ready in about two minutes… Fingers crossed…
I absolutely love the the unique water filter ensures that the water is clean and removes impurities.
Will be a absolute delight and pleasure to win awaiting the arrival of a precious baby girl in December.
Thank you for the opportunity to win
Wow this is awesome, having a 1 month old is a 24hr job. Having this machine would me tremendously. My favorite feature is that is takes 2 minutes to prepare the bottles especially at night when I’m half asleep.
I am so sold on this item. My son started formula two months ago & I prep all his bottles before I leave for work, because I only trust myself with the hygiene prep part. My favourite bit has to be the hot shot because the piece of mind it would give me. The bottle being ready in 2 minutes at the right temp would be life changing. I also love that its not clunky & looks portable & elegant.
What I find amazing about the perfect Prep by Tommee Tippee is that it allows you to prepare a bottle at room temperature! BONUS- ready in two minutes! How awesome. As a first time mom I struggle to get baby’s bottle the perfect temperature especially during the night. What a game changer by Tommee Yippee! Well done 💗
Amazing! I saw this yesterday at the Mama Magic expo at the Dome. My was I bowled over! As a mom working full time and having side hustles and juggling the kids this is definitely a game changer. I’m currently exclusively breastfeeding and was planning to introducing formula when my baby is 6 weeks. This will be a great tool as I hardly used formula for my first child. I love it’s convenience and timeliness and accuracy of mixing the formula for whatever quantity. Would be a great addition to my Tommee Tippe collection 😍.
Wow talk about technology helping us mommies. I am blown away by this awesome gadget. My daughter whose 7months and a very big girl, goes through formula like it’s nothing and it’s really frustrating that at times I have to wait for the bottle to cool down before giving it to her. No matter how hard I try to plan around this, I find myself in this situation and the frustration that comes with it. I love that the water is at a perfect temperature to cut the waiting period and give my little one her feed when she needs and not a second later. The fact that it kills all potential bacteria with the “hot shot” is just an absolute bonus. It would give me peace of mind even on days when daddy has to make the bottle.
Thank you tommee tippee for making life so much easier and simpler to look after our little ones.
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I Totally LOVE this perfect prep machine. I call it the “DREAM MACHINE”
How i wish we had this years ago with my first born and second born childeren, this would just made my life so much easier.
I was so used to boil hot water and cooled it down with a jug of ice😂and strugling with a kranky and screaming baby. while now with this awsome awsome machine you can have a perfect prep bottle in just 2 minutes how awsome is this. By simply having this DEAM MACHINE you save alot of time, and can spend more time cuddling your boo or just to relax.
Ps : Thanks Tomeetipee for inventing this awsome product.
This will be very convenient for me. I’ve got a 2yo & 1yo who both drink 1L of milk each throughout the night. So, in order for them to get fresh milk, I have to wake up during the night & make the second bottles. Boil, wait for the water to cool down. Hence I said this is a much quicker way.
I love it because it makes a fresh bottle, at the correct temperature, in less than 2 minutes. This machine would make preparing bottles a breeze.Fingers crossed.
Ohhh wow!!! My favorite feature is hands down the ‘hot shot’ function. I mean!!! After washing and sterilizing bottles, I always wonder if they are clean enough, should I microwave a bit longer, should I rinse them again. This would give me piece of mind. I’m having a new baby and my 19 year old old only takes formula at this time as I’m resting before baby comes so that I’m geared up for breast feeding once more. This machine is a life saver🤞🏽
“The Perfect Prep has a unique “hot shot” technology which releases a burst of hot water at the beginning of the preparation process, to kill any potential bacteria in your formula. ” I think this is a Brilliant function
I love this because of the hot shot technology feature which is a feature that kills any potential bacteria in the formula Hygiene is important especially for baba secondly I love that I know my baby will be drinking the right temperature As a first time mom my wish was to breastfeed but unfortunately that didn’t happen 🙁 with breastfeeding one of the awesome benefits is that the temperature is always right now to have such a great product for formula fed baby is the best…
I would definitely love to win this! I know I’d make good use of it and spend my extra time bonding with my little one. It’s bacteria free and very convenient when it comes to time. My fingers are crossed
The hygiene factor is amazing. The water filtration system as well as that shot of hot water. All in all though…. What’s not to love. All the features are perfectly thought out to add to the “village” because I think every mum needs all the help she can get
The @tommeetippeeza Perfect Prep Machine is a dream for every mom. As a first time mom-to-be I don’t want to be anxious about what to expect especially when it comes to preparing a bottle for my hungry, crying baby at 2am. I love that in just 2 minutes to prep for a bottle means I get to feed my baby quicker, it will make life easier and give me more cuddle and quality time with my little bundle ❤️😍👌🤞🤰👶
I absolutely love the fact that it has water filter! Who doesn’t not love some clean filtered water:-) especially with my 6 week old bottle feed princess, this would surely make life a little easier when it comes to preparing her “Bobo” aka bottle :-).
The hot shot” technology which releases a burst of hot water at the beginning of the preparation process, to kill any potential bacteria in your formul
Wow Thando this is absolutely gorgeous for your princess. It is elegant yet so “girly” at the same time. Love these revamp you’re doing in your house, cannot wait for the next reveal.
I love the fact that the bottle is ready in 2 mind and that the unique filter ensures that the water is filtered and safe for consumption also I love the fact that you can use any size bottles and any brand formula yay to that definitely a game changer!!!!
Black Trolley Backpack – the weight and number of books have increaee with the grade. So carrying books on the back is hard and painful. The trolley will be a much better way and comfort of carrying books.
I have a toddler (almost two and in desperate need of a wardrobe size update!) who is wildly creative and loves playing outside. Which mean… I need clothes that are not only cute and fashionable but also good quality and durable!
So my little ones back to school shop will consist of some stylish shorts, durable t-shirts and comfy shoes and of course, a new sun hat!
It’s so nice to hear you guys make it an annual thing. We have never done this, it’s either Hubby away from me and the kid or me away from them. Will consider it though, this year.
You’re so close to the elephants, I’d be scared.
I had a few times away without hubby and kids year ago and it was just what I needed,life is hectic.i feel so refresh ,energised and feel like a new me mentaly and physically .Hubby plan to send me next month again and im in for it.we always need it amd im glad its not waste because like you said for our mental wellbeing .Love your post so inspiring too
You said it – life is so hectic and we don’t stop to introspect because life demands a lot from us. So lucky to be getting spoiled by hubby – enjoy every minute of the next trip mommy!
I am supposed to go away for 2 days, a church event. I almost cancelled but after you left for 4 days yerr. I booked, I missed the event last year since I was pregnant. You gave me an assurance that I should not worry and do me. Thank you Thando 🙏🏽🙏🏽
Aww, I’m glad mommy.There is absolutely nothing wrong with doing something you will love and enjoy too. It’s not easy to make the decision and I hope your church event will leave you feeling even better. Enjoy!
I also recently a shot left and it was amazing. Everything in this blog is exactly how I feel and know that some time away to reset for yourself is essential.
Myself and hubby only started last year on our anniversaryand it felt a bit easier as I waited far too long to go on that trip.I waited until the girls were a bit older (3 & 5) but actually learned that we could have still managed to go on a baecation when they were still a little younger. It’s tough at the beginning and being tempted to call my mom now and again to check up on them and not necessarily enjoying the trip but as soon as I heard those soothing words from my mom that they’re having a blast and actually hearing them say they are having a good time it made things easier as I could relax and unwind with hubby and just forget about the kids for a while. You actually realise the amount of time we spend as parents doing just that parenting we forget about us.
Sometimes, it takes us long to get there and it’s completely okay. We have to be comfortable to do this. I’m glad you guys got to experience this on such a special occasion 🙂
I absolutely love that it steams and blends it all for you, so convenient. Especially with baba no 2 now will save me time to spends with boys. Great article thanks so much xx
My favourite feature without a doubt is the fact that the Tommee Tippee quick cook baby food maker preserves nutrients and flavour. I believe any one would agree that with the majority of food we eat nowadays the nutrients have been lost in some processing or anything of the sort. As a parent you want your growing baby to get the most nutritious of meals, good for growth and development, making the quick cook baby food maker a WINNER in every mom’s eyes, mostly in mine😂😂. To win this for my angel would mean less stress filled days as I am a hard working mommy with out of the ordinary working hours, so the simplicity of the quick cook baby food maker allows for daddy to be able to get in on it . Lastly this competition ends on my birthday so hey help a woman out with the gift that keeps on giving😉😂😂
My baby is 4 months old and just a matter of time before we start weaning. And having done my research I knooow the Tommetippe blender is the way to go. The fact that you can steam and blend and there would be no transfers between the 2 makes it all whole.. I can’t choose a favorite feature, the whole thing is bomb and I can’t wait to start weaning with my baby💕💕💕
My favourite feature of the tommee tippee quick cook is that it can blend smooth or chunky !This is so useful as baby gets older as you can adjust to baby’s preferences
Well seeing as I am a super foodie and love to experiment… I want to give my baby the best kick start in life. Healthy non processed foods that I know exactly what went into making and I know what I’m giving her. So this little gadget is going to be more than just another gadget in the kitchen… both me and dad are going to love using it and Baby Thitha is going to love experiment with food like her parents 😇😇
Listen! I NEED this! I’m pretty much an out of the kitchen woman, but with baby here, I have to make my way in there.
I have a fear of feeding baby bad food and with the Tommee Tippeequick-cook baby food maker I’ll be on the path to health. After all, health is wealth!
PS. To all the mamas (and papas) reading this post, should I not win, may I please have donations. 😇
Talk about it weaning made easy. I love that i cam steam and blend baby food in one go. This would really cut down on cooking timw and will allow me to really experiment more with my baby food ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
I love that you can preset it to both steam and blend, so you can run off and do the million other chores that pile up with a baby in the house or just enjoy spending more time with your little one. My rambunctious littlie keeps me on my toes and preparing healthy meals for him is something I take seriously. This sounds like a really handy product to have in the kitchen.
Thank you for hosting these events. Someone asked me what Mama Mingle is and instead of calling it an event, I called it a space for mamas to connect. I personally do not have a circle of friends, so I am grateful to have a space where I can meet and connect with other mamas; other women.
It was an emotional session for me for many reasons and also very motivating and enriching. I am looking forward to the next ones.
I love that, it really is that “space” for us to engage and feel a little less lonely on this journey. So glad you found it valuable Mama and definitely looking forward to more ♥️
I have been spending a lot of time by myself and paying attention to my thoughts. It’s so easy to go into negativity mode and einv aware of my thoughts has been helping me reframe things.
I love the Quick Cook Baby food maker just as much as I love my Tommee Tippee perfect prep bottle machine! Just like I can’t live without my perfect prep machine I know I will not be able to live without the Quick Cook Baby food maker. I just love the convenience of it all! The fact that is steams and blends the food in a matter of minutes is definitely the best feature. Tommee Tippee makes it easy for moms everywhere and at the same time ensuring the absolute best for our little ones!
I like that it steams and blends homemade food, I think the food does not lose its nutrients when using this blender, it preserves the nutrients which are needed for the baby’s growth. Plus it saves a lot of money, you don’t have to buy already made food for the baby but you use what you already have.
Becoming a Mom of two has definitely left me with fewer hours in the day. I love the convenience and east prep with with this machine. Instead of standing infront of the stove for hours and then blending- I could be spending that time with my boys.
I would absolutely love to be to win as expecting new baby our experience with sleeping with our first born was a horrible experience and this would definitely be so perfect and ideal for a newborn. It’s soft and comfortable.
I would love to win this incredible product from Tommee Tippee as I believe in Co sleeping, but after waking up suddenly one evening looking at my baby who was blue in the face and not breathing( is now fine) I became very scared to sleep with him in my bed again. Ialso didn’t want to keep him out of my site again. He is turning 2 this month and I’m currently pregnant with my fourth child. I feel this can come in handy as it is portable and don’t want to feel restricted on my home again not wanting to move out of my room when baby will be sleeping.
Thank you again for hosting this event. For sharing your birthday with us, that was the special element to this as you could have spent your morning focusing on yourself.
It really did me well and I am ready for the next one😊
I would absolutely love to win the Sleeppee basket as a first time mother blessed with a newborn it would be perfect. I love that it’s portable and packed with safety features but my favourite part is the 300 airholes along the side to enable maximum airflow and breathability,this is particularly important to me because as a new mother I’m constantly worried about preventing SIDS,ensuring baby is okay as he sleeps and all the many fears that come with being a new mom. Having him close to me I believe would give me better peace of mind and allay my fears somewhat
I am obsessed with this sleepe basket, oh my goodness it’s beautiful and after reading your review of the product I am sold that no doubt this is the best product in the market.
This would be a dream! I’m having my first at the end of July and I love the idea of a portable sleeping basket that can move with you around the house. The fact that it’s easy to clean and made from recycled plastic is also a win 😍🙌🏼
Thando for me Omo Capsules are the best washing soap thus far,my daughter was born with a skin problem and i had to wash her clothes with green bar soaps,but a friend recommended Omo Capsule and it was ‘my get out of jail free cards’if i can put it that way.I never looked back since my first purchase.
it is gentle on her clothes and she has never had a skin irritation since using it.it is time saving and a warrior on soiled clothes.
Thando for me Omo Capsules are the best washing soap thus far,my daughter was born with a skin problem and i had to wash her clothes with green bar soaps,but a friend recommended Omo Capsule and it was ‘my get out of jail free cards’if i can put it that way.I never looked back since my first purchase.It is gentle on her clothes and she has never had a skin irritation since using it.it is time saving and a warrior on soiled clothes.
WOW mommy, what a feel-good-story. So glad you found Omo capsules and that they’ve helped and made life a little bit easier for you. I have to agree with you on the soiled clothes. Thanks for the entry Mama
WOW I am loving these OMO capsules, I love the fact that The capsules are always ready to go and are less messier, no dripping from the measuring cap onto your floor, a potential danger as you can slip.
Hi my favorite is the capsules smell great and dissolve fast. Our clothes come out of the wash feeling fresh and light, without any fabric powder residue.
I have two little kiddies who love playing outside and Especially in the mud… while it’s great fun, the washing is hectic! I love the fact that you dont have to measure it and especially the protective coating to prevent ingesting- good thinking on OMOs part
Great post, it hit the nail right on the head. I am newly single and after almost 7 years in a mostly suppressing marriage I now need to figure out who I am, and who I want to be. On this journey of self awareness I have gone through a few potholes, but feel I will make it out in one piece – at least I will know which piece!
Esrida, this journey can’t be an easy one for you. You should be proud of yourself for having so much self-awareness – it will help you identify your next steps and keep you on track. Wishing you all the goodness for this part of your life.
My goodness, I’m really struggling with this! I’m just frustrated! She gets excited about wearing the panties, but thereafter, she just lets go, no effort done! I’m afraid she’s outgrowing the nappies!
A topic I am very passionate about…I spend time alone to reflect and do things that make me happy. And I have learned to be grateful and complain less.
This just made me feel normal and guilt-free, we often travel alone and do a family trip in January. The kids look forward to it and we get to bond and chat about our goals for the year.
This is so insightful. My daughter is about to turn 4and it’s truly time. Quick question do you still have to stay with her till she falls asleep of not how did you she get over that?
Hi
I enjoyed reading this as I have been feeling exhausted lately, physically,and mentally. This year I decided to go back to school. I have a full time job and a mother to a 3 year old girl, and it has been a rollercoaster ride. I am just glad that I know that’s it’s okay not to have everything under control sometimes, and I don’t have to feel guilty about yearning for me time.
So glad you enjoyed this Nomahlubi – it’s really tough to get the balance right, but it’s equally important for us to do that self-investing.You will be very proud of yourself, congratulations and keep going Mama
Shew mummy, our food budget as well is sky high since lockdown but I am glad to see that the affordable nutrient-dense foods are all my favourite! Thank you so much for this enlightnening piece, it will do us some good.
I know exactly what you mean, it has been extremely hard during this time. This pandemic pushed me to start a Christian Blog as a way to focus on something else rather than what is going on around the world and being a mom does not make things easy. Thank you so much for a beautiful post and always being a source of encouragement to us moms.
For me things were done almost the same as you have explained..the baby’s father had to pay with 2calfs(not newly born)and a goat. The part of when a child can use his father’s surname i don’t understand because my family say that paying for damages doesn’t mean the child belongs to the father’s family, it only means he acknowledges his mistake and paying the damages is a way of apologising to the woman’s family. If he wants his child to carry his name he should pay lobola for the child (not eleven cows), the lobola amount differs with families.
I totally love how Dragonview offered fun for the whole family. But the rock pool has to be the my favourite. My little family would really treasure this place.
What’s there not to love about Dragonview Lodge! But if I had to narrow it down I’d say my favorite features are the views, the rooms, the pool and the kiddies play area ❤️ It has everything to keep the entire family happy and entertained
For me, it would be the views. It would be a time for me to relax. The rest of the family would love the swimming pool, kids would love the play area. It looks like a great place to relax and have fun at the same time
Mmmmh so many to mention but for me it has to be the kiddies area, especially for us parents.. The peace of mind knowing your kids are being taken care of while you unwind, doing adult activities..
The rock pool and the food mentions are what got me sold about Dragonview Lodge. It’s a bonus that there’s a child minder so I can have some ‘me time’ with the bump and everyone will be happy 😂😂 I also hope the slides are big enough for me as well 🤔
Honestly I love everything, if you didn’t say you were at a lodge i would have thought you are at your own beautiful house. It looks so homey, perfect for a family vacay
It looks so beautiful, serene and peaceful. I love the beauty of the mountains, lovely rooms and it certainly looks so peaceful which I so desperately need.
It’s the playground for me. Nothing makes a mother smile like seeing how happy their kids are when they’re in their element. Unfortunately due to work both hubby and I haven’t had time to do a family getaway and it’s my little man’s birthday in Jan. We had to cancel his birthday celebration due to Corona and I think this would be an awesome birthday for him. The place is amazing. And that BEDROOM…#GOALS!
I love the rim-flow pool, the kid’s play area and the fact that it is nextvto the dining area. Wait, wait wait….the onsite spa🥺😇💃 the interior is amazing 👏 I just want to wake up there and get inspired while the kids are having fun. That mountain view is breathtaking 😍 stunning hotel, I can feel the tranquility from your post.
When I go on holiday with my kids, I am always anxious and nervous about my Kids’ safety. It’s makes me happy to see how you could still relax while your kids had fun and you could easily see what they were doing. So I am definitely loving the kids play area and how child friendly this hotel is. Thank you so much for sharing this gem with us. I would definitely love to take my kids there someday so fingers crossed.
Love the fact that it’s fun for the whole family, young & old. Not to mention the beautiful scenery, peace and tranquil, the perfect escape for the hustle and bustle or the city.
Wow the hotel looks beautiful, love that it is environmentally- friendly by using solar power and borehole water. The childrens playroom sounds great, we could have some quality time with hubby😊
This place looks like such a dream… The scenery is breathtaking and that Dragonland playground would be perfect for my little adventure. The drive there doesn’t seem ad at all plus we love road trips over here.
I totally loved this place from the moment you arrived i was glued to your instagram stories,the views are everything😍looks so peaceful, looking forward to winning this giveaway as we won’t be going anyway for the holidays and since lockdown we haven’t been anywhere to refresh, this will be such a great opportunity for us to get some air and bond as a family as you did on that trip❤️
It is definitely the luxurious rooms and view for me while I know how much my daughter will enjoy all the playing space! What a beautiful establishment 🤩
Oh wow. Perfect accommodation for a family vacation. They playroom is a brilliant idea. Can’t believe this place is in Drakensburg. Thank you for the great review.
Wow, your words transported me there. Absolutely love that playground I can already see my 3-year-old exploring and making friends while I convince my hubby to take pics of me with those amazing views in the background. Can’t wait to experience that
What don’t I love? I love how doable it is with kids, a 4 hour drive sounds easy and isn’t too far away from Joburg. I love the entire space and how it has been furnished. I LOVE the pool and the view and last but not least, the kids can’t get bored with all that’s on offer to entertain them. This would be very special for my family and I, we’d have the time of our lives.
Ohhhmy goodness!! I looove love the pkay area for the kids ,the pool and the little beautiful kids tv room. I can already picture my adventurous baby gal there. Its beautiful place indeed.
What stunning views! I always struggle to find a place not too far a drive from home but able to also cater for my kid’s entertainment AND a bit of privacy for my husband and I and I think this is it. Will definitely love to visit 🙂
Just seeing the view is breathtaking, the view of this year was not clear enough a challenging year it has been and worse my family and I are used to even visiting short left in our beautiful country but this year we couldn’t due to the challenges we came across and closing this year my mom just had to leave this world leaving us a pain that I can’t describe it winning this would be experiencing a beautiful country we live in and embracing the nature
Such a useful and beautiful post and blog. The pool, playground and trails would be our favourite-getting out in nature. But hubby will be pleased for the wi-fi for sure.
Traveling with kids can be so difficult especially if the hotel doesn’t cater for children. That’s what I love the most about the Dragonview Lodge it offers the most beautiful child entertainment i have seen and the fact that there is a child minder is a bonus. Its a win for me and I would love to win this amazing giveaway and treat my family without worrying about the kids
Love, love, love this place. It’s so beautiful and scenic. I love how wholistic it is, it caters for everyone from the lone traveler to my big beautiful family. There’s something for everyone. Usually beautiful places rarely accommodate families, especially families with small children. I’m so excited to experience this majestic place
Wow, I really enjoyed this post. What stands out for me is the kiddies play areas outside and the room inside. Will definitely enjoy relaxing knowing that the kids are well taken care off, a venue with child minders are a definite yes.
The more I look through @dragonviewlodge’s gallery the more I fall deeper in love with their breathtaking views!
So serene! Their furnishing is sooo opulent, crisp and fresh!
I love that they are 100%family orientated, they accommodate children.
I love the amazing kids play area. Will definitely keep my 6 year old and 2 year old busy for a very long timeas you said in your blog post”It’s a natural play space with options for stimulating and engaging play for children of all ages”. 😁😁 The indoor pool is a big plus as my kids love’s swimming and they will be able to do it on the evening also. We as a family of 4 have never gone away together and this will definitely be amazing @modernzulumom the difficult year we have had we could use a break away from reality.
It is the kids play and entertainment area for me, also the playground. Holidaying with kids is a mission! Trying to find the perfect balance between kids entertainment and adult entertainment can be a nightmare. But this place seems to have everyone covered. Win or loose, I’m definitely booking this place one day😍
Hi sisi, I’m starting work next week and am a full time psychology student doing my last year with a 2 year old. I’m struggling with guilt more than anything but I like what you said about us being worth it too and she’ll be proud of mommy once I’m qualified. Thank you I needed this and good luck.
Thank you for sharing this ,it is still relevant in the year 2021 absolutely agree with you as the years progress it is challenging to maintain real genuine friendships . I think what I have observed in our culture was this idea that honesty breaks friendships, so we are less likely to share when we are not happy in our friendships or when its time to let go
Thank you for this. I absolutely loved all her looks giving me ideas. I am still working on my closet. I’ve decluttered many items just need to make sure that I let go of the sentimental ones. I definitely need a Carmel coat must make peace that I have to spend money for it
Hi Mama, I think a lot of us find ourselves there. Set small, practical goals then build up on them as you discover that it’s possible. You could even try to get a mentor or a coach to help you with your blond spots. You got this!
I love your content ,I started following you in 2019 and sometging told me to go through your blog today and I am veru impressed. I am Swati mother of 3 B
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This is a good initiation as my niece struggles aswell in grade 1. To keep them positive as its frustrating because they feel less worthy. As parents we get to forget to remind them how special they are. Thanks for overwhelming and positive idea. To our kids to our future
Hi Pholoso. Thank you for your positive feedback. It takes daily enforcement and a little empathy for what they are going through. With our love and support, they can achieve anything. Wishing your niece all the best.
I love what you said #point1 “First and foremost for me is prayer…speaking blessings over a child”
Love it!!
Hi Sibongile. Thank you, nothing surpasses prayer and faith.
This is such a big issue in most women’s lives. We want to be able to provide the best for our kids by earning a living but that unfortunately comes with often having to trust another person with your child. I watched that video and still can’t believe such people exist.
I am so proud of you my friend. Thank you for sharing the info.
Thank you very much Candy
Goddess of the Khuele
Your inner voice has the ability to paint a clear picture. Thank you for the narrative.
Loved it!
Even getting a 2nd hand car seat is a whole lot better than what some of these parents do out here!!
Indeed Ati. There is no excuse for negligence
awesome tips. Thanks for sharing. Do u have any agencies u can recommend?
Hi Weli. Thank you for the feedback. Try http://www.jozikids.co.za/listing/iintombi-domestics
My new favourite mommy blog! I enjoyed this. Strength to Nandi. She has gorgeous children and I wish them all the very best
Thank you very much Anita! We will pass on this heartfelt message to Nandi.
Nandi has been through a lot and her strength reminds me of her mom . She has theee most stable and loving background. Listening to her story, as older than her, She is my hero and my strength too. She makes me more positive and excited just knowing that everything is possible with the Lord. We just need to believe and give all to him. Thank you Nandi for such a moving story. Im very proud of what you have become. Only God knows . Love you always. Thanks to modern mom. Your stories are an ibspiration and not only appeal to single moms but to married moms too. Trust me its even worse when yoh have to gothrough tough times while having a partner.
Hi Khethiwe, thank you so much for sharing your special memories of Nandi and her mom. Indeed, everything is possible if we have faith. I appreciate your feedback regarding Nandi’s interview as well as the other stories on the blog.
wow i cant believe i know this lady. you remind me so much of your mom Nandi. wow my child i am happy to know that God is your strength. truly God is good.
Hi Portia, thank you for your comment – God prepares us for every battle. I have shared your comment with Nandi
An amazing and an inspirational young lady and love her to bits.
Nandi’s story is deeply heartfelt and totally agree with Khetiwe, definitly reminds me of her moms.
Having gone through some personal problems of my own, can’nt help but feel inspired and invigorated by Nandi’s courage and strengh.
Lovely pictures, love the article and you are my role model Nandipha…
Thanks for sharing the article Samke.
Hi Jabu
Thank you for your kind words to Nandi – I have shared them with her.
I was a student with Nandi and spent a year in a small group with her and others. I can bear testimony to the fact that she is an amazing soul. So humble, so kind, so resilient. Absolutely beautiful
Hi Eme. Its a small world! Thank you for sharing your bond with Nandi.
What a great article! This sounds exactly like what I went through after giving birth. It is a very dark and lonely place to be but talking to my partner about it and reading up on the symptoms really helped me get through it.
Thank you Shoki. I’m glad that you received some support when you had Post Natal Depression. Its an important step to recovery
I’m going through this period myself, I’m stressing just thinking about my currently 2 Year old daughter starting school/ where. Great insight.
xx
Thank you for the feedback Itumeleng. It’s a daunting process – document your “must haves” and determine your budget then go from there. Visit the schools and get a feel for the culture and environment.
True. We need to give ourselves more credit.
Any kind of routine will help them adjust quicker when they have to go the pre school as well.
As a first time mom-to-be I have spotted the Snappi Baby Chair in baby shops and from your article I now realise that it is certainly a baby must have!
Ps I also completed all the bonus entries – FB (Henriette Cronje), Twitter (@cronjehenriette) and IG (@henriettecronje19)
Hi Henriette. We hereby confirm all your entries. Thank you and good luck. Winner will be announced next week
With a 25 month old son and 12 month old daughter…feeding time is such a hassle….never thought of getting a Snappi Baby chair, but the more I read about it, the more I realise that it will be the necessary stress relief that I need! ! Thanks for the post!
Hi Ati. Thank you for your entry. The Snappi Baby Chair could really come in hand! Good luck
This would be perfect for my baby!!!! I’ve seen them and always wanted to try!
These are great, practical tips. Thank you Modern Zulu Mom
I am definitely with Team 1. The day is to celebrate Fathers FULL STOP. While we acknowledge the great work that single moms do in raising their children without the fathers help, the day is to celebrate those fathers that are involved. Further I disagree that a mother can play a role of a father. Kids need both parents because they bring different things to the table. Single moms do their best under the circumstances but it can never equate to how life would have been had they had both parents around. This is not to put down single moms or trivialize their role or efforts. But how God created it (in my view) was that both mother and father would play distinct roles that the child needs. In a modern world I guess it opens up the debate of what happens in families where a child has two mommies or two daddies. Don’t have all the answers but let’s please leave the day to acknowledge and celebrate the awesome work that loving responsible fathers do.
Thank you for sharing your views Weli. You’ve raised some valid points!! I think it would be unfair to take away Mother’s Day or Father’s Day just because some parents don’t play their part – it shouldn’t take away from the parents that do and deserve to be celebrated. I also agree that the role of a mother and father are completely different yet equally valuable.
Thank you ,
You are saving my life ,had nothing planned .With all the ideas you have given me .You are truly a life saver ..
It’s a pleasure Athi!! Enjoy and please let me know which activities you try
so ….
reading this , im inspired …
my only issue is the fact that I feel drained and all I wanna do is rest and rest and rest ,
my partner and I have 2 kiddies , a 3 year old and a 9 month old
he works in the night and I in the day so we only see eachother over weekends then take shifts with sleeping ,
im a working mother , also studying and finding it difficult to balance my time
my 3 year old is amazing buit I don’t have the energy to get off the couch when I get back from work
and
my 9month old is wonderful but I feel like I don’t give them enough time
I need some advise
I am drowning
Hello Nomsa. I’m glad this post provided some inspiration. It sounds like you really have a big challenge on your hands. Do you have any people that could help you, e.g. a nanny/parent/inlaws/sibling? I think you would really benefit from having some alone as well as time with your partner. Oftentimes, us mothers feel guilty about taking a morning or afternoon timeout over the weekend, because we already feel like we don’t have enough time with our children, but I can tell you now that it will make a huge difference. You will find yourself enjoying the time that you do have with them more and also feeling more in control of the situation because you’re not tired all the time. I hope this suggestion helps you.
Hi, Thando
I love the topic. I am so guilty of doing things in a rush. I will try your methods because I was doing introspection of my past 6 months and surely there’s alot I want to change especially writting things down and waking up before my actual time. Thank you and I am very proud of you!
Hi Pholoso, thank you so much for the feedback. I love that you re-evaluate and reflect every 6 months, something I should definitely try!
Bullying in schools will never stop until the hrceiahy system, grades and the corporate modeled social system in schools change. Grading kids, from A-F, causes bullying. It oppresses kids. The principal is the CEO of the school, the teachers are the bosses, and you have to address them as Mr, and Mrs. while the kids privacy is lost, and teachers do not have the respect for children back. Teachers call kids by their first names. Anytime you have an oppressed group, children in school, they will be worse to each other than the people oppressing them. The slaves did the same thing, they were worse with each other than they were with their masters, their oppressors. When you don’t have the power to rise up against your oppressors, you take it out on your peers. We call it bullying.I think psychologists have failed children by not pointing this out and saying school is unhealthy for children.
Reading this brought tears to my eyes. I don’t like what is happening in my life.
I’m a new mom, married and our son 6months old. It’s my second month back at work and I’ve been miserable. I’m failing in all areas i.e. Being a wife, a mom and a professional. I work late and travel a lot which essentially means I’m neglecting my family. I used to be a top performer but I’m now being told my work is substandard 🙁
I want more time with my family and be able to be the person I was before I had our son. Is that too much to ask?
Rorisang’s favourite Disney Character is Princess Sofia..She’s relatively new to us moms who grew up on Princess Belle and Cinderella..
The Descendants is a definite must watch considering they never made sequels to our favourite movies growing up..I’d definitely want to watch it to get that silly closure i never got as a little girl..sounds like the perfect family treat
Hi Nandi, thank you for your entry!
Hello Thando, my son’s favourite Disney character is spider-man, i think he likes it so much because his cousin likes it and because there is so much merchandise you can buy for the spider-man character. I love spider-man too. I know one of the Disney movies he really enjoys is the Lion King because he loves animals and I enjoy singing along to the film.
I would love to watch the Descendants because it sounds really interesting. We all grew up with Disney characters around us and it would be interesting to watch a movie about their Descendants.
Hi Grace, thank you for your entry! My son’s favourite character is also spiderman.
Thando and they are both called Lesedi 🙂
Interesting read and very relevant
Thank you Grace! I’m glad to hear that you found it useful.
Oh my goodness! I love the new look 🙂 Please come fix up my blog, well done Thando. Hope to meet you at the Premiere!
Thank you so much Anita 🙂 I can teach you one or two things with pleasure!
At first I thought Luniko’s favorite Disney character was Mickey Mouse, but I soon realised I was wrong. As long as it’s on Disney Channel he will watch it and zone out completely.
hahaha, that’s classic Siyanda!
The girls love everything Disney. And their favourites are an endless list that ranges from the princesses to the superheroes. But the constants that have always remained are Cinderella and her prince for Fifi and Minnie Mouse for Lesedi.
I asked Fifi why she’d want to watch The Descendants and she reckons it’s “gonna be so interesting”. She says it’s different from the fairy tales because it’s focusing on the villains. And she likes that the kids will be defying the parents and not turn out to be the evil kids they’re expected to become.
Lol, I’m not sure how I feel about defiance exciting her. I hope she doesn’t get ideas from that.
such a great read
Such an insightful article. I’ve learnt kids are resilient and adjust quicker than we expect. I always wave good bye even if it would be met with tears and now we have a ritual of a big hug for mommy and blowing kisses! And I think now she gets the message that it means mommy is leaving without me
You are so right Mrs FF, we forget about their resilience! I love your ritual, sounds special!!
Each has it’s pros and cons. I’ve always had younger nannies but after having to deal with the drama that comes with a pregnant nanny I can see why one would prefer an older nanny
That’s true Mrs FF, there are two sides to it! I hope you’re happy with your current choice.
I have tried both Young and Old Nannies… Old nanny was a disaster for me to say the least, from lacking energy to wanting to boss me around,etc
I’ve now got two good(not great lol) young nannies (26yrs and 30yrs) that look after my 3 kids (3yr old twins and a 6 month old), I’m able to delegate to them without feeling guilty, they are hands on with my kids, they play together, giggle,sing and have fun— which i like.
My NON-NEGOTIABLE requirement is that the NANNY MUST have at least one LIVE child.
I made a mistake of hiring a nanny whom i believed had kids sometime back, when I asked her if she had a child she said yes, 2 kids! Fine she came, but over sometime i noticed that she was not very friendly with my kids and she would snap at them, had no patience at all, only to later find out that her 2 kids that she told me about were actually stillborn 🙁 and she carried this bitterness with her and my kids reminded her of the kids that she never got to hold in her arms 🙂
Hi Twin Mom, wow! What a sad experience. Thank you for sharing it with us. We could all learn a thing or two from you.
This is still one of the best posts! So many moms go through this.
Thank you so much Shoki! Yes, they do. It’s a tough position to be in, but as the mom, you always know.
I wish all moms can read this! I used to be a teacher. But I do find in general moms just like to grab you in the morning to chat which is generally fine if it’s short but sometimes not if it’s long!
Oh and I wish principles would not admonish teachers in front of the kids. That also makes it harder for the teacher to obtain respect.
Hi Heather! I have seen how parents swarm to the teachers as soon as they arrive. It’s tempting to get into our issues as and when they arrive, but yes, we should be more considerate to these incredible people!!
This is so helpful and I am glad to know I am not the only being followed to the loo. My daughter even brings her toys along 🙂 I will definitely use these tips.
hahaha! I remember that phase all too well Tumi!
1. Natural Kids
2. KiddieBoost
3. Baniflu
All the best Karabo
This is awesome! I had no idea these products existed.
Answers:
1. Natural Kids
2. KiddieBoost
3. Sniffly Sprinkles
Thanks 🙂
Thank you for your entry! Good luck
1. Natural kids
2. Bani Kids
3. Kiddie Boost
Thank you for your entry 🙂
Looks like such fun!
Oh lovely story indeed.
Well done Shoki.
Nothing beats support ,love and care you give to others because they will also do the same.
Lots of love.
Makgalakwe
Beautiful insight to raising twins…more power to u for making it seem so effortless…
What a beautiful interview!!! So proud of you, there’s nothing as beautiful as being a mother…keep it up, God bless & love always
Love love love your honesty!!! Thank you for sharing….you make motherhood sound great…not without challenges but oh so great!!
Wow thank you the great info, as a new mom I’m too excited and post almost everything. Thanx will now limit my posts and privatize them.
I have the worst nanny experience ever, both old and young. My child is only 2 years and I have already been through 6 nannys. I have come to a conclusion that they are all the same hey.
And this is really sad because I work and study and I need someone reliable for my child but it’s really not easy.
Most weekends I take my daughter to my mom because when she’s there I feel more relaxed and at ease, but I have a live-in nanny at home 🙁
BeSafe
Thanks for your entry
Hi, one of the exhibitors is Baby Sense.
Thanks for your entry
Pampers
Thank you for your entry.
Hi Thando…i could name them all i have been waiting for it to come to Johannesburg again. My favourite ones is Kidz Emporium because they have amazing clothes and Genesis Clinic will be there. That i know because i’m having my baby there next year!!!
Hi Modern Zulu Mom 🙂
Making sure the baby’s seat belt is properly installed and fastened before travelling
Bring along soft, appropriate toys.
Do not give your child heavy objects in car rides such as clunky toy trains or toys with sharp edges.
Great tips, thank you!
Hi Thando. The exhibitors that will be there that I know is The Elle Collection and Pitta Petta.
Be Safe is an exhibitor this year
Baby city
Thank you for your story Shoki. I’m even more inspired and excited to meet my little twin girls. I’m 24 weeks and so tired already! Today I decided to take bedrest from work for this week.
May God continue to bless you and your beautiful family.
From one Zulu mom to be! -Thank you Modern Zulu mom for the article
Thank you for reading the story Sheena. Wishing you all the best for the last few weeks 🙂
We would love to see The Good Dinosaur, my son was so excited after watching the trailor it would make me mommy of the year
Going through this now! Came here for some tips / inspiration. This is such a hard process
Hi T.
Thanks for the post, I have finally took the plunge and registered for my BBA qualification with Milpark Business School and updated my LinkedIn Account. I have printed this article and placed it on my wall in the office.
Thanks again for the wonderful blog…….
Thank you for being a loyal reader. I’m so proud to hear that, wishing you the best of luck with your BBA – great example for your little girl
Glad you finally rectified the curtains and yes I hate cooking I am so tired when I come back from work to cook .awesome post
Wow great tips I have been thinking about a course from the beginning of the year.
Totally awesome tips
Thank you mommy!! We have to keep pushing ourselves 🙂
Your boy looks stylish and love those bags
Thank you Poine! I think I want the gold one for myself, lol
I love them bags as well
They are divine :)!
Before we get to the kids, I want to say how cool are those backpacks though??? I think I need one of each . As a mother of boys I am always looking for suitable fashion for them to wear, so I really the look of this will be check it out
As a busy mom, I love preplanning and doing everything I can the day before so that the Mornings are not a nightmare
I’m still working on this Lindi. I’m more rushed that I would like to be in the mornings.
Oh how we have grown mommy, cant believe what a big boy he is.
I loved this post. Im a mom of a toddler boy and a 2 months old girl. This post was a very helpful post to me. Thank you for a lovely blog
Hi Anazo, I’m so glad that you found it helpful. I’ll follow up with more tips soon! Thanks for reading the blog xoxo
Great posts, it is sometimes a challenge to jiggle work, family schedules and your personal needs on a weekly basis more so on a daily basis. But it it somewhat comforting to know that I am not alone… So thanks for that reassurance that most women try and seek on social media, it’s awesome sharing.
I found with my 3.5 year’s room I had to buy online a blackout blinds http://au.gro-store.com/gro-anywhere-blind.html
That was quiet helpful for me. If you are interested in one. Let me know.
Nice read thanks Entle.
Thanks Entle. Being a working mom is not easy at all. I went to get blockout curtains that weekend and things seem to be improving 🙂
Hey, got a link to your blog yesterday (that’s one happy kid I see here 🙂
I love the design you have with your blog. And even better, your writing complements it extremely well, Kudos!
Thanks for visiting Zack – your feedback is appreciated!
you’re welcome 🙂
This is beautiful!❤️
Thank you so much Thozi ❤️
This is so touching, thanks for always sharing your journey openly. It is indeed that we can change our black men to be better and more kinder especially if we groom them from a younger age. Keep on the fantastic work!
Thank you so much Pholoso. There is a lesson to learn from every experience, I’m glad to have a platform to share.
Oh babe, this is therapy on its own. You have learned to let go. Its amazing how time really works right? It brings with it compassion, forgiveness, love, contentment, acceptance and appreciation. This is so raw and beautiful. Love…
It was indeed therapeutic Lebs. Sometimes, we just have to go through the pain to get to the lesson. Thank you for reading xxx
I am a natural girl, I have had natural hair for the last 3 years! Will tag you on some snaps on Instagram! One thing I am still struggling with though is finding the right products that will keep my hair soft & strong. Thats the reason why I would love to win the care package. ?
Thank you for your entry – your pictures look awesome!
I love Indalo care products, I use the moisturising mist and it just love my hair right back to health. Go Noma, you’re doing a great job!
Wow what a wonderful read , sis’Noma is one of the powerful black women I look up too and she has played a vital role in my adult life. I am very happy to see her product Indalo Care grow so much.
I have not used Indalo Care before and I have recently chopped my hair , I would love to win a set of the Indalo Care products to assist in my new healthy hair venture.
Thanks for entering, good luck Cleo
This is so beautiful friend! Time, indeed, provides healing and a great perspective on things our younger selves couldn’t quite appreciate. Thank you for sharing. ?
Wow, its my first time to hear that theres a product specially created by our very own and a daughter of the most high God.
Me and my 8 year old daughter we just started our journey to a chemical free natural hair. This came at a right time because we were still trying out different products that are on the market. It will be a blessing to win a hamper from Indalo and we will gladly testify in the next few months about this amazing product. I’m pretty sure that by then my hairline (njibhabha) will be back.
