The post Hunter Valley Gardens Mega Creatures 2016 Giveaway appeared first on All Mum Said.
]]>As you have come to expect from the Hunter Valley Gardens, they get bigger and better every year. This year is no exception. The Christmas Lights Spectacular and Mega Creatures 2016 edition are an event not to be missed!!
Like I have mentioned previously on the blog, we attend the Christmas Lights Spectacular every year. It has become a family tradition and the kids love it. If your kids are anything like mine; they will absolutely love the Mega Creatures as well. You can take a journey through the gardens and see some amazing works of art (botanical art obviously), different themes/gardens and the Story Book area. This is one of my kids favourite parts of the whole Hunter Valley Gardens.
The Mega Creatures 2016 include all of the incredible giant bugs from last year. These include beetles, tarantula, bee, snail and so many more – see here for last years Mega Bugs review.
Much to the excitement of my kids; this year the Hunter Valley Gardens have added Dinosaurs to their Mega Creatures display. See favourites including: T-Rex, Triceratops, Stegosaurus and many more! The giant animatronic creatures will have you and your children in awe and provide hours of discussions.
It was great watching the dinosaurs move and make noises. It really gave the kids a sense of what they were like before they became extinct. Each one had a different call and it was amazing seeing the kids get excited over learning. This experience is not only heaps of fun, it is also educational.
You can find out more here or enter below to win yourself 1 of 2 family passes!
2x WINNERS!!
Each prize includes: 1x Hunter Valley Gardens Mega Creatures family pass. RRP $134.00. Total prize pool: $268.00.
**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.
Disclosure: I received a family pass to review this experience. All opinions are my own.
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]]>The post Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular 2015 appeared first on All Mum Said.
]]>To keep with tradition, we attended the Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular 2015 again this year. For the past three years the rain has also joined us!
Regardless of what is happening in our life or how busy we are, we never miss a year. Each year the lights spectacular gets bigger and better. The kids absolutely love seeing the different displays, including the story book garden, Cinderella, 12 days of Christmas, waterfall and so many other great themes.
Unfortunately the Ferris wheel didn’t return this year which was very disappointing to both me and my children. There was a games zone that offered jumping castles and arcade games.
This year saw the addition of the fairy garden, the music room and the new and improved candy land. As we walked through the entry gates we were greeted by a gorgeous Christmas caroller in a ‘princess dress’, well according my Miss 2 it ‘was’ a princess with a big beautiful dress. Her voice was magical and made the perfect start to the evening.
Christmas Lights Display: Open from 7:30pm – 10:00pm. To find out more information or to purchase prepaid tickets, visit the website now.
Prize includes: 1x family pass to Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular 2015. Valued at $85!
**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.
Disclosure: I received the above family pass for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.
The post Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular 2015 appeared first on All Mum Said.
]]>The post Top 5 Family Portrait Hotspots Revealed – Greater Newcastle Area appeared first on All Mum Said.
]]>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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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]]>The post Cold Snap Brings Snow To NSW appeared first on All Mum Said.
]]>The cold snap that hit New South Wales saw the onset of freezing weather, icy roads and snow in areas including Barrington Tops, Bombala, Orange, Tenterfield and Walcha. Having never seen, felt or experienced the beauty of snow before Mr C made sure we were not going to miss out.
The alarms went off at an unpleasant 4am and saw everyone rugged up and piled into the car. The journey from our part of the Hunter Valley to the Barrington Tops took approx. two and a half hours. Before we had even hit the mountain, we could see snow covering the grass, trees and rocks.
While I begrudgingly got my arse out of bed at that ridiculous hour of the morning, once we saw the snow it was so worth it! If we had left it much later we would not have been able to enjoy the day as the road conditions deteriorated quickly and the gates get closed.
We made our way up the slippery Barrington Tops nice and early. This is where we were greeted by overly excited and keen campers who had stayed the night in hopes to catch the first glimpse of snow for the season. It was absolutely beautiful!
