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Storksak Catherine Review + Discount + Giveaway

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As you all know, I am expecting a baby in the first week of November. As a result of the pregnancy being quite the surprise, we had already given majority of our baby things away. And like most parents will agree, a nappy bag is a ‘must have’ baby item for the first year, at least!

This is why I couldn’t have been more thrilled when I received an email from the lovely team at Storksak; telling me about their new release of Spring/Summer 2015 bags. I am a huge fan of Storksak. I have been for years. When I found out I was pregnant with Poppet (now 2 years old) I invested in a black EMILY NYLON. I hoped it would last longer being more expensive and I am so glad I got it. It is still in near perfect condition today! Just goes to show sometimes spending that bit extra does indeed bring a higher level of quality.

Storksak Catherine Review

Anyway, today I want to share with you my latest and very much loved CATHERINE leather bag. She is just gorgeous! I have the Bordeaux colour and I must say that the image online does not do it any justice, it is a divinely rich shade that complements a chic appearance with practicality.

What do I love about this bag?

There are several things I adore about the Catherine bag and I know many of you lovely mums-to-be and new mums will understand completely!

Features Features Features!

Firstly, there is nothing quite like the smell of new leather being unwrapped. It makes those senses go tingly with excitement. I just love the slouchy appearance, it is my style completely!

Exterior

  • Handles – There are 2 straps standard with the Catherine. Short ones which make the bag the perfect length to wear under your arm and a detachable padded long leather strap. The long detachable strap offers more than just the ability to wear it over it your shoulder or across your body though, it also features Velcro straps that make it perfect for carrying on your stroller or pram. It really is genius thinking!
  • Storage – There are three zipped storage pockets located on the exterior of the bag. Two are discreetly located on the front and are slightly larger than my hand when it is stretched out. The other is on the side and is an insulated bottle pocket.
  • Protection – On the base of the nappy bag, there are four circular studs that protect the bag when placed on the ground. No more worrying whether you will scuff or scratch the leather.

Interior

  • Storage – This bag offers storage that every parent needs. You will never complain about the lack of it in this particular bag (or the Emily). Internally this bag features 6 storage pockets.

Three are great for snack or bottle storage, one is enclosed with a zip and the other two are larger. I find these particularly handy for nappy sacks, nappy rash cream and sanitiser.

  • Main compartment – this section of the bag is massive and can cater to whatever you need to hold. Nappies, wipes, spare clothes, bottles, formula, breast pump and possibly even a blanket!

Inclusions

  • Storage – Just in case you didn’t already have enough storage; there is an additional removable zippered pouch inside the bag. It features a matching leather trim and is perfect for a spare set of clothes, pain relief/medicines, etc.
  • Changing mat – This is one thing every good nappy bag needs. An included changing mat for when you are out and about. I love that this one folds up small enough to be practical and fits into the bag with everything else. It is sturdy enough to machine wash without being damaged as well.

Size

  • It is an impressive size at H34 x W47 x D14 cm

I love that it is not overly huge but it is large enough to be convenient and looks amazing!

Quality

As mentioned at the beginning of the review, I trust Storsak to provide nothing but quality after my previous bag is still going strong after years of abuse use. The Catherine bag I have is made with soft leather but I don’t feel like I have to be extremely gentle with it, which is ideal.

 

STORKSAK DISCOUNT

I have an amazing discount for All Mum Said readers who have always wanted to get their hands on a Storsak bag but haven’t been able to part with the cash.
A whopping 25% OFF!!

This 25% discount can be used on ALL Storksak bags! Visit www.storksak.com.au to view their amazing range and get your Storksak bag now. Use CODE: MUM25.

*Please note this Storksak discount code is only available for Australia and New Zealand customers.

PRIZE INCLUDES: 1x Catherine Nylon bag in Moss or Navy (winners choice). RRP $270.00.

 **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 the above Storksak Catherine bag for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.

Things To Consider Before Installing a Solar Power System

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Factors to Consider Before Installing a Solar Power System

Solar power is no longer a new concept, yet for some reason there is still a lot of hesitation around taking it on as an alternate energy source. A lot of this can be due to misinformation and people not willing to look further. In reality, though, investing in solar is no different to any other lifestyle investment, and can be undertaken by anyone who is willing to do their homework. If you think this is the approach for you, then below are the important factors you do need to consider before installing a solar power system.