Keep it up and may God stretch your tents.
Thank you for your entry Nolho! Good luck xx
I believe I really should take better care of my hair. I have been ‘wearing’ my beautiful afro naturally for about 5 years now. My constant struggle has been getting it supple enough to style it myself without always having to go to the salon, as it is quite dry and breaks so much that daily tiny balls of hair strands come off (this is no exaggeration). I tried different products but it’s as though my hair just sucks up all the moisture. Eventually I resorted to cutting 3/4 of it last year. I’m growing it back but I worry that once again I have to deal with the dryness. So, I’m hoping that Indalo Care products will bring an end to that ongoing struggle.
Thank you for your entry Unathi. All the best!
I would like to win the hamper because Im a mom to a 3 months old baby girl and I normally relax my hair. Now I want to cut the relaxed hair and start afresh naturally for my little girl. I know how a relaxer burns and dont want that on her as she will someday ask “mom why is your hair different from mine?” so I want her to grow up seeing no difference from her and her mother. This is just the best motivation for me to big chop.
Thank you for your entry Anazo & good luck
Such a beautiful tribute!! Brought tears to my eyes!!!
FINALLY!!!!! This is what I have been searching for…..
I have been struggling to find products that will assist me with maintaining my natural hair for about 7 years now. I have literally tried everything,even some products from Zambia.
I have a head full of very thick and extremely stubborn hair. My scalp is generally dry no matter how much I moisturise it therefore my hair is forever brittle,breaks and difficult to comb and style. I’m also getting married on the 29th October and I’m planning to embrace my natural hair on the day.
I also have a 10 month old daughter, we cut her 1st locks a week ago and I definitely want her to go natural until she is old enough to decide how she wants to keep her hair. She so far seems to have inherited my hair texture etc. It would be awesome to start treating her hair with these awesome products now.
PLEASE allow my daughter and I to experience these Proudly South African Indalo care hair products…
My hair needs serious deliverance…. I really need this!
Please also let me know where i can purchase Indalo Care products.
Regards
Tumi
It seems like you’ve had a long hair struggle. To order, you can email noma@indalocare.co.za
Thank you for your entry Tumi and good luck!
Traveling in Summer has left my hair damaged and in need of some TLC, so I would love to win this!
Oh Wow great stuff.
My first time hearing about this product, I like the fact that it was founded by a woman and executed the idea into what it is now.
I’d love to win this hamper to explore new things and obviously write a good blog about it.
Job well done
Hey Thando
Thanks for the tips on coconut oil especially as a hair detangler for mini-me’s hair. been using it for a month and now we can plait hair with no tears.
Thanks 🙂
Tumi
Yaaaaaaaay!!!! So glad to see that you’re seeing some great results Tumi.
Wow sounds amazing my daughter uses my tablet more than me and she knows her way around it this one sounds amazing, will ave to get it for Abeerah soon. Lovely review
Self reflection is always good,helps us to improve who we are as well as become better people for those around us.Circumstances in life can surely dictate which way your life will go but it’s up to ourselves to make sure we steer it away from things that will hurt us.
Absolutely Coco! The lessons can be a blessing. Thanks for stoping by xxx
Really enjoy your blog Thando. Even though I am not a parent yet I still relate to most of your articles and I think you are doing a brilliant job at motherhood.
Regards,
Zandile Gambushe
Thank you so much Zan – I love how open-minded you are. You’ll be a very informed mommy one day!
Such a nice read, those are also personal traits I possess. I have one more though which I’m not really proud of, I am very impatient and I been battling it since I was a teenager how hard can waiting for something be? like seriously I should start an AA sort of group and be like Hi everyone my name is Anazo and Im impatient lol. I have found comfort in praying now. Each time I feel that itch I say Father God please intervene and help me wait a little longer. I’m
learning. Thank you for your blog.
http://www.toomuchmom.blogspot.com
Anazo, I’m the same, especially when it comes to the “big” things. Prayer is a good way to deal with the anxiety while waiting.
Congratulations Thando!!!!
Thank you so much Tumelo xoxo
Congratulations Thando.
Blessings to you and your beautiful family.
Congratulations 🙂
CONGRATULATIONS!! Blessings,Blessings!!
Welcome to baby Khumo, congratulation to you and yours Thando.
I so get you with being discreet.
Enjoy being mommy to a girl 🙂
Congratulations Mommy… Welcome to the world princess Khumo… I love the name.
Congratulations mommy Thando.. Blessings on Blessings.
Aunty Charlene
Congratulations my dear Thando and family. Mama Winny is coming watch the space… I can’t wait to meet Khumo
Belated congraa?
Am such a fan of your page
I’m so happy for you, Welcome baby Khumo. I still can’t believe it myself that I gave birth to a girl 4 months ago. Enjoy every bit. looking forward to reading the pregnancy posts
Extremely happy for you Thando.
So happy for you angel???
Thank you lady-Leeyah. Much love
Congratulations babe! Blessed you are! Such a Princess name fit for Princess. Enjoy your bundle my honey
God bless your family ❤❤❤
Thank you so much Kitty, really appreciate it
I will take my girls to Rosebank on the 23rd April 🙂
Thank you for your entry Bev! Good luck
I will definitely be attending the Melrose Arch ones. So exciting!
All of them by the way! We are a book family 🙂
Wowza! That’s awesome mommy, good luck!
Congratulations. And may she be a source of wealth to all those who come her way xxx
Very very useful. My daughter wasn’t born in SA but we still had to ensure she was registered ASAP and also had to ensure she was added to our medical aid ASAP. So much admin but it all has to be done – sleep deprivation and all, but it is all for a good reason
We need to decide which to attend… lots of dates and venues means we have lots of choices, which is nice. Morningside, Rosebank or Brooklyn on the 16th or 23rd And Melrose arch on a sunday is also a very good choice
It’s awesome that there are so many venue options! Good luck
Very interesting!!!! I love learning about other cultures. Where I come from it is frowned upon for an unmarried lady to fall pregnant and the families would usually do everything to hide this fact and in some instances I have seen girls taken to the village and asked to leave the baby with grandmothers and the child is said to be a sibling of the mother. Thankfully this is changing now and there is a bit more understanding/accommodation
It’s always interesting to learn about other cultures – thanks for also sharing that with me. I think all cultures must have frowned upon it at some stage
I will definitely be attending Brooklyn on 16 April with mini-me. We need new book 🙂
We love new books!! Good luck mommy
Yay! This is brilliant! I’m going to take full advantage of this and kill two birds with one stone. I’ll take my niece and nephew along for the experience, while getting a few books for our own bundle of joy that’s on the way – I’m due in May, so the countdown is in full swing! We’ll pop by Morningside on 16 April. Can’t wait!
Congratulations on your bundle, so exciting. Look out for upcoming pregnancy posts that may help you along and good luck for the giveaway
Thank you so much! I’m really looking forward to upcoming posts on pregnancy. I loooove your blog!
What a lovely post! Short and sweet. I always get carried away with telling peeps about my preggy journey I have so much to tell but I was a bit like you on some parts. I was anti social and stayed indoors most of the time. I also had an emergency csection in 2012 with my boy and opted for an elective csection with my little girl. I wish you all the best with her. oh nearly forgot my boy a month after giving birth he dropped a bomb and said “mama akasoze aphinde abesesuswini sakho ngoku ubaba mkhulu” (mom your baby will never be in your tummy again she is big now) where had he got that from? kids! lol
Hahaha, I think that’s his way of saying he enjoys having his little sister around in the REAL world vs. your tummy. Thank you, I’m enjoying her so much
This is so beautiful…
Thank you so much Mama Bear!
Absolutely Cannot wait to see the little lady….(who stole my baby’s birthday hahah) All the best Thando, you inspire me so much, and are an awesome mom, those two babies are blessed to have you 🙂
That she did, lol. They will have cool joint-parties in a few years. Thanks Yoli!
❤️❤️❤️
Hey Thando. Thank you for sharing your beautiful journey with us.
All the best with the little angel.
Xo
Thank you so much Kimmie! Will need some notes from you.
Love love love this ?
Thank you soooo much
Amazing how each pregnancy is different. Love reading snippets of other people’s experiences. Big brother must be enjoying his new role and sharing mom’s love.
Hope your skin goes back to being flawless
Oh, you have no idea. He adores her, thanks Mommy
Melrose Arch with my three little troopers!
We are attending : Saturday, 16 April at 10:30-11:30: What Pet Should I Get? Dr Seuss (Jonathan Ball Publishers) Melrose Arch
Ingenious tips ☺ Every new parent will be thanking the Author for these tips.
Thanks for linking with #ShowcaseTuesday linky and welcome to our little blogging community
Hilarious and completely accurate! This sould be printed and handed out to new parents so they can give it to their friends! Even the ones with children break these rules sometimes. #ShowcaseTuesday
My goodness Thando this warmed my heart.You are doing an incredible job at motherhood and blogging. Really enjoyed this.
Thank you for your consistent love and support Zandile xoxo
Only reading this now lol you’d understand coz being a new mom it can get so hectic. I’m so glad I bumped into you when u were pregnant, and you got to share a bit of this story. So beautiful reading this ❤️❤️❤️
How my little cup cake luv books you cant even say anything when she is holding her Bambi Book showing mommy pictures and mumbling reading , will definitely be attending in Clearwater on the 30 April
What a beautiful story, so precious. All the best and may God bless your family
This is super cute 🙂
I laughed while reading but you are spot on. With me its like the time I was pregnant I didn’t go for visits and didn’t want visitors. Having friends know these would really help. I will go have a read at Tshepo’s blog too
Thanks for this topic Thando. I attended 4 antenatal classes, and the nurses made it clear to us that breastfeeding was no child’s play. For some reason I took this for granted. My baby arrived and she latched on immediately, and I was told I had “perfect breastfeeding boobs”. She fed well, and I produced sufficient milk. My baby was underweight at birth and during my stay at the hospital, the nurses would top her up with 20 mls of formula, using a cup. They said I needed to do this until she was 3 kg’s. I returned home, and continued breastfeeding and topping up with formula. I thoroughly enjoyed breastfeeding and I produced a fair amount of breastmilk. Then I was given advice by an elder in the family to give the formula using a bottle instead of the cup, so that “the baby could get used to the bottle” before my return to work. The nurses made it clear to me that babies get confused between nipples and teats, hence the cup feeds. Within a few days, my child refused to latch on my breast as she was now confused between the nipple and teat. I was highly emotional and this made things worse because my baby would sense that I was anxious. I then purchased a breastpump, and was able to express and fill up the bottle. Again, nobody told me that I needed to ensure that I express as often as I could to make sure that I produce sufficient milk – as demand increased the supply. I was very sad when my milk dried up after two months of my baby’s birth. I tried jungle juice mixture, I bought Fenugreek (pills that assist in the promotion of breast milk – I googled this). I eventually gave up, and now my baby is on formula. As a first time mom, I had no clue just how tough breastfeeding could be. Like you say, society makes it seem as if it’s the easiest thing to do and we get judged when people hear that you’re not breastfeeding.
Wow, thanks for sharing Kim. I’m sure that many mommies will relate to your experience. So much more goes into it than we realise – second time around I thought it would be easier but it’s not.
I’ve been on Fenugreek for a week now and have also tried two different breastpumps
You did all you could and let that be your peace Mama.
I was soooooo lucky i never had any problems with breastfeeding instead i had so much milk and i really wanted to donate some.
Thanks for sharing Thando. For me breastfeeding was the most stressful part of this journey. My mom and aunt prepared me while pregnant as they also struggled with their kids (me included) but the superwoman in me had the illusion that It should be a walk in the park because I felt I had prepared (read) enough to master this thing. Fast forward to baby’s arrival and she did not latch on properly. Nipples cracked so bad that when she was crying while feeding, I was crying with her.
I also hope with next baby, this process is easier but we’ll see.
Tjo! moms I’ve had a breeze with both my kids and I love breast feeding more than anything in this world. Afew weeks ago I shared why I love it on my blog.
http://www.toomuchmom.blogspot.co.ke/2016/04/i-love-breastfeeding.html?m=1
Such a beautiful story. I enjoyed reading this. God bless. 🙂
Sweet. Congrats to the new mommy
Gives me hope for the future. She has always been such a humble soul. She deserves all the happiness!
God’s grace is truly sufficient….
Beautiful story!
beautiful story friend, enjoy every moment with the little one…and Congrats once again.
Really love sharing breakfast with my little 4 years old boy because we get to play around and experiment with different kinds of fruits toppings.You really don’t need sweet things to make your breakfast tasty and delicious.
Thank you for your entry Kwanele. Good luck!
beautiful story friend and I’m so happy for you and Mr. wishing you all the best. love Lu
Beautiful story, I was completely captivated. Congratulations on the blessing!
What a beautiful story.God’s precious and most priceless gift. Enjoy every moment.
It’s a great way to start the day with a family moment together. We only get to have breakfast together on the weekends and so we make these times count!
Thank you for your entry Julie. Good luck!
My children and I still stay at my home with my mom. Everyone helped me with the little one from the day we arrived from hospital and my 4 year old little boy felt neglected and I noticed. What helped was spending time with him when my little girl is sleeping. Fortunately she slept more in mornings so I would take my toddler for a bath and get him ready then we will sit together in the table and have breakfast together. Breakfast time helps me bond with my child it reminds me of the time he was still
a baby and depended on me. I guess we love it when our kids know they can depend on us.
Thank you for your entry Anazo. Good luck!
We share breakfast every morning with the kids and I always tell them that breakfast is the most important meal of the day..cause I know that if they don’t eat breakfast then they won’t perform well at school. I also won’t concentrate at work..I love my family so much m and we meet when it breakfast cause we love one another???
Thank you for your entry Emizer. Good luck!
I have four daughters, age 2 to 18, my household is extremely busy, but one part of our day is sitting every morning at the table having our breakfast, it is the most important part of our day and most important meal of the day. Good Food, Good Family
Thank you for your entry Michelle. Good luck!
Breakfast is the most important meal of the the day having breakfast around the table together each day has made it meaningful time for our family to really connect bf the busy day begins
Thank you for your entry Pretty. Good luck!
It is the most special way to start any day – those few moments of sharing a meal together while the sun rises are moments to cherish. They help us get each other through the rest of the day. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day so it is natural that we get our sustenance by eating nutritious healthy meals.
I have also shared this on facebook as well as twitter 🙂 (@shanithatsme)
Thank you for your entry Shani. Good luck!
Breakfast is me and my little one’s quality time as the house is quiet by then and it’s just us two. It is the most precious time for us and it makes my day, every day
Thank you for your entry Leonora. Good luck!
I love sitting down with my two girls weekend mornings, each a bowl of breakfast, bonding. I work full time, and they both go to creche ( they have breakfast at creche) so weekend mornings are special to us 🙂
Thank you for your entry Natasha. Good luck!
I enjoy sharing breakfast with my little ones because they are full of life and giggles with many stories to share with me.
Thank you for your entry Zeida. Good luck!
I love sharing breakfast with my little one because it’s the only time in a week day where we really get to chat about everything, she talks a lot and always changes what she wants to be when she grows up everyday. So its the best time where it’s just the two of us catching up on everything
I enjoy spending time with my four year old daughter because its the most important meal of the day and we get to chat about what we going to do for the day.
In the world we live in I am trying to raise my little one with the awareness of giving and helping those in need. My lil angel loves the idea that she is helping someone have breakfast just by eating hers which makes my breakfast mornings so much easier!
IIt’s important to fil a childs stomach with something nutritional so that his brain is healthy to observe daily teachings.teachings.Kelloggs was and still is my favourite
I love sitting with my girls and enjoying breakfast together cause it gives us a chance to start the day positively, full of energy and to always have a chance to say how much we appreciate each other.
Having breakfast together as a family allows us to start off our day in prayer. It also allows us to encourage and motivate each other for the day ahead. Saturday breakfast are a big affair as we tend to have a full English breakfast. Sharing breakfast has strengthend our bond as a family.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and having it with you kids allows you to bind and spend some quality time together. Shared on twitter my twitter handle is @b_balutto 🙂
For children, who are rapidly growing and using tons of energy in their sleep, a fuel boost in the form of a full breakfast is especially important. A hearty meal before school means energy to get through classes, extra-curricular activities and having fun, too. Not only are breakfast foods easy to prepare, there is so much variety that even fussy eaters my kids are sure to enjoy. For example, children are sure to love wholemeal toast with bananas and peanut butter and it’s a great way to get much-needed dietary fibre. Wholegrain cereals in dazzling natural colours and shapes, when paired with milk, pack in tons of calcium for growing bones. Enjoying breakfast with kids is a great way to encourage them to adopt healthy eating patterns and habits. I have tweeted for an extra entry @rehanaseedat
Love chatting to my girls early in the morning
I love sharing breakfast with my little one because it gives us that time to bond as I am at work all day. i also love to watch his progress each day with his eating becoming more controlled and of course the glee on his face when I clap hands for the empty bowl!
I haven’t crossed the sibling child bridge yet but these are very helpful tips. It is always easy for us to forget that older siblings are kids too and need lots of attention. My SIL got her daughter involved a lot with her son, asking her help made her feel needed while mommy was busy with the little baby. Though being the child she was, one day she promptly told her mom to please return the baby brother to the doctor and get a baby sister instead because in her words “boys are too
Naughty” 🙂 if only it was that easy
The one tip I have heard a lot of people say is helpful is to try limit the number of changes in the older siblings life at the time a baby is born. So it might be good to put your toddler on school months before baby comes not when baby comes so toddler doesn’t think she or he is being sent away
Hahaha, your niece is too cute!! I love that tip on the changes, children thrive under a consistent routine.
You’ll be well-informed when number 2 arrives 🙂
Miracles do happen…. And yes there was the drama – be careful what you wish for 🙂
Aaah Karabs, this made me teary! Enjoy Thori?
I am also raising my partners little boy. I love him to bits,I haven’t had any problems with him.He even calls me Mama and he adores his little sister.
I also haven’t had any baby mamas issues.. Really loved this article.
That’s beautiful Kwanele, all children deserve that kind of love. He is very lucky to have you
This is so fun. Such a pity I am not in South Africa
I struggled with my older son being jealous when we arrived from hospital with the new born. When baby was asleep he would want to sit on my lap too and be held like an infant. Now he has really adjusted and adores his little brother. I involve him in everything and always assure him that his little brother loves him
Oooh sweet man. It takes them a while to understand and get used to the new members of the family. My son was so sad when he had to leave the hospital every night they came to visit. So glad your boys get along well and love each other
I really don’t like breastfeeding. I am still doing it nonetheless, but I just don’t enjoy the feeling especially when he just wont let go of the breast
ncaaaw such a sweet story
It was gorgeous dear.
Thank you so much Mama-Bear xxx
love the pastel colors, beautiful shower you had mommy
Thank you so much Nomsa 🙂
So beautiful.
Love love coconut oil it’s the best.Found that since using it for cooking my family hardly gets sick
It’s divine. I’m currently using it for my baby’s rash and it’s been so good
I need to start using it more for cookong
This was so beautiful and pretty. A huge congratulations once again
Thank you Pholo, much love
So so pretty <3
Thank you so much Lu ❤️
Breathtaking and beautiful.. I love the combination of colours. You looked lovely dear 🙂
The ladies did a great job. Thank you honey
It looked stunning
Thank you so much Ms Lee ❤️
Wow! It must’ve been really nice. I love the outdoor setting it must have been really refreshing for you. I stayed indoors most times of my pregnancy.I hated being seen out as a result I went out when I went for my Antenatal visits.
Congratulations mommy. Stunning ❤️
Thank you so much Nosipho ❤️
I absolutely love reading your blogs lately Thando! They’re so insightful and encouraging.
I was very hesitant at the idea of even thinking about baby #2 but I can safely say that I’m definitely planning on trying again soon.
I failed dismally at breastfeeding my daughter (now 13 months old) and that really stressed me out! But now I know how to tackle it the 2nd time around and I’m really looking forward to it.
Being a 1st time mom isn’t easy at all but we all learn along the way.
Your encouragement is really appreciated!!!
Aah, thanks Tumelo. I’m glad I’m part of inspiring number 2 ☺️ it’s wonderful. At some points in the pregnancy I wondered how I could possibly have capacity to love more than one child, but it comes and the second time around you have a much better idea of what to do, although the learning curve remains steep ❤️
Oh wonderful to hear that baby and mommythey are doing alright.
Thanks Poine ❤️
Thank you for the awesome blogs. I love reading them.
❤
Thank you so much Bitso, means alot ❤️❤️
Such s sweet child!! Glad things are easier the second time around. I think knowing what to expect reaLly does help and having support and using it helps s great deal too
What would you be studying? Full time or part time? You are definitely one super mommy
Thank you Darling, she really is wonderful!! I’ll be doing labour law, been a while since I’ve studied so I’m quite nervous.
Yep!! The one thing I’ve learnt is a birth plan is just a plan it doesn’t always go according to plan.
Amazing how we can function on little sleep 🙂 🙂
So beautiful!!!! I don’t like surprises but I like surprising others 😆
I’m the same!! Having that little bit of control certainly made me feel at ease, lol
THe lengths parents go to make children eat
Ps: 22nd is Sunday
Thank you so much for the heads up ☺️ – in just a few months Khumo will be ready for solids.
What a perfect idea! We do this often, even tough our kids are a bit older, it is just easier to pick up food after the kids go to bed and catch up on a tv series we love or a movie or two we never got around to watching. I love being able to be right here and it is much cheaper than a night out on the town!
Absolutely Allyson. We often get stuck in the mindset that you can only do a date night by going out ☺️ I’m going to do more of these, it’s the beginning of winter in South Africa
My perfect date night will be under the blanket with a good comedy movie with hot chocolate and popcorn. That will be awesome
We love catching up on series with loads of comfort food and a glass of wine. I find it way more relaxed than going out to the movies or a restaurant
Me too Carolyn ? I’m slowly getting into Billions
My perfect date night is with my husband and two pooches curled up on the couch with our fav junk food and catching up on A Game of Thrones or any other series we have been missing out on and having a few glasses of wine and just chilling, relaxing and chatting.
We got married on the 23rd of April and all was so hectic that it is nice being in each other’s company.
Aaah lovely, congrats ok your wedding Adri
Thank you SO much! We are making more time for each other now. Life happens and before you know it it is over so enjoy the small things xx
My ideal date night in is popcorn and a movie or a couple of movies! Some warm blankets and hot chocolate as well is very romantic and relaxing. We should be watching comedies cause we both will enjoy that…a total #Chilled night
Hubby and I love Boardgames,
so glad you mentioned it 🙂
Hi Thando this is escpecially close to me, having a 7 year old as well and a 1 year 7 month old… my 7 year old completely adores his siblings, they all adore each other generally… it was difficult at first spilting my attention and trying to get them to “accept” each other.
My 7 year old has the same problem, he is not too keen on visiting and being away from his brothers, he would rather be bored at home, and he is especially bored when they are both sleeping or the middle one is sleeping.
yummmmmyyyy
Getting a babysitter is such a hassle so we order in and either watch a movie (after a long debate to find something we are both keen to watch) or in summer sit outside at night and have gin and tonics.
My ideal date night is movies, popcorn, coke and a blanket – a rom com please 🙂
Tweeted @Roxi_23
Ideal Date Night # lights out # candes on # soft smoothing music # Takeaways # glass of wine # enjoying each others company # real conversation # no distractions #no technology # 2 of us locked in our own world # shared on twitter
My ideal date night is staying in under the cover especially with this cold weather, watching series and movies and having lots of junk food 🙂
My ideal date night would be with my loved one at a romantic spot on the beach. This must be done at sunset, creating the most romantic setting, the time when the sky is filled with it’s “beautiful Red Colour!” We would enjoy a Sumptious home made dinner, not forgetting a bottle of chilled wine in an ice bucket. I would then have our favourite flowers & candles lit spread all over the place. There must be romantic music playing in the background and after Dinner we dance & while dancing I would whisper words of love to him ! We would end the evening by a Bonfire, having a braai and relaxed with a couple of blankets & lots of pillows on the floor and feeding each other with chocolate covered strawberries & whipped cream! While bundling up under the blankets all comfy & relaxed, gazing into each others eyes & laying underneath the shining stars!
this idea is super. Wish you had posted this when my baby was still tiny…he he…she is almost 9 months so we finally started going on date night and leaving her with grandma…i am gonna try this next time.
I actually love this post!
I will keep all of this in mind, when I eventually get a significant other hahaha….
You make out being a mother sound so fun! And I can’t wait to have kids one day, so I could also do the morning school run, and football games etc etc.
I will still share this, because I think everyone needs to do this with their other half.
It’s sounds fun!
Keep well lovely human.
Would love to win this the only word I know close to pamper is baby nappies pampers lol.
A good comedy movie , hot chocolate . pancakes and a fluffy blanket ! Let’s not forget the pizza ! 😉 shared via Twitter @LittleMissLee86
The key is to start the date a little early (before it gets too cold at night). Do a treasure hunt at home where all the warm stuff is hidden strategically around the house. Give clues as to where to look. Then when all the stuff is found, you put em together. So it will be stuff like gloves and beanies and warm coats and soup. You know. Winter stuff. Then just add pizza and the DVD (which was hidden) and voila
The perfect date night in would be movies and pizza on the couch with hubby. If it could rain or be cold that would be a bonus.
With the colding hitting us I would definitely have a candle light movie night with Pizza as the main course. @KSK2827
My perfect Date Night In is
lying in bed with my feet up
eating pizza and cupcakes
watching a good series or a
movie, while my love paints
My toe nails. A girl can dream
Hi Thando thanks I am enjoying the blog. Motherhood is a gift, but it is a very difficult we need to support each other. All the best to you and your family.
This sparked some ideas for me because typically when we think of date night, we think of going out.We love staying indoors too and can never get enough of each other’s company.We’re moving into our new home in two weeks so the indoor picnic idea sounds perfect with good music in the background and we love playing crazy 8 (the card game) &my husband always insists on a reward at the end for whoever wins. It’s usually in the form of kiss or massage haha.
Yummy! Good ideas
My ideal date night would be with my hubby,just the 2 of us away from the kids,the furbabies and work drama.a romantic dinner at our favourite restaurant,with a large pizza,large coke and a top desk slab,followed by a gud movie.just like the old days when we were still teenages dating.
My idea of a date night is just me and my hubby – no kids around, no cooking and absolutely no mobile phones or any type of electronic gadgets!
I’ve always loved the juicing concept! Like you, Zulu Mom, I just love food, all foods! So as often as I can, I try maximise my healthy intake to cure the guilt I may have 😛 I absolutely love fruit and/ veggie juices. I’ve tried making my own simple ones but am really wanting to try a full on detox for three days. This would certainly help me learn more about the personal benefits and kick start my motivation to continue every so often.
Hi, I would like to win the Juicing Starter Kit to assist me in beginning a ritual of discipline with food.
I would like to eat well and maintain it but the problem is not getting tempted to cheat (which really is the enemy)!
I had actually entered into the Nirmala competition and didn’t win unfortunately, so I hope I win this one!
I am looking forward to challenging my body and mind and hope that I continue to juice and promote juicing in the future.
Best Regards,
Basetsana Pule
From December after giving birth in November I’ve been in a weightloss battle and changing my lifestyle to a more healthy and active one. I’m trying other weight management products and believe that juicing would help me he optimum results. I’m stuck at one weight which won’t budge and I suspect the way my body uses nutrients in my body are not being utilised and broken down by my body alone and need assistance in terms of detoxing and bowel cleansing. I would love to win this so much.
You know Thando, having a baby thats sick most of the time takes its toll on your relationship. Hubby and I hardly go out because we are too afraid something might happen to him whilst we are away. So having a date in would be ideal, where we know our oldest son is playing nextdoor and our youngest son is with the nanny. Our ideal date in would be us relaxing in bed with series, which we don’t get to watch anymore because the Minions movie is on repeat. I would love for us to have some quality time to relax where we are not worrying or being busy with the kids, but just merely bonding, which is important as we are newly married too.
I have never tried juicing. The flavours at Nirmala seem appetising. I am keen to taste and try this out
That is really sweet. Congrats on your little girl
I love reading your blogs about your baby cause i feel like there is somebody who is going through what i am going through. My son is 4 months now and hes teething which is a challenge, but we are getting through it. I also have an older son, Lesedi who also loves his little brother and i involve him a lot in taking car of the bay whos name is Baatile.
Your an inspiration with all the things you do. Goodluck with your studies Thando, i know youll make it 🙂
Is to lose weight and cut off processes sugars completely. More energy to keep up throughout the day. ?
I’ve got my big wedding day to prepare for so am in a healthy routine at the moment so this would be great to give me an extra boost with keeping it up 😉 especially during this winter ‘
I would love to try juicing because it will Help me with weight loss and boost my energy levels. I am following @nirmalajuice and @modernzulumom on twitter @rehanaseedat, facebook: rehana seedat and Instagram @rehanaseedat.5
I have shared giveaway via twitter @rehanaseedat – all steps done
I suffer from chronic fatigue and would like to add juicing into my diet, I’ve heard it is great to increase energy levels, detox your body and lose weight.
I’m really trying to change the way I interact with food and have a lifestyle change. I think juicing would be a great start in this new journey to a healthier me!
Would love to try juicing to increase my energy levels and improve my sleep pattern
I am always getting sick, if
The kids getting a runny nose
I’m going to get sick, maybe
Juicing is just what me and
My kids need
So since my baby is now 8months old today, I have no more excuses and since breastfeeding just makes me wanna eat more I need help!! Juicing is the answer!! Pls help me become a better me!!
Cute
Where do I start? I need to become healthier, I need to cleanse my body of toxins and I need to sleep better. That’s why I need to start juicing with Nirmala Juices.
Living a healthier lifestyle now , and I would love to start trying out juicing .
What a beautiful girl you have, thank God for affording you another opportunity, and thank you for sharing your story.
Hi Zwi. Thanks for the encouraging words for Gugu. She is courageous indeed for sharing with us
thats so sweet
My husband was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Juicing will be away to help my hubby to start eating. Drinking more healthy to combat his sugar. Liked . shared. Tweeted. Folliwing.
The last picture is everything. Absolutely love it.
Entered my video on Instagram, fingers crossed
Thank you sooooo much ladies
Beautiful story i saw her pics on your mom’s phone she is a proud Granny and mother you are truly blessed.
In God we Trust…and yes don’t believe in counselling so I spent a lot of time praying, Proud of you Karabo and Beautiful Thoriso.
Little Nkosana was a miracle. He’s living proof that God is real. My his light shine throughout his life.
Love baby Nkosana…..Thank you for bring such a wonderful soul. God bless.
Thank you for bringing such a wonderful soul
Oh, what a story! this is a truly blessed miracle baby. God’s light is definitely shining on him. May he grow to be a blessing to all that he’s going to meet in his life, and wishing the Nkosi family all of the best.
So inspiring! Im even more broody but with every story you realise Gods timing is PERFECT!
The lil prince is such a cutie Tsala..ya nor his going to be a chick magnet for sure.More than anything I wish nothing but joy and blessings for you and your wonderful family. …much love bozza yami
I guess I am a bit too late but I would have loved to start this juice regimen for health reasons mainly to become the best possible version of myself in the best possible healthier way
My son only turned 5months last Thursday and it looks like my breast milk has dried up. I’ve spent all morning reading up on how to fix this as I really enjoy breastfeeding him and I’m just not ready to let that go.
Oooh nooooo!!! Try breastfeeding and expressing as much as you can at work and home. Try the Fenugreek supplement from Dischem or Prolak. I used them simultaneously- check for pics in this post http://wp.me/p61pyW-nv
Its so refreshing to read your posts Thando. Glad you and Khumo are doing well. Cant wait for my turn so I can share my experiences with you 🙂
Aaah, thank you auntie Moips!! You’re gona be a great mom ❤️
I thought Nkosana was the only one that becomes more active and unsettled after a bath, if you get the solution please share
Great article as always
Thanks Aya! Will try morning baths while I’m still on maternity leave and see – I’ll post the feedback
I love these update posts they make me see that at that stage I did pretty well with my little girl. Yes you’re telling the truth when you say time flies. I remember I was so pregnant and waddling then the next thing my baby is 6 months old and no longer dependant on my breast milk now. Gosh! don’t tell me about after bath times. I used to get angry because I’d think she’s tired and overstimulated and would sleep better if I bathed her but nope! she will start afresh and play. Moms let’s find out what is making these little people do this and how we can solve it ?
Hi Anazo, Mrs FF has suggested that we try move bath time to the mornings, how does that sound?!
I can’t believe that you guys are on solids ☺️
I have recently joined boot camp – and I am loving being healthy, eating healthy and I would love to give this a try as this blog post has enlightened me to all the wonderful benefits of Nirmala – please pick me & help me stay healthy! Tweeted @Roxi_23
Wow I learnt some new uses of breast milk. Though it would be hard to get most adults to drink it (if they know what they are drinking)
Hahaha, absolutely, even my son wouldn’t. Would have to tell him it’s special milk
I can’t believe how grown she is already!! How time
Flies… I love pictures so I did the new born shoot and one at 3 months and I’ve consistently done at least one professional shoot every 6 months.
You see to have this going from one baby to 2 thing bedded down… Well done mommy.
my baby used to be cranky in the mornings and I found bathing her in the mornings helped. And if it was a hot day she would get a bath at night too, but otherwise I found the bathing in the morning helped us more than the night bathing so maybe try that and just give her a wipe at night. It might help
How is the big brother adjusting?
Oh I love the idea of a shoot every 6 months, thanks for that. They grow so quickly it would be nice to capture those memories together. I’m really contemplating moving bath times, all the sleep-related articles tell you that evening is best but I want to see how morning baths will play out. How quickly one forgets ?. Big brother loves her more each day; says she’s almost qualified to play with him now LOL
Lots of love to you and Miss Kanyin ❤️
Such a beautiful story and the best baby is fine despite the rocky start. Nothing more heart breaking that planning to breast feed and not being able to… That was one of the hardest thing for me but It taught me life happens best learn to deal with it And move on and in the grand scheme of things it wasn’t such a big thing
Such a beautiful story…. Ha ha ha at A cups also suffer The consequence of breastfeeding 🙂
This brought tears to my eyes… Devastating to lose a child under any circumstance but glad that she got her miracle baby
OH GOODNESS…just what I needed to read :-(. I’ve been feeling lonely and very resentful lately and those feelings are quickly followed by guilt. I haven’t shared these feelings with anyone as I thought it would make me look like I didnt love my son as much as I “should”. I love my son but I sometimes find myself missing the days when going out with friends didnt require days of planning and making arrangements before the actual event. The one time that I did manage to go out I ended up feeling guilty for actually having a good time and I had to cut the night short and rushed home to be with him.
You’re definitely not alone in those feelings. A lot of mothers experience that, especially in the first year of a child’s life. It’s like a right of passage. I also used to feel guilty about going out, but since baby number 2 I realise the importance of it – to keep sane and treat yourself.
This is post is so true. You feel bad for not having a life, then when you do get a life, you feel even worse for having one. I went through this when I went back to work. Thanks for talking about it and reminding us that it’s okay, it’s not easy, but it’s okay…
I have four but still know this feeling!
Lovely read. It’s nice to be prepared for moments like these. Thank you.
Hi Fazeelah, there are more great moments, than these. All the best – you will love motherhood
yes it does get lonely. i felt it when i was on maternity leave because everyone else around me was busy with work and other things. luckily i made a friend who was on maternity leave too so we got to sharethe time
Yes, I think maternity leave makes it a little more apparent!
love it
Thank you Grace 🙂 I’m a little obsessed
I love it. I think I enjoy the stroller more than my daughter, lol
Thanks for making me love it!
A good stroller but sadly not in most people’s price range. It’s the Lamborghini of strollers 🙂
haha – true; definitely in the Lamborghini category
So so true, you are not alone but really feel all alone – weird and the not so good part is you feel bad for feeling like that… Amazing motherhood
You are making me so broody Thando. One is enough for me right now. My little one’s name is also Khumo by the way 🙂
Aww babe, I had no idea her name is Khumo! All Khumo’s need a sibling – LOL
Ncaaah My Bear thoroughly enjoyed reading this
I can’t wait to have kids of my own ?? I enjoy your blog Thando. Lovely review
You’re going to make such a great mommy! and you’ll love the Stokke 😉
I love it!!!! I love how you’re honest about throwing hints, my weakness currently, but I’m slowly letting go and believing in the organizers.
Thanks Thato! I hope your baby shower is everything you want it to be and more. Just relax and enjoy being pampered
Love this! I was also adamant to keep going as long as possible, it really is the best food for our littlies 🙂
My eldest girl is now just short of turning six, and thanks to Oupa, is now aware of the concept of getting paid for doing tasks. Sigh, I guess that means I now also have to come up with a suitable chores list for her! 🙂
You gotta love grandparents! It’s not a totally bad idea, as she can learn that money is earned, not just given. Maybe divide the tasks into “billable” e.g. making her bed and “non-billable” e.g. washing your car. LOL
All the best Thando with going back to work. Your feelings are understandable, I have made a note to myself that next time I am taking 6 months off (4 months not enough).
You will now have a toothless smile waiting for you after work and it will make everything better 🙂
Good luck with going back to work – I’m on day 2 and coping better than I thought I would. And thank you for reminding me, with your post, that I need to get to writing about this transition on my own blog.
I can just imagine, I’m on 6 months but the way time is flying I am beside myself with heartache of having to leave my little boy and mind you he is my third.
I want to enjoy this third month and then work on finding and training a nanny. It’s tough being a working mom.
Going back to work was the hardest part of this whole journey for me to do as a first time mom. It still saddens me that I dont get to see him reach his milestones as they happen but me being a working mom is a blessing for both of us and it’s a sacrifice worth making.
make the best out of the last 8 days and good luck with going back to work.
aww! adorableness overload what awesome moments haha love the minion PJs
Aaah, Thank you. He’s a big minion fan
Hugs mommy, hardest time ever. But just take it one day at a time. C
Ncaaw i love that. I love it too when my older son Lesedi plays with his little brother and tells him he loves him. It melts my heart. The other night i was sleeping with both my sons in my bed and my little one started to cry so i got him to make him a bottle of milk. When i returned to the bed i found that lesedi was awake and settling his little brother. I was nearly in tears, that he woke up to look after his little brother
Our Lesedi’s are just the sweetest Grace!! Witnessing your children bond is one of the best feelings in the world
Goodluck Thando <3
Will definitely enter!!
I have started with Lesedi. he is 4 at the moment. he packs his own toys after he plays with them and puts his laundry in the basket. Now u have given me more ideas. Thanks Thando
“How simple love is” – so true and beautiful.
Thank you Chev – I think we complicate it when we grow up
Such a truly heart warming post. You seem to be an A 1 mum. Keep it up!
Thank you sooo much Curry Chick – love that name!
This is what love looks like. Congrats on a gorgeous family .
Thank you so much Mama’Senorita
My nephew is in this age range and loves hockey and soccer.
wow amazing competition
My nephew is 11 years and oh boy does he like kicking the ball even inside the house. he loves soccer
My son lives for soccer, twice a week at school and now that its holidays, its soccer every day #Truestory
Raising a future Yeye
My son is only 2 years old. OMG the range is so beautiful..
Karate
My 7year old son loves soccer. Everyday after school he can’t wait to change into his clothes and start having a match amongst his friends. weekends are the same after breakfast he’d already be itching to kick a ball
Both my sons live for soccer!
My 12 year old is a Basketball player in the making. He eats, sleep and breathe basketball. He would be over the moon if his Mommy could win the awesome 12-13 year old hamper for him ??
My handsome nephew is 12 and he happens to be a style icon at his young age! He is also Autistic but that hasn’t stopped this aspirant boy from reaching for the stars. I know that he will be smiling for many dats if I gifted him with this fabulous hamper.
P.S Tweeted( @ anishasingh007)
Shared on Facebook!
By the way, this is an amazing blog, keep up the great work. You now have a fan…
Oh lovely, thank you so much Mommy for always sharing valuable tips and thoughts.
So sweet, that’s the highlight of my everyday prayer, for my children to stick together. There is nothing as sad and hurtful as siblings who are overcome by their differences and battle to forgive each other or even see eye to eye. So much positivity in this blog.
These bras are sexy for feeding bras I love them, well done ladies keep up the good work
What a small world Thando, i know Nobuhle, shes awesome!!
Small world indeed – I met her through a friend of mine
I LOVE it. And I love the fact that they also run small. It’s been very hard finding pretty nursing bras specially in my size 32B. Certain companies seem to forget that even smaller breasts produce milk. Thanks for this!
the little ones loves soccer . lives and breathes soccer
awesome giveaway – the little man loves all sports.
My son loves soccer. I have tweeted @rehanaseedat
Following u via facebook, twitter and Instagram @rehanaseedat.5 I have shared giveaway post via facebook and twitter @rehanaseedat
my grandson who is seven years old just loves soccer -He would be very happy if I win – liked and shared on facebook and tweeted
My son is absolutely in love with cricket and rugby, he absolutely loves sport, we also always play touch rugby and we enjoy it so so much
???
My kids are absolute sport fanatics
???
I’ve followed and liked your pages on every platform and I’ve also shared on each platform, I just had too, this prize is too AMAZING
???
My 7 year old nephew loves judo and soccer
shared on Twitter
My nephew loves swimming and playing soccer
Hope you are coping well with being back at work!
Thank you for being so thoughtful Leandri. It is getting better by the day, surprising myself a lot.
He lives for soccer he eat sleeps and dreams it
My son loves rugby and cricket and will actually try hus hand at type of sport
Like all men, my active boy loves all sport and attempts all games 🙂 . His favourites currently is rugby and baseball.
