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Archives for October 2015

October ABC Kids DVD Giveaway

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ABC Kids DVD Giveaway

October has seen some great DVD releases for kids from ABC. We have been enjoying two shows in particular; The Furchester Hotel and Boj: Boj & The Booms.

What are they about?

 

The Furchester Hotel

The Furchester Hotel is a series for 3-6 year olds set in an ‘almost’ world-class hotel run by a close-knit family of cheerfully chaotic monsters. (My daughter likes to refer to them all as Elmo or monkeys). The series, which is designed to encourage creative problem-solving, introduces brand new characters and also welcomes the beloved Elmo and Cookie Monster from Sesame Street.

As guests arrive at the hotel, they are greeted by monster owner Funella Furchester, her loving husband, Furgus Fuzz, and their daughter, the unflappable Phoebe Furcheste-Fuzz. Elmo, Phoebe’s cousin and Cookie Monster join the Furchester family at the hotel. Completing the ensemble is Isabel, a furry bell monster – guests won’t get any attention until she dings to announce their arrival!

Released: 7th October 2015 * Demographic: Preschool * RRP: $14.95

Boj: Boj & The Booms

When Boj the bilby pops up in Giggly Park to play with his new buddies he brings all his fun Boj-ey ways with him! Boj loves to help his friends and neighbours with brilliant Boj-a-boom ideas to make stuff from other stuff. In the title episodes, Boj and his buddies form a pop band. When Rupa and Mia walk out due to musical differences Boj needs a Boj-a-boom idea for something they can all play together.

Released: 7th October 2015 * Demographic: Preschool * RRP: $14.95

2x WINNERS!

Each Prize Includes: 1x The Furchester Hotel: Welcome To The Fruchester Hotel (RRP $14.95) and 1x Boj: Boj & The Booms (RRP $14.95). Total Prize Pool: $59.80.

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms & Conditions: 
1. Australian residents only.
2. Judges decisions is final.
3. Winners must make contact within 72 hours.
4. This is a game of skill. Chance plays no part!
Therefore no extra points are given for sharing however it is good karma!!
5. All Mum Said is not responsible for delivery of prize.
NOT endorsed by or have anything to do with facebook.

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Tips To Find The Right Investment Property

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Tips To Find The Right Investment Property

It’s time to put your future first. Don’t retire with nothing to back you up financially, get ahead now!

Investing in your prospective years can make all the difference to how you live when you give up work. By setting yourself up financially in your younger years, you can get a head start on achieving your goals. Find the right investment property and you will be well on your way!

Why is investing in property important?

Property investment is not for everyone. Some people prefer to invest their hard earned dollars in shares and stocks. But for those interested in investment property; it is typically considered one of the safer options to invest in.

If this is a route you are considering, you must first be aware of the pros and cons that are associated with investing in property.

Pros and cons of investing in property

There are so many factors to consider but the main ones consist of:
PROS

• Insurance – You can insure your investment against a wide variety of risks; natural disasters, fires, tenant damage/tenants leaving, etc.

• Capital growth – If you have chosen your investment well, you will see a rise in property value over the years to come in addition to regular rental returns.

• Tax benefits – If your property is negatively geared it could provide potential tax benefits. This is not always the case and should not be a deciding factor but is often a benefit to investing in property.

CONS

• Problematic tenants – While this doesn’t happen regularly, you could end up with the tenants from hell. They could damage your property, refuse to leave, not pay rent and cause several other headaches that could take months to resolve.

• No tenants – There is occasional periods where you will have no tenant occupying your property and you will be required to pay the mortgage repayments.

• Ongoing costs – In addition to the initial cost of the property, you will also find that there are ongoing costs associated with property investment. These include: rates, body corporate (if applicable), repairs, insurances, water, maintenance and more.

Property must haves

Similarly to when you are purchasing or renting a house for yourself and your family, the property must consist of certain features to make it an enjoyable and desirable place to live. Investments are no different.

• Location – You have heard it before and you will hear it again. A good location is important for attracting the right tenants. A good location is safe, offers peace of mind and is close to public transport, schools, shops, etc.

• Storage – From ample linen space to bedroom closets; storage is a crucial decision-making factor.

• Parking – Surprising to some, not every property comes with parking. By adding the option of a garage, carport, undercover or off street parking; you will increase tenant interest dramatically.