With frozen noses, toes and fingers, we all embraced the white fluff and took advantage of our surroundings by taking part in many snowball fights. We trekked around the area and took in the amazing scenery. An abundance of photos were taken so we could remember our first family snow adventure for years to come.
With more snow expected later this week, there will be crowds making their way up to see. For safety reasons it should only be accessed by four wheel drive vehicles. If you would like more information on the Barrington Tops, see the Barrington Tops National Park website. If you are interested in camping at the Barrington Tops make sure you print out my essentials camping checklist (<<<< can be found at the link) so you don’t forget anything!
What do you like to do in Winter? Have you been to the snow?
Share your snow and Winter stories in the comments below!
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]]>The post Top 5 Things To Do In Hunter Valley With Kids appeared first on All Mum Said.
]]>Are you planning a trip to the Hunter Valley with your family? Before you book it all in, read this so you don’t miss out on the must see and do activities.
You have saved your money and can finally afford that family holiday; the Hunter Valley is full of excitement for both adults and children. Although the Hunter Valley is well-known for its gorgeous wines and delicious food, it has so much more to offer. Here are some of the top things to do in Hunter Valley with kids.
If you are looking for places to see and things to do in the Hunter Valley region, than you will not be disappointed. There is an abundance of options for you and your family to enjoy a weekend away, annual family holiday or even for locals to explore.
The Hunter Valley Gardens are more than just perfectly manicured grounds. Throughout the year they host some of the Valleys’ most exciting exhibits, extravaganzas and shows. Regardless what you and your family are interested in, the gardens will have something that takes your fancy.
In November – January they display the Christmas Lights Spectacular and New Year’s fireworks, Winter calls for Snow Time in the Gardens where families enjoy playing in the snow and ice skating, along with a many other exciting activities throughout the year.
Across the road from the Hunter Valley Gardens, there is an array of fun family activities. You can enjoy the children’s park, putt putt and aqua golf along with some of the Valley’s best hot chocolate.
Located: Broke Road, Pokolbin, New South Wales 2320, Australia.
Located just out of Cessnock and only 45 minutes from Newcastle, the Hunter Valley Zoo will have your kids learning, laughing and enjoying nature’s beauty and amazing animals. There is a vast range of animals located at the zoo so there is something to suit everyone.
With the option to participate in interactive encounters from farmyard animals, kangaroos, koalas, wombats, birds and much more your children will be talking about it for years to come.
Make a day of it and take time out to enjoy a picnic or BBQ lunch. The zoo offers families free BBQ facilities so you can bring your esky and feed the family whilst you are there.
Located: Lomas Lane, Nulkaba, Cessnock, New South Wales, Australia.
Open: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm – Open 6 days (closed Wednesday, excluding school holidays)
Cost: Family (2+2) – $65, Adult – $22, Child (3-15) – $13, Child (under 3) – FREE.
There will be no need for electronic devices; your children will have hours of fun at Speers Point Park. This well designed park has everything you and your kids could want in one vicinity, it is fun for the young and old. It features flying foxes, large slides, climbing equipment, water features, swings, age appropriate sections and so much more.
With plenty of free parking close by, toilets, shelter facilities and BBQs you can enjoy a cheap lunch and a great day out with the family.
Located: Park Road, Speers Point, Lake Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia.
In the mood to relax and breathe in the fresh ocean air? You cannot go past the soft sanded Nobbys Beach. It is clean and the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy some lunch and build sandcastles with the kids. If going for a swim is more your style than it is an ideal beach for the kids with amazing views for that walk to dry off.
On occasion you will be lucky enough to sight dolphins and whales coming in close.
Located: Nobbys Road, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.
What could be more fun than a building jam packed full of bouncy, inflatable floors and walls? Inflatable World will keep you and your family entertained for hours on end with obstacles, activities and the ability to fly, jump and bounce.