What stylish clothes, my little man is still a bit small, but my nephew is in 12-13 year old clothes… He is such a sport fanatic, he just loves being outside, and is really good at the sports he tries! Think his top picks would probably be Rugby and cricket, although his is also pretty good at athletics too
He’s 10yrs and likes drawing,ice skating and swimming and riding bikes,he also likes helphing aroung like raking leaves and other stuff…great comp!
My nephew lives for skateboarding
My so is 6 years old and loves soccer and swimming
My son lives for soccer and cricket and is on both soccer and cricket teams at school. He practices for 2hours after school everyday. Would be awesome to win the 12-13yr hamper for him. He would be over the moon!
Loves cricket and soccer.sometimes its strange to see him without a ball nearby….
New baby (grandson) arriving in September and twipes will be used in no time for face, bum etc
I use wipes for everything from cleaning shoes to wiping spills on the floor to cleaning the inside of my car to sticky hands and to clean me toddlers bum…
Well my son just turned 6months and we have introduced him to solids. Now as much as this is an exciting milestone to reach, it is also a very MESSY one. He tries to grab the spoon or knock the bowl off his feeding chair due to excitement which means by the time we are done we are both covered in food along with the furniture LOL. what also comes with introducing solids is the change in his poo resulting in us using MORE wipes to clean the baby.
Oi!! I forgot about those solid-diapers mommy. Thanks for your entry
I use wipes instead of tissues cause I suffer from severe sinus, use it to wipe sticky hands, faces and surfaces, to remove make up, to clean toys and even house plants.
I just love the soft touch baby wipes have as well as they alcohol free, I prefer them also on my face for make up removal on lazy nights lol and my face will be feeling so smooth like my daughters buttocks 🙂
Haha, I also steal my daughters to remove makeup when I’m lazy. Thanks for the entry!
These are so versatile and come in handy when even out of the house – such as going on camping and needing a quick fix when water and soap is not readily available! I always keep some in my handbag as well to use after eating at a foodcourt or eating while walking. In the household it is great for wiping away spills, and so gentle for make up removal!
Oh my gosh Thando!! I wish I knew about these during my nursing days 🙁 🙁 I searched high and low but could find nothing decent. These are really awesome. Great work to the founders!
Wiping sticky fingers and faces. I’m never without wipes!!
I had a similar experience. It must be this “honourable A-cup committee” lol! But seriously, we need more of these stories told – to prepare future mommies that it MIGHT not be the “walk in the park” that they expect, as well as to avoid mommies that are struggling with supply feeling like failures.
Ah my honey!!! You did well though and thank God you’ve got an amazing nanny that you are comfortable with…I remember how hard it was for me to go back
I use Baby wipes for wiping my hands after pumping gas, mopping up small spills in the car, and cooling my sweaty brow after a run. In fact, wipes make ideal travel companions. Whenever I set off on the road, pack a small stack of baby wipes in a tightly closed self-sealing sandwich bag and put it in the glove compartment of my car or in my purse or knapsack. I have shared competition post via facebook and twitter @rehanaseedat
Main purpose of the wipes is for baby’s bum, but I also use it to remove make-up, or even just refresh myself after a long day.
I Use baby wipes for cleaning…it’s the ultimate multi-tasker. I wipe dust off house plants.To remove any dust and get that brilliant sheen back, I give the leaves on my house plants a quick wipe down with a baby wipe. They’ll look lovely and shiny again after I have done that.
I use baby wipes to clean up after my toddler … floor, walls, face, bum, hands, feet you name it we clean it. we have baby no 2 on its way in September and will be using even more wet wipes to clean those pooplosions (the kind that go up their backs)
You are doing this motherhood business so well. So inspiring!!
I use wipes for everythin…i always have a pck ontop of the toilet for the younger kiddies aswell..
Lol my daughter also complains once she realises that she is alone. She is also 4months old. Im loving every minute and she is always happy and bubbly. She
I would definitely use the wipes for the new baby . wipe is hands , face . but would also use it for myself . wipe my hands after I eat or clean up . Could also use it for wiping of spills and marks in and around the household.
I just bumped into you blog, I love it.
My experience/process was just the same, how ever before inhlawulo there was a got that had to be slaughtered ukugeza umuzi, that is only eaten by young maidens, the goat was slaughtered outside the gate.
My son took on his father’s surname with agreement of both families and he did not have to pay to have that done.
Thank you Nomfanelo! I’m glad you found me and I learnt something new from you. Glad the process was smooth
Wiping sticky fingers and faces. I’m never without wipes at home or my bag
I have impregnated my fiancee and even paid loblobola and planning for the wedding,fiancee family said they charge me damage.is it right for them to do so? Please I need a reply
Hi Oliver, it differs from family to family. I’m not an expert on this topic, I would just suggest that you ask your family/uncles to try negotiate out of paying damages, since you have paid lobola. Start building that open communication now. Good luck and congratulations.
Pay if the child is born
You doing the best you can and I know you’re a great mom. Hope that work is going well for you.
Oh boy – look at those little bums in the fox pants! I miss that – but maybe not the rest of the baby things.
Best of luck with back at work and expressing – I managed a 9 months of that with the twins on returning to work.
amazing update, Yoh teething so early she is too forward :-). Glad she is healthy and well .Looks like big brother is loving his new role
I did a lot of baby wearing even with the twins where I cross arranged two Babysense sings on two sides.
I use it on my feet and heels to moisturize and repair at night
I use it before painting.makes it easiier to wash off paint.
My sister has super dry feet and my advise to her ALWAYS… soak her feet in warm water use pumice stone to exfoliate dry dead skin then smother Vaseline PJ and Wear socks for like an hour or two. And see magic happen.
I personally use it to when exfoliating my lips on those dry cold winter days. Mix Vaseline PJ with brown sugar….. and gently message the lips. Feels amazing
Great tips Tshidi. I’ll give the Vaseline-and-sugar exfoliator a try 🙂
Vaseline is so incredibly versatile. It’s a great lip balm! I use Vaseline to help moisturize, soften, and smooth lips – Yup. Use it at night as a lip balm and my lips are soft and smooth when I wake up.
Lovely, nothing worse than dry lips Megan
When my babies were little I used to buy the expensive bum creams – tried all brands. One day an older mom told me to just use Vaseline and I never looked back. It worked 100% as a bum cream to protect baby’s bottom and it saved me a ton of money in the long run! I’d recommend using Vaseline over any brand of bum cream to any new Mom.
My mom says the same Anthea. It works like a charm, bum cream certainly doesn’t come cheap.
I use it for my dry hands, my lips and to settle any stray hairs.
I have even used it on my cars dashboard ?
I use it as the world’s best eye cream – doesn’t leak into my eyes, wake up looking fresh and no bags, even if baby wakes up too many times to count.
Wow Zoe, had no idea. Totally trying that!
I ddnt know it hides split ends!?
You can also use it to ensure scents of perfumes last longer by applying it first on the areas you spray perfume on before the actual spray!
I’m learning so much, thanks for that Elsie
I love Vaseline I use it for my daughter frizzy hair works wonders, I use it between my thighs as they tend to darken. I use it under my eyes for keep wrinkles at away. I use it on my heals before I sleep and put socks on. I totally love #vaseline
I use it for my cracked heels.
I use it on my lips, on cuts and scratches and also on my eyebrows when I’m waxing.. I put it over the parts that I don’t want to get wax all over. My mum uses it when she’s dyes her hair so that she doesn’t get dye on her face and neck. I also use it on my dry nose when I have a cold.
I use is a lot in Winter to prevent dehydrated lips and skin 🙂
Tweeted @Roxi_23
• Petroleum jelly is hugely versatile, and it’s used all over the world to protect and heal dry skin, from dry, cracked hands to hard skin on heels, as well as for beauty purposes, like softening the lips or highlighting the cheekbone. I make a wonderful and inexpensive exfoliator! Just mix jelly with a bit of sugar or sea salt and scrub away! Soothing shoe blisters. Smear on a little bit of jelly on the parts of the shoe that rub against your foot. Bye bye blisters! tweeted @rehanaseedat and shared facebook
Having psoriasis its a must have to keep skin hydrated and stops forming scales. Kids use on lips and skin burns and scrapes.
I apply Vaseline to my forehead and ears when I dye my hair. It makes cleaning off extra dye and little mishaps a breeze.
That’s so unique Carolyn, must consider that when colouring too
Hi there is a lady with 2 kids she is not married and the father of the 2nd child was also expected to pay damages. How many times can u fall pregnant from different men?and should they all pay for damages?
Hi Lee, it varies from family to family. Some families would require damages from the second pregnancy too.
I use Vaseline religiously daily massaging into my aching joints. It helps to soothe the pain while moisturizing. I finish about 2 tubs a month. Really good stuff.
My Little one is 3 years old and I feel like I can relate. I’ve also recently just started studying. Between being a mom, a good partner, a student and my job it’s really hard balancing all of this when there’s only one me. But I take each day as it comes. I’m happy going to bed knowing that I gave each aspect my bed, although I tend to neglect the books until a few days before my exams. LOL!
Hi Thando. Such a wonderful article! Thanks for sharing. I’ve just returned to work (literally last week), and slowly adjusting to having to leave baby at home. I’m taking each day as it comes. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, young, modern mommies!
Hope the flu blues get sorted our soon, and that you get more sleep. That’s my eternal prayer for all moms! More sleep:)
Take care, Mx
Hi Mosa, thank you so much. Give yourself as much time as you need to adjust again. It’s a big change, I’m still trying to find my eet with a new routine too. We neeeed those sleep-blessings, lol
From birth, my mom used Vaseline on me and with growing up I found that my skin loved it and it always keeps my skin hydrated and moisturized, through the day.
In our household now, I use Vaseline on my 6 year old son, who I noticed quickly becomes dry with creams or lotions from being such a busy body. And also with the winter season upon us, my partner also started using it and loves the moisture and warmth that Vaseline gives him.
Hi I’m a new fan,no the feeling and its double of everything my side .My twins are 1+ and they both handfull.Your princess is adorable.love ur post and get well soon 🙂
Lameez, welcome 🙂 thanks so much for stopping by. Oh boy, I can imagine how crazy things must be for you. Wishing you double the blessings on everything
She has grown so quickly. I totally get you with the sleeping routine. I am going through that right now. I am struggling to cope at work because this week he just hasn’t been sleeping. I am really looking forward to the posts about the solids. Cant wait to see what recipes you will be doing
We really need those naps Grace 🙂 I’m a zombie half of the time and this girl sleeps late. Have you started solids?
That looks so yummy! I made their pap on Sunday night with wors and it was so delish! Loved how smooth it cooked.
Yummy hey? Glad we’ve both discovered it!
Looks yummy!!
Thanks Karen, hope try it one day ☺️
This was a beautiful piece Thands, you’re doing so great
Looks delish
Thank you so much Pholo. I loved this challenge 🙂 If you ever try it, please let me know
I have a dry skin especially in winter, this winter was different I hardly saw myself scratching myself because coconut oil came in very handy. Thanks for the tips,I’m addicted to it ??????? I use it for everything
I’m definitely going to try this, not the biggest pap fan only because it’s so blend. But this looks absolutely yummy
Yes, this is a lovely twist to the norm isn’t it? Thank you mommy and please do let me know how it goes.
Great post
Will try it esp with a braai, looks yummy 🙂
Aah, thanks Aya. Hope your kiddies love it just as mine.
I Mostly use vaseline for my cracked lips in winter, Its very useful to keep your face moistured during winter ,, Vaseline Has many uses and its sooo good
I use vaseline when I put up my hair in a high ponytail . I hate to use hair sprays so when I have that strand of hair that just doesn’t lay flat, I rub a small amount of vaseline on it. Does the trick!
Oh gosh – this looks so yummy! I am so going to try it
What a sweet little Princess on that photo. Gosh so much sick in the house can have one totally exhausted. I do hope you are all way more healthy in the next few months. All the best with the studies and glad you have help
i remember when imy child was 3 weeks i could not afford a product for nappy rash i used it as it was my only option and oh boy it did wonders ill never trade my vaseline for anything else
I use it for my dry lips. I even keep a little bit at work for dry skin emergencies.
I am going to buy it and try it out this weekend thanks for sharing Thando
Oh yay, finally a recipe from someone who doesn’t do well in the kitchen. I’ve been hearing so many good things about Nature’s Farms products, I have got to try this. Thank you
I’m nervous just thinking about all this!!!
Eish Thozi, it’s one of the hardest things ever, but you know us, we make it work 🙂
I’m all for upholding tradition, however not when it comes at a cost or compromising my integrity or beliefs. As a vegetarian i would have trouble compensating damages with an animal that is going to be slaughtered, but i would also have trouble with just offering money nonetheless. I see it as a form of extortion. yes, yes , i understand that i impregnated your daughter, SO WHAT! you’re not going to finagle money from me because of that. I find this particular custom to be quite nauseating and a serious breach of ethics.
That’s an interesting perspective, I actually never thought of how it could impact vegetarians. Thanks for your contribution to this very interesting debate
I’m going back to work on Monday, my job takes up so much of my energy and is stressful. Im planning to take it easy and reserve energy for my boy and my pumping sessions. Thank you so much for your article.
Oh gosh- I remember those days. You give great advice Best of luck – it is a tough transition. Up to today I still cook ahead – sometimes for the whole week’s evening meals. It just makes my days so much easier.
This is very interesting. I have so many questions on the topic. My husband had a child out of wedlock years ago. He never paid inhlawulo then. The family is now insisting that he pays, which we don’t have a problem with. In a case like this, whose cultural practice takes precedence? that of the baby-mama or that of the father of the child?
This topic interests me greatly. And I was lucky enough to stumble upon a blog who was doing baby led weaning and that interested me a lot so when it was time to do solids with my K I was armed. I hardly fed any purée but when we did I made my own purée. I couldn’t bring myself to use store bought types because I can’t stand the Taste and the look. And I liked knowing what I was feeding my allergy prone baby. I did a mixed baby led weaning: we used some baby cereal but what was essential to me was nothing with added sugar which was difficult to find. I fed baby mostly what we are just without the added spices and salt. And another thing I did was to allow baby feed herself. It was messy but it was fun. Plus it also gave mommy time To do other things while baby ate. I found we didn’t need lots of tools and I have to admit I was almost caught in the attractive and sometimes “useless” gadgets aimed at parents. Of course I got a few but quickly realized most weren’t essential and I could do with most of what we already had at home (who knew you didn’t need so many flashy gadgets).
A common tip is to feed baby one new food every three to four days so you can pick up if baby is reacting to a particular food. This was how we picked up my daughter was reacting to eggs and it turns out she is allergic to eggs.
Sorry I wrote an epistle. Can you tell I love this topic
Hmmm I wish I knew about this when i battling with supply. Going into my brain archive
Yes never return to work after a break on a Monday. I find returning on Wednesday or Thursday is a good idea. And I do this even when I’m out of the office for just two weeks.
Cooking ahead is a good idea. I’ve always done that and I find it saves me loads of time during the week
The one thing I didn’t do was have that discussion ahead of time with the boss. It is essential
My four-year-old daughter loves that they can fit in her pocket, plus she loves that during holiday camp days at school the boys don;t care that she is a girl when she brings her cars. She also loves the bright colours so she will be beside herself when I tell her about the Colour-Shifter cars which we didn’t know about!
The girls are really loving the Hot Wheels I see. So cute that the boys include her when they play car games. Love it.
My darling 4-year-old son, & now his 2-year old sister, are Hot Wheels super-fanatics! The collection is growing far too quickly than space allows. My sonshine simply loves that he can name them, & is always coming to me asking, “Mummy, what car is this?”
That is so cute Volante, I love the personal touch of them naming their Hot Wheels
My son of 13 loves hot wheel cars. He’s got quite a collection over the years. My baby of 3 has also starting playing with them. I love them as they’re good quality and last. I can definitely pass on my oldest son’s cars to my little one
My daughter knows her revs and gets excited when she hears the purr of an engine. She gets that from her dad who sheds a tear when he sees a classic car on TV. Talk about sentimental! So gifting her with these iconic toy for her upcoming 13th birthday would be a treat. She is not your typical tomboy I might add as she told me she would be driving her Mustang in heels darling! So please wave that magical wand dearest Modern Zulu Mom( love that name)? My Motörhead princess would go vroom vroom for sure!
P.S loved you in Facebook
Tweeted(@anishasingh007)
Both my girls into cars!! So them being obsessed with hot wheels is a no brainer. The girls love hot wheels cause ‘they super fast mom and did you see how they go through the loops’ I love them cause it gives Mom some time to do her own stuff while they obsessed with the track 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing this picture of “community”. I love your blog!
These cars are classics, and because of their exceptional quality, they have been around for years! I loved playing with cars growing up, and think Hotwheels are products which are targeted to either gender which is great! They are prefect for small hands, and my little boy has just started to show an interest in them, cant wait to start growing his collection
If i may ask, in a case whereby a woman is impregnated by the married man n the woman was already having a child, does a married man pays for damages and again what is expected from this married man to be done as culture is concern?
Oh boy – I remember those days of having little ones and a slightly older one. We had 3 under 3 for a while just after the twins were born. It was hard – very very hard. Today the admin is huge – and I can actually not work and do it all. Hence the au pair.
Best of luck!
I’m so glad to hear this from a mom that’s been there; I’ve felt crazy a few times. Thank you so , it’s reassuring
Eww! Kwaze kwaba nzima.. hang on mommy. You can always find solace in the fact that you’re doing the best that you can. When you do feel like the load is getting a bit too heavy and need the assistance, even if it’s just an hour or 2 to yourself, never be too shy to ask for it. 🙂
Eww! Kwaze kwaba nzima.. hang on mommy. You can always find solace in the fact that you’re doing the best that you can. When you do feel like the load is getting a bit too heavy and need the assistance, even if it’s just an hour or 2 to yourself, never be too shy to ask for it. 🙂
Kunzima indeed, thanks for the encouragement B. We do what we can 🙂
This is my main concern about having a second kid. I don’t want to rush Harley out of the role of being the baby, but obviously she will have to get a different kind of love and attention when a newborn comes along. Thanks for sharing the truth of just how hard it can be!
I totally hear you Zoe. I have a 7 year gap and in the beginning the guilt was still there, even though he’s out of the baby stage. If you get there, you will find a way to make it work, trust me. It’s manic but it works out.
I know exactly how you feel. I can relate. It is indeed more challenging, but it is also more rewarding
We’re in this together Grace 🙂 I love that they have each other
I’m still on maternity leave and I can’t imagine what it’ll be like being a mom of 3 working full time. As backward as it may seem, I really think that moms should stay home period and look after the house and develop the kids. I feel like we’ve put ourselves in situations where our standard of living is so high that moms need to work to support it, whereas we can do without the extras, live in smaller homes and just stay at home. I’m super nervous about getting back to work. Can’t I just win the lottery?!
It’s not easy mommy, but it is not impossible. I always think back to our grannies who used to have 5-10 children.
wow sounds like double the job I dont have me time even now
Moipone, we are all dying for you to have another little one. no excuses girl
And here I am overwhelmed over ONE?!? I cant even allow my brain to wonder as far as even IMAGINING number 2!!?
I STILL have mom guilt that I am trying to deal with. With just one child I feel overwhelmed at times.
The thought of another leaves me in a panic!
??
All I know is that when you’re put into any situation, you will learn to adapt. The love is rewarding.
Dont sweat it my darling you’re doing great. My kids have a 4 years age gap and it feels guilty to say”hayi” to my boy whereas the little one just does all they want and doesn’t get a “hayi” too. It will feel like you’re doing favouritism whereas he got away with things when he was the same age as his sister. I love how detailed you write and it feels like your story is mine ?
I think its ok to feel bad here and there but don’t beat yourself up about it. Much love mommy
Reading this post it is as if i wrote it, I have a 4 year old and a 3 months old. It has been chaotic and i also feel i don’t give my 4 year enough time. Before the newborn i was always on point everything figured out and i had a working schedule. I don’t think i will go for baby number 3 even though i would love to have a girl someday. I am thinking if i had hired a helper before birth maybe things would have been better.It tough being a mom.
My son simply loves all the different kinds of cars and races them against each other. I love them because they are strong and durable. My little one even haas old cars from his brothers that have held up very well after 9 years!
Damages are paid once only. That’s why the firSt pregnancy has two cows and a goat. The other pregnancies are one cow only. The cow that comes with the damages cow is slaughtered outside the homestead cos ngamanyala. Whoever passes by takes a piece of that. The goat is slaughtered to cleanse the virgins. If you impregnate after paying lobelia before the wedding, you pay. This motivates the mkhwenyana to hasten to take his fiance home in a form of wedding her.
Thank you for he insightful feedback Sibu
Hey Sibu
The second cow, when is it slaughtered?
And if a girl is not a virgin n her first pregnancy is a miscarriage. How does this nhlawulo thing works?
Feedback will be greatly appreciated.
I know how you feel,having 3 kids has been the most challenging period for us.I feel guilty about not being able to put all three to bed and read them their bedtime stories but I also remind myself that I’m doing the best I can. It will get easier with time once baby girl grows older and try to get assistance of q nanny or a night nurse.
I know from a previous post that you were havihaving some milk supply issues. Is it better now? What helped? Is baby girl in formula feeds during the day? Love your blog by the way ☺
Hey Mmapula, thanks so much. I appreciate that, I found that Fenugreek tablets helped. Yes, she is on formula during the day and I breastfeed exclusively in the evenings and on weekends.
We used Sleep Sense when it was time to sleep train. I don’t like cry-it-out methods, so I found Sleel Sense helpful.
My little guy also had that pattern of waking at 10pm for a feed, like clockwork. I just let him be as it was a chance for us to get snuggles in as well. Now at almost a year, he wakes around 11pm but I’ve left his bottle in his crib so he just reaches for it and helps himself, no more issues.His separation anxiety was definitively heightened at 8 months, but he’s getting much better and more independent now. He eats everything and is getting braver when it comes to trying to walk, we better start child proofing properly now lol. Enjoy your lil one.
Hello,
Thank you for this post in fact blog. I am particularly appreciative of the sleeping issues part of this post cause I am still struggling at 16 months! I have just downloaded a copy of sleep sense and I didn’t know about it before, I am already learning a lot and can’t wait to get started thank you Mmapula. I am also not a fan of the cry it out methods so I have been rather struggling. Thanks to you all for sharing.
I meant to say Thanks Melanie for sharing about sleep sense 🙂
Hi Thando! Thank you for sharing this experience! I love how you included both options for moms – making your own, as well as the convenience of the Purity pouch! Thank you 🙂
Great ideas and food for thought too.
Awesome ideas….. I have already started on one….. custom made celebration cakes. Must say it’s all trial n error. Started with kiddies party planning but haai wasn’t for me…. The day after to collect the party furniture! Would leave me feeling lime ????
Oh lovely to hear, high five to Momprenuership!
What a great and informative post!
that’s awesome. I couldn’t wait to read about this topic
I love your list – especially the last item. And honestly those thighs have been photoshopped
Hy got a problem I am a nguni /numbered married to different tribe now my problem is my inlawz paid kangaziwe n svulamlomo(introduction fee) the inlaws are saying according to their culture for the lobola I must give birth St n on my tribe it’s a taboo can’t do dat please help I am caught in between what am asking myself is what if their son is the 1who has a problem
What’s gonna happen to my marriage
I definitely am also to blame for not teaching him to self soothe. Going to give that sleep sense a try as well. Thank you Melanie
Well done!
Wow your time ??,well done Thando let do 21Km next,I finish it in 3hours ?
Thank you Thobz! I’m definitely doing 21kms next year. Well done to you too
Thanks so much Cat 🙂
Well done!!!! And that was a very good time.
I actually don’t like summer!!! The heat kills me and I feel like I’m melting away! Worst part my allergies get worse
That said I drink lots of water and run/walk more because there is more hours of sunlight
Winter baby?! The heat has been slightly unbearable these last few years
Yum, seen it in the shops and social media but yet to try it. I’m quite fussy about food so not always open to try new brands, I’ve been disappointed one time to many. Plus I’m a spaghetti girl at heart. And the occasional screws/fusilli
I don’t think you’ll be disappointed this time around 🙂
Love it
That’s great! I also did the 10K and have been running for a while now. Yes that’s nike Lady is Bosssss! I also regretted not doing the 21K , cause I felt like I could run more after completing the run??. Running gives me life, not only health wise but it’s my time to meditate and brainstorm some ideas lol.
I’m sooo ready or 21KM’s next year!!! Let’s do it
This is so beautiful to read. I absolutely enjoyed the authenticity of the story man. Thanks for sharing and all the best to the mom for her dissertation 🙂
Well done mami!! And of course 10km counts, totally!! Wishing you many more races!
P.S. It’s also the feeling I get after running that keeps me going back for more.
hi can i ask if u have second child defferent father the first child they didnt pay inhlawulo and the second father want to pay it…it wont be any problem?
??? Great Job Mama, 10k is an enormous achievement. You’ve inspired me to go back to running.
Thank you Ika. I’m so glad I could inspire you. I’ve been lazy over the last week but I’m getting back on the road tomorrow. xx
She is one super mom. I enjoy what I called wrunning- a combination of walking and running at my own pace because my knee can’t handle a full on run..
Congratulations mommy, it was also my first marathon did the 10km as well. I thoroughly enjoyed it, felt I could have ran another 10 km so i’m going to start training for the 21km will start with the dischem in Jan
Thank you Mama. Yes, here’s to 21Kkms next year!!!
hey can I ask Im pregnant for the second time same father but my baby father didn’t pay inhlawulo for the 1st child so must he pay inhlawulo for both of the kids? ?
You are so loved honey! And thank you for
The update!
Mama’Ka’Pudding, I appreciate that so much. Thank you!!
I just LOVE this blog so much! Glad you are recovering well Thando, never take your health for granted!
Xx
Thank you so much for the love honey xoxo
Right after he was born I had a c section I heard him cry as they took him out he was then handed to me for the skin to skin. From all the crying soon he was on mommy’s chest he was quiet I was so overwhelmed with joy
The moment they placed my little one on my chest I was smitten and totally in love forever!
When I held my angel pie for the first time, I didn’t want to let go. Our first bonding will stay with me forever especially since she was delivered by the nurse before the doc even got to me. I was so scared that something would go wrong,thus it was priceless.
As with any other relationship, bonding with my baby is a matter of building trust and familiarity, and this occurs naturally as we spend time together. The moment I first bonded with baby was when he was born. I love to Talk, sing, play read, or recite a poem to my baby. Spending quality time with my baby are one of the many ways I bond with baby. I have shared post via facebook, twitter @rehanaseedat and instagram
My bond with my daughter was immediate – I fell in love the instant I set eyes on my little “bundle of joy.” at birth.
Sorry to hear about your hospital stay mommy glad you better now. Being away from the kids for two weeks must have been hard, rest so you can recuperate fully. Ja eish thank you for the reminder to sort out school things now
On the 15th of June this year at midday I gave birth to my son Harvey… It was one of the most overwhelming days of my life, quite chaotic. But that night once everything was done, the visitors were gone and the nurses gave him to me in the middle of the night to nurse, I felt THAT bond. He looked at me and I looked at him and I felt a rush of incredible love! He cuddled close to my chest and as exhausted as I was, I did not want to sleep… I just wanted to hold him and stare at him. Five months later and we still have an incredible bond!
Oh Thando, I’m so sorry to hear about you being hospitalised. I missed your insta post. I’m glad you’re feeling better. I’ll keep you in my prayers.Hugs and kisses to your little ones.
Glad you ok mama!! <3 Lots of love from the girls and I
Definitely the first time i breastfed my baby.. It was amazing! Magical
The moment my baby was born, when I heard him cry and he was placed on my chest, that was the moment I fell in love with him 🙂
I started bonding with my baby as soon as I found out I was pregnant, used to have chats with my bump lol, the bound just got stronger and stronger with time.
Would love to try this out, I use all the other Johnsons products and they are all great for babies
Bonding with my daughter was wonderful and natural BUT bonding with my grandson was just the ultimate. Such pure love
About a month ago when I could feel my baby moving in my tummy! what a magical moment. The love that formed and realization that I am going to be a mummy 🙂
My son was prem so i cudnt hold him for a few days.but wen i did it was priceless.even feeding him throu a tube in his nose was the perfect moments.his my Blessing.
When I felt the first flutter of movement on my belly it was a delightful memorable experience
happy you’re back home and well. We missed you.
Thank you so much Mommy for the list. Been looking for Huggies Swimmers for a while now. Where can I get them?
Pleasure Mommy. Please try Dischem 🙂
When the doctor placed my little boy on my chest I was feverish with glee. How is it that I never felt this feeling before ? I felt alive and blessed to finally have held this beautiful baby. He was healthy and happy.I cannot get enough of him. He completed me.
Im currently pregnant and felt a bond from the time I heard her heartbeat and felt the first movement.
When I got pregnant I was angry with myself and rejected by the father. It took time for me a while to accept it. I had gone for a 5month check up and they told me no heartbeat ?. At that moment even my heart almost stopped beating, tears automatically running down my cheeks as they transferred me to another room to get another ultra sound and that moment changed the rest of my life. All of a sudden there was not a heartbeat but 2 heartbeats! From that moment a magical bond was created, until this day my twin boys and I are inseparable.
The pain was unbearable. I was worst I’ve ever felt because it was my fourth birth I thought It would be easy. Sore. But the minute they handed Alex to me my heart melted my world collided with this instant touch, feelings love. A means to protect this precious Angel. Love is instantly
Love is looking into that little face and saying hush darling Mamma got this.????
Being able to call yourself a mom is one of thee biggest blessings one could ever ask for. I would personally say that the first time I started bonding with my little man was when he was still in mommy’s tummy. When he kicked for the first time. You know during your pregnancy you go through a roller coaster of emotions and body changes…In the 1st few months you know you are carrying precious cargo and the body changes and evident weight gain also confirm that.. But for me the emotional connection was not so intense as I was constantly worried on how things were for him in there.. Once I started feeling those small kicks that feel like little butterflies flying in your tummy the connection with my nuna was immediate. It was some reassurance that my prince is perfect and safe in there. As the kicks grew stronger…our bond grew even stronger..The more kicks the happier I was as I knew he was happy and healthy.. Our bond grew even stronger when I saw his cute lil face and when we breastfeed… There is something about breastfeeding that makes us just gel… he would stare at me and I at him and here and there a cute Little smile would pop up then U would know that nothing in the world really matters???
The first time I bonded with my baby was the instant he started breastfeeding, which was literally a few minutes after he was born. My first born boy. I think in that moment I was so in awe of the fact that he was mine and how beautiful he looked, instantly captivated and an unforgettable. Our bond has grown so much, and now at nine months old we connect more at bath and massage time, when he is calmer and enjoying each others company.
honestly the precious moment I really bonded with my daughter was when I got back home and she wouldn’t sleep, she was cranky and fussy. very restless then I took of my top and took of her vest and placed her on my chest and she fell right asleep. that’s when I really realised that we have a connection so deep. I was so overwhelmed with love and thanx giving.
I had a rough pregnancy from the moment I gound out I was carrying a life inside of me. I had just lost my job and my husband had lost own job 6months before. I cried painfully because I was stressed about how this little one would be cared for. I wasn’t happy and woke up daily with a sore heart and panick. Months went by and at times, we had to ask for assistance just to buy food so that I could eat properly as we ate one meal a day and we were afraid the baby will suffer from that. I started a little business then and slept 4 to 5 hours working on a few orders I managed to get from clients. My body was in pain and I was hungry but most money went to paying rent and ensuring our 2 year old ate. My husband and I would walk hours looking for clients and I endured the physical pain because it felt easier than waiting for him to go out daily. He has been through so many interviews but we’ve not succeeded yet. We became homeless a month before our son was born in November. I gave birth in the streets whilst working until the last hour to ensure baby will atleast have nappies and clothes. My husbsnd and I cried soooo much when we held him and strangers were helping us. We have never let him go out of our sight, we marvel at God’s work through him. He is perfect in a difficult situation. We named him Rainbow because through him, we have faith our prayers are answered and that storms will pass. He is our rainbow, a simple of newness. I realise I loved him soo much when he held onto my breast the first day he arrived and the paramedics finally gave him back to me to nurse as we were taken to hospital. He lovingly reminded us, “you 2 are ny life even though you never spoke much to me in 9 months due to your depression!”. I have given birth to my heartbeat once again. Now its time to continue knocking hard on doors until they open so that we continue faithfully in the calling of parenthood.
Had a c section at a local hospital so wasvsedated with lots of drugs and very little help after. Only once the drugs actually wore off about 18 hours later was I really able to hold her on my own and that’s where I fell in llove. I didn’t get the instant hand over of my bundle of joy like most mothers but when I did, it was equally as rewarding.
I really struggled with that skin to skin contact immediately after the birth of my second son because of all the medication i had take during my Caesar. When the nurse gave me my baby to have our skin to skin i just couldn’t hold him. As soon as the meds started wearing off that is when we had our first bonding moment. It really took my breath away to feel my baby’s tiny body up against my own body. Both our bodies heat giving away the smell of a new born baby. Every time i think about it i cry and smile at the same time. It is amazing to just watch your tiny innocent human. Even at 10 months we lie in bed doing our skin to skin and it really helps calm him down
<3
I love the huggies little swimmers…used them with my oldest son
I would love to try the diaper wallet. My struggle with wet-wipes is real. My little boy takes the plastic cover off of the wipes and we always end up throwing away wipes because hey have dried out. I have even resorted to using one of the tupperwares in the kitchen to keep the wipes in, which is not as pretty to carry around and it is not as convenient especially when trying to open the Tupperware lol
Definitely the diaper wallet. Changing time can become a great challenge, especially in public places so this would be a blessing
Love all the products, its a very difficult chive, however the bottle and dispenser caught my eye, never seen a product like this before, would love to win this for my baby due in march
I would def like to try the fresh food feeder! Harvey is loving his purees but he is just about ready to start trying new foods and textures!
Hey, great review of products.
I like all three but if I have to choose then it would have to be the diaper wallet. I’m also always on the GO and this would be of great value.
I love the diaper wallet, wow, this will make my life so much easier, always such a hassle to find the diapers in the diaper bag lol, if I find the diapers then I usually cant find the wipes, love this invention.
Definitely the diaper wallet hle!!! It would come in so handy!!
Wow, wish I had heard about these products sooner, the Bottle + Dispenser sounds amazing! I hate having to fiddle to put the milk in the bottle…Looks like a lovely range
Id definitely love to try the diaper wallet, cause we travel alot since Daddy stays in a different town. It will be very convenient than having to pack nappies lose on the bag
It was right after they cut me open like I was in some scary movie then I heard her cry the doctors shouted its a girl and I smiled without even seeing her. A nurse brought her to me and her tongue out and laid her on top of me and let her suckle on my boob and boy the way she suckled I was like”girl who taught you that! I mean you just arrived but you’re already this advanced!” I knew from that very moment that my life was about to change. Now from that very moment I wanted to breastfeed all the time. She is a year old and I’m still enjoying breastfeeding her.
Love the bottle and dispenser, great idea
The day I found out I was pregnant, I thought that was the day I fell in love with my Khumo but little did I know. I gave birth on the 11th of Feb 2014, that time I was doing my final year practicals and had decided I am not going back to school and will stay home to raise my son and again I didn’t have the money to pay my fees for the year.
The night I gave birth was the happiest day of my life, I had made my decision, I will stay home to raise my son, ow well God’s plans were completely different, I received an SMS congratulating me on getting a bursary, two minutes later I receive a call stating I should start with my practicals in 5 days. I cried for hours not knowing what to do or feel.
I left my Khumo at 10 days to finish up with school. The day I left home, I realised the love I had for my son, was to great and unstoppable, my heart was filled with rage at the same time with enormous love knowing I need to do this for him, so much fear, worry anxiety, my thoughts were unstoppable, will he remember me, is he sad, does he need me right now, it was too much to bare.
I’m beyond grateful to my mom and dad, they raised umnotho wami to be the big spider boy he is today.
Today his 2 yrs and 9 months and I would not trade this experience for anything.
Really excited to try the fresh food feeder. My little missie is 4 months and just starting out on solids. She is also using her hands to self soothe and I think this product is perfect perfect for dual purposes. Also will help with the first stages of teething! Can’t wait to get the rest of the feeding products!
Thank you Thando!!!! Just inspired me to go on with my new hobby- nail technician… I love beautiful nails.. lol
Wow,never have I thought I would be a mommy again, the excitement of having to baby shop I remember the days when I was getting ready to welcome Buhle I only did the shopping last month. I guess I had a mom back then to help with what was needed. I’m very excited that I can now feed my baby veggies and fruits, whilst I’m drafting this to the forum I have my partner with looking at the products… I am certain I’m going for ALL of them as I believe there are all a necessity not a luxury especially now that I have the father of the baby and nanny.. without my mom I need to find ways that are safe for the baby, I’m super excited about this venture.. more ready and matured. From you modernzulumom I’d love the bottle nothing beats fresh mostly not wasting…?
I would love to try the Bottle and dispenser this would absolutely make my night’s easier and would save me from throwing away unused milk in the morning…
Thank you so much for this list, you’ve given me ideas
Hello Mommy, I’m so glad you found this useful. Happy shopping xxx
I love shopping at Toy Kingdom. It’s such a beautiful and sensory experience!
How many cows are minuses if u want to pay lonola for a woman who has got a child?
Hey. Our process is pretty much the same. I’m a tswana girl who was impregnated by a Zulu guy. He paid damages, our daughter uses his surname but he didn’t pay for that. We weren’t aware that he had to, lol. No regrets though.
Hi wt if a family brings a born child and wants u to pay damages bare in mind you have to bring the girl while she is pregnant how do.u deal which such case
I think I need to do more of this too. I want to stress less this year and enjoy being with my son instead of stressing of all the things I need to do.
Here’s to slowing down and enjoying the journey
I LOVE the bottle and dispenser! My whole breast feeding journey has been was at first wonderful and then turned into a nightmare with my son Max screaming and fussing with EVERY feed from 8 weeks old (he’s now 4 months). After seeing a lactation specialist today, it turns out I have one breast that flows way to fast & inconsistently & one that flows way to slow… ? I have to give him formula with the fussy feeds now & that midnight and 2am feed kills me! ? I’d love to try something super convenient like this to help me with my “dodgy boob” situation! Ha ha ha!
Thanks for this! I’m always wary of posting pics of kids, but never really knew what to do to be a bit safer. I love these practical tips!
So glad you could learn something from this post 🙂
Lovely. I love the new Zulu mom profile picture.
Thank you so much Zandi
Looks so beautiful and most importantly Sedi had a great time. Well done mommy.
Your yard is a hostess’ dream 🙂
Thank you aunty Tumz xoxo
Great post! We used to pay school fees up front for the year, till we discovered that our discount was actually only 5% and we could earn more keeping that money in our own investment account and paying monthly.
Also, shopping around for schools and comparing what they offer versus the costs.
We recently moved our girls to a new school, they are still in private school but we are now saving R60 000 a year! WINNING!
Seems like it’s just expensive period Sharon but you’re definitely winning with that saving!!!
Mama’Khuma, where can I find that b.Box feeder?
Oh my word! Sjoe, this is giving me something to think about. I thought it was much easier with the second one coming – but you speak the truth. Though it might seem easier, because you freaked out on Baby 1, the workload is more. There is actually two wanting your attention and that needs to be clothe, fed, etc. You really find out these things once you get there. This post is an eye opener. Strongs mama, I am sure you are doing a great job.
Thank you so much Mel – it’s easier in some ways and not in others but you know what, it is literally double the blessing and I wouldn’t change things. xx
I absolutely love Fisherprice toys, will definitely get this one for Zee. Thanks mommy for the other ideas as well.
They are divine Mommmy, we love them too
Fruit, yoghurt, a healthy sand which,bakers mini cheddars and Melrose triangles.
I’ve tried so hard to get him onto the Melrose triangles Abby, no luck yet
My daughter is overweight but she always carries healthy lunch to school and always eats proper nutritional meals at home. Her typical lunchbox is low GI bread with (ham, cheese or polony), fruit and either almond or cashew nuts. She no longer has fruit juice because I’m worried there’s too much sugar in it, so she has her lunch with water.
What am I doing wrong?
Hi,I’m a sotho girl who got impregnated by a zulu man. The mother of my boyfriend is the one who first noticed that I was pregnant since I was temporarily living with them. My question is,since my boyfriend’s mom and his family knew about the pregnancy and saw it,was it still necessary for my mother to do go and alert them of the pregnancy?
Hi Thato, that decision is usually made by the elders and differs from family to family. You may still be required to do so if that is what your family requires.
Thank you,love this post.My son is a very fussy eater,one thing he loves is water,where can i get small bottles of water to pack for his lunch box?Can i find just plain still water or do they only sell sparkling/flavored.
I love the fruit idea,even though he comes home having eaten one slice of bread at school,he also loves fruits,so i am going to try the fruit,i had thought it might not be enough for his lunch.
Once again,great article.
Hi,education is very expensive hey.Please give more information on the “Life agency”.
Hi Itu, can I share your details with the team at Liberty for more info?
I can relate. My son Lesedi has all of a sudden become fussy. I really struggle with convenience as well as a healthy lunch
Amazing post! You know i have even taken my kids to Limpopo to my inlaws because we found a private school for much cheaper than any of the surrounding schools
Oh wow Grace, good on you for maing a huge sacrifice for your family and finding an alternative. I’m sure they’re spoilt and well looked after there.
Great article. Thanks
Thank you for this post Thando. We’re moving back home after so many years away. I had no idea where to start looking for a school. This post has been very helpful. Cheers for the link.
Oh fantastic! Good luck with the move back, I hope we’ll be able to link up.
Wow this is a beautiful post Thands. Congratulations on everything that God has blessed you with and more. Good luck with your new journey in your 30ties, I know the best is still yet to come.I’m very happy for you.
I always appreciate your love Pholo – sending tons back to you!
My son’s birthday is on the 23rd of December…how awkward is that? Almost impossible to plan a party over the festive season.
You did a great job Momma!