Price wars

Although investing in solar energy is a lot more affordable than it was a few years ago, you still have to consider your budget when taking it on. Firstly, look at what you can afford now; for example, can you make an up-front payment? If not, taking on a payment plan could be a more realistic solution. Most solar companies such as Absolute Energy Solutions are fairly flexible with consumers, as they want you to make the move to this renewable resource. Do your research and don’t hesitate to take along a note book of questions when you speak to a provider. Also, know your objectives for investing in solar, and how much energy you consume. Because as you will see below, the more energy you need, the more panels you will have to purchase.

Big or small

When it comes to solar panels, size definitely matters, as the proportions of your product will dictate their overall energy output. The best way to determine what size or how many panels you’ll need is to look at what your current electricity requirements are — make sure you’re being as energy efficient as possible first, though. From here it is fairly straightforward; if you need a lot of energy, you are going to have to invest in a larger system. But vice versa; just because you have an enormous area of roof space does not mean you have to cover the entire thing, especially if this energy isn’t going to be used. It will just end up costing you more to buy and install.

Location, location

When installing solar panels, it’s all about the location. Firstly, you need to think about what area of your roof attracts the most direct sunlight for the largest portion of the day. Although solar panels will still absorb sunshine even when it’s not hitting the mark, direct sunlight will really maximise your solar energy output. For the southern hemisphere this is usually a north-facing orientation. Of course, solar panels don’t have to be installed on the roof; however, this is usually the most convenient, unused space. If you do go ahead with the roof though, make sure it’s stable enough to support your solar panels, and depending on the roof’s angle, you may have to tilt the frames.

These factors are all important, but at the end of the day, the biggest one is what investing in solar will actually mean for you and your home—it should not just be about following a trend, but rather be about lower electricity bills and helping to reduce your environmental impact.

Where do your biggest concerns lie in regards to solar? Tell me below!

This is an S2 POST.

A safe bet for retirement savings

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With the increase in the retirement age, changes to our superannuation and the anticipated reduction in the asset limits for retirees, saving for your retirement is not easy.

On top of the challenges given to retirees from the government, there are so many different packages and ways to invest your money that sometimes you just don’t know which way to turn. Then again, you hear of so many people losing their money, due to poor investment choices, that just finding an honest to goodness investment is fraught with an unhealthy amount of stress.

That’s why it is good to know that you can still put together a sizable nest egg for your retirement, which will help you out of a tight spot in later years – and it’s all about bricks and mortar.

Save for your retirement with real estate

There is no better time to purchase real estate than in today’s financial market. With interest rates so low, it seems daft to put your money anywhere else. After all, Aussies have always loved their homes and the property market is always a safe bet.

Yes, the market cycles up and down, but if you keep your eyes open and your ear to the ground, you can easily purchase the right property at the right price. So long as you don’t buy at the height of a real estate cycle and try to sell at the bottom, then over time, capital gains will continue to grow your nest egg nicely.

With a few properties under your belt, you will have a much more positive outlook on life and a much better foundation for your retirement. One of the positives about buying investment properties is that the rent pays off your mortgage and if there is any difference between the two, then you just negative gear it at tax time.

You can also claim a lot of improvements against your tax, so the out of pockets might be either non-existent or very minimal. Once you retire, then you can decide whether or not to sell one or more of your investment properties and realise the gains or just continue on and accrue more capital gains.

Fixed rate loans vs variable rates for your investment properties

When the interest rates are so low, it just makes sense to go with a fixed mortgage and lock in a really low rate for the next 3-5 years. With a low fixed rate on your investment property loans, you can focus on the capital gains and with low $ loan repayments (due to fixing at a really low interest rate), then the rent quite often covers all of the remaining expenses.

So if you want to set up a sizable nest egg for your retirement, check out the fixed rate interest home loans found at NPBS and look forward to a bright future.

What are your tips for saving for retirement?

This is an S2 POST.

Little Chicks Poncho ~ Girls Fashion

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Before having a daughter, I was in awe at all the gorgeous girl’s clothes that were available. They hung on their shop hangers looking so pretty. I had two boys and there was just never anything super cute that screamed ‘I have to get that for them’. There was nice clothes but not like what girl’s had to choose from.