Designed to have parents enjoying the fun, the whole family will leave exhausted after their two hour session.
Location: 1/10 Glenwood Drive, Thornton, NSW 2322, Australia.
Open: 7 days – 10am – 4pm.
Cost: Adults – $15.00, Child (5 years+) – $15.00, Child (4 years and Under) – $8.00, 1 Adult + 1 Child (4 Years and under) – $15.00, Spectators – Free.
We all get peckish and over-eat whilst on holidays and the Hunter Valley has that department covered. Don’t feel that just because you have children you cannot enjoy a nice meal in a beautiful location. There are plenty of family friendly restaurants, cafes and take-away stores at your convenience.
The alluring smells of food will have you coming back so you can try it all. Beaumont Street, Newcastle, is home to some of the most delicious and surprising cuisines.
Enjoy the flavours of Germany, China, Thailand, Itlay and much more. Just make sure you save room for the desserts, pastries and good coffee!
Located: Beaumont St, Newcastle, Hamilton, New South Wales, Australia.
The Hunter Valley is a well-known holiday destination not only by Australians but travellers worldwide. Having an insight into what you and your family can discover while visiting the region will not only maximise your time but will also save you money.
Want more information on what the region has to offer visit? Check it out here.
Enjoy your vacation and ensure your children do as well by considering these top 5 things to do in the Hunter Valley with kids.
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]]>The post Five Adventures to Try This Winter appeared first on All Mum Said.
]]>Not sure where to go for the winter break? It is always great to try something new and different. There are plenty of places on offer, all across Australia, with something different and unique at each one. Below are a few of the best and most exciting places you can visit this winter.
If you don’t like the cold and you are looking for a beach vacation there is no better place than the Whitsundays. Winter doesn’t seem to reach this far north, though this time of year an edge has been taken off the heat. Jet skiing is the best way to enjoy your time in this island paradise. Want to give jet skiing a try but don’t have your own? Check out quality retailers like JSW Powersports to find a model that suits you (you can see their range here ). If you live near the water you will be using it every weekend. With a jet ski you can hop from island to island and see the reef up close without going into the water.
With the summer heat gone, now is the perfect time to go hiking. Hiking is by far one of the best ways to see some of the most picturesque parts of the country. South East Queensland and northern New South Wales has some of the best hiking trials in Australia and even the world. Just west of the Gold Coast are the mighty rainforests surrounding Springbrook, with trees that are thousands of years old and waterfalls that flow all year round. If you are looking for more of a challenge, and an extraordinary view, look no further than Mt Warning, a three to four hour climb that results in views looking over the Gold Coast and south of Byron Bay.
When you are soaking up the heat of summer, it is easy to forget that Australia is home to some pretty awesome ski fields. Falls Creek in Victoria is home to a winter wonderland. Whether it is skiing or snowboarding, or just building snow men, it is the place to be for a white winter. There are slopes for beginners and experts, meaning fun for everyone. One of the most attractive reasons to visit is the usually short lines and limited queuing, getting you in the action as quick as possible.
Kakadu is the perfect place for a more ‘Crocodile Dundee’ type adventure. Early winter is the best time of year to go. It’s not too hot and the water is still flowing from the wet season. Kakadu is a fisherman’s paradise and a great place to catch barramundi. There is also plenty of trekking and hiking on offer across some of the countries most rugged terrain. The more adventurous thrill-seekers will find plenty of fun in white water rafting and kayaking in the region.
Tasmania in winter is like something out of a fairy tale. Snow-capped mountains, deep, dark forests and quaint little villages all combine to make the island state one of the most beautiful places to visit. There’s plenty of skiing to be done but it is hard to resist the allure of a walk around the crystalline Dove Lake, at the base of Cradle Mountain or through one of the frost encrusted rainforests, shimmering like diamonds in the sunlight.
There are so many great places to visit on a winter break, these are just a few of the best.