You look beautiful for the age of 30!!
Thank you so much Gracie xoxo
3 decades sikhulile bo also turning 30 and somehow i can relate to this post, i two am a mother of two had my daughter at 21( remember how I cried for days thinking my life was over,even though I was independent then own place & working)
i’m much calmer now, don’t stress much as I used to. Just enjoying life as each day is a gift not a right. 30 is a big milestone Thando celebrate it mommy you have done well, may God continue blessing you and yours ukhule ukhule
Thank you so so much Sisi xoxo
Awesome idea, you are a great mom. 🙂
You are blessed Thando!
I enjoyed this read. 🙂
Every time I read your posts I can’t help but think “we are so similar, we could make good friends” lol but as for baby no.3 we are def different where that is concerned! Great read mommy
Haha, come on let’s do this together 🙂
wow all the best Thando you deserve it, Life is always a working progress. Hope all your wishes come true .
You and your kids look so gorgeous. Happy 11 months birthday girlie!
Little Miss would love this! Marked for birthday/Christmas this year! Thanks for the review!
Ohhh, I can only imagine how excited she will be Mommy
Interesting to hear about how she is developing. Time has flown by.
We are learning about new foods and exploring. I am finding it hard to make my own, but would love to so I’m going to start bulk cooking for her.
Happy 30th Birthday
Thank you so much Lameez xx
Happy 30th – this party looks LIT!
Heeeppppiiii! I’ll be turning 30 end of this year, and I’m so terrified. I feel like I’ll miss my 20s so much, and I’ll officially be an adult. Oh well, such is growth 🙂
You’re going to love 30 Lebs! Blessings for the journey!
Happy Happy Happy
Hope you had blast, but by the look of things you really had a blast.
sending love
Dear ModernZuluMom
I am a mother of a 20yr old girl who got pregnant in 2016. We took the girl to the boys homestead. The father whos wife passes away promises to bring his son to my house so that the families can dicuss the matter. But since then they never said a word. The girl was ill and admitted in ICU for a week and could not write her matric exams. She had C-section delivery that cost a lot of money at a private hospital. Up to date nothing has been heard drom the boys family. They want the child to take their surname through telephonic converstion with the girl.
What must we do to get the damages and expences we carried due to this pregnancy?
Yes you can call it a birthday party! And yes that is winning doll on every level! Well done and again I’m going to copy this idea when my one turns 1 ???
Hey Mama, feel free to copy! Thank you
I absolutely love this idea.My baby girl is only 7 months and I’ve been thinking of throwing a party when she turns one,however I don’t know that many people with kids. The photoshoot idea is awesome.
This is amaziiiiinnngggg!!! I’m counting down to my 30th, and my daughter’s 1st birthday too! Loooove the photos! Please share who your photographer was:) Thanks so much!
Came across this blog and I must say I’m loving it .Please do not stop. It feels like I can relate to you on so many levels and feels good having someone who feels the same way
I’m so I’m love with every piece of detail…
Guess what? I have a Khumo too???
And wait for it… she’s turning 1 next month.. 22 April to be exact…
I’m also in the line of copy cats.
Well done mommy!
P.s. that board.. where?
Oh wow Neo. We love 1 year old Khumo’s! lol.
Happy belated birthday to Khumo, mommy. You are winning at this party planning thing hey.
Best idea ever!! Happy birthday Miss K! hope she had the best day. I really hope I get to meet you soon
I am a new mom to a 5 month old baby boy Nsika and an aunt to a 2 and 3 year old. When these 3 play together or eat it becomes such a mess but they have so much fun playing and growing together. Nsika learns new tricks from Bayanda and Lwazi daily and the love between them is so evident! Baby wipes make our life so easy even when going out for pinics, we are able to clean them up with such convinience!
Wipes are such a lifesaver! We use them everywhere . I keep a pack in the car , in the stroller basket , in my gym bag and all over our home. It’s essential for meal time on the go. We use it when my LO has had a little fall in the park .I’ve even used to to remove a stain from a bridesmaids dress at a wedding .
My son Zibabalo Mgojo is 20 months old and ADVENTURE is his middle name. He has now started noticing that we sit on toilet seat and will demand to be put on the toilet seat even though he has a diaper on. I guess it’s time for potty training LOL. He is also very independant. He fusses about dropping his own bowl in the sink after meal-time, which means I have to carry him AND his bowl to the sink. One other adventure that gives me headaches is his love for plants and flowers. He spends most afternoons in our tiny garden, picking flowers and “fixing” the the garden. He always comes back dirty?
Harvey James is now 9 months old and crawling all over the house! No matter where I put him down he has one destination in mind – the cat food!! He scuttles up to the bowl that has the pellets in… and throws them all over and pushes them around. I have to rescue him before they all go in his mouth! Wet wipes are definitely being used for more than his butt now.
I’m a new mom to a 10 months old baby girl, my princess is so active and in her developments, she is crwaling all over the house n she is working with furnitures she is keeping us very much on our feet. So we constantly have to use wipes to wipe her hands coz everything she grabs goes straight to the mouth. Feeding time has become a hustle she just wants to grab the spoon n everything so wipes are very essential for us, we still use new born Johnson n Johnson wipes.
Zano is such a lady now. At a year and a half I am convinced she should have been a boy. From keeping up with her nephews to only loving rough games it’s hard for Mommy to keep up. I must admit that when she started at Top Tots this year and when she got there she was just looking at exploring and running around playing I panicked thinking why isn’t she sitting around like other kids. I spent a lot of time think she had to sit down and wanted to limit her crazy exploring thinking other mommies would judge me. I have learnt that my child has an amazing mind and is curious about the world. She has made me better because of it. Nothing great than seeing your child be so curious and independent. Mind you she doesn’t allow me to teach her anything at all but wants to teach herself. My baby is unique and so special. Even when she gets up to the worst things sometimes
We no longer have plants inside the house cause my toddler always takes out the leaves of the plant and tries to replant them and she’s strong willed lately she wants to eat all by herself so every feeding time means the floor is wiped 3 to fm4 times a day thanks to my toddler who decided it’s time tmfor her to feed herself
I always keep a pack of wet wipes everywhere I go, in the car, in my handbag and in my childrens school bag. I use them in almost everything , from removing makeup, taming unruly eyebrows, cleaning my kids toys. I use them the most when I go out to public places.
first time mom, Nkanyezi is my 20months old doughty she is soooo adventures to the extend that our kitchen its hers,the low kitchen unite its her playing area we hard to remove everything and put some real plastic plats spoons caps for her to play with not small toys neee. She loves feeding her self and don’t try and help the worse is that anything she eats I mean anything she wants spoon and dish lol of cause not sweets, Gossh the love for floor mop she will spill milk water chips etc. like she is always waiting for something to be spill for her to mop lol I think mop is my child’s best friend
My daughter has a variety of adventures, it varies from finger painting which then turns into body painting and ‘baking’ mud pies to drawing with chalk on every surface imaginable. As a mom of a toddler, I feel one can never have enough wipes that’s why I keep it everywhere.
Wet wipes are still a lifesaver with the girls – and they’re 6 & 4. They both went through a “change baby doll using a million wet wipes each time” stage. Baby boy is just shy of 8 months so we still have years and years of wet wipe use ahead of us. ?
Im a first time mom. My baby is weeks old and loves to make sounds and watch television.
First time mom and my 10 month old boy is always exploring his surroundings at home. The other day I turned my back for 15 seconds and there he was in the pot plant digging with his hands in the sand, everywhere just about to go into the mouth. Luckily I caught it in time. The adventures of a crawling mom.
My twin girls love outdoors , playing in the sand, painting, kicking ball with their brothers and copy them, rolling on the grass and make tricks.They always Messy they love the Indoors too.They enjoy baking with daddy and mommy,scratching out the cupboards ,climbing on stuff and much more.My girls are learning a lot and they explore too 🙂
My boy is 2 and his latest adventure involves running around outside with an umbrella which he calls his rain rain go away
My daughter is now 16 months and she has started daycare. Her adventure mainly starts when I drop her off at daycare. Everyday her teacher tells me she is a teacher herself, she doesn’t like being told what to do but always shows others. Their classes are in categories according to their ages where 9 months old to 1 year are Babies
1 year 1 month old to 1 year 6 months are Teddies
1 year 7 months to 3 years are Monkeys
3year 1 month to 4 years are Tigers
Then 4 to 5 years are Lions. I’m told that my baby attends all classes everyday because she’s running from napping. She is a Teddy and when its their napping time she will go out of class to the next because she’s avoiding sleep. When its the monkeys nap time she will then move to another non-napping class. When we arrive home I bathe her and she falls asleep right after that till the following morning ?
Her teacher says she constantly looks for any vibrant side and she’s there if they’re quiet in a certain class she knows not to go there.
Yes to this idea! Unfortunately I’m suffering from the first mom bug and want to have a big 1st birthday for Kai. But hubby and I are totally doing the only family thing for the next few birthdays, until he can actually appreciate (and remember) them hehehe. Happy birthday again to both of you!
“Keeping both of them clean, happy, fed, and alive is quite the challenge” ? the way I’m feeling this with only one tot! I applaud you for keeping it together especially while juggling all of the other adulting stuff. A few meltdowns here and there are necessary and totally ok. God knows I’ve had (and continue to have) my share of them. Just when I think I’ve got this motherhood thing down, I realise I don’t. Have no idea how two+ kids will be eish.
Iknow I’m super late but happy belated birthday Khumo. Love all your ideas Thando especially the detailing on the cake, bravo!
Hello great blog. My Lil one is turn one and I was looking at doing the board for her. Do you mind sharing where I can get one made around Johannesburg.
Thank you.
Thanks Asa, I’ve emailed you details
Oh please send me details aswell of where I can get the board done. Thank you
I just stumbled through this piece of writing and i felt a mixture of emotions.I know the pain of going through loss and the road of recovery accompanying it. I attended the same High School with Nandi. I recall her heartwarming smile and enchanting eyes which could warmingly pierce through the hardest of souls. I knew whilst reading this piece that she’s the kind who will get over any hurdle because her piercing features were an indication of a positive soul who would survive the harshest of storms.
It’s a small world, Nandi is a phenomenal woman indeed
Essential ingredients and things we take for granted!
For me my four things are –
Eat well (which I’m not so good at sweet tooth problem).
Exercise – this I don’t compromise on. I go for a run/walk 5-6 days a week even if it is just a short 3 or 4 KM and I make time to go to the gym 2-3 times a week too .
Quality time with family. Because our schedules are so busy I make this a priority and try to ensure we do something together as a family once a week even if it is just going to church
Me time- i used to think it was a cliche but I’ve come to realize it is true. Better me equals better wife and mother. So I make time for myself even if just an hour to do nothing but be me. Sometimes I just nap in that time other times I go for a walk or read
I also insist on hand washing when we get home after being out. And like you I never send my child to school sick. Scared of them getting worse and making others sick too.
Ps: how is your little boy growing so fast already that he uses an antiperspirant! Stop growing so fast little one
Oh my toddler is full of antics. Just last night she told me she was applying sudocreme to her tummy because she wants her tummy to be nice . When I quizzes further she said she wanted to remove the lines on it (yikes the things kids see us do, I apply tissue oil which she queried about a few weeks ago ) 🙂 🙂
I believe the first birthday is for the parents to celebrate surviving the first year. And whether it is big or not a party is a party. And whilst they might not remember it there will be pictures to remember the day!
And yes you had a party just not a big party! Photo shoots are always a winner more memories and in your case small party meant less clean up.
Still can’t believe Khumo is one already. I remember you being pregnant
That just looks like the perfect way to
Celebrate turning 30! So much fun and I hope you have been using the camera! And 10 bags… that must be a record
I haven’t worked on my birthday in 5/6 years or so. A colleague used to take her birthday off and I started doing it too. Now on my birthday I run 7 Km because July is month 7, then spa for a massage and meet up with a friend (done that for two years in a row now) and/dinner with hubby and K
My morning routine(ingredients) includes but not limited to the items below
1. Bible reading and prayer
2. Reading – business or fitness related books
3. Stretch or yoga this really depends on how time I have been snoozing a bit much lately.
4. Journal my thoughts ” What would make today great? “
This post actually relates to me so much because that is the journey i am on right now. I actually have a lot more than 4, but i will stick to the brief 🙂
#1-Exercise
I have been procrastinating joining the gym since my baby was born and now he is 1. This year i decided to sign up for the gym. This ingredient works hand in hand with another ingredient of mine because i wake up early in the morning and go to gym before going to work. It really keeps my energy levels high throughout the day and after work i have time to spend with the family and make dinner.
#2-Waking up earlier
I have started waking up earlier than anyone in the house just to prep for everyone’s day and to spend some time with God. This makes a huge difference to my day because i am much calmer and i am organised which filters through my day at work.
#3-Reading
You cant just have a healthy body you need to have a healthy mind too. So when the kids are in bed and hubby is catching up on late night tv, i lay in bed with a book. I make sure i read every night. Currently i am reading Stormie Omartiaans 3 in 1 prayer book. It really prepares me for my evening because it guides me on my prayer and helps me think of new things to implement in my life starting the following morning. Reading also assist me in preparing for my sleep because i am one of those people who can overthink themselves to death. So the reading gives me god things to think about which in turns puts me into a good space before heading to bed.
#4-Eating Healthy
I know everyone says it but its actually very difficult to do and makes such an impact to your body. I was either too busy where i would skip meals and with me having low blood pressure, it really did not assist as i was always having dizzy spells. On the other hand, i would eat too much junk throughout the day because of stress and would end up feeling sick and bloated. Now i am learning to eat balanced meals and trying not to skip any meals. I have actually cut out fizzy drinks and chips completely from my diet and its made a huge impact on my appearance and on how i feel. I still need to work on cutting the chocolate out, but i am having it in proportion 🙂 I am also drinking alot more water because i no longer have fizzy drinks.
I am really enjoying the journey i am on, it helps me to remain calm throughout the storm
I love this!!!
I made some promises to myself while I was pregnant with my youngest last year!
1) Mothers guilt was also a huge biggie for me. After I had my 1st son I completely lost myself to motherhood and woke up one day and could hardly recognize myself. I made a promise to myself that never again! My kids won’t die if I’m not at home for an hour or two. My kids won’t die if I’m doing something I like. My abilities or my value as a mom isn’t measured by absence but rather the quality of my presence.
2) Healthy eating at the table
When you eat good,you feel good. I take my time to plan our meals as a family and it has double benefits because I teach my children good eating habits and make a family event of every meal I make. Whether it’s over breakfast with the hubby once the kids are at school or bonding with the kids over after school snacks. We sit at the table, we bond, we connect and we chat!
3) workouts
I never miss a week day! It sets the tone for my whole day and I feel like a million buck!
4) Movies on my own
I got to the movies in my own, for some me time 1 Thursday a month and I don’t compromise. It’s my date with myself❤
My ingredients are:1- Walking everyday which has helped me lose weight. 2- No more sugar and bread in my diet and I have seen amazing result. I feel so much healthier and happier. 3-Time out for myself away from the kids with the girls to just chill, giggle, cry, shop and have some fun. 4- Accept the things that I cannot change and have no control over and look ahead at what better things may be over the hill.
My 4 ingredients to being a healthier me starts with my state of mind
°Start living within my means, I will stop wishing for things that are beyond my reach and start saving for those I can afford.
°Go back to doing Yoga, it used to clear my mind and keeps me strong and a beautiful body
°I will go back to eating my 5meals a day Breakfast which is compulsory, Lunch and dinner with 2 snacks in between these meals and drinking 3litres of water to rid my body off toxins
°Stop procrastinating. It is my big disease because since I pride myself with working very well under pressure but after that the effects are felt because I get fatigued. I will plan my day starting from when I wake and make sure I follow my plan strictly.
Hey ma wakhe heeeey!!. I absolutely loooove your blog. I’m about to settle down and binge read on it. It looks really good hey.
Okay i don’t feel comfortable entering this competition coz i haven’t suppoted you long enough? blogger/reader guilt. I’m just new here even though lord knooows I need me some trainers since some people made a personal shopping mall out of my storage box this year and am too broke to buy new trainers. Lol.
Mvumikazi | Urban Mnguni
love your ingredients Thando must copy no4: We used to have date nights every week Thursdays were ours nomakanjani, I used to buy countless vouchers on groupon so we always had things to do together away from the kids angazi what changed but this is a must.
1) Loving & appreciating my body: This has been a struggle of mine especially after my second baby. Knowing what is good for me has helped a lot,society tends to box this beauty thing and I’ve come to realize that I don’t need to be a size 8/10 to be healthy,beautiful. beauty is relative, it’s important to be kind to our bodies be in tune as they say we are what we eat so eating healthy,exercise is imperative. One cant out gym a bad diet,have cut out a starch,sugar (struggle as i have a sweet tooth for days) to try maintain a healthy lifestyle.
2)Good night sleep- As I get older im loving my sleep i use to survive on little if no sleep at all but now I cant. For me to function and be happy 7 hours at least is a must,good sleep leads to a better mood,clearer mind, stronger immunity & much more so please don’t disturb this mommy when shes sleeping.
3)Spirituality,meditation : We are often so busy with juggling everything that we don’t take time out just to breathe deeply just to regroup,recharge so meditation is a daily practice i have to just zone out for a few minutes connect with myself, my God.
Spiritual knowledge realigns that sense of self,important for finding that greater meaning & meaning in my existence.
4) Gratitude: I’m grateful for the little things , I know there’s a lot that I want to do,achieve but it’s important for me to know that im not where I used to be.
My four ingredients are simple
1) Choose me first. I think we need to make us no.1 in our lifes so we can take care of 2..3..4..5.. etc better. No one wins if No.1 is not happy!
2) eat clean. I started 2 years ago eating clean. No sugars, low carbs and healthy meals for all.
3) enjoy being active. This year i started running with my beautiful labrador. He is an amazing running friend and makes the run/jog so much fun. We both love it and tend to run even when normally I would say no.
4) Positive energy produces positive results. I now just choose to surround myself with happy positive people and I am also like that. It’s a win : win
Wow, Yes it is a party. Everything perfect.
Where did you do that board, i have been looking for it.
These TMNT toys are pretty awesome. Where were these when I was growing up? 😀
hi.I impregnated my girlfriend, I’m from zim and she is SAcan, and her family came and notified my uncles and a date was set for inhlawulo. but now my uncle is insisting that on the day we go to pay inhlawulo we must also go with part of ilobola.I’m willing to go pay inhlawulo for now but proceed with lobolo at a later stage due to financial contrains.am I required to pay lobolo the day we go to pay inhlawulo?
shout it loud,go out and reach others who have not heard of it .it is real Dr Natasha HERBAL Center is really doing a great works within and outside just try it and you will testify just as i am testifying now, My name is Melissa Cole from London i have this infection that lead to womb blockage and there was no hope at all the hospital i went said nothing but that there on hope for 4 years that i have waited no child then i came across Dr Natasha HERBAL Center now and she is a wonderful native herbalist who told me she can do it but i was scared because she was a lady but since i had no child i have to comply with the rules and regulation and now am carrying my child just try it and see your time to celebrate has come . you can reach Dr Natasha HERBAL Center via email : pregnancyherbs@gmail.com pregnancyherbs@gmail.com
I have recently started an online course @UCT myself. I am on my 3rd week now. I agree with you, it is definitely not as easy as I thought it would be. Well, I have a 2month old baby and a 2 year old toddler so for me it is not easy managing 2 small kids and studying. With that said though I must say, UCT does a lot in terms of assisting and making their online campus feel as close to the physical campus as possible. The forums are also a good way of engaging would with other students as you would in a lecture. I am definitely taking up another course after this one just so I don’t get delayed in furthering my studies while my kids are still small. actually I think for me online learning is the best cause it cuts out the time I would spend travelling to and from campus(time is so scarce nowa days) and it allows me the liberty of being in two places at once 🙂
PS: Very Interesting topic <3
Oh wow, good luck Mama! Happy to hear and see that I’ve got company.
It has to be banana bread, will definitely share the recipe when i get home.
Well done mommy
First of all I would love to say your blog is beautiful,clean and easy to navigate. I am a first time to a now 10 weeks adorable Boy and I find myself referencing to some of your old articles and its good to know that I am not too bad with this motherhood thing and I love how you engage with your readers.
Anywhoo back to my comment, my favourite baked goodie has to be my mum’s baked scone, I used to baked these with her all the time and now I make them myself and soon I will be teaching my son the family recipe 🙂
Hi Thando!
My favorite baked goodies are definitely cakes.. I love a good carrot cake! Secret ingredients to keeping them moist is fruit! Either pineapple or pears. I have the recipe up here https://lamblovesthyme.wordpress.com/2017/02/28/carrot-cake-crazy/
Super easy and yields the best results! 🙂
Loved reading this update Thando. I so admire fellow working and blogging mamas, but you’re also studying on top of that?! *applause* I’m going to check out the We Said No page too, thanks for sharing.
Hi Thands, thank you for always keeping us up to date with whats happening in your world and motivating us on being a super woman. I don’t know how you do it but you make it look so easy.
My favorite baked goodies are biscuits which I love to bake when I want to relax. This is an old recipe my mom taught me when I was young.
The ingredients are:
Flour
Condensed milk
eggs
cream of tarter
Bicarbonate of soda
sugar
vanilla essence
you mix all the ingredients together in a bowl and then add the flour as the last ingredient. stove on 180″c
Hey Thands, thanks for always sharing your motherhood journey with us. You make being a super mom looks very easy.
My favourite baked goodies are biscuits which my mother liked to baked for us while growing up.
Recipe :
16 cups flour
1 tin condensed milk
2 packed bicarbonate of soda
2 packet cream of taster
4 eggs
2 cups sugar
2 spoons syrup
Mix all the ingredients well until smooth except flour together in a bowl and then add the flour once the mixture is smooth. Cut the dough, pretty heat stove on 180′
This is a big bake , you can decrease the ingredients to make a smaller dough.
HAPPY BAKING ???☺
Hello mommy 🙂
Been keeping an eye for a new post.
So our guy’s new word is ‘Mfethu'(Xhosa slang word for ‘my brother’). The other day he said ‘mama mfethu m hungry’ hahahaha.
We are new in Jozi so we are still discovering places and things to do. So most of the time we are playing games indoors (karaoke our most fave fave)this is sort of our first winter here. We welcome ideas by the way of what we could get up to in and around the Centurion area. We recently discovered The purple Cow and Moyo Zoo lake.
Hi Ncumisa
Some nice outdoor places in centurion to take advantage of the winter sun during the day:
Irene dairy farm – the kids can see farm animals, watch cows being milked and there is a jugle gym to play. There’s also a restaurant for the adults to chill and grab a bite.
Rooihuiskraal Historical Terrain and Animal farm – great for picnics and braais whilst the kids run around and play
We love to make a mbawula outside and we all sit around(I have three boys and the youngest is 5) with our blankies and braai marshmallows and drink hot chocolate, tell ghost stories and have some awesome laughs and family quality time at no huge expense.
Hi Ncumisa
Some nice outdoor places in centurion to take advantage of the winter sun during the day:
Irene dairy farm – the kids can see farm animals, watch cows being milked and there is a jugle gym to play. There’s also a restaurant for the adults to chill and grab a bite.
Rooihuiskraal Historical Terrain and Animal farm – great for picnics and braais whilst the kids run around and play
My son loves his cousins to bits. we are based in Johannesburg and they are in Klersdorp. Twice a month we have to go visit them. They are the same age group, with my son turning 6 in July and they just love each other. They are learning new things and every time on our way back I will get to hear about what they got up to and he will be feeling and acting like a man.
He makes me laugh so much cause every time his dad is not around he calls himself “The Man Of The House” I guess that the swag!
One of our winter activities is having a movie marathon. Each member of the family selects their favourite (PG-appropriate) movie to watch in a day-long marathon & then pass popcorn ?!
Last week we went for a winter hike. These are to accommodate my 2nd born, Vuyani. He doesn’t like indoors. So we go on a winter hike in a park. Collect items we find and glue them to sturdy paper to make a beautiful nature collage.
My kids also enjoy baking cookies.
Everyone makes their favourite recipe, with Mommy’s help of course. Yesterday we made scones after doing our homework.
Oh wow my son Austin who is currently 5 would love this hamper as he starts Grade R next year, he has been asking me to get him cool clothes cos his big brother doesnt wear spiderman. He is very fussy about my choice in clothing for him and prefers to dress himself in the morning lol.Austin is my youngest son,I have 3 boys and 1 girl.Our favourite winter things to do as a family are movie nights at home under the covers with Milo, popcorn and lots of snacks.
Hi Tumi,
Oh thank you so much for sharing. We will most definitely go check it out.
We are milking the last days of my maternity leave so the more places the better!
XX
Wow! The Jordan Kids winter collection is dope, I have a 4yr old son who is obsessed with tracksuits and he wears 5-6. Our winter favourite activities include having a reading picnic in our bedroom dressed in our onesies, doing puzzles, jumping on the trampoline ( which brings out the inner child in me) and playing hide and seek.
My 5 year old little boy who is also called Lesedi, who is actually not so little now because he is a big brother of which i am reminded all the time. He loves new clothes and looking good and it is always nice to take new clothes for him when we visit him as he lives with his grandmother in Limpopo. Anyways so fathers day is coming up and they are having a do at school where they need to dress like their dads and this would be awesome if he won this as his father already has a Jordan Tshirt so now they can have matching clothes on the day. As i said, my little boy is in Limpopo so i don’t see him everyday, but the last activity we did together in the beginning of the winter was to go buy pizzas and chill in the park playing on the swings under the bright sun. Nothing keeps you warmer than playing under the sun
hi Mamah, my son is soon to be 5 his name is Siphosethu. we are family of chefs :-), and our most loved winter activity is def playing around in the kitchen. more like he is the taster, his 7 old sister does all the staring and ingredient arrangements and his 11 year old brother does all chopping. the most loved meal that just warms up the whole house is Amadombo and lamp curry….it kinda includes baking and cooking all at the same time, while warming up the whole house.
I love your blogs Thando, its so easy to relate. Keep up the good work
Our favorite thing to do this winter is horse riding, my son has recently taken liken to it. We spend our Saturdays at the Soweto equestrian for lessons, this hamper would be ideal to keep him warm as he practices well I have a cup of coffee to keep me warm.
Our favourite thing is exploring outdoor.We enjoy seeing creatures you don’t normally see on hotter days,baking mud pies, we play in the colourful leaves strewn on the ground, splash in puddles and dance in the rain. I don’t know why but we’ve always enjoyed winter way more than summer
Such a lovely update! Glad to know you are doing well and the kids are thriving ! Life has been busy all around
Hi. What is the procedure isisu si ka bikwanga because of uku kipita and the baby daddy and his parents passed on and now the child’s family on the mothers side are demanding inhlaulo for a child that they didn’t bring upbecause the baby daddy mother bright up the child at the baby daddy’s house. Minding that even the parents of the baby mama passed on. Now her family are demanding a lot of money.
Hyde…you can just ask em to lobular once than hlawule than lobplanned..my baby daddy lobular once and inhlawulo was never charged.
Great post. I am studying online at UCT getsmarter (in my 7th week) online and it’s also pushing me a lot. I have A toddler and an 8 month old. The flexibility of great. I agree with your post to make things happen for oneself, as I believe it’s important to show my kids that I can learn and aspire no matter age or status. Thanks for the great post.
I thoroughly enjoyed my Getsmater course, considering another one – wishing you all the best Cherralle
I don’t have a grandmother. I do wish I had one. Both have passed away. when I was very young.
What I do get to see is my mother with my brother’s son. The sweetest love kaGogo that I have every seen in my life. My first reference of having uGogo in my life. The cuddles on the couch while watching Cake Boss and defending him when his parents want to smack him. Buying him everything cute she see’s in the store and merely reciprocating with warm arms everytime my nephew says “huggy”.
Thanks for your entry Kea, so sweet that you get to live that experience through your mom and nephew.
Visiting my grandmother and eating home baked biscuits is one of my best memories of her. Even todate smelling freshly baked biscuits takes me back to those special moments
oh geez my grandmother was a awesome baker – she made the most amazing savories especially her samoosas – It was her passion. I loved being in the kitchen growing up watching her – like a professional chef. her recipes are like none other…totally whole meal food cooked with love….
I used to love staying at my Mormor’s house (Mormor is Swedish for mothers mother) when I was little. she used to wake us up in the mornings with milo and a marie biscuit before we used to head to the kitchen where she always made us fresh orange juice. she would also always make sure we weren’t left out on our siblings birthdays and ensured there was a prezzie for us to open. I am glad she is still alive today at the age of 87 and has lived to see her great grandchildren
My gogo uMaNgcobo is no more but she was the best gogo ever. We used to visit her @ KwaMashu when school were closed. The best moment with her was when she would make tea and we all ask her to leave some for us, lol! We wouldn’t want her to make for us but we wanted the left over of what she was drinking, so she will tell us to get cups and we will all get a little bit :). Love her to bits
I share a name with my grandmother, Nompi. So she likes talking to me about how she used to be as a young woman so I think she expects to see her young slef in me??? So as she talks and talks and talks, lol….. we sip on some tea with my fav flavour of Ouma rusks, buttermilk.
My favorite moments with Gogo has to be when I came back from the hospital after giving.How she taught me everything about Motherhood and she took care of us. Made sure every need of us was taken care of. Only for her to pass away 5 weeks later. When baby was only a month old. I will remember her mostly for the last month she shared with us❤️
My favorite moment with my grandma was sitting on the veranda and listening to her tell me stories of our ancestors while we drink sweet tea and dip fresh bread into it.
I used to call my granma Kiki, my fondest memories of her is how funny she was. She would make jokes at the most awkward moments. And how she made summer so fun…she loved watermelons and ice cream. In winter she would make the most delicious soups from whatever she would find in the frigde. So with my Kiki life was so easy and fun…if I had one wish to make, it would be for my kids to know her. But fortunately I still have my mom who is the best granny for my kids and my nephews.
I did not get alot of time with my grandma but I do remember when I was younger how I used to enjoy eating her cooking everytime I got back from school. I used to always worry her to make egg chutney for me and it was my favourite dish. I used to also tease her by saying one uncle likes her and she used to get so mad at me . Those are my sweet memories of her
I absolutely love this post…makes me feel like my life isn’t so much crazy after all. Inspired by you juggling all these things!!!
Wow I dont have a grandma on both my parents side they past away a long time ago. I envied children who went to visit their grannies during school holiday and always felt left out when other children brag about their grandma.
Hello Mamas 🙂
My favourite moments with my granny are 1) When we visit her ezilalini and she wakes up very early in the morning to pray for all of us calling each of us by name. She has 6 children who have gone and had at least 3 children each so imagine a long prayer with each person’s prayer personalised to their life 🙂 For me that is such a great expression of love and awareness and a lesson of how deeply to love when my kids and their kids and so on. I also loved the most recent love stunt she pulled when after my wedding which was on a Saturday she woke up early on the Sunday to wash my wedding gown so that it can be crystal white again when they take me to my new family and she said the whiteness of the gown carries a message and the gist of that message is that I must present the family well always 🙂 oh I could go on guys 🙂
Aaaaah Thando this is such an emotional subject for me hey. With both my babies I didn’t have an elderly person living with me and teaching me staff like it’s usually done so I did a lot of reading to help myself. It’s a difficult and rewarding journey am glad you are talking about it to help a new mom out there 🙂
You’re so strong Mama, to have done that without much help. I know you’re doing great with your little ones.
May Gogo’s soul Rest In Peace! Kids surprise us. They understand more than we think and it is essential we are upright with them within reason! Thanks for these tips very helpful and a great reminder
Thank you so much, we are healing. They surprise us all the time
May Gogo’s soul rest in peace. Ukukhanya kwaphakade kumkhanyele
Thank you so much for the love Phili xx
Great review, I am stuck between this and the pomo r2 or pomo waffle. Any chance you might be tempted to do a comparison I would love to read it.
What a sad story. Sending prayers her way
Thank you on her behalf Phili
Such a terrible thing to have happened to you Mmatshep. So sorry for your loss. May the Lord be your comfort and give you more than what you’ve lost. Sending cyber hugs your way.
Thanks Ika, I’m sure she will see this and appreciate the prayers
I think we don’t recognise the grief that comes with ectopic pregnancy. We often perceive it as phantom pregnancy, something that never happened. When in actual fact the baby was there, their tiny heart was beating. It is a heartbreaking experience to hear that heart beat, only to sign it away to nonexistence.
It truly is heartbreaking. You’re right, we don’t give moms with pregnancy loss enough support through the grieving process.
My mind cannot reach far enough to imagine your pain but one thing I know for sure is that God is working a miracle in your favour. He will never leave you, infact He is close to the broken hearted, He will provide you with the strength to get through this storm. You are in our prayers.
XX
We have iPhones, in order for this watch to work do we need to add another line with our phone company? How does that work?
Thanks for sharing!!I experienced two ectopic pregnancies and only realised why it is actually so traumatic after reading your article. It is like an abortion except it feels like its not really your choice. Good luck going forward, God has reasons for everything, even though we dont always understand them. I know He has something special planned for you!
I’m sorry about what you have gone through Yvette. Sending you lots of love
Hi Thando,
Thanks for sharing on this topic!! Appreciated as always!!
Change can be so overwhelming. My young family and I are going through so many changes, all at once and it’s like there is no ending. I suppose this is to be expected cause we are in the building phases of absolutely everything our lives entail.
We recently got married. Moved cities. Had unplanned baby no2 while still adjusting to baby no1. I moved into a new job, husband kicked off his business. Now we are moving suburbs to be closer to my work place. All this while we are away from our friends and family. It’s a lot I wont lie. But taking a moment in the middle of it all to reflect on why you are doing all that you are doing helps. As well as reflecting on the progress you have made. Also understanding that you are in the process of building a strong foundation for the well being of your family and future of your kids is comforting.
Our kids are small now but they are growing so quickly, we want to make sure that we stabilise life as much as we can now for them. It’s a mission and a half, it’s draining but it’s not impossible.
XX
Have been in the same situation i know what you went through . Most painful thing ever
Sending love to you Yinikelo
I have two beautiful daughters and they love to play teacher school game. It’s so funny hearing them play and act like teachers and kids. I remember playing this growing up as well.
That’s so sweet Leeann! Thanks for the entry
I have two boys 5&8. They love playing shop-shop. They pack out toys and other items in the house price it and use monopoly money as cash.Funny how they change their accents and speak like grown ups while playing.
I love the voice-changing, super cute. Thank you for your entry!
At the moment, its that hes a tractor driver/drives a crane or something along those lines and has to load up goodies to take to the factory! Hehe
Rest assured that you’ll never have to worry about driving once he gets his license, very cute and thanks for entering Adele.
Setting up Shop – the fun and joy of exploring the imaginary world of an ice cream shop…its exciting for adults too..;-)
Our imaginations are magical. Good luck for the giveaway Losh
My little grandson loves playing in sand making little house which are really just heaps of sand. Its cute to watch him do it
Super cute Sharleen, thanks for the entry!
My 5 year old loves cops and robbers and he runs around the house with a stick as his gun and all I hear is ” ba, ba,ba” and “got you!”as he ‘shoots’ the robbers…then after all the running he is ready to sleep.
“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but still always near. Still loved, still missed & held so dear”
Thank you
XoXo
My little girl loves playing bakery and shop in one. She bakes cakes, pizza and bread and then sells them.
Oh yum! Lucky mom to have a little baker-lady
This is brilliant ! I love they have done this and your little man is a pro! We will definitely be entering, my little guy’s favourite thing to watch on you tube is “Ryan’s toy review” haha.
Thank you so much Rebecca. I look forward to seeing your entry, I’ll be following via the hashtag so don’t forget it 🙂
This is a great post! It’s easy to get sucked in to the social media rabbit hole and think that everyone else has it figured out.
Absolutely, thanks for reading Lungs
first time on your page oh wow what an interesting article. i can relate so much. thank you keep it up!
Thanks for reading Glendah
What an awesome encouragement and reminder, Thanks mama!!
XOXOXOXO
I love the Mr Price Sport gear, they have the cutest stuff. Goodluck with the race!
Just love them! Thanks for the good wishes, appreciated!
Go Mama!! All the best 🙂
Thank you, really appreciate this, i mostly appreciate that you touched on ‘social media” the derailing beast lol…
You are so righ quality time with the little ones is important especially when you are always busy with work.
We would like to try the Fruit Chutney flavour #CheeseCurls
#CheeseCurls- oh yum – As a family we ALL enjoy the taste of the cheesy goo-eyness of cheese curls – keen on trying the cheese & onion…
Thanks for your entry! They are yum indeed!
Hello ModernZuluMom
Time is the most valuable gift you can give to your children as we can always make more money but we can’t get the time back…we would like to try the Fruit Chutney Flavour #CheeseCurls
Indeed Katlego, time with them is so precious! Thanks for your entry.
A Cheese Curls picnic sounds perfectly amazing. We are extremely partial to picnics. We had one just this past Friday <3 I'm a faithful cheese flavour girl, but I'm indian, so ill be happy to give the chilli a try <3
I’m a huge picnic fan! Ah, I know you’ll love the chilli cheese!
Cheese and onion #cheesecurls
I’d love to try the Cheese and Onion flavour #CheeseCurls
Fruit Chutney #CheeseCurls
#CheeseCurls would love to try the Chilli Cheese need some spice in my life.
I love Fruit Chutney so i would really love to try out the Fruit Chutney flavour. #CheeseCurls
This is our go to snack with my 18 months old baby and 7 year old niece ,we’ve tried 3 of them excluding the fruit chutney ones so I would love to try those. #cheeseCurls
Aah, glad you’re treating the little ones to some cheesy-yumminess
Definitely Fruit & Chutney #CheeseCurls
I love this post, spending time with our lil ones misy be number 1 priority. Just came back from a mommydaughtercation with mini-me & ot was the best wknd ever. I would love to try the fruit chutney flavour #CheeseCurls
I’m all about the fruit chutney flavor. It’s so good! I have tasted all the new flavors. Every month when I go grocery shopping I get 10 packs for R100 special for the family.
Oh yum! Thanks for the entry
Chilli cheese #CheeseCurls
Thanks for the entry Kamilah
Fruit chutney #cheesecurls
Great choice, thanks for the entry
chilli cheese
Thanks for the entry1
Fruit Chutney is my choice #CheeseCurls
Definitely the Chilli Cheese. The thought of the curls melting in my mouth.#CheeseCurls
I would to try the cheese and onions mmm #CheeseCurls
Oooh the Chilli Cheese sounds yummy #CheeseCurls
Ok so now this is not easy to choose, as my family each have their own favourites!! Mine is the Chilli Cheese cause I like it hot, my son Keagan is a Fruit Chutney my Daughter Shea is the plain cheese and my hubby Wayne is an Cheese and Onion Freak!! So our family would have to do one of each #CheeseCurls #FamilyFun
Setting up shop and ringing items at the till
Fruit Chutney#CheeseCurls
Will be absolutely wonderful to taste this Delightfully Delicious flavour
???❤??❤?
Chilli Cheese #CheeseCurls
#CheeseCurls I would love to try the Fruit Chutney
I just came to look for inspiration after a difficult week at work.
Great advice, thanks Mama!!
Thank you for reading mama, I hope things get better going forward
Aah sisi :), yet again i find help from your blog. I’ve been feeling extremely sad over the passed two months ( 6 months after giving birth) and I couldn’t understand my mood swings. A feeling of being overwhelmed, I would want to release a loud cry but nothing would come out. I went from “my daughter is so cute” to “why won’t you just shut up” when she cries. Everything about me or my life felt stretched. Till I recently went on my first ever therapy session and was diagnosed with PND. This post makes do much sense to me right now
It’s important for us to speak up and share our stories. I’m glad that you’re on the road to recovery Mama
Oh my Gosh,Lesedi you are brilliant..Such a wise and well spoken young chap. Khumo is going to learn so much from you ??
Your journey is inspiring me so much!and a huge congrats for finishing the race. I’ve been running on and off for a while now and it’s been a dream of mine to finish a half marathon one day.
Thank you Lungs. I’m more than sure you can do it 🙂
Disney Emoji Chatties cause my little one loves toys that engage her
This would be awesome for xmas – Olaf Chatties- love it #DisneyEmojiSA
Disney Emoji Chatties. My princess loves to talk and sing
Disney Emoji Plush Toy minnie mouse is her favorite #DisneyEmojiSA
My Logy bears favourite Emoji Toy has to be the Olaf plush toy, he loves all things cuddly and he loves the Frozen movie. I still have to watch it atleast 3 times a day. I would love to win this for him.
wow my daughter will go gaga over this, looks so fun. Abeerah is a Minnie Mouse fanatic.
I think my son would love the Disney Emoji Mash’ems Mystery Figurines #DisneyEmojiSA
Definitely a plush toy, my princess would go beserk for a princess emoji <3
My 2yr old Raghma BELIEFS she is a princess, so the princess emoji chatties would be my best bet on what she’d favour 😀
My boys would love the emoji’s so they can use them to express themselves, whatever feeling they have they can show us the emoji.
Oh my soul! Everything with Minnie Mouse ?
The plush toy 🙂
My boy is going to love this precious gift, crossing fingers whoop
Definitely the emoji chatties. My kids would totally love this prize. They have just watched the emoji movie and thorougly enjoyed it. It is so important for the kids to show their emotions.
Disney Emoji Chatties
Emoji chat bubbles
Emoji chatties all her favorite characters in one place it couldn’t be better
My two year old little girl would love the #Disney emoji plush toy. And she can share with her 5month old baby brother!!!