• Maintenance – It is in your best interest to find a property that requires minimal yard maintenance. Tenants don’t want to pay for upkeep of pools, gardens, etc. so unless you are willing to pay a professional to maintain the grounds, stick with simple!

Research the property you want

Buying property can be an emotional experience; however when making the decision, use your head and not your heart!
Research must be done into not just the property but also the area before taking the plunge.

• Infrastructure – What is happening in the area? Are future buildings, businesses or projects planned? This can have both devastating and beneficial effects on the value of your property, so ensure you know what is going on.

• Return potential – The expected return of a property is one of the most important things to consider when purchasing property. Do research and compare the property with those similar in the area on rental sites.

• Investment strategy – Do you plan on negatively gearing the property or receiving a positive cash follow? What is the loan rate? Suburb growth? Do you want a unit, house, etc? By comparing your answers to the above questions on the Homesales.com.au Investment Property Search, you will be shown options around Australia that are expected to produce the results you want.

Don’t just jump in and buy a property. Make sure you take the appropriate steps to ensure it is what is best for you financially and that your purchase will indeed be an investment. Don’t risk buying a bottomless money pit. For more information on property investment, click the link.

Investing in your future doesn’t have to be stressful. By considering the above points and doing your research, you will find the right investment property for you!

What tips would you offer someone trying to find the right investment property?

Disclaimer: I am not a financial advisor and this article should not be used as such. For financial advice, consult your financial advisor.
This is an S1 POST.

The Health Benefits Of Coffee

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The Health Benefits Of Coffee

Some claim it’s a harmful vice, others say it’s an indulgence they can’t live without it – regardless of how you perceive coffee, there’s no doubt of its popularity. It also has a large number of health benefits. Check out the list below to discover how coffee can help you!

It stimulates the mind and body

Anyone that’s ever consumed a cup of coffee knows it can instantly perk you up. This is because caffeine stimulates the neurons in the brain and increases mental efficiency. Once the mind is in gear, the body tends to follow. It’s no secret that many athletes drink coffee just prior to exercise to improve alertness, boost energy levels and improve overall performance.

It lowers the risk of disease

Recent studies have shown that consuming three to five cups of coffee a day can reduce your likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia later in life. Drinking coffee has also been linked to increased cardiovascular health, and may lower the risk of liver disease. But don’t hook yourself up to an IV drip of the stuff just yet – too much of a good thing can be harmful. Drink in moderation as part of a balanced diet and don’t forget to exercise!

It’s a natural exfoliant

No, you haven’t stumbled upon a crazy, new-age health and well-being blog. Coffee is a wonderful natural exfoliant that leaves the skin supple and smooth. Incorporate coffee grounds into your daily skincare regimen – either through a homemade face mask or as a whole-body exfoliant. You could use a premium grade brand such as Di Bella Coffee and massage grounds into your skin in circular motions for best results.

It’s good for your hair

It might surprise you to discover that there are already a number of shampoos on the market that use caffeine to stimulate hair growth and maintain volume and shine. You can also rub coffee grounds through wet hair prior to using shampoo for a clean and glossy feel. A word of caution: if you’ve got light hair, you might want to go easy on the morning “hairspresso”.

It’s full of antioxidants

Many people assume that it’s the caffeine in coffee that makes you feel “on top of the world”, but it might actually be due to the large amounts of antioxidants contained within each serving. Fruit and vegetables are a great source of antioxidants (as well as tea), but studies suggest the human body responds most positively to the antioxidants found in coffee. So there you go – there’s no need to feel guilty about downing that cheeky espresso in the afternoon.

Coffee is one of the world’s most popular beverages. While the taste and aroma of this ancient drink have proven popular for centuries, it also has several health benefits that are well worth discovering.

Do you know of any other health benefits associated with coffee? How does it affect your day-to-day life?

Share your answers and experiences by leaving a comment below.

This is an S2 POST.

How To Clean Your Bathroom In 5 Minutes A Day

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Clean Your Bathroom In Five Minutes A Day

It is time to clean your bathroom! Read this and discover how you can clean your bathroom in five minutes a day.

Don’t be discouraged by the amount of cleaning that is required. By doing small bits everyday, it shrinks the amount of effort that is actually necessary for your bathroom to shine! Here is how you can stay on top of the cleaning:

Minimal effort for a large reward

No one wants to scrub their bathrooms and showers but unfortunately it is one of those jobs that must be done. By taking five minutes out of your day you will notice that this chore will become an easy one.