Where are you planning to go this winter?
This is an S2 POST.
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]]>The post Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream Giveaway appeared first on All Mum Said.
]]>Disney on Ice presents Dare to Dream is coming to Newcastle Entertainment Centre this June and it is sure to impress not only princess adoring and magic loving little ones but also comedy loving parents. The classic meets contemporary ice show will have you joining your favourite Disney Princesses in a wonderful celebration of Princess stories. Come and see modern day Princesses, Rapunzel and Tiana, the very well-known and elegant Cinderella and of course Snow White in the spectacular Disney on Ice.
You will be laughing at the escapades of Disney’s Tangled Princess Rapunzel and her unlikely companion Flynn and Maximus (the Captain of the Guard’s determined horse) as they embark on a hilarious adventure.
On her quest to find her one true love, you will encounter Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in the enchanted forest as they escape from the Evil Queen.
You will watch with delight as Cinderella’s fanciful dreams come true and her Prince Charming finds her. With a glass slipper and a perfect fit, you will watch this unforgettable fairy tale become her reality.
From magic to a musical journey; you will celebrate with The Princess and the Frog. Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen will have you dancing and bopping along with joy and excitement.
Experience the beauty, sparkle and spirit when Disney on Ice presents Dare to Dream visits Newcastle Entertainment Centre from 19 – 21 June 2015. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.DisneyOnIce.com.au. Prices: Front Row – $79.50, VIP – $55.50, A Reserve – $44.50, B Reserve – $29.50
Prize Includes: 4x tickets to Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream in Newcastle.
**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. **
Please note: Prize is for the Newcastle show on Sunday 21st June 2015 only.
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.
Disclosure: I received tickets for my family to attend Disney On Ice in return for sharing this incredible giveaway.
The post Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream Giveaway appeared first on All Mum Said.
]]>The post Cupz N’ Crepes appeared first on All Mum Said.
]]>My husband and I have been making an effort to spend more time together, to keep the love alive and all that. We have three children so the closest we get to being alone is when the boys are at school and we only have our daughter. One of the main interests we share is our passion for food and as we were both chefs prior to having our children we know what we like and we know the effort that goes into good food. We love sharing a moment over great coffee but thought we would expand our dining experiences and see what some of the local restaurants and cafes have to offer.
Our first stop was Cupz N’ Crepes in Morpeth, NSW. We walked up and down the street filled with dining options and decided on what looked like your standard little cafe. We only chose to dine their because they had a sign out the front saying cake and coffee, scones and crepes. There was something we all liked.
We took a seat out the front so we had room for the pram and was greeted with table service! It is not often you see that around these parts so Cupz N’ Crepes were already exceeding our expectations. We were handed menus and given time to peruse our options. We decided on something completely different than what we intended on and ordered the Eggs Benedict (Mr C) and the Canadian Stack (Me). Iced coffee with cream to drink.
As our meals were put down in front of us, we were far from disappointed! There was flavour in every bite and each component was cooked to perfection. We could not fault the food. It was reasonably prices with the average meal costing $15. The iced coffees we ordered were what we felt a tad expensive at $6 a pop but oh my goodness they were good!
If you are looking for somewhere to eat with great food and a relaxing environment in the Hunter Valley than Cupz N’ Crepes is definitely worth trying.
Have you been? What did you think?
Where do you recommend we try next?
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]]>The post Hunter Valley Gardens Mega Bugs appeared first on All Mum Said.
]]>Mega Bugs have invaded the Hunter Valley Gardens! You may have seen last week that we visited the Hunter Valley Gardens to view the Christmas Lights Spectacular and as usual we were not disappointed. If not you can read about it here. It hadn’t occurred to me until yesterday that we have never actually been there during the day to admire the wonderful gardens themselves. They are incredible. The reason we returned on Friday was to experience the Mega Bugs and as per usual the kids loved it!