The Olaf Chatties. Though not sure who would like it more … the child or the mother 🙂
Essential reminder! Feels like the year has sped past and November just started the other day and we are already into day 12
You know we don’t buy much Christmas gifts. K is at an age where she doesn’t care much and last year she wanted to even know why we were buying her presents since it was Not her birthday but the birthday of Jesus 😆
Well done! You did it! And yes taking time to do something for ourself is essentialz
My daughter would love the Aerial Disney Emoji Plush Toy
Wow what a fantastic hamper, my kids love the chatties they interact and they kitties get all freaked out. Cats Children and Chatties load of fun and laughter!! #DisneyEmoji #DisneyChatties @Cazker1
My little one would love the Emoji Swapsies because he is so facinated with hearts and tells me about his girlfriend at creche everyday!
What an amazing hamper! My daughters would luv the chatties, because love love to interact with their toys.
My child loves the Disney Swapsies and he would love this amazing giveaway.
Olaf Chatties are too cute, my daughter is a huge Frozen fan?
My child favourite is olaf, she loves FROZEN crazy ABOUT all the characters especially olaf, she cannot even sleep without reading and watching frozen
My little person is a cuddler, so I think she’d love the Emoji plushie the most! Or it would be a tie with the Chattie, as that would make her giggle (and she’s a little chatterbox herself haha). 🙂
Disney princess belle emoji plush is my daughters favourite
Ohhh wow these are so cool!!! My twin boys would definitely love the Swapsies and I came to this conclusion because I remember when I took them to watch the Emoji movie, they fell head over heels in love with Gene because he could make multi expressions. They tried to make his expressions and looked like they were constipated or was it choking and eating sour worms at the same time?? I’m convinced Swapsies are for my twinnies ?❤️?
Oh Wow. How awesome is this microwave i need this in my life with a hubby, 4 kids and work, cooking has become more of a chore.Thanks for this review now let’s hope Santa spoils me with this microwave Christmas 🙂
Mine would love the Chatties!She loves interactive toys.
My daughter would love the Minnie mouse Emoji #DisneyEmojiSA
My little chatter box daughter loves the Disney Emoji range but she’ll love the Emoji chat bubbles so she can express herself more with the toys. This would definitely be ideal for her as she’s always chatting away. #DisneyEmoji
Disney Princess Ariel our little girl Amaani absolutely loves this beautiful singing Red Haired mermaid.
She even insist we call her Ariel lol.
A wonderful giveaway thank you for the opportunity to win
I have been waiting for Black Friday specials to buy a new microwave and this looks like one to buy. I need it for the weekly meals that are sometimes such a drag after a long day at work (even if it’s just mini-me & I).
Oh my word! My 4 year old son will go crazy over the #Chatties! Since he’s a chatterbox himself, he always makes funny faces and has actually started impersonating Disney characters too ???. We are forever watching cartoons (Disney Junior to be specific). He’s just a huge fan
Olaf is the winner for my 5 year old daughter. Where ever she goes she take him with and this would bring joy having a twin olaf?
Emoji chatties. Resi absolutely Loves Disney’s Minnie and Doc McStuffins – this character gives her confidence and hope that she can heal her dolls and the rest of us
This microwave sounds incredible! I can’t believe it cooked lamb chops in 25 minutes flat!
I really hope you find one on sale Tumz! It will be such a great addition to your kitchen
Saving so much time with it Chereen.
my little boy has been through a lot and this give away prize will cheer him up.on top of that his a fan of Disney cartoons
Disney Emoji Plush Toy minnie mouse is my grandson favorite #DisneyEmojiSA
Disney EmojiPlush Toy Minnie Mouse for my granddaughter Miene please, she is crazy about it, absolutely love everything about MinnieMouse ❤️
My daughter will love the Minnie mouse. Her birthday is soon(December 12) this would be a great gift for her
My daughter would love the Minnie Mouse plush toy because I think she’s love holding on to the ears while giving Minnie lots of kisses.
My son loves Olaf from Frozen. Such a fun, positive guy!
My daughter loves to hug soft squishy toys so I know she will lovethe Disney Emoji Plush Toy
O wow… my little boys would love Olaf! They would have such fun!
My daughter love the Disney Emoji Mash’ems Mystery Figurines.There no great joy she get when she opens a capsule and to see which character is inside.As it keeps her want more and wants to collect the entire collection ,which means leaving mommy broke.Which mommy doesnt mind at all.lol
Oh my cuteness?Definitely the Disney Chatties!! Fitting for Rory’s sudden wide spectrum of vocabulary..Crossing fingersxxx
Olaf takes 1st place for my kiddies, all the emojis are super cute #DisneyEmojiSA
Omg the Emoji chattie .. my kids will be thrilled.
My kids are huge fans of Disney and so am I, My son will love Disney Emoji Chattie Olaf as my son is always helping others and a happy go lucky guy and my daughter will love Disney Emoji Chattie Minnie Mouse as she loves everything about Minnie Mouse and she likes dressing up like Minnie Mouse #DisneyEmojiSA
Disney Emoji Plush Toy is my kids favourite. He loves playing with this toy and has much with it
Wow how much is it? Sounds like something I really need in my life.
This would be so amazing for my boy! And I’d love to reward him for working so hard this year 🙂
Emoji Swapsies – my daughter would have so much fun swapping around, no chance of becoming bored, what a fabulous idea
Oh my word! I am so glad that I’m not the only one who remembers on their way home that the meat is still in the freezer – haha! The quick defrosting option would suit me perfectly!
Side note: The lamb chops look delicious mommy!
Well done buddy!
I love the convenience of online shopping. Saves me so much time and stress. Will definitely check out the kids section. Coordinating the kids’ outfits is super cute! I so it as well.
I had stars in my eyes when we started out 7 years ago…I had my 9 yr old daughter, he had his 7 yr old son (1st marriage) , and the little sister of 3yrs from his second marriage (I’m lucky nr 3).
Growing up I always thought I don’t want children. My daughter was difficult after birth, until about 4 months old, when she grew into this friendly, lovable chubby little angel. I relaxed and loved motherhood so much I wanted 6 kids (never happened as I got divorced).
I met my husband on my 40th birthday and fell in love with him and his children. Became wife and mother again…
Wife nr 1 was ok, nr 2 was a bit of a challenge though…back and forth career woman and eventually agreed that we take 6 yr old daughter to stay with us as she was becoming too much of a handful and mom could not handle her. I was in my element ; I read bedtime stories, braided hair , rushed from work to help with schoolwork while cooking…all the “fun”stuff working mothers do…
But every Sunday night it was a challenge to get little lady into OUR way of doing things…the other two adjusted so well… By Wednesday (after all the scoldings and crying) the little lady would eventually abide by our rules and by Friday she would not want to go to mom again…
This changes with the moods however…when she’s got her way with us she wants to stay, otherwise she wants to go to mom (who spoils her with goodies and gadgets to make up for time not spent). They’re besties… Sometimes Daddy tries to compete, but we’re not that fortunate (what with 3 children to feed…)
Needless to say she’s grown and at 10 years old she thinks she’s 20….and I’ve had enough…my house is always a war zone as she fights constantly with big brother who feels he’s not respected by her or the father (Dad always scolds big brother as he should bear with his little sister). Big sis is the quiet type and stays out of harms way (not healthy I know).
I’ve really tried everything…sometimes she calls me mommy and my heart misses a beat…but mostly she doesn’t because I’m the teacher and she DOES NOT LIKE TO BE TOLD….
It’s such a vast difference when she’s not there and I feel guilty for the way I feel…
I have ONE question :” How do I tell her father I think she should stay with mother and visit us rather?”
Oh mommy! She is so adorable!
All the best with this new chapter of your lives. We have decided to send our little one when she turns 3 years old in January 2019. At the rate she is going, we may need to take her sooner. She is too advanced!
These little one’s will surprise you with their quick development. Sending you best wishes for when the time comes!
I saw photos of Lesedi’s party – so beautiful! Well done!
Thank you Mommy, he had such a good time
Hi Thando
It is very scary the way technology is taking over in a womens conference I attended one of the speakers urged girls to learn coding.
Can you force your child into a career path they dont want? That remains the question though.
Upgrading ourselves to meet the demand of change in careers is the only way indeed. I would love my daughter to do something in the technology field.
Hi Thando,
What a great blog!
As a mother of 2 (beautiful) daughters, I always thinks (and worry) about the skills that they will need for the world of “WORK”. The digital world really scares me, so I worry sometimes as to whether I am not putting them at a disadvantage when it comes to technology, e.g. only last week my 11 yo received her first cell phone AND she’s not even allowed to use it during the week.
My advise for is to be THE BEST THEY CAN BE and my advise for them will be to choose a highly skilled industry in which the workers need to do the job in person (e.g. doctors, psychologist, dentists….trade jobs like electricians and plumbers). Luckily my eldest wants to be a doctor but we know ofcos that by the time she’s in grade 10 (currently in Grade 6) she would have wanted to be every profession under the sun (hairdresser, pilot, teacher, etc)!!!
Its a scary thing to know that my child’s future and education is my responsibility. If you make the wrong decision or dont make the necessary provision or right decisions regarding their eductaion, then they could be affected by all of that… thats why you need to plan and make sound decisions regarding this to ensure they are sorted no matter what happens…
Khumo is just the sweetest. All the best to her as she embarks on this life-long journey of learning and discovery!!
Nandi will only be starting next year (she will be 3 turning 4 in June 2019) and the thought of her first day at school is already giving me serious sporadic anxiety attacks!!
It is both scary and exciting, but I feel comforted by the fact that she is enjoying it and already learning so much.
Hi there Thando,
I don’t know if parents can prepare their children for specific future jobs. We don’t know who they will be or what kind of world they’re going to live in.
I think all we can do is encourage them to be inquisitive and adaptable. Encourage them to read, ask questions and to look for answers. Encourage an entrepreneurial spirit and teach them financial responsibility, how to be good citizens and good friends and partners. In other words, teach them life skills. That’s, in my opinion, the job of a parent.
The rest is up to the child as they grow up. We should allow them space and freedom to create their own futures free from our expectations and fears.
As moms we have the intuition about our kids strengths & weakness, so I encourage her passion and whats she good at, feeding on that passion with words of encouragement, kids need guidance and as mums we thrive on doing what we feel is good for their emotional wellbeing as well teaching them to be independent & responsible..to become the shining stars they are…#LibertyBack2School
This topic has been so insightful for me.
I’m currently pregnant and all I can think about is my baby’s future. With all these changes happening in our world, you tend to be overwhelmed as a new mom.
Thank you for sparking thoughts
#LibertyBack2School
#ModernMoms
This post is actually echoing my thoughts. So scary and sad at the same time at the rate of how technology is taking over our lives.It definitely has its pros and cons and adjusting to something we didn’t do(like using a tablet instead of books at school)does take time. Oh well I guess change is good.
I love this post. The week before my daughter started school i has such anxiety. the night before i was nauseous and shes only in Grade 1.
Its so scary at the moment will all the decisions being made and sometimes we just have to follow. Im trying to raise her to be bold, confident and independent. To make decisions based on sound advice and to question everything around her. As parents we can everythingwebelieve we can for our kids and much more too
Hey Mama.
Thank you so much for this blog post very informative and educational.
My little boy started Grade R this year and we taught him a few things on being independent and to respect and learn new things from his peers at school. We encourage him on pursuing his dreams even though he is only 5years . He loves drawing and we always tell him he is going to be a great artist in future.
Hi Thandi,
Yoh! The career topic has always been the most challenging of topics, with the rapid growth in technology, it’s always difficult to make career choices.
Being an Educator by profession and a mom to a 5 year old in Grade R, had opened my eyes any ears a lot. We can’t force children into any career path, my son is very tech savvy and wants anything and everything to do with a gadget, and when I try and teach him about different careers he always tells me he wants to become an F1 race car driver ( I know right) or someone who designs PS3’s lol.
I guess his answers somehow show us at home what career path he likes.
I teach Grade 12, I see many students struggle at career exhibitions with their choice of careers and choose the easy way out come January, because they are afraid of challenges.
As parents & mentors or career guidance counselors, we should allow children to decide their own career choices because ultimately they’ll be stuck in a career that doesn’t fulfill them
Thando! Sorry about the spelling error ???
This is a great topic that parents should be focusing on as soon as you start family planning.
Investing in your child’s future is important so that you are able to support any dreams they have without worry.
Great topic, gets you asing yourself the necessary questions
Hi, thank you for this very informative article. My daughter started grade R and she is not in a big primary school. At the moment I am in a hunt to find a her a school for Grade 1 next year. The cost of primary education is so expensive that it made me realise that I need to start saving for her tertiary education. It’s so easy to say I don’t have any extra money to save but I think if you make that decision that saving is one of the first things on your budget list it becomes easy. I have a Liberty EduCator Risk benefit for my daughter to take care of her education should anything happen to me, this year I aim to take the Liberty’s Education Builder for her so I can ensure that her tertiary education is taken care off.
Wow such an informative blog post and quite shocking to me as a parent because i havent really thought that far yet. I do worry if I will be financially equipped as a single parent to pay for my childs higher education and that does stress me out a lot.
HiThando : )
My daughter will be going into grade 1 next year, So you can just imagine the panic, I think its really sinking in, the reality of her starting “big” school.
I really do believe that we are at a much better position then our parents were in terms of preparing our kids for the real world.
I remember when i told my parents I wanted to be a professional chef after being accepted into law school. I will never forget my moms disappointment : ( However i will forever be greatfull to my late Dad who believed in my dreams. Years later i am a qualified chef, who majored in consumer science and am now working in corporate as a training and development specialist in the hospitality industry.
To cut a long story short, since my daughter started school, I have encouraged her to do as many extra mural activities as her little body can take. So she does ballet, Build Em Brix which is maths, science and architectural principals being taught to kids using lego. She also does swimming and recently just joined the Experiment Club, which teaches them about science experiments… yes yes i do sound like a chinese mom : ) These extra murals all come at an extra cost but I made a decision when i had my daughter, I want her to one day choose a career that meets her full potential, I want her to believe that nothing is impossible where hard work has been invested. So my partner and I have made some sacrifices to make sure that we give our daughter thee best foundation. The extra mural activities have taught her discipline as well, a skill she will later use in any career. I always use Bonang, Chad le Clos and Lynette Ntuli as my perfect examples of parents who invested in their kids dreams and passions, not only with money, but with support as well. These three individuals are all doing sooo well in their respective fields. So buy more books,educational dvds, take more educational trips, invest in that good tutor, invest in that brilliant sports coach! Save to pay for that training weekend and always do better!
I want my daughter to know and believe that hard work pays off in the end and that Rome was not built over night. I want her to know that whether she wants to be a scientist, professional swimmer, Chef or own her own furniture making company, She needs to work hard for all of that to be a success.
So moms lets invest more, read more, educate ourselves, educate our kids and motivate them to be future leaders. Never has the future looked so bright with all this technology and doors that are constantly opening for our young people. We are at a much better space than where are parents were, We have all the resources to produce all these future leaders
Thank you so much Thando for this wonderfull topic, I just went on the Liberty site: ) Yep Chinese mom tendencies
It’s delightful to see kids work or play together. Watching their group dynamics, how they work and communicate within the team, are all so fascinating, especially when they’re still quite young.
In fact, a study1 revealed that children with strong social skills as early as when they’re in kindergarten are more likely to thrive as adults. Children who are able to collaborate learn how to share and give credit where it is due.
Being able to work well with others also opens up your child’s world. It teaches them to move away from “me” thinking to “we” thinking.
Well said. Totes agree
Hi Thando. What a great blogpost. I love these kind of posts which are informative and add value. Education is something that is so close to my heart. My parents literally put everything into our education. We didn’t have much money but the way that they saved and planned for the future was so smart. We really need to be doing this early. My son is only 2 years old and we set up an education fund for him and future siblings from pregnancy. Any amount that parents can save and investment makes a big difference for the future.
Hey Thando
Great post. This is such an important topic. We were so anxious and careful when looking for a school for my lil girl trying to see which school is “ahead” and as you say most of our South African mainstream schools aren’t there yet.
We let our girl be as independent as possible and think out of the box as much as possible. I don’t stress anymore when she builds something else with he Lego as opposed to what is on the Lego box (lol).
The future is scary but we as parents we have to embrace it otherwise our kids will be the ones teachings us like we had to teach our grandparents about whatsapp :). I have started attending small Robotics and AI training sessions at work just to understand because we can’t run away from all these technological changes.
Most importantly is investing in their future. I have one education policy and God willing this year I add on unit trusts just to make sure there’s no stress come tertiary time.
Yho. Nna I’m scared of the future, especially as a South African citizen because jobs are so scarce. I feel this responsibility to create jobs through entrepeneurship but heyi, my dreams scare the hell out of me.my chosen field of study chemistry and biochemistry seems like it will be a sustainable and still relevant one in the future as u said for medication as people live longer, diseases etc mara when more immediate things like school fees delaying your education and progression, its hard to be optimistic and look foward to a better society you know. Mara I’m really interested in the voice of the coming generation. Ours was feesmustfall, the previous brought us democracy. . .
Mvumikazi | Urban Mnguni
Hello, For me it would be,firstly would my child be happy, comfortable and safe in the school I chose for him, Financially can I afford to send my child to the school I chose and did I plan and save enough for his future. #LibertyBack2School
Everyone is so focused on making sure their child does coding and anything related to tech oft and the sciences. I’m totally fine with it. But aim encouraging my children to develop their talents in the creative arts. A robot won’t ever be able to tell a joke, write music or paint. The human mind was built for problem solving and that won’t happen without creative thinking. (I’m hoping I can steer my children down another path -think: the artist, stand up comedian – musician, etc then they will always have a job)
I have met with many teachers and schools. Unfortunately, our education system is lacking and hasn’t evolved much since I was in primary school. Children are being over assessed and over tested. Not enough time is given for children to play and master skills.
Education is expensive. And it’s stressful paying for 3 children’s school fees each month.
Wow a tablet for school ?? thank goodness we have started saving…and here I was worried about the stationery list
Iam a widow of 3years boy,then I meet a marriedguy.they don’t have any kids in their marriage,so it happened that we sleep together then I fall pregnant 8weeks and some days.when I ask him about his tradition,he always say they don’t have.iam confused because heis a zulu guy.please help
Loved this post it was certainly enlightening and informative.
I was widowed at a young age and left to raise our little girl on my own.
Being a single parent finances are a struggle but I will ensure my daughter has the best education and will encourage her to be the best she can be and follow her dreams.
Its a very challenging journey raising a daughter on my own but with hope and faith I continue to.
i have 3 children my oldest daughter the inhlawulo was paid,but since my parents were dirvoced my mother was the one who received the money because i chose to stay with her after the dirvoce now my dad wants all the children to be paid for as well is this ryt,he was never even in the picture i think he has meet with them once.is this fair on my mother
I don’t have kids but my niece is is grade 4 so this blog post would be perfect for my brother who has financial struggle . saving should play a big part in our lives
Thanks for your post, it is so relevant! I have 3 children. My oldest is in matric this year…time goes by so fast! I remember her first day at Primary School and how emotional it was to say goodbye to her. Fast forward 12 years and here I am wishing time would just slow down. She will apply to study IT. In your post you mention the technological advancements and the need to keep up, so I’m confident she is making the right decision and I know she enjoys it. My second child is now in High School this year! She was just a baby a few years ago! And my youngest is starting nursery soon! My heart can’t take it! I just want them to be happy and do what they like, if they are happy, I am happy 🙂
Lovely topic for every parent… i have 3 kids going to school. I try my best to listen to their day at school. Being at stay at home mom i realized how expensive school stuff are.i do struggle at some days but hey we not perfect. I love my boys n will do my best to help them
Ok.. this post just made my brain dive into overdrive.. sjoe.. my kids are in Grade 1 and 2 and they are just really at the beginning of a long school career. Its so scary that they are going this route with no text books.. kids love technology so perhaps this will be great for them – still scary to me nonetheless. School fees and aftercare fees not to mention all the other things during the year, stationary and school uniforms, are huge, and it will keep going up. I worry about further education like university fees, jobs are scarce and the kids need to go study. Here’s to hoping I find that pot of gold or that hitting the lottery jackpot 🙂
Scary but informative post. I have a grandson whose education I definitely worry about. Choosing the best school on a budget is a concern so saving for education from the start is a must
The future is becoming more scary by the day. As a parent it’s such a struggle to be hands-on with school work, especially when working shifts. I try my utmost to read up and stay in the know as to better assist my girls. Also saving for from day one has become essential especially with the rising cost of living.
Prepare as best you can by trying to invest in a future savings plan for you children’s education because cost of living is so high.
Hi Thando! Gr8 blog but so scary indeed. We all wish the best for our kids but external factors always play a role in what ultimately happens. As parents we need to be as involved in our kids lives as possible. Keep in touch with educators regularly and advise and teach our kids to the best of our ability. My 6 year old had a birthday yesterday and asked me to buy him a doctor set, which I did, he also downloaded a hospital game a few months ago which he loves and asks to visit him aunt in hospital as she is a doctor. So I’m hoping to build in his fascination with all things medical and hopefully he can dedicate his life to helping people.
totally true that technology is a big factor in education and the types of jobs for the future. Do we not see how tech savvy the young ones are these days.
You totally got all the points right on this article.
Was just thinking about this the other day. I think more than anything we should be preaching ‘entrepreneurship’ because it seems like the only way our kids will ever live comfortably, even if it’s something on the side. There is no guarantee that you will find your dream job that pays all your bills and leaves you with a fair amount to invest in all the things that matter to you. Whilst not all our kids will be entrepreneurs but let that be an option for them as opposed to advising them to being employed by someone else. It’s important to help them discover what their strengths and weaknesses are from an early age so that they can easily choose the field they want to specialise in, whether they decide to be the employer or employee.
I do not have children of my own, but I have two younger sisters, and I want the absolute best for them. Apart from the financial worries, which can be very daunting at times, eg: school fees, transport, uniform, stationary, extra activities etc.
I worry most about their emotional well being. Schools have become such hostile environments, with bullying on the increase, and with the workload steadily increasing as they become older, I worry about the stressful impact it will have on them. You constantly worry about weather or not you’ve done enough in supporting them, and providing them with the advice and encouragement that they need.
#LibertyBack2School
Putting your kids in private schools and sending them off to extra muruals all good but not been involved in the whole process becomes a big stumbling block in your kids future. Although my two girls attend afterschool i make sure im 110% involved in everything. I want them to know im more invested in they future. I am an open book, before supper we sit down one on one and discuss they day, they teachers, they friends, who did what, how was they lunch, did they make someone feel special today at school, was there a subject or essay or lesson they did not understand, I ask them to read to me everyday, I put up new words on our chalkboard in the kitchen and ask them to find the meaning then use that word the whole week in new and different ways, im on the school board and opt for the school fundraiser as I want to invest in my child receiving a good education, I dont want to put pressure on them as your school years should be memorable and enjoyable. By spending that time with your kids really makes a huge difference in they home and school enviroment. I should say im like a single parent, they dad works away from home and they see him every six months for two weeks, i know it has a huge impact in my life and in my two girls especially when there are activities or meeting at school or functions, getting to see both parents and then just me attend, but I make sure I dont miss a single function, parents meeting ect, children emotions are all over the place especially as they grow up, dont ignore the signs, dont push then away, or shut them up, when they asking 100 of the same questions, give them those unexpected hugs, and always uplift them telling them they doing a good job ect.
My kids both own cellphones and tablets, and have access to the internet and Wi-Fi its not a luxury but I feel with today kids they need to be savy and independent I monitor the games and apps they download, my eldest loves to draw and we got her a doodle pen for christmas, it something she loves and it brings her joy creating art, I would love for her become a lawyer or doctor, but I can only guide her but will always support her in her own choices, maybe she will be the next amazing artist who knows, my youngest whos 6 tells us she wants to be a mommy like me, caring, so I tell her a good choice would ne a nurse or caregiver but as she grows up the choice is hers to make and as a parent i will guide and support her. I dont want to be the one putting and directing them in a field of work where they are not happy.
There is so much to consider as your kids grow older… Im constantly stressing on whether we are doing enough to save for our kids schooling and all the extras which come along with it! Now days its not just the education you have to consider, its all the extra murals which we feel our kids have to do, otherwise they will be missing out on something! The shift in careers is also a big one! I just hope that when the time comes, we as parents are prepared!
Nicely narrated mommy!! You looked stunning
Wow cc, you looked so beautiful. Our culture is indeed beautiful, I don’t mean to judge but there are people who don’t want to do these things in the name of religion. I feel culture or tradition still has its place even though you have certain religious beliefs. Congrats and I am glad everything went well.
7:30 bedtime? can we swap please. my lil King doesnt go to bed before 21:00 🙁
so beautifully written…I love this!!! alilililili makoti
Thank you Bitso wam!
Beautifully written!! Feel like I was there the way it’s so gorgeously narrated hahahaaaa!!!!
Aaah, thank you so much Tshidi.
Very interesting! I wish they had one in Durban. M
I’m quite sure they have regional expansion on their list Phili. Let’s wait and see.
Start with naming saving an every month necessity and then inculcate a love for reading. These are pillars of the foundation for educational success.
I loooooved this post Thando and I honestly learnt so much – the traditions are so beautiful and symbolic. Can’t wait to read about the most recent celebration 🙂
So beautiful,loved reading this.. And,you looked gorgeous!!
Thank you so much Kwanele
Thanks for the tips. I read this at a perfect time after two days of not sleeping because of a 19 months old boy. In future may you please cover the food you serve your daughter i am struggling a bit.
Play school has been quite helpful with getting K to bed earlier, she has her days but I generally try to keep it as early as possible
Hi Nomsa, he could also be going through the 18-month sleep regression. Try reading up on it. I hope things are better now!
So beautiful Thando. I enjoyed this read. You’re so blessed!
Thank you so much Kimmy!
Ahhhhhhhhh. Oh wow. This is beautiful!
Thank you so much Bitso! I really appreciate it
🙂 just what I needed to read.
Thanks
You’re welcome mommy, soon you’ll be taking this step too. Wishing you and baby Thando all the best!
Love this, thank you for the info.
So glad it was helpful for you Mel
Halala khoti…thanks for the info learned a lot as prep for mine
I’m so glad it was helpful Nomfundo. Wishing you the best of luck for your planning and nuptials
I am not a mommy yet but I love your blog, it is so informative and relevant when the time comes I will so be ready for it. I was also inspired to go back to school and finish my honours degree. Big ups to you mami!!!!
Thank you so much Ntokozo, I’m very encouraged by your comment. Wishing you the best of luck with your honours degree.
Thank you for this. Since coming back from December holidays I haven’t gotten back to the bedtime routine and it’s taking its toll on the quality of sleep I’m getting since we sleep so late. I’m going back to the routine tonight.
The holidays are really disruptive for the schedule. I hope it went well mommy
One of my ineffective habits is that I spend too much time on my phone. I need to show more affection to my kid instead 🙂
We’re all guilty of that Mel, information overload. So glad the post was helpful.
That whole daydreaming thing … I’m 1 who at times thinks I’m putting my thoughts out to the universe and attracting what I want kanti niks mntase ndiyaphupha nje, so now I try to dream with a vision type planning – aligning my goals … it’s hard! I’m such a instragram (and it kills my time) junkie so now I get limited data just enough for important things and it’s working. Happy Birthday honey ??
Haha, we will get it right darling. Thank you so much for the wishes xx
I need sessions for this ?
Only just discovered your blog and I love it! So happy to hear that you’re so happy and healthy. Happy belated birthday!
Aaah, thank you Naz. Means a lot to me buddy ♥️
I love this post… I have to agree with being more self reliant.. Totally relate ? happy birthday ? lots of blessings to you for the year ahead ?
Thank you so much Maryam. Yes, let’s give ourselves the benefit of the doubt and trust more!
thanks for sharing Thando, I guess I’m not the only one to be less decisive and self reliant I always confirm my decisions even though I know what I want. I am learning to trust my self and be bold in in the things I want without consulting anyone no matter how wrong I am that’s the only way to learn and grow.
Happiest Birthday ??????
This is a very critical matter and a sensible one, be that as it may be, i would vividly disagree with the man who impregnated you. i believe in zulu cultural that this custom is practiced as it is a primitive one. Maybe it is he way of dodging the consequences of his actions. Go to his home and practice your cultural custom, if then he refuse to grant you entrance, i would suggest to take other measures legally. there is maintenance court for such people not unless he is trying to deny the paternity of the child.
I swear you are heavenly sent, you have no idea how much i needed to hear ALL that you have shared. My head wonders daily thinking of how i can finally stream line my “purpose”.
When i start a project i fully deliver and that usually confuses me because i often think “this is it” until the birth of something even more exciting in my head pops up LOL.. and its hard holding back as a creative person but i appreciate your take on “have a plan” which in most cases is very hard to stick to but also vital to maintain sanity through the confusion if you know what i mean lol…
Thank you, printing this one to keep in my diary 🙂
Sawubona MamaWomzulu
Lppking stunning I just come across your page busy palying around kwi internet ..please share some of your post I loved your page.
I recently discovered your blog and i am loving every post i go through! This specific post has left me emotional because of the authenticity and vulnerability that we as moms tend to think is unique to us… To find it in truth in another mom and the confirmation and affirmation that your best is good enough is reassuring and inspiring!
Thank you…
Thank you so much Mama, I appreciate your comment. That vulnerability is definitely not unique to a select few, we are experience similar emotions and trials. Thank you again!
No.2 Thando! The final paragraph! That is so me. I share so much, I communicate a lot – too much at times and I used to be so good at ” shielding” my private life. Oh well, I’m in with you on this.
Love these tips Thando it’s so important to focus on healthy eating as it has long benefits for our families and children learn from us that the healthy options are really the best ones. I love the suggestions which are easily implementable that you have included
I love the smoothie idea, definitely one I am going to try it. Thanks MZM!
Smoothies are the best! So quick and easy to make.
So glad you have found them useful Lindz! We all need the reminders from time to time. Nutrition is one of the priorities that we shouldn’t compromise on.
Love this post. We try to be a very health conscious family. Biggest challenge at the moment though is consistency. We need a constant reminder and this post serves just that. I’m definitely bookmarking this.
i am a Zimbabwean guy and i impregnated a Zulu girl. I want to marry her but as informed the first process is this hlaulo. What is the possible maximum charges i am to pay??
Balance is as much a dreaded word as change!!! We live in a world where there is so much demand on our time that finding a balance seems like taboo. The one thing I’ve learnt that has helps a great deal is learning to say NO! In the past I would quickly say yes thenfind myself running wild to get everything done. Now I say NO and I don’t feel guilty about it! Like you said healthy mommy happy family. And I also need to model a good behavior for my family.
We keep learning
Ooh that illusive balance we all search for. I have recently learnt to accept more help.( I’ve been the I can do it all mommy and it’s exhausting). A friend recently offered to stay with mini-me on a Friday afternoon/evening 2 give me some me-time & at first I was stressed coz it “ruined” my schedule but it was so great 2 do something for me. I went to watch an adult movie (imagine that?).
I think it’s important to slow down especially on weekends because we are chasing time the entire week
Yes to more help T! It’s funny how WE become the attached ones, I’m glad you have your inner circle to support you. After all, we were raised ‘by the community’.
I can relate to this so much. Sometimes I weep in bed thinking how im failing at balancing our lives out. But I feel so much better knowing Im not the one
You are never alone mommy, I think we just need to keep talking openly about our struggles. It’s one of the most difficult things to accomplish – I don’t think balance exists
Great piece!
I don’t have balance, my time is taken so much by tv soapies, I know I’m guilty. I don’t have kids, yet, but imagine I don’t have balance now, what would I do when I have to take care of my family! I am struggling to punctual even at work. When I am meeting my friends, I am the last one to arrive. At a mall with colleagues, I am the last one to get back in the car, sometimes they wait for me a couple of minutes because I can’t get in at a shop and go straight to that particular object I came for.
Thanks Ayanda, sometimes we need to indulge in our guilty pleasures, lol
Please advise me. I have a son with this guy and my family didnt go to report to the guys family as our families live apart so now he wants us to take the child to his family so they can see the child then pay the damages but my mother insists that he must pay damages first before the child meets his family, Im soo confused please help
Life can get really challenging, I am definitely not getting to everything.
I like to take as much time for myself as I can, especially in the evenings as we do early bedtime for the kids. So at least I know most nights I can catch up. Think of it this way…no such things as balance only ‘balancing’ a constant juggle 🙂
I agree not to fill up the weekend, is a good approach to be more rested on mondays.
Hi Thando. I agree that a microwave is extremely useful, but I definitely can not live without a fridge. As a working mum, it helps me to store food and milk for my baby for the times that I am away from home.
Spot on mommy,we would really waste food and money without it! It’s so hard to choose!
Toaster my kids love toast though i’m not bread person i enjoy having a slice of toasted bread with jam done by my 9 year old daughter on a Saturday morning. It once broke and she and her brother nagged for days for me to get a new one.
Hi Thando
I cannot live without a kettle. How am i going to make that nice hot cup of tea every night after putting the baby in bed?
oooh difficut choice for a mom, but I would go with oven becuase I use it for roasting , baking , pop in stuff for lunches, sooo convenient for me
Thee one appliance I cannot love eithout in my kitchen got to be the stove.
NB:I love food ?, so cooking is number one.
Hi Thando, for me it would definitely be a stove/oven. I love cooking and baking, it allows me to try out all the different meal recipes I get from the cooking shows that I watch with Siba’s Table being my favourite 🙂
My kettle! I just can’t start the day without a cup of coffee
I have to agree with you, for me it also has to be the microwave, I heat, cook, defrost, bake and grill in this magnificent machine, easy peasy lemon squeezy, quick and easy for this working mommy.
I guess as a working mom it’s difficult to say which one but for me definitely it’s a kettle. Immediately after jumping out of bed i’m thinking a nice cup of coffee just to plan my day ahead.
I simply cannot live without my defy hob stove , I really struggled with the last few months when my old one broke and I was trying to get a new one but thank God I got it now
Definitely my fridge – can’t live without it. In terms of food safety and keeping dairy, fruit and vegetables fresh – I personally think the fridge is one household appliance most families can’t live without.
I cannot live without my microwave. I hate cold food so im constantly using it he he
I can’t live without my blender for my all time smoothies. I can make any combination with whatever fruit in the kitchen. Without my blender my life will be boring.
Good day Thando
I feel your challenge , we have been in the same challenge as well the past months due to also renting as we will be moving houses soon ,we just cannot leave without a microwave especially having a toddler in the house that I have to prepare food for like e.g noodles or eggs, warm milk as it has also helped us to prepare food as our stove has been giving us a problem and thinking we cannot buy the owner another stove , microwave it is
With 3 growing boys, my oven works overtime! so I definitely cannot live without it!
Oven
This is difficult, but if I had to choose it has to be my kettle. I can’t start my day without my cup of coffee.
For me it’s my microwave without a doubt
This is a very difficult one, but it has to be the fridge. As a working my mom i tend to cook a lot on Sundays especially for my toddler and freeze the meals for easy meal preps in the week.
for me it’s a kettle .
I can’t live without my oven. Having two boys 1, and 3 years old I find the oven most useful when I have to get them bathed and changed and I can just pop supper in the oven while getting them done.
Has to be the kettle, I need a strong cup of coffee to start my day right.
And most times get me through the day.
My fridge most definitely ?
I have a Defy gas/electric (combo) stove….I absolutely cannot live without it!!This is where I create MAGICAL meals for my family
I absolutely cannot live without a kettle. I am a major tea addict and my kettle is life.
I have to agree, Microwave!
Coffee Machine!
My stove! I love to cook and bake and if my oven is not working I feel if I can also stop working!
Definitely the stove/oven. My family and I prefer home cooked food over take outs.
The stove, I love cooking for my family.
THANK you so much, yours helped me a lot
Hey Lindiwe, I’m so glad to hear that. Thanks for reading xx
Adult friendships are hard and definitely need more work as time goes on.
Thank you for this post. I loved it especially since I’m at a point where I feel like friendship is a bit of a myth.
It’s difficult to maintain and get that balance Sini, but it can be done, with patience, love and mutual respect for our individual values and “situations”. Friendships can also work in cycles, where we grow apart and then together again. Thanks for reading and sharing your views Mama.
Thank you for this…personally this stood out for me in your post “friendship requires a great amount of mutual hard work and attention, but sometimes our periods of personal growth, require extra doses of self-care or isolation that may take away from our friendships.”
Those that want to grow along with you will be there and those who want to stand aside and watch will stand and watch. Take whatever words were spoke of you as a wind passing by, it does not need your energy, be grateful for those hurtful words as they can only lead to your growth as a better woman, mom and wife.
Someone once said to me “Protect your family” that is your priority before any friendship, true friends must be supportive and equally encouraging you to protect your family.
Adult friendships are indeed challenging
No, thank YOU for this comment. I honestly did not know where to even begin addressing the matter but you’re right, it doesn’t deserve my energy and I need to prioritise my family above all.
I have to be honest the shock of a friendship I had always believed was for life shook me to my absolute core!
It wasn’t till allowed myself to mourn it like i’d taken the time to mourn ‘romantic’ relationships or the loss of someone close to me Thato was able to truly move on. Somethings aren’t always supposed to be forever, and I think that’s what makes the ones that are that much more special! People who belong in your life stay and those that don’t stay, never did!
Keep perspective. I love that.
Life is busy, if one cannot reach out when you need or expect them too it really does not mean they don’t care… I love this.
I can definitely relate to this. Yes adult friendships are hard but what’s even harder is keeping things together on your own side of the fence. And that’s what holds priority in my life, my family and my own sanity. I honestly try maintain as many friendships as I think are worth my while but I do that based on how much I can give. The same applies to with what you let into your life, youare in control. Keep the negativity out.
Aaahhh!!! Words fail me, you have no idea how much I needed to hear a voice of reason about adult friendships. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Dear modern zuku mom
I have a question which i really need ur perspective. So i hv a baby from another family nd now pregnant again bt not fir the same father. The first baby father payed for izintombi, ihlawulo nd wacela. So now i dnt know if it acceptable ukubika isisu okwesibili coz ngokwazi kwami sisu sesibili asibikwa nd uyahlawula kuphela bt in a way that inciphisa inkomo zelobolo. Ngeke kusafanA nokokuqala lapho kukhona ingeza muzi, ingeza msamo. If kunjalo amaFamilies ahlangana kanjani kuthi azikubo kwengane if sisu singazobikwa.
Plz help my maternal side of a family can be very greedy i know so i would’nt like kubona kudlalwa ngabantu. They do things by judging the family so my knowledge of zulu culture practise really helps in difficult times. Thanks in advance.
Growing up is hard and finding loyal and loving people in your circle of friends is harder..Thank you for this very good read.
I cant live without my washing machine… with three boys in school I could never cope with hand washing the clothes!
Oh wow so beautiful,i find reading this very helpful as I’m in a process of preparations for my day…Thank you so much.
I couldnt live without a kettle. It dies everything for me to keep me sane ☺
I personally think the fridge is one household appliance most families can’t live without.
We recently had a problem with our fridge and I had to get it fixed …so for me I personally know cannot live with out my fridge
Dish washing machine,with me being in Cape Town it saves a lot of water,with me working most of the time and being a student on the side it saves my resting time a lot.
The kettle is the appliance I can’t live without, just because I’m always nose deep in the books but I get up every now and then to make tea. And on the rare occasion that I have nothing to do, guess where I’m gonna get up and go? To the kettle. Ngiyatifela nje ngelitiye. Uma basho natsi ngifute Mkhulu.
It has to be my stove. I have hooked up mean meals on it. My family love baked scones and roasted chicken.
Also my microwave … maye because of the fact that it’s conventional?
Love this post my friend and just what I needed x cultivate what matters, including friendships
?
Wow! This is interesting, im also so sensitive when it come to friends because they become family to me. I have some of the most longests friendships in time and I have had to cut ties with many of them. You will also notice most “friends” will start avoiding you when you are pregnant or just after getting marriage. Im not really sure what causes that but, like you said; I’ m here for those who are here for me
It’s really hard between work,school and our families haibo kunzima, but i always say if it’s important to you find the time- make time. Last saw my girls (squad) 1st of Jan:-( and before having kids we used to see each other twice a month if not every weekend.
This was such an enjoyable read and really got me thinking. I think self evaluation is so important too. Often I walk away from friendships that never flourished (Not that this is an everyday thing hahahahahaha), but I think going forward I need to evaluate myself, and question whether I actually made the effort from my end. Also this which you said: “A bit of selfishness and retracting from the rest of the world can sometimes be the only way to save and look after ourselves.” That is too true. The friendships which I still have, and are still going strong, is because of the distance we gave ourselves from time to time. Adulting is hard, and sometimes we need to put our friendships aside, give our personal lives attention first, then focus on friendships.
I would like to know if I’m obliged to pay damages to someone with two kids that are not mine
Hi morden zulu mom i have 3kids from 1father who already paid inhlawulo for his kids. So now i have this difficult mother who i feel she is greedy and i have informed her about the baby father he wants to pay for inhlawulo. Now since esontweni engakwazi ukuya coz unecala lokumithisa kunzima. So umama uthi ingane inhlawulo u6 cows ngoba intombazane and no uyifuna yonke. Manje inkomo njengoba ibiza 10000 iyodwa manje lomuntu sekfanele akhokhishwe 60000 haaa cha ngiyanqaba. So ngabe kumele ngenze njani and anginamuntu ongangisiza since nobaba engakaze ahlawulelemuntu kithi and i feel ugreedy nje ngoba akakaze ahlawulelwe umama but imali uyibiza njengoba injalo. Plz help
Hey Thando, this post resonated with me so much.
What I love about reconnecting with friends is that even after months of not seeing each other, it’s like no time has passed at all!
When you find yourself regularly sharing the same space with a friend – be it a friend you met at gym, a friend from work, a friend from a dance class, a friend from a support group, a friend from university… if you no longer find yourself in the same space, somehow the friendships dissipate, because, well, life happens and as you said, we grow. It’s important to make the effort to stay in touch, especially with the good ones.
Thanks for writing this post.
Raylene
xoxo
Excitement overload!!!! I mean like I a kid in the candy store haha….
You remain my daily inspiration. THANK YOU! I cant emphasize enough how emotionally rewarding this event will be to all moms, such deserving moms.