Now that I have a daughter (and another on the way), I am discovering that, dare I say it, there may be too much to choose from! It is so hard to know what is going to last the distance and actually be value for money. I don’t like to spend a great deal on kids clothing as they are so rough and tumble and grow dreadfully fast but I want the clothes to be hard wearing and affordable.

Charli Bird poncho – Little Chicks

A lot of brands and items of clothing I have bought for my daughter have come with high reviews from other mums. This is why I feel I must share the latest piece Poppet has been given. I have talked about the brand Charli Bird on the blog before, but it has been for adult products (scarves in particular because I’m a scarf addict). Well what you may not know is that they have now got a range of kid’s products exclusively available online. The Charli Bird  ponchos for Little Chicks are absolutely adorable and perfect autumn and winter weather.

The budget friendly mum in me loves the versatility that these ponchos provide. They are designed to grow with your child for years; initially it will be a longer style poncho and as your child grows it will become more of a short shawl whilst remaining stylish and well fitting.

These little girls ponchos are designed in Australia by Charli Bird and made from a blend of 70% wool and 30% polymine which gives a soft cashmere feel. I cannot believe how incredibly soft it is, even after being washed! Oh and speaking of washing, it doesn’t shrink or lose its shape. I love how adaptable this piece of clothing is; it is ideal for wearing over tights or jeans and is suitable for a trip to the park or to dress up for dinner.

Because every little girl is different, they are available in 4 colours: Lollipop – hot pink/orange, Bubblegum – purple/mauve, Blue Heaven – dark blue/ light blue, Liquorice – black/ cream. Poppet has Bubblegum.
S/M suitable for 3-5 year olds and M/L for 6-10 year olds. For specific measurements of the ponchos visit the Charli Bird website.
Just in case you are sitting on the fence with these adorable pieces; they are currently on sale. Prices start at $59.95.

What is your favourite online clothing shop for kids?

6 Business Ideas for Stay at Home Mums

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Whether setting up your own business is something you’ve always dreamed of or you’re just looking for a way to supplement the family income, trying to juggle a fledgling operation while being the primary caregiver for your family can be difficult. But if done well, it can be quite profitable and fulfilling for you too. Below you’ll find a list of six business ideas that work best for stay-at-home parents.

Business Ideas For Stay At Home Mums

1. Professional Consultancy

Deciding to take a couple of years – or longer – out of the workforce doesn’t have to mean your career takes a back seat. Why not consider offering boutique consultancy services in your field? You will have to allocate some time for client meetings and communication during business hours, but you are otherwise free to work when it suits you.

2. Virtual Assistant

Administration, call handling and calendar management are all roles that can be done away from a traditional office environment. You can offer the services independently or sign up with an agency to help place you with clients.

3. Party Plan Businesses

No doubt you’ve been to an in-home demonstration before. The consultants are often parents just like you, running their own operation in the times that suit them and selling products they love. You could display and sell anything from cosmetics and clothing to home appliances.

4. Start a Tech Company

If you are the type of person who loves the thrill and challenge of a sales job and have access to a phone and a computer, you could be the boss of your own telecommunications company. Many savvy entrepreneurs are taking advantage of services like Telcoinabox, which make setting up what is virtually your own phone company simple and affordable for everyone.

5. Service-Related Business

Is there something you wish you could outsource around your home to make your family’s lifestyle easier? Why not look into seeing how feasible it is for you to offer it. Make sure you establish if there is actually a market for the service and if you can provide it affordably while still making above minimum wage yourself – sometimes there’s a reason why such a thing doesn’t already exist!

6. Washing and Ironing

More laundry might be the last thing you want right now, but there can be some serious cash to be made by offering this service and it’s something you can do while indulging in some ‘you’ time while watching your favourite show or after the children go to bed. You already have all the tools you need to get started and marketing can be as simple as hanging a sign up on your local noticeboard.

Working from home can be a great way to contribute to the family budget while raising your family. But make sure you do your research to ensure you can afford the time commitment as well as any capital outlay to make it really work for you.

What advice would you give to stay-at-home parents looking to build a side project business around their family life?

This is an S2 POST.

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