The beauty of the Mega Bugs is that you can enjoy the elegance and hard work of the amazing gardens, features and fresh air while the kids look in awe and interact with the animatronic Mega Bugs located throughout the gardens. When visiting the Christmas lights you don’t realise how much beauty you are missing out on; this is of course replaced by incredible displays of lights though.
Throughout the gardens you will find a wide range of Mega Bugs that move and replicate their real life movements and sounds. Included are:
Ladybug – The ladybugs wings move up and down.
Spider – This Mega Spider has adopted the name Spider-saurus because it is so huge!
Blue Poison Arrow Frog – Just between you and me, I am petrified of frogs.
Praying mantis – This is absolutely huge! So large in fact it was difficult getting it all in the picture.
Wasp – I cannot explain how much detail is involved in this Mega Bug. Absolutely amazing!
Snail – This was one of my favourites!
Cricket – I got B1 & B2 to stand next to the cricket so everyone could see how big these bugs are. The cricket was one of the smallest there.
Bee on Flower – This bee buzzes about its business on a flower.
Unfortunately I couldn’t get photos of them all but there are heaps more to see. Including: Cicada on tree, Scorpion (this shoots water out of its stinger), Bee, Blue Winged Butterfly, Red Winged, Caterpillar, Dragon Fly Male, Dragon Fly Female, Bean Worm, Green Frog, Centipede, Ant Family, Spider.
The gardens and Mega Bugs were definitely worth seeing! It was such a fun day for the whole family and one the kids will remember for a long time to come.
If this is of interest to you and your family, you can purchase tickets on the Hunter Valley Gardens website OR WIN yourself 1 of 2 family passes over by clicking over here and entering the giveaway. You can experience both the Christmas Lights and Mega Bugs at once!! These family friendly events close on the 26th January.
Is there a bug lover in your house?
Disclosure: I received a family pass to the Mega Bugs for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.
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]]>The post Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular + Giveaway appeared first on All Mum Said.
]]>In our family there are a few traditions that we never miss. Since moving from central Queensland to the Hunter Valley just shy of 5 years ago, we have without fail been to the Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular every year. We look forward to seeing how they have expanded and increased their displays and every Christmas we are far from disappointed.
This year was the best yet, besides the fact it started pouring rain while we were halfway through. A little rain wasn’t going to stop us enjoying the night though. If you haven’t been before you need to add it to your To-Do list or try and win yourself a family pass below.
There was really something for everyone this year at the Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular. The fairytale section showcasing the castle, princess and noble steed was one of my absolute favourites. It was magical and simply stunning.
I love Ferris wheels and had it not been pouring rain I would have taken my kids on it to get an aerial view of the gardens. They were so excited when they saw it as they have never been on one before. Can only imagine how beautiful it would look from that high up.
My sister and brother-in-law also joined us this year to view the Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular and their favourite part was the 12 days of Christmas segment. It is fun, colourful and everything merry.
We enjoyed some quality family time and of course some hot sugary churros (like we do every year) and as usual we were not disappointed. They were so delicious!
There was beauty to be found in every corner of the gardens. Everywhere you looked there was something else that you had to see. From the Storybook Garden to Candyland and everything in between you will be delighted and amazed.
Seeing the Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular is a wonderful tradition that can be continued regardless how big or small your family is. You can go alone or with a friend. Just make sure you see them at least once.
Tickets can be purchased and more information can be found on the Hunter Valley Gardens website.
We have also experienced the Mega Bugs which are also on show right now and these family passes can be used to enjoy both of these amazing events at once!! Read more about our Mega Bugs experience.
2 PRIZES UP FOR GRABS!
Each prize contains: 1x Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Children) to the Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular/Mega Bugs. Valid until 26 Jan 2015.
GIVEAWAY CLOSED!! Winners are: Kara N & Angela F.
**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. **
If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.
Disclosure: I received 1x family pass for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.
The post Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular + Giveaway appeared first on All Mum Said.
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