We do tend to lose yourselves in motherhood. Such events are crucial for mommy’s self check “Am I still on the right track? how do other moms do it all in one life? ”
I honestly cannot wait!!!!!!!!!
I feel like a Real Mom when i know my kids are happy and they smiling….and after i had my 2 glasses of wine on the weekend
I love Spree! I live on their website! Spree continues to evolve, and their highly innovative.
It’s also an excellent platform for local designers.
Thanks for sharing mama!
P.S: I’m also obsessed with Pop Candy. 🙂
I’m with you mommy, we love them for the innovation and quick deliveries!
Impressive accolades from each one of these mamas. Best of luck with the event Thando, although I know you don’t need it. I so wish I could attend. But I hope I’ll be able to come to the next one, God willing.
I’m already thanking you! I love banana muffins, and now with Nutella? Yuuuum! I will let you know when I make them.
Haha, you’re welcome Rutendo! Please do let me know, I would love to hear.
Oooh they look so yummy 🙂 and easy to make.
The most painful and unbearable pain for anyone to go through. 30 March 2018, 21:00 I lost a part of me that I would never get.
I’m so sorry to hear that you went through this Tando, sending you lots of love and prayers for healing.
Even though their say time heals but I have learnt to leave with the pain…But some days are better then others. Thank you very much for your love and support.
What I love about UniKitty are the things she believes in and those are the things I would love my daughter to grow up believing also. • Always be yourself
• Don’t be afraid to dance
• Stay positive!
I believe that this three will make her happier in a world where they will try make you out to be something you are not, I never want her to be afraid of anything and to always be positive even on her hardest days
Yes Mama, I love that about her too. Our little ones need all the positivity they can get!
One thing I especially love about the Unikitty cartoon is just how happy it is.
The lack of real cynicism in it kinda gives it a bit of its own identity in a very negativity-centric animation era.
The whole show’s purpose is just to make you smile, and I really love that ( Cape Town )
Her happiness is definitely contagious!
What I love about UniKitty always being positive like my son would say “Mama we make mistakes but we must always try again “, he also loves dancing just like UniKitty even though he isn’t that good.
I don’t have an idea who UniKitty is LOL.but if I win this I will probably learn more about her ??
Absolutely! Nothing like getting up close and personal, lol
All the best on your new career path mami, kufezeke konke okufisayo!!
Ngiyabonga Nto, means a lot to me.
All the best mommy and thank you for inspiration. I must say you’re God sent. You open my eyes every time i read your blog. Enjoy your new role.
You have no idea how motivating that is for me Noms, this kind of encouragement keeps me going – thank you!
Congratulations on your new role Thando! Onwards and upwards 🙂
thank you so much babe, appreciated!
Congratulations and well done! More grease to your elbow. And all the best in the new role. You’ll smash it
Lots of grease, but I’m ready for it, thank you sooo much xx
This is such a great initiative. I actually need to change the recipient on my card. And I’ve been putting it off. This is the reminder I need to get this done ASAP
Awesome mommy, thanks for heeding to the call.
I love that second picture of Khumo. You are baking and Khumo is like I’m here for the picture (gorgeous girl)
She’s always in diva mode! Thank you
I’ve actually never bought anything from Spree. I typically avoid buying clothes online but maybe it’s time to try this out
I find that I exercise more control when I shop online. I leave things in my cart for a day or two to think a purchase through. But if I’m in a mall I go wild and so do the kiddies LOL (K thinks it’s the best place for tantrums and I have to write a thesis before convincing L to go). Let me know if you try it.
Hmmmmmm…. sadly there is a fine line between baby blues and PPD. And sadly as women of colour we are made to believe “we” don’t go through such things. Hopefully we get help when required and we know the repercussions can be big if we don’t seek help
It was my first time watching UniKitty this morning and reading through this mini blog really affirmed that she is a ball of warmth and happiness. Much like me with my nephews and nieces, I love that she is very protective over her Prince PuppyCorn.
I will be watching more of her fo sho!
Welcome to team UniKitty Nox!
I love that Unikitty is full of enthusiasm and creativity and always making sure her people are happy. She gets angry whenever someone makes her brother and puppycorn upset and hates negativity. Would love to take my boys to the show at Grand Arena
Hiyeeeee…
When I hear that I know I have lost my daughter to the t.v screen as she watches unikitty.
I love how unikitty teaches my very shy daughter how to always stand up for yourself… and that in doing so, doesn’t mean you are being a bad person and how unikitty just oooozes happiness… I know my daughter is in a good mood when she finds herself singing the theme song even way after the cartoons had ended!
Unikitty sounds and acts ust like my daughter. She loves to dance, my daughter is a dancer too and never afraid to try out new things. Unikitty also doesnt like to see her brother upset, just like my daughter. She is very protective of her little brother.
Oh wow, thanks for the introduction to Unikitty. Definitely something i will find myself unintentionally watching with my boys.
Unikitty is a very loving, caring, kind and cheerful character with an infectious laugh/giggle, which I know my almost 2 year old will certainly giggle back at.
She is also very chirpy and optimistic. Her personality will rub off on the kids for sure.
Wow I think I need to introduce my kids to UniKitty. My son loves Ben Tennison (Ben Ten ) JHB. He is obsessed with Ben 10. He likes him because he is a hero that he can relate to (age and size wise). He loves the fact that he is seems to be a normal boy but with extra-ordinary powers to save the world from the bad.
I know all about the “new girl” feeling, haha! It’ll disappear before you know it Mama! Well done on your achievements, and I’m so proud of your journey!
Also, I love that you’re wanting to lift others up as you climb higher, and may God bless you abundantly Thando.
This one really hits home. I recently got married and became a new mom, its so difficult to keep up especially because you have a home to take care of. I’ve seen my friends go out and I wasn’t there, I felt left out but then again I realised that my life has changed and that I have new priorities. It is really hard to maintain friendships especially when others are not making an effort.
Congratulations on your new job Thando. i have also taken a decion 2 leave an industry I’ve been in for 10 years ? to say I’m anxious is an understatement especially coz it comes with a lot of change that will rock my well oiled mommyhood routine. But we shall conquer and WIN
Love her positivity and ability to always look on the bright side of everything!
In-fact i have three of my favourites you can say i am a germ-a-phobia; Personal Care Wipes; Instant Hand Sanitizer and last but not least Dettol Nourishing Bath Soap with natural olive and almond; if i don’t get one of the three eish i will be in trouble:) when i get home. And i think i must get one of those disinfectant kitchen cleaner i always wipe my kitchen top with sunlight liquid soap i will definitely add that to my list. Great blog…
I love the fact that unikitty is mostly interested in making sure everyone is happy and ridding the kingdom of negativit.
Unikitty is a force to be reckoned with if anyone gets in the way of spreading her positive vibes, especially if anyone makes her own little brother and best friend Puppycorn sad.
With a boys crew, Unikitty’s positive vibes and sibling love really helps me maintain the peace when sibling rivalries creep in, would definitely love to take my minions to this one, hope I’m not too late
I LOVE The Dettol Liquid Hand Soap and we only use Dettol Soap in the bath and shower <3
I love the Dettol kitchen cleaner
It keeps my kitchen clean and fresh and ofcause germ free
Dettol instant hand sanitizer
I love the dettol liquid hand soap, we always keep a bottle near the sink in the kitchen and have tried to teach my toddler to always wash hands, we try teach by example, so he sees us washing and he follows suit!
I absolutely love the Dettol liquid hand soap. With 2 kids, I want to make sure their hands are clean especially when they get home from aftercare etc. I also love the Dettol hand sanitizer.. I always keep a small one in my handbag for those emergencies 🙂
My favourite is the Dettol bathroom cleaner.. It makes my bathroom smell amazing.
I love all Dettol products but my favourite of all is the Dettol Antiseptic liquid I put a drop of it in water before my kids take a bath and I feel assured that they are protected from all sorts of germs that can give them diseases.
I love the Disinfectant kitchen cleaner cause cuts through grease in a breeze.
I like the Dettol instant hand sanitizer
I dont leave the house without the Dettol instant hand sanitizer
I love the Dettol bar soap…smells amazing and lasts long.
I love the Dettol liquid hand soap.
im inlove with the dettol even tone soap for thr first time using it saw a major difference in my skun tone and also the dark patch of skin between my thighs started to fade so i have been using it ever since.and the luquid hand wash we started using since my sister has a new born we need to be careful .
I take dettol disinfectant wipes with me everywhere, fuck the flu ?
The All Purpose Cleaner is my Favourite.
Love the Dettol hand sanitizer
Dettol kitchen cleaner is my favourite
It has the be the antiseptic liquid.
Love dettol in general! My favorite products are the dettol body soap, kitchen cleaner and sanitizer
Hey… i was once pregnant then had a miscarrige l, then pregnant again by the same person my mother has passed on bt my father is still available. he requested my aunt (umamkhulu) to deal with the proceedings seeing they in kzn and we in joburg….. The guys family has paid half of inhlawulo bt my aunt has split it out to his son my younger brother and grandads who wer availed during the proceedings without giving my father anything….. is it allowed???? will it put no harm to my living child???
Hi i felt so much better after reading this, i honestly thought my lil one was just being too extra. Its cute at times but honestly sometimes i just wanna sleep and rest because well am a working mom, its not easy.
Hi Leila, I’m so glad that you could relate to this post and that you now know that a lot of us moms and babies go through this phase. I hope it gets better soon xx
I’m sotho dating a zulu man. We recently had a baby together and your blog has given me a snippet of what i can expect moving forward thank you
I love Royal Baking powder as it is the best brand on the market.
I didn’t realize pizzas are so easy to make. Think we will give it a go this weekend! I love my royal baking powder because its been around for years and it never lets me down in all ny baking!
My late Mom swore by Royal Baking powder as none of her bakes were ever a flop. So to continue the tradition of non flop baking- I always use Royal baking powder.
Is there even another brand for baking powder except Royal?
Well for me royal baking powder is a household necessity, I actually don’t think there is a black family whos mom doesn’t have a tin of royal baking powder in the kitchen to use on good old fashioned Dikuku and for us modern age moms and kotis to wipe up a few pancakes for breakfast or cupcakes that the kids can decorate themselves and keep them entertained. Royal baking powder has been there at many weddings and funerals in black families with just a tea or two the results are magical and if left out one will surely know when the baked goods are left falling flat. There is sure power in Royal baking powder
Absolutely love this Thando. I too sometimes fall into the trap of comparing myself to other mothers but luckily I know how to quickly remind myself that parenting is not about that. It is no different to each one of us having a personal and unique life journey. There really is no generic way to go about doing it. What works for another family won’t necessarily work for mine or my children. Us mothers should learn to not put so much pressure on ourselves. Chances are if you take a step back and look at your kids with a different eye, you will see they are happy, healthy and thriving and you are allowed to take some credit for that.
We are all just winging it and sooner we learn to embrace and celebrate our differences in adoration of Gods colorful and vasertile creativity the better
the chances of raising kids that are self aware and proud to be. Thank you so so much Mama for this insight.
Royal baking makes baking fun and easy! I have never been disappointed when baking something with Royal baking powder, whether it be cakes or crumpets for breakfast!! We tried the pizza, what a hit with the whole family!!
I was totally inspired by this pizza recipe, I made it for the family last night and it was a hit 🙂 – I had never thought of making homemade pizza before.
I love Royal Baking Powder because I am guaranteed of a perfect outcome to my baked goodies everyttime, whether I am making scones or pizza.
Hi guys, please help
if I impregnate a girl and her family told me to pay 4 cows for the damage, is that realistic if I am not marrying her anytime soon??
What hallens if both parents the girl die and the father of the child wants to pay the damages. Who do the give damages to?
I use.the pizza dough recipe and it came out absolutely lovely. My family loved it. Gonna make another bath today.
Hey Losh, I’m so pleased to hear that!
I use.the pizza dough recipe and it came out absolutely lovely. My family loved it. Gonna make another batch today.
My baking skills are just fine (well praised by my kids ALWAYS, and that’s all that matters much lol), and Royal baking powder does me a whole good because it won’t allow me to loose. It’s a special ingredient that ensures I get joy even if I doubted myself.
Yes mommy, all that matters is that they enjoy it – never has to be perfect. Thanks for the entry!
I love Royal Baking Powder SA because it never fails me as a mommy who loves baking for her kiddies, I always get the best results and compliments from my family when I use a family favourite Royal Baking Powder when I bake.
I love Royal Baking Powder because it is a key component of my mom’s chocolate cake recipe. She passed away 2 years ago and I treasure her recipe more than anything else in my life. The Royal Baking Powder is the only brand I use and I can be assured that my cakes will always come out the oven fresh, moist and beautifully risen!
Because it never disappoints 🙂 My mom used this when I was growing up and I always have in my cupboard.. not just for baking, but it makes my creamy mash potatoes fluffy and light.
Wow… such an impressive exercise. And I love how everyone gains.
You had me at doughnuts!!! And I wonder why I can’t lose weight 😆
We shall definitely be trying this before the school holidays are over. I shall attempt a baked version of it
Awesome, The personalized pics are the best.
I know right?! Nothing beats a personal touch! We felt so special
such an amazing initiative. well done!
I am loving your work.
Thank you so much Thabang, appreciate that more than you know.
Hey mommy you are amazing I can imagine it’s not easy as a busy mom. My husband used to travel so much with work like we would be lucky if he was home for a whole week it was difficult and sure does take its toll on your relationship and the kids.Things are settled though now he decided he was missing out on so much that even though the money was great.
one you mention that is very important is support in terms of family & family that makes things easier and also supporting your partner to follow their dreams you don’t want to be the one to hold them back let them flourish because in the end it’s for the benefit of the family not just him.
True Twana, you have to keep the right perspective and look at the benefits for the whole family. You raise such a good point, moving and being away from home is difficult on them too! I’m so glad your family is living together again.
Hey Mama,
thank you for sharing this took me back to the time where my husband and i lived a long long distance marriage, it was all we knew from 2009 until 2014 and we survived. Although i wish we knew some of the things you have highlighted on this blog lol… thank you.
Wow, 6 years is a long time. Proud of you guys for making it work, that gives me lots of hope.
Momma, I do not know how you do it, but kudos to you. It really does sound like a difficult situation to be in, and you one has to be very mindful in how they approach the situation. Thank you for the tips.
Thank you so much, yup it’s definetely not easy at all but we make it work.
I love Royal Baking Powder because it always yields the best results, perfectly risen delightful treats!
I haven’t tried it or seen it in stores, but will be shopping for it later today I want to bathe in yogurt and peaches. LOL
Hope you found it mommy, but most of all, that you enjoyed it. It’s so divine!
I have recently started potty training my son and these would be a huge help!
Thanks for the article, I feel so much after reading it and knowing that I am not the only one going through this challenge is a huge relief. I have a daughter who is 8 years old who still wet the bed and I won’t lie it has been quite depressing for me because after my divorce I had to move to a bachelor apartment and I currently share a bed with my daughter and this means I have to wash the sheets every morning and sometimes I wake up wet too. I would love to win because this will help bring my daughter’s confidence because I see how disappointed she becomes when she wake up wet and this mean our room will smell fresh and clean.
I would really love to win this amazing price because I’m a first time mom this will be a gift please
I would really love to win this amazing price because I’m a first time mom.This will be perfect gift please
I have two toddlers, both getting potty trained and my son has recently been wetting the bed. This would come in so handy!
I would love to win this. My daughter is about to start potty training soon. She would love this prize!
Firstly thank you for a wonderful post interesting and enlightening to read and for the giveaway love to win for Little Emily she just started potty training and this prize will be well used and greatly appreciated.
Wow I wish these were around when my daughter was going through this. It eventually passed. I would love to win this for a friend who’s son has this problem, he has just turned 7. Thanks 🙂
I’d love to win cause my 4 year old daughter is having some bed-wetting problems. At times it seems like we winning and others it’s just hopping from one bed to the other in an attempt to get some sleep.
I’m so happy that you’re sharing this with us. I have a 9 year old nephew and a 10 year old niece who are seriously struggling with bed wetting. We have tried everything. This has really lowered their self confidence, this means no sleep overs for them. We’re hoping for a turn around before they hit their teens.
I’d love to win because we started potting training earlier this year and we still have a few accidents at night now and then.
I would really love to win this for my son, as I am in the process of potty training him and this will really come in handy at night.
I would really love to win this because as a first-time mum bed-wetting can really be scary at times I’ve read a lot of tips on how to handle bed-wetting and I think I’m ready since we also starting potty training with my daughter this would be an awesome hamper for my daughter.
Our challenge came without warning and it was too sudden for words. Our little girl was successfully potty trained with a few years of dry sleeping. Then out of nowhere, we were changing pyjamas and sheets daily. We also thought it may be late drinks to not been awoke at night. So we limited drinks and put on alarms to wake her but nothing helped. A thorough medical check couldnt find anything physically wrong with her. Thats when we started our daily talks, affirmations and love with her. We began to asure her of our love daily as it was evident she was embarrassed. It was not over night but a lot of effort and time speaking positive to her that things began to be positive and improve. She is now growing so well and she conquered. Now we potty training our 4th baby and moving into nappiless nights step at a time. Though we are having some wet messy nights still at this time, we are very much determined. It would be great to go through the journey with huggies as a partner.
Wow awesome read! Thanks for those tips and pin point that it’s a child fault to accidentally pee on the bed I really get upset when my 3rd child wet the bed while potty training because my first two never give me hard time now my knowledge increased thanks to you we can’t control the situation. I would love to win these for my toddler my fourth child which is potty training at the moment I would love to try and recommend them as well as all my friends get child same time and we all struggles for this stage. I enjoyed reading your blog all the time ❤️❤️❤️
This is an amazing giveaway. I would reallly love to win this for my babygirl. I would love to give Huggies dry Nights a test as we have not used them before? thank you for the great information above, I truelly enjoyed reading.
My challenge has been Zano being too independent. We got the day right finally but evening time she refuses to put on diapers. I bought a pack of dry nites recently recently which she loved because of the feel and look of it. She loves the indepence of waking up and taking off the diaper herself so they would help alot in terms of that.
At times she makes a mistake at night and wakes up so embarassed the next morning, When does it get easy ?
I actually got one before the launch. People actually complement me at work about how nice I smell. I have always been obsessed with Peach smells so I will try that next
I’m so glad to hear that Thembs! I love that peachy smell too xx
Thank you for this post Thando, we’re also in the same boat and it’s not easy at all.
I felt this cos I’ve also been there so many times 🙂 : even on the days when you desperately want to drag him back into town to deal with the babies for a change (yes, I’ve been there)
Sooooo…How amazing is this blog Thando! So proud of you, and yes I am only paying attention now because Im a new mommy(9 months deep) and it’s been a trip. Having read your blogs from the jump has actually eased my heart to know that I’m not perfect and I’m allowed to make mistakes, and that each journey for mommy and baby differs. I’ve put myself under so much pressure in the past 9 months, and reading your blog has just made me question that notion…Thank you! Also good to know that when I get to this stage of bed wetting I’ll have a pretty good idea of how to handle it lol! ?❤
Aah Lindz, welcome to mommyville and thank you so much for visiting the blog! Yup, soack up all the tips Mama xx
Is it fair that my sons family wAnt me to pay ilobolo for my son in order to change his surname to mine 2 cows in cash and 2 cows zoboya, wheres I did pay inhawulo,,,and the mother of my child has passed away a year ago??? Why they are so greedy?
Lovely piece sisi,it can be tough sometimea as you may feel like a single parent. Keep going, you are doing very well. ?
Thank you so much Boni, I really appreciate the encourangement.
Hey mom, I can imagine it’s hard. I only have a week or few of the year where husband has to go away because he’s on a job as a musician. This is so true “Don’t assume that your partner has the ‘better deal” and it’s hard not to think those negative thoughts. Strongs and well done for keeping a positive attitude.
You guys should do this on a regular basis; it’s an amazing initiative. There’s so many people out there that needs this kind of help. High 5!
That is such a milestone! Congrats my friend! You’ll be done when you’re both ready, don’t be hard on yourself xoxo
Hi Thando,
I came across your blog in 2016 but whenever I feel down or I need motivation I always come back to read old stories. You have helped me stay motivated and positive.
Thank you, May God continue to use you.
Thank you so much for these useful tips. I was faced with bedwetting with one of my son’s. He would hide it away until I found where he had hidden his trunkies under the bed. Clearly embarassed and thought mommy would be upset. It carried on for a long time. It’s for this reason that I kept him away from sleepovers even Sunday school camps and school camps. Bedwetting is not something people talk about. I truly appreciate this post and has given me more insight to what the possible cause was. Would love to try the DryNites.
I would make this smart choice because I want continue to educate by son about the importance of oral hygiene so he can continue this tradition with his kids as well. But also to make it a tasty and fun experience for him.
Thank you for sharing another wonderful competition. I would love to win this for my family . I have two daughters aged q14 and 7 . I would love to introduce more ways for them to look after there teeth mouth and gums . This will be a confidence boost for my eldest as she is always worries about bad breath .
I have 3 sons and nagging them endlessly about dental hygiene is exhausting. I’d love to give them something new and fun to experience and hopefully get them more invested in their dental health!
This would be super nice to win this for my kids who sometimes forget to brush their teeth, so they can gargle and have there teeth and there breath smelling fresh and clean
I got 2 little rascals aged 5 and 3 that really love to brush their teeth everyday, and this will be great as I haven’t introduced mouth wash yet.
I would make this smart choice because using a mouthwash after brushing is an essential part of maintaining clean teeth, fresh breath and healthy gums, while preventing tooth decay.i would love my family to adopt this healthy oral habits
I will most certainly make this a smart choice as it will make dental health care fun it will encourage and motivate them to take care of their oral hygiene. The bright colours and flavour will entice them no more nagging them….
This is so exciting and love to win and can’t wait to see reactions after using this products.
Thank you for a interesting and enlightening post.
I would make this smart choice because their teeth are for life and if well cared for they can avoid all the traumatic dental procedures one has to go through if the teeth are not taken care of.
Good oral hygiene is a must. Our Leo is currently getting into the toothbrushing routine so this would be awesome for him too
Would make a good choice coz healthy teeth brings a beautiful smile
My 8 year old son just lost his front teeth and with me having to remind him all the time to brush his teeth, the Listerine Smart Rinse would definitely be a cool addition to the dental care routine. And with my 20 month daughter imitating everything her brother does, it will make things much easier when she can use the Smart Rinse as well.
I’d make this smart choice for my boys because as they are getting bigger and becoming more independent they are wanting my help less often especially when it comes to brushing. A good mouthwash would ensure that any spots they have missed would still be germ free.
A smart choice for sure with three kids its a nightmare encouraging dental care this will certainly help me to stress less as this will be super fun to use. No more yelling at three of them as they can use it with ease and have a healthy mouth teeth and gums.
A dream come true product
Because your mouth and teeth are all very important in making a lasting first impression.
Thanks for this post. My hubby is also working in another town and even though he comes home on weekends, it does get really difficult trying to do everything – especially the afternoon/evening rush. Sometimes I just want to cry but then have to keep it together for the kids.
i think its much harder for him as he misses us terribly especially our 20 month daughter – as he feels he’s missing out on so much with her.
This would make a great option and smart choice for my boy because when he was much younger he suffered from recurring tonsillitis and was constantly put on antibiotics which caused his teeth to wither away, his big teeth are starting to come in and we want to give them every opportunity to grow strong and healthy, this mouthwash would ensure that every spot is covered in his mouth
Oral hygience is very important so this is definitely a smart choice i would make to keep my daughters teeth healty
Smart of them to include a range specially for kids. This will ensure that my boys will maintain healthy gums and help prevent tooth decay. It’s a bonus that its sugarfree too. When we’re running late in the morning for school I’m always worried if they brushed their teeth properly. I will definitely make this smart choice for my 3 boys. Thanks for reviewing this product and introducing it on your blog.
My son loves to gargle water, so this would definitely be a hit.
Being a busy mum time is off the essence,worrying about lunches,homrwork,flu aaahhh the list goes on,but at thr start and end of each day i want only best for my son and therefore i would make the smart choice as i know his germs shall stay at bay he can continue to smile and play and i shall save some time yaaaaayyyy
I don’t have a financial adviser ,bring a 23 year old first year student at varsity I have learned some of the hardshipsof not planing for your life ahead but whatever questions I have about finances I just relate them to the financial advisers at the bank I use
Yes I do cause you need to keep your finances healthy and it’s just so much easier with a financial adviser in your corner.
I do have a financial advisor but I must say I first had an encounter with one in 2005 when 21yrs old and it was basic such as a retirement annuity. 4yrs ago my life changed so much I always joke arpund that I did a 360 degree change as I had my first child and got married the following year then 19 months after I had my second child. So much had changed and I knew that financially as well I will have to relook at my finances since the retirement annuity alone is not enough. We still need to have a one on one with a financial advisor to adjust everything else and consider the current family change as well as for future planning. So much can happen in such a short space of time and often we leave behind the necessary financial planning that needs to take place with the new family adjustment.
My financial discussion occured at the weirdest place,the maternity ward 11 years ago being a new mum for the first time little did i take into account actually what 9months before birth could have on my life and let alone think ahead for years to come.As i lay there my hospital plan just rocketed to staggering amount i ended up in a converstion with an amazing lady l,she was a financial advisor by proffesion.And little did i know she some how magically had been reading my anxieties and thus our relationship begun.Ive learnt so much from her over the years that i cannot put to words how much it has helped me.11 years later and guess what im rewriting my own histroy but with a twist of good i am a mom to be again and im ready for all that shall face me.Ladies it helps alot to be heard and to be guided.
I currently dont have a financial advisor but as of January 2019 I will be discussing certain financial matters with a good friend who is one.
I have a retirement annuity with Old Mutual and have access to their financial advisors. They often phone me to update me on new offers.
I don’t have one.. but I think I should. We have one that comes around to our work too discuss pension fund. and then gives us advice, and I have a RA that I took out many years ago with a broker, can’t even remember his name. It’s a scary worry about how I will finance my children’s education.. and they are just over a year apart in age.
I currently dont have a financial advisor because I’m unemployed,but as soon as I get a job,a FA would be the first thing on my list.
I Have a financial advisor called Bheki with Old mutual. I was referred too by a friend of mine. I needed to start saving some money for my daughters education and also make decision of taking a life cover or not. My retirement plan was taking with Old mutual too but not with Bheki. After 3 years of having a life cover i noticed that me buying a house this year i needed one and the one i have helped me to make my process of buying a house easier. Financial advisor is needed to help you make the right decision money wise because saving for the future of our kids is vital
I do not have a financial advisor and I am definitely going to seek the services of one as Soon as I gain employment I am a widowed mommy and currently unemployed.
I realise the importance of having a financial advisor and need to secure my daughters future and my retirement once I am employed again.
Thank you for a interesting and enlightening post.
To all the moms out there stay blessed and treasure your loved ones and ensure they are financially secure as I am definitely going to soon.
Life is difficult enough and being a single mommy is even worse but with correct advise and financial services It will be better.
I have three kids and my spouse’s job is high risk as a security guard I definitely need to help advice and to be educated about financial planning budgets annuities etc.
I have been delaying this for to long you now have motivated me to make change for the better for me and the kids. Thank you for this post.
I have a financial advisor where I currently hold my retirement plans. Problem is I never know the right questions to ask them, your post has been so informative and i know now what type of questions to ask to get the right answers… thank you
My kids are aged 8 and 7 and I have to remind them daily to brush. I would love to have that bit of extra help in the dental department that this listerinesmart rinse offers. This will completely excite them having to rinse their mouths with the brights colour Listerine thanks for the opportunity
I don’t have a financial advisor. I’ve been thinking about my financial plan though. Thank you for sharing these questions and your experience.
i have 2 girls aged 3 and 7 and using this would help them maintain clean teeth, fresh breath and healthy gums, while preventing tooth decay.
awesome giveaway
thank you
Yes we have one and he makes sure that we re-evaluate and update our policies every year as our life and circumstances change. It’s such a lifesaver!
I dont have one, and this made me think about it now. Just a week ago I was discussing our life cover policies. This has been an enlightening post l.
THANK YOU
I recently met with a new FA and oh my gosh, they made me feel like I wasn’t doing much with my money. So I went back to the drawing board and I realized just how much money is wasted in things I did t really need. Thank you for this. ZeeMthombeni
Don’t have one purely because I always thought I was managing my expenses very well. After reading this, I discovered I haven’t done anything at all. Considering it heavily. Thanks Thando
Here I was busy looking for best school with best educational curriculum for my kids. Then being thinking of you whether you have posted about such topic before, I had to go through your old posts until I get this. Very helpful Thando. Thank you, all I wish for is if we had one in Midrand.
When I got married 8 years ago a FP was the first thing that my husband and I saw together. I must admit though that we are due for a revision because like you a lot has changed in our lives and our circumstances.
To be honest I always thought one needs to earn a lot of money to be able to have a financial adviser. Knowing what I know now I wish I started enquiring earlier in life seeking for financial advice. I am happy now that conversations around creating one’s wealth and ensuring that we break the cycle of living from hand to mouth is more accessible.
I am one to write long essays, i promise to try and summarise. I have never been good with finances even though I started working in my teenage years. I only acquired a FA after my Twin boys had started preschool. This came about after fighting with their father for school fees and even maintenance court could not get me any justice on this. I sat down and thought, the Twins only have me so as a mother what am I going to do considering I already work 2 jobs to sustain us? What would happen if i lose those 2 jobs and decided to consult an FA as i had no clue on what to do with what i earn that can somewhat secure the Twins future. I am glad I did it because there are positive changes and a concrete foundation for the Twins on a financial perspective.
I’m much interested in the potty training journey of your son. Please help
I actually do have a financial advisor. With LifeCheq. And they’ve helped put my financial world in order! I really appreciate them!
I actually do have a financial advisor. With LifeCheq. And they’ve helped put my financial world in order! I really appreciate them!
I currently don’t have a Financial Adviser cause I don’t have any finance to advise on.
I have been unemployed for three years and struggling to find work.
It’s helps the teeth to be clean, its give them fresh breath and helps with tooth decay.
It is important to have Good oral hygiene,and would play a vital impact on my kids to prevent tooth decay and bad breath, would be awesome to win
It is important to educate children from a young age about oral health. Also to take them to the dentist every 6 months for a routine clean and check so that taking care of their teeth becomes a priority.
I will luv to teach my daughter how to take care of her teeth. And to make good choices.m teaching her from a young age, ia the best. She will grow up doing the right thing and using Listerine throughout her life.
I do not have a Financial adviser that I can trust always feel rushed and over power from them.so I basically research on the internet and make a decision.
Taking care of your teeth is so important.. I want my kids to have healthy teeth and gums.. having toothache is no joke.. so start them from young
Honestly I would really love to try these for my kids as sometimes I can smell something horrible even after brush now we can defeat bad breathe with listerine for kids
Nope – I don’t have enough money to warrant financial advice.
With 4 kidsto care for, I need to ensure each other is given time and care to grow in a healthy way. Recently one of them has had to have teeth removed and this made me extra vigilant in oral hygiene. I was also feeling so terrible as a parent, feeling like I let her down & could have done better for her. The last mouth wash I bought was just to burning, they all ran for their lives!
My only financial advisor is my medical aid broker, don’t have enough finances for anything else
Listerine is my Family’s number 1 mouthwash… The only Mouthwash we use….would love to win this for my FAMILY <3
A smart choice for my kids oral health, clean , healthy, fresh smelling teeth gives confidence for a bright beautiful smile!
Growing up my family always had timeshares, we had the most amazing holidays away in self catering accommodation, from sun city to Port Alfred I really believe we utilized it well. Its something I’ve been seriously considering as my own family starts to grow up and I think long term would benefit us more then standard hotels .
Hey There
So iv never thought of getting time share always considered it something that was out of my price range. I’ll actually give it more research we’be been thinking of setting up more regular vacation time with the family.
Wow!Never heard of this, thank you so much for sharing I’m so so soooo getting it!
Hi Modern Zulu Mom?
We’ve been talking about having regular holidays with my family but affordability was our main issue. I’m definitely researching more about timeshare but from this post, it seems to be a sensible route for ensuring we take vacations.
Thanks for sharing ??
My experience with timeshare has been through friends who have it. Every year our friends go away to their timeshare, I just love the consistency of it, holidays can often just be best intentions for the year and without proper planning it becomes undone or super expensive and reactive excursion.
I have been thinking of getting Timeshare for my family because honestly December staycation is overrated my daughter gets bored and I run out of ideas on how to entertain her. Most importantly I need to pull hubby away from work our marriage is suffering we need to reconnect and spend some quality time together.
I do not have it but would love to get it because I feel so bad that I can’t take my daughter and son anywhere, I know they are young and won’t remember much but I would still like to make those memories you know and not just take them to spur all the time, I want them to have experiences i never had as a child.. It saddens me when they don’t go anywhere holiday time..hubby doesn’t work and its all on me so I want to just take a break from life’s responsibilities because I am exhausted but unfortunately its not possible at the moment.. I think with timeshare going away would be a given, no stresses about where to go etc and it seems affordable so why not.. definitely going to read up more on this
I don’t have any timeshare experience… In fact the only time we go away is with my parents timeshare. We literally cannot afford timeshare yet… But hopefully next year will be better for us and I can give my kids memories filled with family fun that my parents gave me and my sibling ❤️ This is such an awesome giveaway that is so much more than just a giveaway… This will give a family lifelong memories ❤️
I do not have Timeshare, i would consider getting one because we love to travel, as a mom who just started discovering herself. I love to get some time off and spend some quality time with my boys. With timeshare might end at my dream destination 🙂
Love pics, very informative too thanks to you!
Growing up ww never really had vacations at home as we couldn’t afford so I’ve learned about traveling as I became an adult 😀
I’d really love to invest more to timeshare for the benefit of my kids mostly other than myself. Seems like a way to go.
Thank you for heads up!
I don’t have time share but I would consider it. It’s very hard affording anything in this tough economy. Our last family holiday was 2 and a half years ago. That’s how tough it has been. Everything is so pricey . This would feel like saving up and the. Taking a great vacation now and then
Currently I don’t have time share and I’m thankful that you shared this informative article. I remember once we took a vacation to durban and whilst we were on holiday we came across a group of telling selling this vacation club timeshare only to find out that It was a scam and the company was not legit. You’ve really opened my eyes now and I know what to look for when buying time share. Everything has become so expensive this days and taking vacation seems to be breaking that savings account or too much spending unnecessarily on your credit card meanwhile there’s opportunities available to us which are cheaper to consider when going on holiday especially now that I have a family of four we’re always stuck between pleasing the kids and making sure they have fun and also something beautiful for the adults to enjoy as well and this can really hit hard on the pocket.
I don’t have timeshare, but it definitely sounds like something I would consider. I love going away with hubby and the kids.. but unfortunately unforeseen things in life happen. It really sounds like a great investment.. I mean, who doesn’t love getting away for a week-end.. its just awesome 🙂 fingers crossed.. hubby and I will be celebrating our 10 year wedding anniversary and would absolutely love to go somewhere special.. with the kids of course 🙂
I have never considered timeshare because I always thought it was too expensive. We’ve put off a family vacation for so long as during the school holidays prices sky rocket and having to pay holiday accomodation, travel costs and other expenses in one go, gets expensive. Your post has really changed my mind about timeshare and made me realise how important getting away with your kids are. They grow so quickly and one day I would like them to be able to tell their families of the awesome family vacations they had growing up.
We’ve been fortunate growing up , my dad has a timeshare which has meant many memories for us a family and now we do the same with my kids.
I do not have timeshare as I normally thought that only rich people could afford this luxury. After reading your informative article, I really need to invest in this. We take about 6-8 holidays per year i think this would really benefit my pocket in the long run as I spend a lot of money on accomodation
After reading this post I would definitely consider getting timeshare. I honestly had no idea how timeshare worked and what it meant to have it. Now that I’m a Mommy, it makes so much sense to invest in holiday time for my family. Great Post Thando! Thank you
I don’t have a timeshare experience yet but would definitely love to have one. As a single mother, finding the balance between work, taking care if your baby and taking care of yourself is very hard. I can only spend time with her after work and currently cannot afford a holiday due to responsibilities of parenting. I’d love to go on holiday with my child, to make her see that time spent together is possible, even though she’s young I want memories and I want to have them with her by my side.
4 months away from welcoming my first ever, brand spanking new, tiny-toed cadet, and already the anxiety of how to make his life experience on earth worthwhile keeps me up at night. Not wanting to be known as simply a “baker of humans” only, I’ve been looking at ways to ensure and invest in spells and spells of adventure for my little king, just as any aspiring genie would. This is the first time I’ve heard of timeshare, to be honest, and it reads as a possible tool towards securing frozen moments that would go in our proverbial collage of “The Adventures of Sugarbean and Mamabean” that I pray to embark on the minute he gets here. Timeshare is an answered prayer to our mom/son duo! Sounds like the perfect inaugural holiday experience for me and my little bean! ??
Thank you for sharing!
Such an interesting article, thank you babe ❤️
So great to read from the perspective of a modern young mom as time share often seems a bit outdated, and also something our generation wouldn’t consider. I would definitely look into this. Always love your suggestions! Crossing fingers that we are the winners ??❤️
No don’t have timeshare because you have to book way in advance and I’m a spur of the moment person
I have always thought it was expensive and the packages i found online affirmed it.Me and my friend and the kids love travelling,we use a certain hotel membership card which gives us discounts on our stays.
However after reading this piece,i will definitely be doing more research on it and what it has to offer.
We do not have timeshare but it sounds like an amazing way to get some vacay time with the family…my hubby had a colleague who owned timeshare but he could only go to that one place and not to different resorts and he was tired of the same place all the time so we would pay his yearly fee(not sure what fee exactly) of about R600 and we would get a week at Ngwenya Lodge in the Kruger… hood to see that the destinations can be changed.
I love omelettes… Milk/ Fresh Cream , Cheese, Shredded Bacon, hint of Cayenne pepper and Mushrooms… I always make sure that I use a non-stick pan and nice fresh rolls / homemade bread…
I love my omelette with cheese, robot peppers, mushrooms and fresh chillies for that extra kick.
I love onions, tomato, mushroom and cheese
I love cheese and mushroom with colourful peppers and sliced onion and extra cheese #GetItRightWithRoyal
cheese, peppers, onion and tomato
My Favorite is a delightfully delicious Cheesy Chicken Omelette
Filling of:
Shredded Left over roast or grilled
or fried chicken, butter or margarine, sliced tomato, onions and peppers, crushed garlic, grated cheddar cheese and seasoning of salt and pepper.
If you want a hint of a spicy taste add paprika or chilli flakes
A light and fluffy omelette made with large eggs and milk together with this tasty filling
Served with a garden salad.
I love adding mushroom and cheese to my omlette
My favourite is bacon, cheese (loads of cheese) and some chives.. im drooling already lol
smoked ham and cream cheese 🙂
I love my with cheddar cheese ? and tamotoes
I love peppers, mushrooms & cheese in mine
I love it with lots and lots of grated cheese slices of mushrooms ??? I also love your light and fluffy omelette
I love making omelettes as it’s quick and yummy and fills up the whole family.
3 different peppers(green yellow and red)
Diced bacon
Onions
Jalapeno
Spinach
Feta cheese
I love my omellete with robot peppers, onions, mozzarella and cheddar cheese hmmm yum??
Bacon, cheese, mushrooms and onions.
Omelettes are quick to prepare it’s healthy and versatile can enjoy it for breakfast lunch or supper.
I like to make a omelette with a filling of chopped onions, peppers, mushroom, ham and cheese.
Tasty and my 3 kids love it.
I love omelettes with chopped onions,green pepper mushrooms and cheese with tomato with salt and freshly ground black pepper
I like my Omelette with cheese, tomato and mushrooms with a dash of Royal Baking powder and salt & pepper
I love ham, bits of bacon, tomatoes…topped with ago and achar
Avo and achar
We do have The Holiday Club timeshare. I believe its great value for money. We get to visit amazing luxurious places that we normally wont have a chance to. The facilities and accommodation units are alwayss amazing and more than we expect. Booking is easy and quick especially during off peak seasons plus there are always discounts.
I didn’t care much for timeshare before I was a parent. Now I hve to think of things to do on school holidays and create environments that enhance the time spent together. I have asked around about how timeshare works since two colleagues shared their experience of timeshare that they have and have been enjoying for the last 34 years
Omelette filled with Onions , peppers, mushrooms and cheddar cheese with a Sprinkling of chopped chives and salt and pepper.
Yummy
Hello
Well I’ve never really experienced that… And it’s weird because for the first time ever in my life, around June I told my friend that I need a little break from a lot of things that happened this year, I knew I can’t afford but I was just too excited at the idea and thought I’ll just save up and eventually I’ll have enough, long story cut short, I couldn’t.
But I would consider investing in this because besides the fact that I love luxurious things, I stay with people who aren’t my real parents and they have done way too much for me, so I’d love to invest as much as I can to show my love and appreciation… And, I think everyone deserves a break every once in a while, life can be overwhelming
I love omelette with cheese,green peppers,chopped red onions,bacon,tomatoes and spicy sausage
I have a 2-year-old girl, and we haven’t potty trained yet because she got really anxious when we went to buy her a potty. She cried hysterically at the shop, and the fact that she had been dealing with constipation didn’t help either. I am really anxious and frustrated as I am expecting another baby, and pregnancy is just messing up with my energy levels. I am planning to start with the training tomorrow though because she is showing signs that she is ready; like she just doesn’t cooperate in the whole nappy changing routine and we had to throw away a fresh nappy because she ripped it off. Plus constipation has been taken care of. Trying to channel some positive vibes…
No never had timeshare ,as my partner hates the 1 hour 40 minutes long meeting and they say you get a guaranteed holiday but nothing given ,many bad experience and will not invest in timeshare
I love bacon bits, onion and lots of cheese on my omelette, oh and sum chillie.
