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Archives for October 2015

Entourage The Movie – Review

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Entourage The Movie

I will admit, I never watched Entourage when it was on TV. For some reason it never appealed to me. That and the fact I never really knew what the show was about, beyond some famous guy and his entourage.

So when I put the Entourage The Movie into the DVD player, I didn’t really know what to expect. I had no idea whether I would even know what was going on as I had never seen the series. I must say, I was pleasantly surprised.


The star packed cast creates a comedy that has been highly anticipated, especially after the success of the TV series. Reuniting the show’s original cast and introducing some extra Hollywood favourites, Entourage is back in action!

As years have passed, so have their ambitions for life but this doesn’t make them any less exciting. Vincent Chase (Adrian Grenier) amicably ends his marriage after 9 days and believes that he rushed into it because he is looking for something more meaningful in life. This is when he realises he wants to not only act but also produce his next film. Not thrilled on the idea, his super agent-turned-studio head, Ari Gold (Jeremy Piven) reluctantly agrees. The team goes over their $100 million budget which forces them to navigate the cut throat world of Hollywood.

With a sex tape, pro fighter, failing career, baby daddy’s, billionaire rednecks and of course the making of this film; the long-time friends have adventures galore.

I can honestly say I really enjoyed this movie! What I was expecting and what I watched was two completely different things. The movie makes me want to bulk watch the TV series!

Cast includes: Kevin Connolly, Adrian Grenier, Kevin Dillon, Jerry Ferrara, Jeremy Piven, Haley Joel Osment, Ronda Rousey, Emily Ratajkowski, Billy Bob Thornton, Piers Morgan, Jon Favreau, Pharrell Williams, Liam Neeson, Kelsey Grammer, Mark Wahlberg, David Spade, Jessica Alba and many more!

Released: 16 September 2015 * Rated: MA

To read more DVD and movie reviews click the link!

Have you seen Entourage The Movie? What did you think?

Develop Logical Thinking With Games

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Develop Logical Thinking With Games

A child’s mind develops in stages. This is a crucial part of them learning and retaining the information.

To develop logical thinking kids must be given opportunities to discover if I do this than that is going to happen. Basically, if this … than that. This is why from the age of two children will basically ask ‘Why?’ for everything. They are learning how to put 2 and 2 together in a way they understand and makes sense.

Logical thinking

To encourage your child to embark on developing this skill, there are many things you can do to help. With the simple use of strategy games, construction, toy parts or simple ask questions and answers. When they ask a question, ask them what they think the answer is before you answer it. This gives them the chance to consider the ‘ifs, that’s and why’s’ of their question.

By allowing children to develop their logical thinking in a variation of stimulated environments, you are giving them opportunities to discover who they are. Watch your child and see what really interests them and make connections from that. If they love being outdoors, embrace the butterflies and where they are going, if swings get them excited – ask them what happens if you go too high or you don’t hold on, why does your hair blow in the breeze when you swing?

As these skills are enhanced they will be able to incorporate past and present connections, patterns in everyday routines and even discuss their feelings.

How to encourage with everyday experiences

Every day mundane tasks are more important to the learning process of children than many parents realise. Kids learn from unpacking groceries; where do things go? Why do they go there? When stopping at traffic lights in the car; what do each of the colours mean? When picking herbs and vegetables from the garden; they learn not only how to sustain them but also what each food good looks/smells/feels like.

• By giving children chores, even if it’s just a few; they are learning that they have to work for what they want. In addition to this important skill; they are also learning about the value of money which is a great way to introduce learning to count money.

• By mentioning time periods in conversation – “In 5 minutes we will go and play ……” you can start to familiarise your child with clocks and telling the time. Can you show me what time it will be in 5 minutes?

• Incorporating spelling into fun activities such as craft, you are encouraging learning a new skill in an exciting activity. Alphabet stamps are a great way to mix learning to spell with arts and crafts.

Tips to maintain interest

It is no secret that children have a limited attention span. But don’t let that discourage you. Here are some things to keep in mind to maximise the concentration period and get the most out of each experience.

• Allow them to steer the learning in a way that is fun for them.

• Know when to step back and leave them to discover alone. Equally as important, know when to join in.

• Encourage and support their questions every day!

Play time is crucial for kids to learn skills and extend their ability to understand situations further. Playing allows children to develop these skills at home by encouraging them to try new things and experiences along with growing their confidence as they discover understandings first-hand.

How do you encourage new skills at home with kids?

This is an S1 POST.

Top 5 Family Portrait Hotspots Revealed – Greater Newcastle Area

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Top 5 Family Portrait Hotspots Revealed

Greater Newcastle Area

The Morpeth Common

WHERE: Ray Lawler and Morpeth Common Wildfowl Reserve, Edward Street, Morpeth NSW 2321

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Only a short drive north-east of Maitland is the historic and winsome river-side village of Morpeth. The Morpeth Common, a local Wildfowl Reserve, provides a stunning backdrop for family portraits. Old and stately trees give shade during the summer months and surrounding weathered wooden fences assist in creating a rustic feel. We love to work with the environment in a way that enhances the images rather than overpowering them.

Morpeth

WHERE: 37 km North-west of Newcastle and 5 km North-east of Maitland.

 

 

 

Only a matter of minutes from Maitland is the historic and winsome river-side village of Morpeth. There is no end to the possibilities for family portrait photography in this delightful town. Weathered sandstone buildings, old steps and cute doorways all help to make Morpeth well suited to rustic-style photography. The river-bank and the Morpeth Common are also wonderful places to let nature be your backdrop with twisted trees, long grass and secret pathways.

Old East Maitland Train Station

WHERE: Melbourne Street, East Maitland

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once known as Morpeth Junction, the Old East Maitland Train Station is one of our treasured spots to take families for their portraits. Grass covers most of the old platform now and a cute white picket fence lines either side of the little brick waiting room, providing a whimsical and quaint space for photos. Not only is the station itself a beauty, but the nearby park and even the pedestrian tunnel are also great areas for photos. We enjoy using locations in a variety of ways. You can find and create so many different looks simply by walking around and exploring the area fully.

Nobbys Beach

WHERE: Nobbys Beach, Newcastle East

We are very fortunate as photographers to have beaches as stunning as Nobbys so accessible. Perfect for panoramic shots, Nobbys Beach is a beloved location for family portraits. The lighthouse perched atop its hill, grassy dunes, the rolling ocean, big wide sandy shores…need we say more? You can also find some wonderful shots near the breakwall and the surf lifesaving building. Pick a day that isn’t too windy and you can’t go wrong really.

Merewether Ocean Baths

WHERE: Henderson Parade, Merewether NSW 2291

Much to our delight, the iconic Merewether Ocean Baths have been recently revamped and now provide an unconventional but awesome alternative to the classic beach family portrait. In particular, the diving blocks, the walkways and railings along-side the baths and even the nearby surf house are our highlights. If you fancy some more natural or interactive shots, only a short stroll away are some beautiful rockpools and sandy beach areas.

Valentine

WHERE: Green Point Foreshore Reserve, Valentine NSW 2280

Lake Macquarie in general has a number of fabulous areas for family portraits however we love Valentine! The Park at Green Point Foreshore Reserve has such lovely lake views and an incredible fig tree. There are numerous long winding pathways through the trees and bushland. Closer to the water the overturned boats and jetty give great perspective to our shots. Simple, but lovely in the right light.

If you want a fun, natural, creative photographer in the Newcastle, Maitland and Hunter Valley area, give Michelle-Leigh a call today! 

This is an S2 POST.

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