Clear benches

  • Take a look at your benches, basins, niches in shower and put away everything that shouldn’t be out. This includes razors, hair straighteners, make up! If there are clothes on the floor, put them in the dirty clothes basket and hang your towels up.

Surface cleaning

  • Spray your shower with bathroom cleaners and while you are waiting for it to work its magic get started on the toilet. Pour toilet cleaner in the bowl, give it a quick scrub and wipe down the rest of the toilet.
    TIP: Don’t forget the front of the toilet, particularly if males live there!
  • The shower spray  should have had time to work now so give it a quick wipe down. (I use Healthy Clean Bathroom Rapid Foam because it works fast)
    TIP: If you use body wash, it creates less soap scum on the tiles than a bar of soap.

Wipe wipe wipe

  •  Give the walls and tiles surrounding the basins a wipe / spot clean.
    TIP: This is best done straight after having a shower as the steam makes it easier to wipe.
  • Wipe down benches and basins with disinfectant sprays, don’t forget the taps. A lot of germs harbour there! To combat germs the Dettol Healthy Clean Bathroom Trigger is a great choice as it kills 99.9% of germs.
  • Clean mirrors to remove any water splashes.
    TIP: Microfiber cloths work great for a streak free clean.

Top up

  • Top up hand wash and toilet paper.

Homes with young children may require a few extra minutes each day to keep your bathroom clean due to the additional mess they create. Mainly fingerprints, toothpaste drawings on the shower screen and dirty clothes next to the hamper.

The five minute a day clean doesn’t eliminate the need for a good once over; this should still be done periodically as needed. It will however mean you can have a clean and tidy bathroom with minimal effort each and every day!

By following these ideas you can clean your bathroom in five minutes a day – or there abouts.

Do you have any tips to add that can help reduce bathroom cleaning time?

Do you clean your bathroom in five minutes a day?

This is an S1 POST.

GO NUDE! Join Nude Food Day 2015

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This year I am a Nude Food Day Ambassador and I feel humbled to be a part of it. Unlike previous years where it has been promoted on a specific day; this year Nude Food Day is being celebrated across any day of October, all of them if you are that committed!

I am actively taking part in Nude Food Day this October to reduce the amount of wastage and rubbish we use when packing lunches, storing leftovers and even the products we buy. By making small changes in our choices, we are seeing a positive impact on not only our environmental influence but also our selections in food. Our improvement in fresh and healthy food options has been outstanding and one that we will continue as often as possible.

Nude Food Day encourages both parents and children to make conscious choices that result in healthy eating and a healthy planet. For more information on how you can be involved and encourage kids (and adults) worldwide to join the Nude Food movement, click the link.

Every small effort makes a difference – start by sharing your favourite fresh food and or Nude Food Mover on Instagram and Facebook. Use the hashtag #NudeFoodDay

All Mum Said has been sharing pics that you can see here: Instagram: @allmumsaid

Check out Nude Food Day at www.nudefoodday.com.au | Facebook: National Nude Food Day

To get you in the mood for celebrating and embarking on this fresh challenge; All Mum Said has got a great giveaway for you all. I have got 5 – YES 5 – incredible SMASH NUDE FOOD MOVERS packs worth over $50 each to giveaway!!

5x WINNERS!!

Each prize contains: (RRP $50+ each) Total prize pool $250+

  • Nude Food Movers Rubbish Free Lunchbox
  • Nude Food Movers Coolskin
  • Nude Food Movers Sandwich Box
  • Nude Food Movers Snack Box
  • Smash Sports Pop Top Drink Bottle
  • Smash Stealth Drink Bottle 500ml

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms & Conditions: 
1. Australian residents only.
2. Judges decisions is final.
3. Winners must make contact within 72 hours.
4. This is a game of skill. Chance plays no part!
Therefore no extra points are given for sharing however it is good karma!!
5. All Mum Said is not responsible for delivery of prize.
NOT endorsed by or have anything to do with facebook.

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

If you would like to learn more about the Nude Food Movers range by Smash check out:

www.nudefoodmovers.com.au | Facebook: Nude Food Movers | Instagram: @nudefoodmovers

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