I love chilli, cheese and mushrooms
I do no have timeshare, I am considering investing in timeshare because I never have cash to take my family away on vacations and I have a colleague at work who has timeshare and I always envy how she is able to take her family away for vacations and I would like to do the same for my family as well.
My timeshare experience was through my mother. It wasn’t a good one though! She joined a club where she paid for her time share but it ended up being closer to a scam. Every time we would want to utilize it to go on holiday, there was be a huge fee or lump sum we would have to pay and we thought, well what is the point? So right now we are looking to see more options. This blog post has been very helpful! My wish is to win this experience because out of the 4 years my mother has has hers, we have only gone to one holiday in the Drakensburg and the reason she got it in the first place was to live her dream of traveling but it ended up being a financial nightmare! So I will definitely be sharing this post with her on how to find a better timeshare and what it is actually about and how it is suppose to benefit our family. It would be lovely to spoil her with a much needed holiday that she has not been able to have! Fingers crossed and lots of love xx
I love cheese, mushrooms and peppers in my omelette.
I love:
chedder cheese
bacon
mushrooms
chives
red & yellow peppers
salami
I didn’t know about timeshare but would more information about especially the cost
My late parents had timeshare and the endless memories that came with the road trips and travelling throughout South Africa will always stay in my heart. I have a 4year old daughter who I think is the sole reason why I should invest in timeshare. She deserves to see the rest of our beautiful land and not be penalised by her mother’s shame of being a single mother and worrying about what people say.
I do not have timeshare; but what i know is my family has not had a break since the birth of our daughter who is a year; due to financial constraints and after birth costs and sickness after labour; it has been rough; the were days wher my partner didnt know if i would make it to see our daughter; i had complications and been in and out of hospital most of this first year. We have not been able to give our daughter a 1st birthday party; but a short holiday could renew our spirits and give us time with her without having to rush to the 8-5 job.
Regards
Beth
Thanks so much for sharing this informative piece! I didn’t know about timeshare until reading your blog post and I must say it makes so much sense. My family and I have not been on holiday in years and this is due to the extensive financial planning that goes into going on holiday. Something like this would make a once a year holiday a guarantee and help so much in bringing my family even closer together than we are already. It’s so important to have time away to relax and recoup before tackling another year’s challenges. Definitely spreading the word about this!
Xxx
Hello Modern Zulu Mom
I haven’t experienced timeshare and it is actually my first time hearing about it but based on your review it sounds amazing and it appears you really had a good time with your family.
I last went on a holiday with my family in 2014,my parents hit rock-bottom in 2015 and 2016 but we are managing right now
We would really enjoy the experience plus my Mom will be turning 50 in December and this would really lift up her spirits
Regards
I’ve always purchased Biostrath Tablets and Syrup for my kids it help with exam stress, memory and concentration. My eldest is 19 and done with school she was more of a visual learner. Making study notes and having me test her afterwards. I find that preparing your child way ahead of exams helps them cope better especially having older kids in higher grades who have to write two exam papers on the same day.
Hey.,
First time I hear about timeshare. I’ve always thought of one day being able to buy a holiday home. The holiday home would only be in one destination though which would force my family to go to one place all the time. With timeshare we would certainly be able to explore and tour our beautiful country more. Traveling isn’t only relaxing and a time to re-energize but it comes with a lot of learning especially for the kids. My wish is for my kids to learn and be open and certainly be appreciative of many cultures and ways of living. This I realize would happen through timeshare and with not much cost. But certainly a huge benefit of going to many places or at least not being bound to one destination. Costs of purchasing are also not expensive as that of buying a holiday home.
We haven’t yet had a family vacation because as the mother I always think it a daunting task ☺️? packing for everyone because that way I know no one leaves anything.
I love greenpepper, onion, cheese and tomato in my omelette
This is really sad. If there are any other campaigns like this one, please do write about them. Someone has to do something, children don’t deserve that…
#1120under5
I will definitely keep sharing, no child deserves this. Thank you for playing your part too x
Hi Thando, thank you for your exciting and very informative piece. I honestly never knew platforms like Timeshare and the Vacation Ownership Association of South Africa exists. My fiancé and I took our first family vacation in December last year with our then months old daughter. Things have since then gotten more complicated as our baby girl grows older, we require more quality time and vacations to unwind. Timeshare makes so much sense for us as it’s extremely affordable, offers tailored options and allows for one to regularly vacation whenever and wherever. What stood out the most for us is that it’s a safe space as long as it’s under the VOASA. We will certainly look into becoming shared vacation owners ourselves. Thank you for this eye opener!
I don’t have timeshare but it is something that my husband and I want to get as it’ll be “guaranteed holiday” that we’ll take. Especially with the busyness of life, there’s nothing better than taking out time to relax, reconnect and make memories as a family. Now with our little one growing up fast and enjoying the outdoors it’s always a good idea to have a holiday and that’s the notion behind having timeshare.
Heyy . The most I’ve actually heard about timeshares comes from American movies ( my wife & kids ). I didn’t even think that you could get them in South Africa but had I known this , it would be a thing I looked into . Knowing you have accommodation for your holidays & you okay today’s price is soo convenient .
Those look really cute, wasn’t aware of this Tinycottons
These are so nice and durable… Will keep an eye out for my 2 year old son
I have had very bad experience with my family. Buying time shares was like having a bad credit for a holiday we didnt have as yet. We would be harassed when we couldnt pay as though we had already went on holiday thus owing simething. That whole exlerience and the treatment left a bad taste in my mouth. So much so that I am afraid when I hear the word “timeshare” ??? I would love a holiday though, am a mom of 4 and a breadwinner. Life is challenging!
Hi Modern Zulu Mom, I enjoyed his article of yours on exam prep, and agree with everything you’ve said. Thank you for your contribution to the betterment of our children’s lives.
If you’d like to talk a bit more about education and how parents can really help their children, I’d love to advise or do an interview with you for your readers.
Who knows, maybe I can get a prize or 2 for your followers to benefit from as well 🙂
Thank you so much , this is a beautiful piece …
Iv been waiting for these holidays, we are now ready thank you so much for the tips.
It’s actually the best time to do it, because you can be consistent. It’s a huge milestone, good luck guys!
For many years Twin saver has been mine and my families trusted go to product for toilet papers, tissues and even kitchen paper towels. The quality that twinsaver delivers throughout the years for me and now also for my kids put my heart at ease. Because even when im not around them I know my kids won’t have torn noses from rough toilet paper brand.
well let’s start by saying twinsaver is a life saver always comes in handy in the car when my four year old is spilling juice or food in car. I have tried the no eating rule in the car but i have failed only in daddies car they don’t eat.
and they just love pulling the tissues even if they don’t need to.
My daughter has sinuses so i love how soft it is, which makes it gentle to use on my angel
I love how versatile twinsavers are…they accommodate everyone from the baby to our teenager. The baby is sensitive but these are as great as sensitive wipes. Our teenage likes cool looking staff so she is able to get her cool packs. My husband has sinuses and they dont irritate him at all. We travel with these and they accomodate all our mess from the house to the car.
Being a woman and constantly trying to be a lady (though much harder now with a baby and toddler 😅) Twinsaver tissues go with me every where. Used them in moments where the red robot comes unannounced. Moments of joy and of course sorrow. Growing up it was more of a luxury product because of its quality and many versions. I now have a box in each room of the house for all those booboos the little ones make. I think it’s safe to safe it’s a product I cannot live without. Thank you for thinking of us mom Thando, you sure alleviate some burdens. My son is going back to school and I need to take boxes of tissues, paper towels etc for all the learning and playing they do (of course wonderfully developing with the help of Twinsaver).
My 2 year old daughter started nursery school in June last year. This was no planned (had nanny problems). This came with a runny nose and flu that was not ready for. Twinsaver tissues came in very handy and are very soft for those little noses.
I love Twinsaver as it has been a trusted brand for generations. My 80 year old grandmother has it in her wardrobe and bedside table so we all can cry our eyeballs out on her bed because it’s never too far to wipe the tears away. My mom and I have adopted the same. I have 2 kids, girl and boy so my 8 year old girl always has pocket tissues in her bag as a budding lady. Being a single mother of the two is tough so these come in handy all the time…. Thanks for the brand update
Best wishes for 2019 to you as well
I would love to wjn the Twinsaver hamper it is a standing item on my shopping list and I use it for everything! From blotting the oily T-section in my face, for spills in the car when I need coffee on the move, to having one in hand when I have to eat lunch hovering over my laptop. Twinsaver = Lifesavers
Happy 2019, Thando!
I feel you on limiting screen time, I try to not even take my phone out my bag from the time I get home till baby girl goes to bed… it’s tough though! We got this
Wow this is amazing. I would absolutely love to have a Trunki. My daughter is 4years old turning 5 nxt month. We travel a lot, I love planning small adventures with my family. Packing is a hassle at all times. If the zipper doesn’t give in, it’s the bag that’s too small. I have never really found the proper travel bag for my sunshine. The Trunki would solve just that. This would be the ultimate birthday gift for her
Who doesn’t love Twinsaver? I mean from toilet paper to paperplates and serviettes. Twinsaver offers a wide range of everyday essentials for me and my family. Twinsaver has a perfect balance between softness and strength, It is also the no. 1 tissue brand in SA. My whole family loves Twinsaver.
Travels with my grandson would be a dream if he had a Trunki. It looks great in size and no extra bags for him would be necessary. It would also be so much easier as he could easily cope with handling a Trunki
I have twin girls age of 4 .Its double of everythig wherever we go and its a chaos or a struggle for us when travel,always hav to take two bags .This super awesom ,top qaulity and spacious will be a huge help no more broken bags for me or going through bags or carryin it the girls can move it themselves and with fun too.
I love Twinsaver because it is the most trusted and durable brand for many years.
Twinsaver has been used through generations of my Family,I love its versatility, as you can use it for different means, anytime anywhere. Twinsaver is a lifesaver and it continues to be and will be for even many years to come.let’s continue spreading the love and teaching the new generation of the great benefits of the Twinsaver brand.
Twinsaver is part of the family, always their to support us through sickness, heartache and even laughter. We can always count on twinsaver to comfort us
I love it cause it’s so versatile yet delicately enough to use for the entire family.
I love twinsaver because as long as I can remember we have been using it in our household. Its a family favourite and trusted brand that we love
Twinsaver is soft and is of superior quality.
My 5 year old princess would absolutely love her very own Trunki 😂, packing for her weekend trips to her dad would definitely become more fun! The size is just perfect , the bright fun color designs and the wheels are just the cherry on top 🙌🏽! Trunki would definitely be used a lot in my household (pushing her around on it ) packing it away is the only problem i would have to worry about 😂
Twinsaver has been the brand I associate with softness and quality. With having a baby, I have not had to second guess using it for her. The MOMents that Twinsaver has shared with keep me assured it will always be there to Save me.
I have been using Twinsavers for many years and God willing will use it in the year to come all for my children suffers from Allergic Rinitus and have forever a runny and nose .when the start sneezing the it sounds like a band making music LOL.
Love your pages and live Twinsavers.
Twinsaver has been in my family for ages to wiping away tears from kidseyes and runny noses,my wife always has twinsaver in her handbag
I would love to win this hamper because I have an asthmatic child who suffer with allergies which means itchy watery eyes and a runny nose all year round. I go.through quiet a few boxes of tissues for school a year even though only one is asked of us… I Only rely on Twinsaver as it’s gentle on the skin and long lasting
Twinsaver have been in my family for many generations Every happy or sad moment twinsaver has been on hand and to the rescue The quality is good the packaging is amazing trendy that can we left anywhere in the house cause it looks great I love love the colors
I love Twinsaver products cause its quality you can trust.
Its a brand that’s been passed down from generation to generation.
Whenever we visited my granny when we were children everywhere there was always a box of Twinsaver tissues and its always on top of her shopping list.
I’m with you on spending less time on social media… its time taken away from our loved one :)…Best wishes for 2019!
I love this will keep checking your page for the next event
Thank you Mandy, would love to have you at the next one. I’m looking at first weekend in April.
Love ur post , looks amazing too and true real magic ..:)
Thank you so much Lameez! It really was a magical day xx
Mommy, this will help so much. My little one is the same age and it’s time. Thank you. Great post!
You’re very welcome! Wishing you the best of luck for the journey – it’s a milestone you will really be both sad about and proud of.
one thing I love about you is your authenticity, co-sleeping whether it’s in the same room or same bed is still an uncomfortable topic to some groups of parents, I find it so disturbing how moms in this generation still undermine other parenting decisions just because they feel theirs is the best. I even doubt that people actually take into consideration how different we all are as human beings and the choices we make let alone the structural diversity or if we will ever get to respect one another on basis of parenting decisions at all. Sama is 2,5 and I’m still cosleeping (same room) I loooveeee having her in our room, I enjoy the morning cuddles and she’s only a step away for me to reassure her back to sleep during nightmares. Now that she’s closing in to 3 years We plan to send her back to her room coz it’s good for her development.
As moms, we really aren’t kind towards each other sometimes. I don’t know why we do this (maybe trying to make ourselves feel “better”?!). Enjoy having her in your room, she’s only little for a short while. Lots of love.
Twinsaver has been a houaehold brand for us since my own childhood. A much-loved, household brand!
Twinsaver has always apart of our household when I was growing up whether it was toilet paper or facial tissues.
My grandparents always had a box on their dressing table. My gran father used twinsaver up and until November when he passed at the age of 91. My grandmother used twinsaver until she passed at the age of 81. So yes Twinsaver has been apart of our family for many decades.We are 13 gran children and 19 great grandchildren, every single one uses twinsaver.
I enjoy because It is so soft and gentle on my skin, and does not effect my sinuses or allergies.
How I wish I had thr space for my girls, one day is day ..Unicorn theme is so beautiful and thank u for the tips much appreciated
It’s going to happen for you and your girls Mama. Truly wishing you the best and thank you for reading the post.
I love seeing their individual personalities grow day by day and how they exceed my expectations (my 5yo daughter for example plays golf!!- that is just awesome).
Love all the hugs and kisses
What I love about my kids growing is they become individuals with a mind of their own.❤❤❤Thank you for the opportunity. Would love to win tis awesome giveaway it would be a tremendous help.
What I love about my child growing is to be able to see the world through her eyes , to see this lil person who’s life depended on me when they were born- growing and being molded into a person with their own personality and thoughts…it is an awesome feeling !!!
I love witnessing each of my 4 babies’ personalities come out. They are so alike yet super different. The unity and love they have for each other, out of all things I pray for, I desire they always carry each other throughout life!
I love how independent they become, its a privilege to see them turn into young respectful men.
My eldest is 12 years old and he is real gentleman at times.
My youngest is 2 years old and he already has a will of his own.
I love the conversations we have … They getting smarter & cheekier by the day . 😍😍😍😍 Not forgetting the amazing growth pattern from laying to sitting , walking & now running circles around me
I love that they are more independent as they grow (and sleep more!)…develop their personalities (my daughter is sweet and kind while my son is such a comedian lol) But with that comes so much anxiety especially when starting big school!❤️
Oh I really hate that they growing up soooo quickly but hey they have to how else will they take care of me when I’m old lol Well what I love is that they learn new things every day Challenging them to do better at everything that comes their way
SO i love this personality that they develop and to watch how with each season they to change and become what we have never imagined, how their mins think and that compassion and love they have towards everything they come into contact with, that strength an never faulting thoughts and great big dreams that they aspire to follow
I love the curiosity and eagerness to learn of these little humans 🙂 as they grow the numerous questions thats asked and its such a proud feeling to educate, after all its said educate a child and you educate a nation and the little hands that want to help be it gardening to baking to cooking etc. Such fun and memories to treasure as they grow up so fast.
I love watching my son growing into a strong and healthy boy, full of laughter with never a dull moment, I love the fact that he has such wonderful manners and is respectful to others, I love when he acts like spider man running around with his cape, or even when he crawls around the floor like Max the dog panting for water or a biscuit, healways make me laugh and shout as well. Most of all I love the fact that my son made me a mommy and I love him with every breath I breathe, I am eternally grateful to have the honour and privilege to raise him into a fine young man.
I love how they are so different, each with their own personality and will! How they have definite likes and dislikes. And so much more independent. Its such a privilege watching them grow up!
I love that they are strong, independent and can look out for each other,are respectable, responsible and outspoken ,have a fun, exciting side to them and are healthy
What I love about my kids growing, is watching them learning on a daily basis. Our little boy never ceases to amaze me with his quirkiness and ability to entertain me on a daily basis.
Dear Modern Zulu mom
I am a mom too, similar to you I had a grade 4 last year. I however didnt know about this product. After reading your post I will go get some. I always associated the brand to babies. My mistake as I missed the opportunity to give my daughters a better start.
I love watching them growing because their own beautiful personalities come through year after year. I’m sure you have noticed that our soon to be 11 year old now feel they have voice in our family. An equal one at that. Cayleigh is louder about her thoughts and when she feels we are being unjust.
I worry about my kids nutrition as they lead such busy active lives and don’t get in enough veggies.
Holding thumbs for the competition, would love to try this for my kids and as for the Makro voucher, our kids are now allowed to take trolley bag to school due to spine but the bags after R950 . 😊
Would love to see some content on this, maybe a future blog post. Their bags get so heavy from grade 4.
Nestle I only heard good things bout it. My daughter is only turning 2 n what i good way it would be if I can win this hamper to start her on . Would love to win this
I love to see my daughter personality coming to life. each day she learns something new.
My little one is 8 and in grade 3. For me every moment from the time she opened her eyes to her first was an amazing journey but for me the most important and amazing thing is how she has developed this little personality. We call her madam speaker, she stands up for the good at school, if someone is being bullied she fends for them. She shares her lunch with kids that dont have lunch and even shares her spending with those less fortunate than her. She makes me to proud.
watching them grow into these inquisitive, interesting personalities.brave and enthusiastic about everything, balls of energy always bouncing everywhere!
I love seeing them grow, being curious, ask innocent questions and love that they say ‘I love you mummy ‘ because I asked myself if I am a mum as my first baby couldn’t breath at birth.
I love the fact that they start getting independant and do things on their own.Clean up where they mess and be more alert to many things.
They growing so well as they are following a healthy lifestyle with eating healthy, lots of Nespray, engage in sports and learn well. They are well mannered, have amazing personalities and independent!
Since conception to growth for myself its been thus far a real life fairy tale,watching my son.All these memories entrantched within my soul and heart forever.No matter of time can ever earse this.What has been most remarkable though and one though as stood out is that we as parents always debated whom he shall take over,whom he shall resemble,who’s temperament he shall have but as he grows we see a unquie individual marked with his own personality l,strong willed,independent with the perseverance to survive and live life to the fullest.that for myself is the most incredible thus far.Watching my son blossom
I love that I learn new things about him that make me smile every day. Also to see his ability to be independent. Also that he teaches me new things.
I love seeing their personalities,I love seeing them learn new things as they grow.
I love their quirky comments that make me laugh and brighten my day!
I love seeing them doing the things I’ve taught them. Like saying please and thank you. And walking away when someone says something hurtful or does something they know isn’t something we do.
Camy is growing into a little lady.
Love watching her grow she is 5yrs old. The manners she has the respect, From a newborn now into a little girl who loves to be with her animals and painting So awesome to see her grow she is like a miniature version of me hahaha such a delight to see her growing taller her hair is longer, her cute smile soon she will be all grown up will miss this years
Love watching my kids growing with their curiosity
The one thing I love most about my kids growing up is their just enjoy life to the fullest they just wane play than they happy even my eldest wen hr play with hrs small brother they laugh like its their last n they so energetic I wish they can stay so small but they have to grow up n they grow so quick
Ayanda Tumi is just 3 yrs I so adore see him growing up the milk teeth falling off to learning to ride a bicycle to trying to write his name. Its all these things and more that I enjoy watching as he grows speaking to gogo in Zulu makes me so fill of pride. These are the wonder years to watch my boy grow.
I wonder what he will do next or say next I wonder so much and motherhood is a awesome journey.
I love that they are becoming independent i.e. doing things for themselves and they able to express their likes and dislikes. My daughter just started grade 1, so she is also making new friends; trying new things she joined a speech and drama class.
I love the independents,the love she shared with her friends and smart also learning new thimg
What I love about my kids growing, is getting to see my kids shape themselves into the amazing people they are, every single day. They teach me things daily that I never would’ve known without having kids. On the first day of Grade 1 my youngest son who was very anxious hugged me with tears rolling down his cheeks and told me You are the best mommy. I love my new school. I nearly cried. What I love about my kids growing they are more matured than I was at that age, their vocabularies are advanced and they are always eager to learn new things. Being a parent is amazing.
I loveseeing my kids growing strong, healthy and happy. My kids are everything that I need to look after every time and their healthy is on my hands, as I always buy them Nespray I have no more worry about their healthy ❤
What I love about my child growing up is his passion for learning new things.. his mind is like a sponge when it’s comes to general knowledge and he amazes me by being able to learn his Afrikaans orals in a day.. he breezes through school with A aggregate since Grade 1 and now on grade 5 he has been.acing his class tests.. he draws amazingly and he just makes me so so proud
I like how they are exploring the world and simplifying EVERYTHING. It makes me also take a step back and not stress about everything.
Their inquisitive minds and adorable questions
My boy will be turning 4 soon and I have loved every single moment watching him grow into the little package of dynamite that he is. First smile, first word, first step, first day of school and every single first that I get to experience has my heart beaming with pride and joy. Motherhood is an absolute blessing!
Im a young mom of 2 and there’s nothing I love more than seeing my 2 girls grow into independent individuals. They are so loving and caring of each other and everyone around them. Literally inspires me to be a better person every waking day.
Great read Thando. I’m still struggling in this department. Starting to feel like I’ll never get my daughter out of my room.
Their curiosity
Watching their personalities grow.
Congratulations once again Thando! I really enjoyed this post, and as a private person myself – I have made a promise to myself to share a little bit more about myself on my online channels. Congrats on the YouTube channel! 🙂
Thank you Kimmy! We have to keep growing and stretching ourselves right?! Appreciate the feedback and well-wishes Mama.
Mamaaaaaaa!!!!!
Ahhhh… words fail me!!! Congratulations and super excited for you and your family. Very well done on your first episode honey!! You continue to inspire us Mama 🙂
Thank you Londy, you know your feedback is always appreciated. We are so excited to grow our family.
Wow thank you so much for this post. My son just started pre-school this year, i didnt know that these so many extra things a parent must always consider. I have been trying to enroll him for swimming lesson but unfortunately the place that provides them only does them during the week, and well my schedule during the week is very tight. Thank you so much for the educational blog.
I’m so glad it’s been helpful for you Ayanda, the extra costs can accumulate so quickly, so preparation is key.
The extra costs honestly frustrate me! Awesome post.
My son has OT which sets me back R1880 a month (if I don’t consult with the therapist as that’s an extra R380), my daughter has weekly speech therapy which is R1600 a month.
Since it’s the beginning of the year, they’ve signed up for paid extra murals, termly fees aren’t bad but in January we pay annual registration, that set me back R780 between my two babies and then the term fees came to R2620. I hope they don’t opt for anymore:)
Shu Pali, I feel you girl. Before I was informed that my son would need speech therapy, I hadnt considered it as part of my monthly expenses. All the best with the extra interventions this year, I must say, they are beneficial.
Extra mural activities for Nolo who is 4years old alone is a lot. I realized last month that we are going to spend more after paying her school fees. at first I didn’t want her to do extra mural activities at school as I thought she’s fine but in Jan all the different activities were presented to them and each day she was filled with excitement. already we had swimming lesson t the gym which was once a week on Saturday and this year we changed it to twice a week during the week. that is on Tuesdays and Thursday. Because the other kids are doing the extra mural activities and she loves some of them, the first week after that she didn’t attend but came home talking about the other kids attending. Luckily her school only allows two activities per child. We finally allowed her to do baking on Mondays for R400pm and play ball for R350 per month. her gym budget is R1030pm (Gym membership at R230 & R800) which sets us at a total of R1780pm on extra mural activities.
Weekends she wants to be entertained and we always budget for that including those holidays which she visits granny. they always call for money regardless of how much you’ve given them.
Our kids budget is costly and indeed it’s advisable for us to spend while saving for their future correctly. This year I bought her a money box to teach and cultivate the culture of saving money for her. We also have a box for saving our sunday church money for offering, we don’t touch that during the week unless we putting in money for sunday.
Oh Moshala, I love the money box idea! It’s really important for us to pass on these critical life lessons. The costs really do add up hey! PS. Baking sounds sooo cute, I can only imagine the cute and yummy stuff she will be preparing for you.
I love everything. I love every little moment, the unexpected giggles, the never-ending learning, the sweet little kisses, the amazing peace that washes over their face as they sleep … I love watching them grow into new clothes, outgrow old pants and shoes .. I love how they love me, their innocence and curiosity, their love for the world and all things in it. I love to watch them marvel at new experiences and squeal with excitement over every little thing we take for granted. Watching our children grow is a second chance to love and appreciate our life and the world around us.
I have 2boys that goes school Grade4&5 .Then its my twin girls going to pre-school in 2020.my boys have extra mural, extra activities like music ect.its a struggle but your post help me alot and love it ..inspiring too.
Love your blog and how I can relate it to; we have recently moved our son to a new school and the fees have are more than double what we were paying before including after care; then there is swimming that he has been doing for about 3 years now and that is R 530.00 with chess and Phyzz Ed R 380.00 together(he wanted to do more but I had to curb it at two due to costs). He went for an assessment last week and I am anticipating that he will either need speech/occupation therapy meaning more money being spent. We do what we can to afford them the best
Thank you for the post, very informative. My child is currently too young to attend school, however, I see great benefit in parents preparing themselves by saving for a child’s education from as early as possible. I have read numerous articles which indicate that in South Africa, the inflation on education costs exceeds inflation on other goods and services (scary!!). So I think it’s a great idea for us to stay informed so that we can make beneficial long term financial decisions.
Woow Thando, you such a inspiration to some of us as your colleague,
You such a humble soul my dear, I have always enjoyed our interactions. Keep up your great work here and external.
Thank you Phumi, I really appreciate that
Hi Thando, thank you for the great post. So, at my place of employment, it is actually an admin requirement to create an annual development plan. However, the first time I did one, I did not appreciate how it could contribute towards my career. I did not take the time to personalize the plan to myself as an individual. I also did not perform regular reviews of where I was in terms of my plan. I have thankfully learned from my mistakes. I fully agree with you that if we put plans in place and monitor them, it can make a world of difference both in career development as well as overall satisfaction with your career. As a plus, I also create a “vision board” of my annual goals (both professional and personal). I find that being able to visualize my end goal motivates me to work harder towards it.
Hi Li, it’s such a pleasure. I’m glad you see the value in creating a tailored development plan for yourself to steer your career and remain focussed about where you want to be. I love the vision board idea and how you bring your dreams to life through it. I’ve just done another blog post on how you can keep motivated on that vision.
Holding thumbs, so want to try this for Cayleigh my 10 year old.
Hi lady,
This is so dated I know but my daughter’s 1st birthday is coming up and I’d also to do that milestone board for her. Could you please share details of where you got yours done?
This brilliant ,love all tips!!very helpfull too 🙂
Thank you Lameez, it really wasnt easy preparing for exams the first time. I’m so glad this post added value to you. Thando
Oh wow lovely stuff, I had no idea they were a South African brand.
They’re an amazing brand Ntokozo, glad you love them as much as we do!
I just live your you always find ways to capture and inspire my to push further in life. You’ve summed up the day so well and didn’t leave anything.
As for me this year I’m stepping out of my comfort zone and challenging the power in me. I’m going for that seemed impossible because I didn’t act to make it possible. Her I am working on my goals daily to make them possible
I’ve stopped waiting for friends & family to tag along and when they disappoint me I end up not going anywhere. Here is to me going all out on my own to learn and explore new things in life.
2019, I’m in it to win
Mosh, it was so inspiring to spend the day with you and hear the big plans you have for this year. I’m behind you 100% and well done for putting yourself first and pushing yourself to be the best you can be. Thanks for reading the post x
OMG OMG OMG OMGGG……. Inspiration galore!! Nox is a power house, i recall texting her the other day just thanking her for existing in the world. Thank you so much Thando for sharing this, i hated missing this event but you’ve just shared everything I needed to hear! Keep soaring MAMA!
I just knew I had to share these gems. Nox is really amazing. I’m with you, let’s soar!
Very well done done Mama and team im in absolute awe! the future of out country looks very bright!
Thank you Mama – so much great work happens behind-the-scenes and it was my honour to play a part in communicating this work. Our future is bright indeeD – there are lots of positives to celebrate. Thanks again.
This is such an exciting project Thando. I am so glad there are initiatives like this that try and close the disparities in our education system, especially at ground level. We need to set our kids up for success, not failure.
Thank you Karabo. It was an honour for me to be part of this initiative that will see lives changing. You are spot-on, we need to do everything in our power to set them up for success. I appreicate the support.
LOVED THE PIECE ABOUT THE ICE CREAM AND TRAMPOLINE, THE SIMPLE THINGS IN LIFE ERE ALWAYS THE BEST
Stunning party! Well done Mommy. You’re have those uber superpowers. Please tell me what venue you used. Planning the baby’s first.
Thank you hun, wanted to make it a memorable day for her. Wishing you all the best with baby’s party!
Absolutely beautiful, now Princess K making me want a ballerina party too 🙈
Haha, thanks Thandie. I know the feeling, I didnt have a birthday celebration this year.
Wow, this is so beautiful mommy. Well done on make her dreams come through and of cause getting involved in the planning. I remember with Nolo’s first birthday(Minnie Mouse theme), I just got one lady and honestly wasn’t happy with her work.
Second birthday was very nice. You won’t believe I got a lady from Polokwane🤦🏾♀️to do the whole birthday party which looked very nice. She was turning 2yrs and already loving Sofia which eventually became the theme.
I’m planning her birthday next year when she turns 6yrs, she would have graduated going to grade 1. I don’t know what she’s going to ask for and I’m definitely going to get involved in the different planning stages. I’m not good at hosting even planning an event, hence I opt for experts in such fields to assist me.
This year will continue traveling to celebrate her birthday. I won’t host a party until next year
Thank you so much Mosh. I think the holidays are a beautiful idea and so special for you guys to spend quality time together.
Awesome post. I didn’t know about carrying a toddler, I have been lifting him up and also putting him on my back. I almost killed myself mos. I think I need to speak to someone, my memory loss is stressing me as it affects my kids.
I’m forgetting everything too Mama, you’re not alone there. I think it’s okay to carry your toddler as long you don’t feel discomfort. For me, it’s definitely a strain. I don’t think we can get away from that completely, because they do need us.
Mommy, this is so interesting. I had a smooth pregnancy where I was never sick and enjoyed every minute of it but emotions where like the Cape Town weather. With me having crocodile tears, it got worse during my pregnancy.
During my pregnancy I experienced point no.8. I literally couldn’t go pee the entire night. I remember doing the trips to the toilet, around 3am I started blaming swimming for my struggle that evening. I swam a lot during my pregnancy and that’s the only thing that kept me sane. At around 5am, I text my gynae as I was in pain and she responded promptly and told me to go the hospital to be admitted at maternity ward. Before 10am she came to check up on me ang put me on treatment. The following day she was very happy with how I was responding to medication. Later that afternoon she came to check up on me and I was fine, she assured me that all was well and that the next day I should be discharged.
In the evening my partner came to spend sometime with me and he doesn’t like hospitals but had no choice. There I was excited ang bragging about going home the next day. He left around 9pmand around 10:30pm I started having stomach cramps. Rang the bell and the sister came to check on me and the baby, only to find that we are fine, She gave me a glass of water to drink. About an hour later i had serious updorminal pain, rang the bell and she came back. Checked up on us as usual because I was in pain. a lot happened so fast and ended up delivery a premature.
All is history but the experience taught me a lot.
Thank you Thando for always sharing with us, looking forward to more…
I had an easier pregnancy with my first and with my second I had more troubles. Nausea until into the third trimester, migraines and I actually took sick days during my pregnancy which I felt very guilty about. I was just so incredibly weak and dehydrated a lot of the time. Acknowledging the struggles does not make us ungrateful. Growing a human being inside of you is a BIG JOB and taxing on the mother. and if there are aches and pains you must acknowledge that.
Oh, I know all about that guilt. I drag myself to work no matter how I’m felling. Hydration is such an important one and something I’m not too disciplined about. Grateful we have healthy babies.
Loved reading this mommy. We all on the same boat shuuuu 😉
So happy for your growing family Lu! 2019 is the year for the #momof3. Enjoy this pregnancy my love
This was a great post and perfect for someone who wants to blog but doesn’t know where to begin.
One always assumes that its easy not knowing its so much work to put in and constantly working on yourself and your brand. Great detailed article, your work is always of pleasure to consume. We can’t wait for your ebook.
This is my first pregnancy and I am finally in my second trimester. Sadly I have Hyperemesis gravidarum (severe morning sickness & vomiting). And I get headaches and leg cramps at night. All of it is tough for me as I am not used to being sick (only ever have a cold/flu).
I am actually grateful to be unemployed this year as I cannot do much because of all the not so nice symptoms. Also grateful for my partner and my mom.
So I’ve declared 2019 baby growing year!
Thank you for the post Thando.
Oh mommy, I’m so glad you found this post. Very sorry about your Hyperemesis and I hope things settle down for you soon so you can get to enjoy some parts of this. Either way, the reward will be amazing. Shout out to your amazing support structure!
Loved the practical advice in this video. Thank you for sharing your experience so far. Looking forward to reading more as you continue with this journey.
All the best!
I’m so glad you found the advice to be practical. We have to try and keep in simple.
Beautiful!!! Well done!
Thank you Kimmy. I can’t wait to see how the children’s bathrooms will turn out. I’ll definitely be sharing.
Thank you for the great ideas…
You are so welcome mommy!
I so much want too but it sounds so difficult. Will be doing lots more reading and research then hopefully give it a try.
You should definitely give it a go mommy Alexia, I think we all have great stories to tell. Cant wait to share more in my upcoming eBook.
This post jumped out at me for some reason. I have been struggling to figure out where exactly I want to go career wise (or actually it’s more like- now that I have my family, how can I make sure they are the priority while keeping me happy). I will answer the questions you posted above and have an honest session with myself to figure out where I’m going and what I want. SO thank you Thando- as usual, your content is on point!
Hi mommy, I would have loved to attend this one…where will we get details on the next coming in September and would like to get an email update when you have a new article on the Blog. I love your Blog, keep up the good work mommy.
Beautiful shower, I love the colors. We can’t wait for the little man to arrive.
Thank you, thank you Nomsa. Didnt plan the dress to match the decor, but it worked out beautifully.
💜💜💜
Everything looks beautiful. You look STUNNING Mommy👌🏿👌🏿
Thats so sweeet, thanks so much Phili.
This is so beautiful, your tribe knows how to put a smile on your face. Your blessed and continue to support each other at all times
We’re now in June and soon your precious cargo will land on planet earth. We pray for divine protection upon you’ll.
💞💞💞
Thank you mommmy, I really cant wait for him to arrive. We were really appreciative of the spoils.
You looked gorgeous babe congratulations once again uyakhula umdeni
Stunny mommy. You and your babies are surrounded by love💫
Ncooooh! wish a I knew then
They make me wanna have baby no.2 already. Your precious cargo will sure find mommy ready with all the latest goodies
Enjoy every moment of it and rest as much as you can
Ah Mosh, now you know what to grab when you’re ready to grow your family. Thank you Mama. This week has been about taking it easy.
Wow !!this is a need cause wow African elders and over heating babies are like jam and peanut butter on a sandwich 😂😂
Hahaha, I can so relate to that! I’m excited to have my “proof” with the GroEgg2.
My litt girl absolutely loves the beautiful Black Rhino❤️
Leopards are my sons favourite animal
My sons loves them all ❤️❤️❤️ Followed all the steps
Lions is my kids favourite
My son loves elephants
My 5 year old daughter loves lions
Our little boy loves the lion.
Leopard is our little boys favourite
Lion
Little Kyle loves❤ the Lion.🦁
Shared
Thank you
My son loves the cheetah
Elephant definitely
My daughter love lions.
The lion 🦁
My grandkids love Tigers.
My daughter loves lions
I son loves the Kudu
Elephant 🙂
My nephew loves elephants.
The blue whale shark is my 6 year old sons favourite.
Lion #ModernZuluMom #BurgerKing
A lion because its the king!
My boy Cruz loves the lion
My daughter loves elephants
Definitely the elephants
Dry for a day and night use
I’m most excited that the new Clicks Made4Baby Dry Protect Diaper range has a wetness indicator!
The Rhino 🙂
Clicks Made 4 Baby Dryprotect Diaper Range now has improved absorption and fit, as well as a wetness indicator to ensure baby stays dry and comfortable between changes
The nappies have leak protection features.
Love the wetness indicator
Leak protection , to keep your baby comfortable.
Leak Protection to keep your little one comfortable.
I love the breathable material 😍😍😍
An Elephant
My daughter loves anything catty, so leopard, lions, cheetahs. She would go crazy over these like literally crazy.
My son absolutely loves Lions, especially after watch The Lion King…. Would love to win this for him.
My girls love Lions.
My daughters favourite animal is a Leopard. She is always in awe of their strength and stealth
The lion 🙂
Has to be the lion especially with the Lion Kings new movie
My daughter llooooovvveeessss giraffe’s! She has slippers, pjs and a trillion toys! I would love to get this for her! Will make her a super happy little girl!
My kids are crazy about all animals, they even want to be vets when they grow up. My son’s favorite animal is definitely the ki g 9f the jungle, the lion and my daughter’s favourite is cheetah. I think these cards are so awesome, we collected all the Dino cards as well 🤞🤞🤞🤞
My 5 year old daughter loves cheetahs, she says she wants to run as fast as them. My 3 year old son loves rhino’s, he says they are cute.
The lion
An elephant
My son loves the Panda 🐼
my grandchildren love the lion
My daughter was 2 when my son was born. I then read somewhere that I should spend more time with her especially when the baby arrives. During my pregnancy with my son, I would have a tea party with her at every chance I got and i continued to do that when my son was born. It was the best advice ever. The two of them are very close but also fights alot but that I blame on the teenage hormones.
Loved your post!
Oh my, I love love love the tea party idea. It’s something so simple yet so meaningful. Thanks for the suggestion, I will definitely be using that.
The elephant
My children love big cats “lions”
Little Kyle loves The Lion.
❤
He says they are big and strong and he wants to be like the lion but does not know how to roar like a lion. Hahaha 😂
My two little girls loves an elephant 🐘
My son loves Lion
Definitely Lion
My daughter loves the Lion 🦁 and even makes roars like the lion
Clicks Made 4 Baby Dryprotect Diaper Range has a soft breathable material with a highly absorbent core.
Nandi loves the Panda
Lions is my kids favourite
the wetness indicator. this is really helpfull having to babies running around really helps to have a quick ook so see if its wet.
My son absolutely loves the elephants. He has a few toy elephants in his toy collection. Fingers crossed 🤭
My son is starting with potty training and I absolutely love that they have the pull ups for toddler’s and it’s really inexpensive. Another thing I enjoy is the wetness indicator to ensure baby stays dry and comfortable between changes.
Wetness indicator “On and Of”.
My baby boy loves the giraffe 😍
They are esigned with leak protection and that’s an absolute yes since baby boys leak a lot 😍 it would be a lifesaver!
My boy’s favourite is Lions
Fingers crossed for this awesome giveaway
The wetness indicator
Grandson Leo obviously loves Lions
My son’s favourite wild animal is a Lion. Holding thumbs!
#BKGoneWild
These tips are helpful, my girl is three too and I’m a real softie too. It’s going to be tough. Well done to you guys.
I love travelling alot but money can be a problem most of the time in order to go to places on your bucket list overseas, Thailand, Mauritius, Disney world but that doesn’t mean one can’t try new lodge or resort in your town, province or other provinces. It’s about try something new, making memories and refreshing one’s mind.
My 2 sons love Lions and Leopards. Awesome giveaway fingers crossed.
the lion
My daughter loves tigers…she always says she wants a baby tiger
It has a wetness indicator
I love traveling because I come back home a better person with a new perspective on life. I travel for fun, creating memories with the family, to recharge, to learn & site seeing.
I love nature (forest type of life), listening to the birds sing and the serenity that comes with it. It’s always peaceful and I get time for some self-introspection while at it. I’m not much of a sea person but Cape Town seems to bring out the best in me.
I also love Mpumalanga (Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon/Nature Reserve, Bourkes Luck Potholes), Limpopo (Venda, Magoebaskloof & Bela Bela).
The garden route Durban – Cape Town not sleeping in hotels but B&B, the best feeling ever though I never got to do the bungee jumping in Tsitsikamma. I enjoyed the zipline, it was amazing. Would do it again and again. Think I must give bungee jumping a tryout in Soweto this summer
Travelling is the best, I must say. Whether it’s with family, friends or solo travel. I love it, I learn a lot when ever i’m away
So true…. we are all just doing the best we can.
Bringing her mother to Johannesburg
Her mother coming
Her Mommy!!!!
Bavaria bought her mommy to her from Harare.
I literally shed a tear!❤
Her mom,that was her surprise
Her second surprise was her mom being present at her baby shower!! What a lovely surprise :->
She daw her mom who came all the way from Harare. I got tears in my eyes. It was a wonderfull moment
her second surprise was having her mom attend he babyshower , how sweet!!!
1) Itumeleng’s second big surprise was “her Mother” who came to Johannesburg to surprise her at her surprise baby shower (I literally sobbed while watching this beautiful moment)
2) Followed BAVARIA on Instagram (Follower no.520)
I’m 18 weeks pregnant. What a great giveaway to keep my pregnancy mood swings at bay especially the car charger and powerbank for those times when my phone dies, which is twice a day. And the portable braai and cooler set which allows me to take a break from cooking on the stove and a perfect excuse for hubby and me to slip away for some “us time”.
Goodluck on the birth of your bundle of joy Itumeleng and hubby!
A surprise attendance from mommy at the baby shower, while she thought she is at Harare.
Itumeleng’s second big surprise was “her Mother” who came to Johannesburg to surprise her at her surprise baby shower
Got so emotional watching this, mothers are priceless
Her mom was her surprise
Itumeleng’s second surprise was her mother. Bavaria surprised her with her mom❤️
Her mom came to Johannesburg for the first time for her baby shower wow such an amazing moment
Her mom came to visit – aaah this was such a sweet feel good video 🙂
Her mom was the surprise….So sweet and beautiful, there is nothing as rewarding like having your mom support you or be with you through pregnancy!!!
The arrival to f her mother. So beautiful I broke into tears because I can completely relate. So happy for her.
Itumelengs second biggest surprise was the arrival of her mother all the way from Zimbabwe for her daughter’s baby shower.
Itumeleng’s second big surprise was from her Mother who came from Harare to Johannesburg to surprise her for the baby shower.
What a beautiful and touching and heartwarming moment. ❤❤❤
The second surprise was her mum showing up for the party from Zimbabwe☺️🤞🏽I was very emotional because I can relate
Her mom came yo surprise her
Her mama surprised her by making it to her babyshower from Harare.
Her mom came all the way from Harare to surprise her at her baby shower.
Seeing her mom after so long. Mom’s are our support system especially when you are pregnant with your first baby. I was In tears, I’m so happy that she got a lovely baby shower and the best part was seeing mommy.
Her mom’s arrival at her babyshower was her second surprise, this got me so emotional.
Her Mummy!!!!
Bavaria bought her mommy to her from Harare… this was so so special as my mum lives thousands of kms away from me and i yearn her hugs and kisses..
Not only am i enjoying the benefits of Bavaria and it yummy flavours but Bavaria is our go to drink as hubby and his brother have been sober for the past 7 years and are celebrating their 8th sobriety birthday this coming week. its such an amazing accomplishment and our family are so happy & proud
Her mom suprizing her at the event.
I literally just shed a tear, the mum surprised her all the way from Harare for the baby shower🌸🌸🌸
Itumeleng’s second big surprise is her mom who came all the way from Harare to attend her surprise baby shower
The second surprise was when her mom arrived at the baby shower unexpected because she thought she was at Harare.
Her mum was the big surprise ❤️❤️❤️ it’s so beautiful 😭😭😭
Itumeleng’s second big surprise was “her Mother” who came to Johannesburg to surprise her at her surprise baby shower…So nice of her mom wish I could also have a baby shower like this #Dueinseptember
Her second surprise were her mother.
Her mom coming to her baby shower all the way from Harare.
Her second surprize was having her mother at her babyshower. So special ❤
Itumeleng’s second surprise was her mother coming to attend her baby shower.
So beautiful moment.
Her mom came to Johannesburg all the way from Zimbabwe for her baby shower, what a fantastic visit, with mom’s support for pregrancy.
Her mother coming to Johannesburg for her surprise party
Her mom coming to the baby shower
Having her mother in her baby shower
Having her mom arrive
Bringing her mom to Joburg
It was her mom.
The second surprise was her mom coming to her baby shower. So special, and lovely for her mom to get to be there too!
Omg her biggest suprise is her mom coming all the way from Zimbabwe for her baby shower,it was so beautiful to watch
Hello Modern Day Zulu mum
Firstly you are looking amazing!
The answer to the question is her mom, her came for her special day.
We all as woman need people especially other important woman in our lives to show up. Sometimes life gets busy and we get so tired up with everyday in and outs that we forget to SHOW UP. By this I mean we don’t make those calls to our friends and sisters, the ones that might need us the most.
My new years resolution this year was to be more present in my friends life, we started making time at least every 2-3 months to get together and spend time with each other. We are mostly mums and so happy to drink Bavaria 0.0% , my friends and myself can enjoy feeling like adults without putting our selves and family in danger.
It’s so important with the raise in woman drinking their wine during the day at play dates ect, that we take a step back and realise how bad it is. I can’t imagine getting stopped by a cop in front of my kids and being arrested because I have 2 glasses of wine.
Anyway I can go on about this but won’t. Thank you again for amazing content and also educating us.
Holding thumbs.
The second surprise was her mother being present at the baby shower
Her second surprise was her mom being present at her baby shower! AMAZINGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG sooooo sweet
She thought her mom was in Harare only to suprise her in Johannesburg on her baby shower
Her mother is coming
Her second biggest surprise was her mom coming to visit her
Her Mom come to surprise her and spend the happy moment with her.
So amazing bringing her mom all the way from harare wow nothing is more special like that wow im crying now wow
Itumeleng’s second surprise was to see her mother in Jhb whom she thought was in Harare
Her mom came to the shower 😭❤️
Her 2nd surprise was her mom coming to the baby shower ❤️
Her second surprise was her mom at the shower
The baby shower was supposed to be on sutaday she get birth Friday 3 am her mom was de one coming from Swaziland to see de two tainy tweens a gel n a boy
Was so suprised staying in hospital during hospital hours my entered de room without call I was so suprise 😭😭but happy
Was seeing her mom on her baby shower party surprisingly n she crys
Her mother coming to her baby shower was her second suprise
Bavaria surprised Itumeleng by inviting her mother to her baby shower in JHB, whom she was assuming she was in Harare🤗😍.
The big surprise was for Bavaria and hubby teaming up to bring her mother all the way from Zimbabwe.
This is amazing.
I would just like to say. You are blessed, Fortunate and lucky to still have your mother by your side even if she’s a call away. I am first time expecting mom and I’m facing this pregnancy with so much joy and also fear, about whether I’ll be as good as a mother that my mother was to me. It’s time like this when we need our mothers the most to teach us a few things they haven’t taught us yet, raising a baby!
Happy women’s month and safe delivery on the little one.
Also, hoping to win this hamper 😋😋
Itumeleng’s second surprise was her mom coming all the way from Harare to surprise her at her baby shower!
Her mom surprising her at her suprise baby shower!
Hi Thando,
Thanks for that great post.
You are doing so well, your little ones are lucky to have you as a mum.
You have given great advice about breastfeeding, I just wanted to find out if you have any advice on weaning a toddler off the breast?
I have stopped breastfeeding my baby full time and I no longer have a milk supply, but I often find that when she is needing comfort (or wants to sleep) she either reaches for her pacifier, and if she can’t find it, she goes straight for my boob!
Any advice?
Thank you
Thanks for sharing your beautiful story and life with us. You inspire us mothers that we are never alone and we are stronger than we perceive ourselves to be. I always look forward to your new blog. Your passion for life fuels life back to us and for that I thank you! Stay blessed!
Thank you for sharing momma😍
Which formula brand are you using? Im exclusively breastfeeding, My nana is turning 2 months next week and I feel sometimes the milk is not enough for him as he is always breastfeeding when awake
Sharing is caring 💗
Thank you very much for this. My husband is the one taking care of the kids, whilst I work in another province. I’m home every weekend and it’s been seven years of this long distance marriage. I guess it’s TRUE that absence makes the heart grow founder. We a very close, the kids are growing so well. Its painful inside sometimes, but life is going on. And we have achieved a lot in the past seven years. Thank you.
It’s very beautiful. Can’t wait to see the master bathroom. Hopefully I can borrow from some of your ideas when we finally begin our 3rd building project. Love the bath tub in the kids bathroom. The bathroom also looks very spacious, a plus for building instead of buying right?
Stunning!! I’m loving it. We went for light grey through our most of our interior too. Can’t wait to see GM the kids’ rooms and kitchens. I need inspiration and I’m tired of looking on Pinterest We moved in 4 months ago and I have yet to do zero interior. Building fatigue set it plus our wallets ran dry 🙂
Amazing how time flies!!! And soon you will be doing the 3 months update and before you know it one year.
I also thought we would struggle going from 1 to 2 especially with no family support structure but one way or the other we have survived and it is always interesting to see how one copes
Amazing how time flies!!! And soon you will be doing the 3 months update and before you know it one year.
I also thought we would struggle going from 1 to 2 especially with no family support structure but one way or the other we have survived and it is always interesting to see how one copes and wonder why we ever doubt our abilities
Lovely! Where are the posters from?
Wow this is beautiful mommy 😍 we’re also building and I’ve been getting a lot of inspiration from your IG stories. I love what you did there with kids bathroom. Color scheme is so important!
Hubby was also mad at the base color I chose for our new home. But Ke happy wife happy home.
Wow this is beautiful mommy 😍 we’re also building and I’ve been getting a lot of inspiration from your IG stories. I love what you did there with kids bathroom. Color scheme is so important!
Hubby was also mad at the base color I chose for our new home. But Ke happy wife happy home.
Ouh, this is so beautiful & specious as well. Your kids are enjoying the new home and the colorful bathroom
Couldn’t agree with you on tint compromising on the kitchen & bathroom, it’s the best decision ever
My kitchen is done but still need to install a tap next year when we do the bathrooms. I’m definitely going for the same brand and will sure to visit CTM when that time comes
Absolutely stunning! Love every detail. 🙂
Congratulations again Thando, your family is beautiful! I’m a mom of 1, so I can’t offer any tips:)
I do love this though: “everything is figureoutable and I’m a resilient girl!” You sure are!
Thank you Lungi. I think we all stress about having things figured out but in the end it all works out!
Love the unique water filter that ensures the water is clean and removes impurities. The turn around time of prepping a bottle.
Wow , I am on my last week of maternity leave. I have been worried and stressed about my baby feeding. I will not be able to express during the day because of my work environment so I have to start mixed feeding because my supply will decrease. I was worried about formula not being prepared well or the water not being warm enough. The Perfect Prep is exactly what I need. The feature I like is the temperature of the water and the hygiene.
This would make my life so much easier as I have a 4 year old, 1 and a half year old and number 3 on the way with two babies on a bottle it’s going to be a bit challenging but with the feature that gives you your bottle at the perfect temperature always that will make it even more easier also the fact that your bottle is ready in about two minutes… Fingers crossed…
I absolutely love the the unique water filter ensures that the water is clean and removes impurities.
Will be a absolute delight and pleasure to win awaiting the arrival of a precious baby girl in December.
Thank you for the opportunity to win
Wow this is awesome, having a 1 month old is a 24hr job. Having this machine would me tremendously. My favorite feature is that is takes 2 minutes to prepare the bottles especially at night when I’m half asleep.
I am so sold on this item. My son started formula two months ago & I prep all his bottles before I leave for work, because I only trust myself with the hygiene prep part. My favourite bit has to be the hot shot because the piece of mind it would give me. The bottle being ready in 2 minutes at the right temp would be life changing. I also love that its not clunky & looks portable & elegant.
I cant decide between the hot shot that removes the bacteria or the room temperature perfect prep. Looks amazing.
I love the fact that the bottle is made in perfect body temperature and you don’t need to cool the bottle down before feeding.
What I find amazing about the perfect Prep by Tommee Tippee is that it allows you to prepare a bottle at room temperature! BONUS- ready in two minutes! How awesome. As a first time mom I struggle to get baby’s bottle the perfect temperature especially during the night. What a game changer by Tommee Yippee! Well done 💗
Amazing! I saw this yesterday at the Mama Magic expo at the Dome. My was I bowled over! As a mom working full time and having side hustles and juggling the kids this is definitely a game changer. I’m currently exclusively breastfeeding and was planning to introducing formula when my baby is 6 weeks. This will be a great tool as I hardly used formula for my first child. I love it’s convenience and timeliness and accuracy of mixing the formula for whatever quantity. Would be a great addition to my Tommee Tippe collection 😍.
What a life saver. And recreates the anxiety
Wow talk about technology helping us mommies. I am blown away by this awesome gadget. My daughter whose 7months and a very big girl, goes through formula like it’s nothing and it’s really frustrating that at times I have to wait for the bottle to cool down before giving it to her. No matter how hard I try to plan around this, I find myself in this situation and the frustration that comes with it. I love that the water is at a perfect temperature to cut the waiting period and give my little one her feed when she needs and not a second later. The fact that it kills all potential bacteria with the “hot shot” is just an absolute bonus. It would give me peace of mind even on days when daddy has to make the bottle.
Thank you tommee tippee for making life so much easier and simpler to look after our little ones.
.
I Totally LOVE this perfect prep machine. I call it the “DREAM MACHINE”
How i wish we had this years ago with my first born and second born childeren, this would just made my life so much easier.
I was so used to boil hot water and cooled it down with a jug of ice😂and strugling with a kranky and screaming baby. while now with this awsome awsome machine you can have a perfect prep bottle in just 2 minutes how awsome is this. By simply having this DEAM MACHINE you save alot of time, and can spend more time cuddling your boo or just to relax.
Ps : Thanks Tomeetipee for inventing this awsome product.
Love xxz
This will be very convenient for me. I’ve got a 2yo & 1yo who both drink 1L of milk each throughout the night. So, in order for them to get fresh milk, I have to wake up during the night & make the second bottles. Boil, wait for the water to cool down. Hence I said this is a much quicker way.
I love it because it makes a fresh bottle, at the correct temperature, in less than 2 minutes. This machine would make preparing bottles a breeze.Fingers crossed.
Ohhh wow!!! My favorite feature is hands down the ‘hot shot’ function. I mean!!! After washing and sterilizing bottles, I always wonder if they are clean enough, should I microwave a bit longer, should I rinse them again. This would give me piece of mind. I’m having a new baby and my 19 year old old only takes formula at this time as I’m resting before baby comes so that I’m geared up for breast feeding once more. This machine is a life saver🤞🏽
“The Perfect Prep has a unique “hot shot” technology which releases a burst of hot water at the beginning of the preparation process, to kill any potential bacteria in your formula. ” I think this is a Brilliant function
I love this because of the hot shot technology feature which is a feature that kills any potential bacteria in the formula Hygiene is important especially for baba secondly I love that I know my baby will be drinking the right temperature As a first time mom my wish was to breastfeed but unfortunately that didn’t happen 🙁 with breastfeeding one of the awesome benefits is that the temperature is always right now to have such a great product for formula fed baby is the best…
I would definitely love to win this! I know I’d make good use of it and spend my extra time bonding with my little one. It’s bacteria free and very convenient when it comes to time. My fingers are crossed
I love that it only takes 2 min and at perfect temperature, no more worrying that the bottle us too hot, and baby is crying for her feed.
The hygiene factor is amazing. The water filtration system as well as that shot of hot water. All in all though…. What’s not to love. All the features are perfectly thought out to add to the “village” because I think every mum needs all the help she can get
The @tommeetippeeza Perfect Prep Machine is a dream for every mom. As a first time mom-to-be I don’t want to be anxious about what to expect especially when it comes to preparing a bottle for my hungry, crying baby at 2am. I love that in just 2 minutes to prep for a bottle means I get to feed my baby quicker, it will make life easier and give me more cuddle and quality time with my little bundle ❤️😍👌🤞🤰👶
I absolutely love the fact that it has water filter! Who doesn’t not love some clean filtered water:-) especially with my 6 week old bottle feed princess, this would surely make life a little easier when it comes to preparing her “Bobo” aka bottle :-).
The hot shot” technology which releases a burst of hot water at the beginning of the preparation process, to kill any potential bacteria in your formul
Love that it’s quick to make a bottle, with twins on the way I need all the efficiency I can get.
I love the bottle sterilisation before preparation feature!
I can use any bottle brand ti prepare feeds
Wow Thando this is absolutely gorgeous for your princess. It is elegant yet so “girly” at the same time. Love these revamp you’re doing in your house, cannot wait for the next reveal.
Thanks for sharing,
Matshepo
I love the fact that the bottle is ready in 2 mind and that the unique filter ensures that the water is filtered and safe for consumption also I love the fact that you can use any size bottles and any brand formula yay to that definitely a game changer!!!!
School character Back Pack
Oxford white shirt at R109.95
Oxford Grey Regular Shorts, for R59,99
White Oxford shirt set for R109,95.
White short leave short sleeve shirts
School shoes
For me it has to be Oxford Grey Regular Shorts for R59.99
White Short Sleeves School Shirt
A absolutely wonderful giveaway thank you for the opportunity to win as a single mom this will be greatly appreciated
The Oxford Regular Grey Shorts are on my list and at a great price too!
Shared on Twitter: @AhaSandy
The wide variety of school shoes to suit everyone’s budget .. that is fantastic
Oxford Grey Regular Shorts
Hi there, one can buy toughees platinum school shoes
Frozen trolley back pack for R299
Oxford Grey Regular Shorts going for R59,99
Oxford White Shirts
Oxford White Shirt Set
Character back packs
Stripe short set R199.95
Black Trolley Backpack – the weight and number of books have increaee with the grade. So carrying books on the back is hard and painful. The trolley will be a much better way and comfort of carrying books.
Stripe short set R199.95
Frozen trolley back pack R299.99
Oxford Grey Regular Shorts going for R59,99 <3
You can purchase a Black Trolley Backpack which is makes carrying books so convenient
Frozen character trolley back pack
We’ve purchased grey shorts and white shirts for school. I still need to get school shoes though 🙈
The Oxford grey regular shorts
Frozen character trolley back-pack
Oxford grey regular shorts
Oxford Grey Regular Shorts going for R59,99
I would to get the Frozen backpack for my niece. It’s her first year at school and she insists on a trolly bag backpack to suit her needs 👌
The Oxford Grey Regular Shorts are going for R59,99 and the Oxford White Shirt Set is R109,95
The Oxford Grey Regular Shorts for R59,99
Frozen character trolley back-pack for R299,99
I have a toddler (almost two and in desperate need of a wardrobe size update!) who is wildly creative and loves playing outside. Which mean… I need clothes that are not only cute and fashionable but also good quality and durable!
So my little ones back to school shop will consist of some stylish shorts, durable t-shirts and comfy shoes and of course, a new sun hat!
The Oxford white shirt set R109.99
Black school shoes
Frozen character trolley back-pack for R299,99
The Oxford grey regular shorts
Oxford Grey Regular Shorts is really reasonably priced
The Oxford white shirt set R109.99 They are stylish
long grey pants
Frozen character trolley backpack at R299. 99
school shoes
frozen backpack
Oxford White Shirt Set and grey pants
Shared facebook Moipone Tsoka
Twitter @lifeandmo
Instagram @life_and_mo
You can purchase the white short sleeve school shirt at Edgars
I would purchase the black trolley backpack as it’s convenient for the little ones to carry their books in style
Some comfortable sports shorts that he can use when he starts soccer this year, and a new backpack
Oxford Grey Regular Shorts
Oxford grey regular shorts
A large back to school bag so spacious and a must have for my boys
Stripe Short Set
R199.95
Frozen character trolley back-pack for R299
Oxford grey shorts, which is of excellent quality. My son. Will use shorts right until grade 7 and the school shorts from Edgar’s is a best buy
Oxford White Shirt Set .. R109,95 for two crisp white shirts.
It’s so nice to hear you guys make it an annual thing. We have never done this, it’s either Hubby away from me and the kid or me away from them. Will consider it though, this year.
You’re so close to the elephants, I’d be scared.
I had a few times away without hubby and kids year ago and it was just what I needed,life is hectic.i feel so refresh ,energised and feel like a new me mentaly and physically .Hubby plan to send me next month again and im in for it.we always need it amd im glad its not waste because like you said for our mental wellbeing .Love your post so inspiring too
You said it – life is so hectic and we don’t stop to introspect because life demands a lot from us. So lucky to be getting spoiled by hubby – enjoy every minute of the next trip mommy!
To be honest, I was scared to Mel but proud to try something new too! It might be something exciting for you to try. All the best
I am supposed to go away for 2 days, a church event. I almost cancelled but after you left for 4 days yerr. I booked, I missed the event last year since I was pregnant. You gave me an assurance that I should not worry and do me. Thank you Thando 🙏🏽🙏🏽
Aww, I’m glad mommy.There is absolutely nothing wrong with doing something you will love and enjoy too. It’s not easy to make the decision and I hope your church event will leave you feeling even better. Enjoy!
I also recently a shot left and it was amazing. Everything in this blog is exactly how I feel and know that some time away to reset for yourself is essential.
Thank you Thando❤️
Thank you Mama P – its refreshing right?!
Myself and hubby only started last year on our anniversaryand it felt a bit easier as I waited far too long to go on that trip.I waited until the girls were a bit older (3 & 5) but actually learned that we could have still managed to go on a baecation when they were still a little younger. It’s tough at the beginning and being tempted to call my mom now and again to check up on them and not necessarily enjoying the trip but as soon as I heard those soothing words from my mom that they’re having a blast and actually hearing them say they are having a good time it made things easier as I could relax and unwind with hubby and just forget about the kids for a while. You actually realise the amount of time we spend as parents doing just that parenting we forget about us.
Sometimes, it takes us long to get there and it’s completely okay. We have to be comfortable to do this. I’m glad you guys got to experience this on such a special occasion 🙂
Such lovely ideas! You can buy the Oxford White Long Sleeve School Blouses at Edgars
Oxford grey boys shorts
Proaction Knit Active shorts: R159,95 and the printed Cotton Active Tee for R129,95.
Disney Frozen – trolley back pack
retailing for R299.99 at your nearest Edgar’s.
Oxford Grey regular shorts going for R59, 99 the are very affordable
Hi Mommy I would love to find out more on the ebook. Just started this journey blogging. Love your website!
I love that you throw everything in there and it does the job. Preparing food for my other kids used to be a couple of hours job!
I absolutely love that it steams and blends it all for you, so convenient. Especially with baba no 2 now will save me time to spends with boys. Great article thanks so much xx
My favourite feature without a doubt is the fact that the Tommee Tippee quick cook baby food maker preserves nutrients and flavour. I believe any one would agree that with the majority of food we eat nowadays the nutrients have been lost in some processing or anything of the sort. As a parent you want your growing baby to get the most nutritious of meals, good for growth and development, making the quick cook baby food maker a WINNER in every mom’s eyes, mostly in mine😂😂. To win this for my angel would mean less stress filled days as I am a hard working mommy with out of the ordinary working hours, so the simplicity of the quick cook baby food maker allows for daddy to be able to get in on it . Lastly this competition ends on my birthday so hey help a woman out with the gift that keeps on giving😉😂😂
#FingersAndToesCrossed🤞🤞❤❤
My baby is 4 months old and just a matter of time before we start weaning. And having done my research I knooow the Tommetippe blender is the way to go. The fact that you can steam and blend and there would be no transfers between the 2 makes it all whole.. I can’t choose a favorite feature, the whole thing is bomb and I can’t wait to start weaning with my baby💕💕💕
My favourite feature of the tommee tippee quick cook is that it can blend smooth or chunky !This is so useful as baby gets older as you can adjust to baby’s preferences
Well seeing as I am a super foodie and love to experiment… I want to give my baby the best kick start in life. Healthy non processed foods that I know exactly what went into making and I know what I’m giving her. So this little gadget is going to be more than just another gadget in the kitchen… both me and dad are going to love using it and Baby Thitha is going to love experiment with food like her parents 😇😇
It preserves nutrients and flavor which will make sure baby is getting all she needs from her food.
Listen! I NEED this! I’m pretty much an out of the kitchen woman, but with baby here, I have to make my way in there.
I have a fear of feeding baby bad food and with the Tommee Tippeequick-cook baby food maker I’ll be on the path to health. After all, health is wealth!
PS. To all the mamas (and papas) reading this post, should I not win, may I please have donations. 😇
I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS AS IT WOULD MAKE MYLIFE EASY AND MAKE SMOOTHIES FOR MY SON WHO DOES NOT LIKE CHEWING.
Preserves nutrients and flavors, which is healthy for baby.
Talk about it weaning made easy. I love that i cam steam and blend baby food in one go. This would really cut down on cooking timw and will allow me to really experiment more with my baby food ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
I love that you can preset it to both steam and blend, so you can run off and do the million other chores that pile up with a baby in the house or just enjoy spending more time with your little one. My rambunctious littlie keeps me on my toes and preparing healthy meals for him is something I take seriously. This sounds like a really handy product to have in the kitchen.
Preserves nutrients and flavors, which is healthy for baby.Love that it steams n blends all in one place take about life made easy.
Thank you for hosting these events. Someone asked me what Mama Mingle is and instead of calling it an event, I called it a space for mamas to connect. I personally do not have a circle of friends, so I am grateful to have a space where I can meet and connect with other mamas; other women.
It was an emotional session for me for many reasons and also very motivating and enriching. I am looking forward to the next ones.
I love that, it really is that “space” for us to engage and feel a little less lonely on this journey. So glad you found it valuable Mama and definitely looking forward to more ♥️
I have been spending a lot of time by myself and paying attention to my thoughts. It’s so easy to go into negativity mode and einv aware of my thoughts has been helping me reframe things.
Reframing is so helpful – because we tend to let our minds drift off with the negative thoughts. Hope this is still working well for you Mama.
I love the Quick Cook Baby food maker just as much as I love my Tommee Tippee perfect prep bottle machine! Just like I can’t live without my perfect prep machine I know I will not be able to live without the Quick Cook Baby food maker. I just love the convenience of it all! The fact that is steams and blends the food in a matter of minutes is definitely the best feature. Tommee Tippee makes it easy for moms everywhere and at the same time ensuring the absolute best for our little ones!
I like that it steams and blends homemade food, I think the food does not lose its nutrients when using this blender, it preserves the nutrients which are needed for the baby’s growth. Plus it saves a lot of money, you don’t have to buy already made food for the baby but you use what you already have.
Thank you.
Becoming a Mom of two has definitely left me with fewer hours in the day. I love the convenience and east prep with with this machine. Instead of standing infront of the stove for hours and then blending- I could be spending that time with my boys.
I would absolutely love to be to win as expecting new baby our experience with sleeping with our first born was a horrible experience and this would definitely be so perfect and ideal for a newborn. It’s soft and comfortable.
I would love to win this incredible product from Tommee Tippee as I believe in Co sleeping, but after waking up suddenly one evening looking at my baby who was blue in the face and not breathing( is now fine) I became very scared to sleep with him in my bed again. Ialso didn’t want to keep him out of my site again. He is turning 2 this month and I’m currently pregnant with my fourth child. I feel this can come in handy as it is portable and don’t want to feel restricted on my home again not wanting to move out of my room when baby will be sleeping.
I could really do with one of these, it sounds great based on your reviews.
Thank you again for hosting this event. For sharing your birthday with us, that was the special element to this as you could have spent your morning focusing on yourself.
It really did me well and I am ready for the next one😊
I would absolutely love to win the Sleeppee basket as a first time mother blessed with a newborn it would be perfect. I love that it’s portable and packed with safety features but my favourite part is the 300 airholes along the side to enable maximum airflow and breathability,this is particularly important to me because as a new mother I’m constantly worried about preventing SIDS,ensuring baby is okay as he sleeps and all the many fears that come with being a new mom. Having him close to me I believe would give me better peace of mind and allay my fears somewhat
I am obsessed with this sleepe basket, oh my goodness it’s beautiful and after reading your review of the product I am sold that no doubt this is the best product in the market.
Love the fact that I can take it anywhere.
This would be a dream! I’m having my first at the end of July and I love the idea of a portable sleeping basket that can move with you around the house. The fact that it’s easy to clean and made from recycled plastic is also a win 😍🙌🏼
Thank you so much for this!
You are welcome Refioe!When it happens, I hope you have an amazing trip!
Hello Thando. Who won? 😊
Hi Bongi, the winner is Crystal. She entered on this post too.
Thando for me Omo Capsules are the best washing soap thus far,my daughter was born with a skin problem and i had to wash her clothes with green bar soaps,but a friend recommended Omo Capsule and it was ‘my get out of jail free cards’if i can put it that way.I never looked back since my first purchase.
it is gentle on her clothes and she has never had a skin irritation since using it.it is time saving and a warrior on soiled clothes.
Thando for me Omo Capsules are the best washing soap thus far,my daughter was born with a skin problem and i had to wash her clothes with green bar soaps,but a friend recommended Omo Capsule and it was ‘my get out of jail free cards’if i can put it that way.I never looked back since my first purchase.It is gentle on her clothes and she has never had a skin irritation since using it.it is time saving and a warrior on soiled clothes.
WOW mommy, what a feel-good-story. So glad you found Omo capsules and that they’ve helped and made life a little bit easier for you. I have to agree with you on the soiled clothes. Thanks for the entry Mama
Omo is by far the best .
For me the best feature is they dissolve fast, they dont mess
The dissolving feature is one of my faves too Kelly!
WOW I am loving these OMO capsules, I love the fact that The capsules are always ready to go and are less messier, no dripping from the measuring cap onto your floor, a potential danger as you can slip.
My favorite feature would definitely be that the capsules are ready to go I mean I’m always spilling the washing powder.
Me too P! I’m the queen of clumsy!
They are really powerful and I agree with you, much safer!
Hi mommy wouldlike to find out more about your ebook.
Hi my favorite is the capsules smell great and dissolve fast. Our clothes come out of the wash feeling fresh and light, without any fabric powder residue.
I have two little kiddies who love playing outside and Especially in the mud… while it’s great fun, the washing is hectic! I love the fact that you dont have to measure it and especially the protective coating to prevent ingesting- good thinking on OMOs part
I totally agree with you that they smell great and love that they dissolve fast
I love that it dissolves quickly.
I love how the capsules make the cloths come out brighter and smells amazing and all stains gone
Great post, it hit the nail right on the head. I am newly single and after almost 7 years in a mostly suppressing marriage I now need to figure out who I am, and who I want to be. On this journey of self awareness I have gone through a few potholes, but feel I will make it out in one piece – at least I will know which piece!
Esrida, this journey can’t be an easy one for you. You should be proud of yourself for having so much self-awareness – it will help you identify your next steps and keep you on track. Wishing you all the goodness for this part of your life.
My goodness, I’m really struggling with this! I’m just frustrated! She gets excited about wearing the panties, but thereafter, she just lets go, no effort done! I’m afraid she’s outgrowing the nappies!
A topic I am very passionate about…I spend time alone to reflect and do things that make me happy. And I have learned to be grateful and complain less.
I love that Mama! So much positivity comes from being grateful. Complaining is a hard habit to break, well done!
This just made me feel normal and guilt-free, we often travel alone and do a family trip in January. The kids look forward to it and we get to bond and chat about our goals for the year.
My favorite part, traditional weddings have such a deeper meaning for me. You looked beautiful Thando.
love this,its so uplifting -especially the verse
Thank you Amanda. I love that scripture and glad it lifted you up ♥️
This is so insightful. My daughter is about to turn 4and it’s truly time. Quick question do you still have to stay with her till she falls asleep of not how did you she get over that?
Hey Thando.
Can I have more info regarding your ebook please
Hi
I enjoyed reading this as I have been feeling exhausted lately, physically,and mentally. This year I decided to go back to school. I have a full time job and a mother to a 3 year old girl, and it has been a rollercoaster ride. I am just glad that I know that’s it’s okay not to have everything under control sometimes, and I don’t have to feel guilty about yearning for me time.
So glad you enjoyed this Nomahlubi – it’s really tough to get the balance right, but it’s equally important for us to do that self-investing.You will be very proud of yourself, congratulations and keep going Mama
Shew mummy, our food budget as well is sky high since lockdown but I am glad to see that the affordable nutrient-dense foods are all my favourite! Thank you so much for this enlightnening piece, it will do us some good.
Stay blessed
Matshepo
Loov your post
I know exactly what you mean, it has been extremely hard during this time. This pandemic pushed me to start a Christian Blog as a way to focus on something else rather than what is going on around the world and being a mom does not make things easy. Thank you so much for a beautiful post and always being a source of encouragement to us moms.
Stay blessed,
Matshepo
For me things were done almost the same as you have explained..the baby’s father had to pay with 2calfs(not newly born)and a goat. The part of when a child can use his father’s surname i don’t understand because my family say that paying for damages doesn’t mean the child belongs to the father’s family, it only means he acknowledges his mistake and paying the damages is a way of apologising to the woman’s family. If he wants his child to carry his name he should pay lobola for the child (not eleven cows), the lobola amount differs with families.
Thank you for this
I totally love how Dragonview offered fun for the whole family. But the rock pool has to be the my favourite. My little family would really treasure this place.
We would definitely enjoy the rock pool 🏊♀️!
The rim flow pool has definitely caught my attention… The pool itself looks welcoming and the view from the pool is spectacular.
This is such a breathtaking adventure. Your holiday looks like it was majestic. You looked like you were a queen in your castle
Definitely love the rock pool..looks soo relaxing and a breath of fresh air..
What’s there not to love about Dragonview Lodge! But if I had to narrow it down I’d say my favorite features are the views, the rooms, the pool and the kiddies play area ❤️ It has everything to keep the entire family happy and entertained
For me, it would be the views. It would be a time for me to relax. The rest of the family would love the swimming pool, kids would love the play area. It looks like a great place to relax and have fun at the same time
Mmmmh so many to mention but for me it has to be the kiddies area, especially for us parents.. The peace of mind knowing your kids are being taken care of while you unwind, doing adult activities..
The rock pool and the food mentions are what got me sold about Dragonview Lodge. It’s a bonus that there’s a child minder so I can have some ‘me time’ with the bump and everyone will be happy 😂😂 I also hope the slides are big enough for me as well 🤔
Honestly I love everything, if you didn’t say you were at a lodge i would have thought you are at your own beautiful house. It looks so homey, perfect for a family vacay
Thank you for this very detailed review. My family will definitely enjoy these views.
It looks so beautiful, serene and peaceful. I love the beauty of the mountains, lovely rooms and it certainly looks so peaceful which I so desperately need.
Love love love the rock pool, love the views around it, its juwt theeeeee best👌 would love to visit with my little family
It’s the playground for me. Nothing makes a mother smile like seeing how happy their kids are when they’re in their element. Unfortunately due to work both hubby and I haven’t had time to do a family getaway and it’s my little man’s birthday in Jan. We had to cancel his birthday celebration due to Corona and I think this would be an awesome birthday for him. The place is amazing. And that BEDROOM…#GOALS!
I love the rim-flow pool, the kid’s play area and the fact that it is nextvto the dining area. Wait, wait wait….the onsite spa🥺😇💃 the interior is amazing 👏 I just want to wake up there and get inspired while the kids are having fun. That mountain view is breathtaking 😍 stunning hotel, I can feel the tranquility from your post.
When I go on holiday with my kids, I am always anxious and nervous about my Kids’ safety. It’s makes me happy to see how you could still relax while your kids had fun and you could easily see what they were doing. So I am definitely loving the kids play area and how child friendly this hotel is. Thank you so much for sharing this gem with us. I would definitely love to take my kids there someday so fingers crossed.
The view is amazing but I think I love the Dragonland playground. We would just have mini obstacle courses with the kids
Beautiful scenery… pool views 😍! Let’s not forget about the kids play area 😍😍😍
Defiantly the pool view overlooking such a scenery
Love the fact that it’s fun for the whole family, young & old. Not to mention the beautiful scenery, peace and tranquil, the perfect escape for the hustle and bustle or the city.
Wow the hotel looks beautiful, love that it is environmentally- friendly by using solar power and borehole water. The childrens playroom sounds great, we could have some quality time with hubby😊
Defiantly kids area and rock pool scenery
What an absolutely stunning hotel! Love that rock pool with the gorgeous view!
This place looks like such a dream… The scenery is breathtaking and that Dragonland playground would be perfect for my little adventure. The drive there doesn’t seem ad at all plus we love road trips over here.
We would definitely enjoy the rock pool 🏊♀️
I love the pool and the views are breathtakingly beautiful. The fact that its family friendly is a huge bonus.
The Rock pool and The kids room and play ground are my Favorite spots. The scenery is absolutely beautiful and amazing. #SBWL
Absolutely LOVE the decor and the views.Thanks for a fabulous review-we would love to enjoy some time at Dragon View lodge !!😃🥂
I totally loved this place from the moment you arrived i was glued to your instagram stories,the views are everything😍looks so peaceful, looking forward to winning this giveaway as we won’t be going anyway for the holidays and since lockdown we haven’t been anywhere to refresh, this will be such a great opportunity for us to get some air and bond as a family as you did on that trip❤️
It is definitely the luxurious rooms and view for me while I know how much my daughter will enjoy all the playing space! What a beautiful establishment 🤩
Oh wow. Perfect accommodation for a family vacation. They playroom is a brilliant idea. Can’t believe this place is in Drakensburg. Thank you for the great review.
Wow, your words transported me there. Absolutely love that playground I can already see my 3-year-old exploring and making friends while I convince my hubby to take pics of me with those amazing views in the background. Can’t wait to experience that
What don’t I love? I love how doable it is with kids, a 4 hour drive sounds easy and isn’t too far away from Joburg. I love the entire space and how it has been furnished. I LOVE the pool and the view and last but not least, the kids can’t get bored with all that’s on offer to entertain them. This would be very special for my family and I, we’d have the time of our lives.
I just adooore the huge windows and view of eternity
Ohhhmy goodness!! I looove love the pkay area for the kids ,the pool and the little beautiful kids tv room. I can already picture my adventurous baby gal there. Its beautiful place indeed.
What stunning views! I always struggle to find a place not too far a drive from home but able to also cater for my kid’s entertainment AND a bit of privacy for my husband and I and I think this is it. Will definitely love to visit 🙂
This place caters for thee perfect family getaway. we can get some adult time and the kids will be taken care of. The view is amazing.
Just seeing the view is breathtaking, the view of this year was not clear enough a challenging year it has been and worse my family and I are used to even visiting short left in our beautiful country but this year we couldn’t due to the challenges we came across and closing this year my mom just had to leave this world leaving us a pain that I can’t describe it winning this would be experiencing a beautiful country we live in and embracing the nature
Wow this place is beautiful. I love the view of the mountains and the pool. Absolutely beautiful to just relax and enjoy nature with family.
So perfect for the kids and that pool ❤️😆
Such a useful and beautiful post and blog. The pool, playground and trails would be our favourite-getting out in nature. But hubby will be pleased for the wi-fi for sure.
The views are gorgeous! I can imagine enjoying the pure relaxation in the pool with my little family
Traveling with kids can be so difficult especially if the hotel doesn’t cater for children. That’s what I love the most about the Dragonview Lodge it offers the most beautiful child entertainment i have seen and the fact that there is a child minder is a bonus. Its a win for me and I would love to win this amazing giveaway and treat my family without worrying about the kids
I absolutely love the views as well as the indoor and out door pool , I have such water babies and my kids would loose their minds if they saw this
Wow this place is a gem! The view of the Berg by the pool area is breathtaking! Wowza
I love the children’s playroom and the rock pools!
Love, love, love this place. It’s so beautiful and scenic. I love how wholistic it is, it caters for everyone from the lone traveler to my big beautiful family. There’s something for everyone. Usually beautiful places rarely accommodate families, especially families with small children. I’m so excited to experience this majestic place
Wow, I really enjoyed this post. What stands out for me is the kiddies play areas outside and the room inside. Will definitely enjoy relaxing knowing that the kids are well taken care off, a venue with child minders are a definite yes.
The more I look through @dragonviewlodge’s gallery the more I fall deeper in love with their breathtaking views!
So serene! Their furnishing is sooo opulent, crisp and fresh!
I love that they are 100%family orientated, they accommodate children.
What a beautiful review, which has left me with FOMO. What a much needed holiday🙆🏽♀️😴
Absolutely love all the thought that’s gone into this beautiful venue spot. Tastefully decorated … and those views are just priceless!!! xxx
My favourite feature is the rock pool with the views!!
My favourite feature is the rock pool and stunning views!!
Love love love this review, it has just took me to the lodge lol!!
Love that there’s something for the little ones to do.
I love the amazing kids play area. Will definitely keep my 6 year old and 2 year old busy for a very long timeas you said in your blog post”It’s a natural play space with options for stimulating and engaging play for children of all ages”. 😁😁 The indoor pool is a big plus as my kids love’s swimming and they will be able to do it on the evening also. We as a family of 4 have never gone away together and this will definitely be amazing @modernzulumom the difficult year we have had we could use a break away from reality.
Oh that rock pool! And the fact that it is child-friendly makes it perfect for my little family!
It’s the Rock pool for me♥️.
It’s the Rock pool for me♥️.
It is the kids play and entertainment area for me, also the playground. Holidaying with kids is a mission! Trying to find the perfect balance between kids entertainment and adult entertainment can be a nightmare. But this place seems to have everyone covered. Win or loose, I’m definitely booking this place one day😍
My mon who worked so hard this year would enjoy the views 🥰♥️ Looks so peaceful and so beautiful. Modern finishes definitely a treat ❣️.
*mom
Hi sisi, I’m starting work next week and am a full time psychology student doing my last year with a 2 year old. I’m struggling with guilt more than anything but I like what you said about us being worth it too and she’ll be proud of mommy once I’m qualified. Thank you I needed this and good luck.
Mommy, I’m wishing you the best with your studies this year. I know the balance with tough while we parent, but you can do this!
Thank you this tips are helpful as schools are about to close and would love to do something with them
Thank you for sharing this ,it is still relevant in the year 2021 absolutely agree with you as the years progress it is challenging to maintain real genuine friendships . I think what I have observed in our culture was this idea that honesty breaks friendships, so we are less likely to share when we are not happy in our friendships or when its time to let go
Third child later I am still winging it and kids will remind you that you haven’t figured it out. Thank you for the reminder
Thank you for this. I absolutely loved all her looks giving me ideas. I am still working on my closet. I’ve decluttered many items just need to make sure that I let go of the sentimental ones. I definitely need a Carmel coat must make peace that I have to spend money for it
I need to study as it will also accelerate my career. But I’m struggling to just start.
Hi Mama, I think a lot of us find ourselves there. Set small, practical goals then build up on them as you discover that it’s possible. You could even try to get a mentor or a coach to help you with your blond spots. You got this!
Very informative. I can’t wait to get started!
I love your content ,I started following you in 2019 and sometging told me to go through your blog today and I am veru impressed. I am Swati mother of 3 B