Jennifer Barker

Supergirl Party

2012-02-16T20:18:00.000+11:00

There is something about this birthday party that really appeals to me. It is sweet, girly but also fun and adventurous. Different, not princessy. Love it! I think I may steal the idea for my 40th - which is a LONG way off :)

It is from this blog. I wish there were more posts on there. Love the sister's style!

Valentine's Day ...

2012-02-14T21:32:00.003+11:00

Bee my valentine - how cute!! Will you be my love bug? The people at www.mooo.com.au are seriously clever and seriously corny :)

Whilst you are there, have a look at their name label pack. Your supply of name labels may be like mine, needing some replenishments after being used for a few years.

This one made me laugh. Out loud. It must be late and I must be tired :)

Other cute Valentine's Day offerings ...

1. These would look great in red for Valentine's Day or for a party - or just for fun!

2. Gorgeous shopfronts

3. If you are really organised, celebrate the 14 days of Valentines.

4. This is my idea of a lovely gift for Valentine's day for your friendly neighbour, your friend, your mum

5. Finally, she is just gorgeous. Another generous blogger with a free downloadable template :)

Happy Valentine's Day! Have you come across something gorgeous to share?

(love this florist!)

Starting tomorrow ...

2012-02-11T20:43:00.000+11:00

*Starting tomorrow* I'll eat more meals that I haven't created before. I fall into a rut of making the same favourite dishes over and over. Here are a couple that look fantastic and might get me enthused! ...

(Superfood Salad by Teresa Cutter or The Healthy Chef)

Donna Hay's artichoke and feta tarts

I like this (via Sarah Wilson)

justine pocock flickr

Talking about Sarah Wilson, her I Quit Sugar Diet looks good. Really good. I should start today ;)

Spineless Classics

2012-02-10T21:06:00.001+11:00

Phoebe from My Favourite is the Australian distributor of these fascinating posters. They look fantastic framed. So good seeing something new in the gift market that is original, especially for blokes!

Find more here

Blog Love

2012-02-09T21:32:00.003+11:00

Fat Mum Slim's blog first came onto my radar courtesy of Kidspot. Her blog is real and she is generous with her words and ideas. Love it!

Coffee Cup Obsession

2012-02-08T21:15:00.001+11:00

Can one have too many coffee mugs? Well, yes. They do clutter up the cupboards. But boy oh boy there are some fun designs out there! Sometimes I choose the colour of the mug according to the mood I am in. More often than not I use a Cath Kidston one because if I get the chance to make a cup I indulge in a large one!

1 & 2 Cath Kidston
3, 4 & 5 McLaggan Smith - you must check out this site. I love the mug "Keep Calm and Kiss me Quick"
6 Mozi
7. Scrabble, see link for no.8
8. Penguin Pride and Prejudice
9. Pantone

My Favourites this week

2012-02-06T23:42:00.001+11:00

These are fantastic for kids at home - they are easy to clean and I am told, comfortable!

These are fantastic for babies at home, at the beach, on holidays, when visiting ... so handy :)

These are not only super to rest feet on, but also become a handy seat for little or big people. I am told it is even comfy as a cushion

You feel a little silly, but I am sure my posture is improving because of this

I could have her music playing all day, every day

I am really looking forward to the trade fairs coming up and seeing the new designs from some of my favourite Australian designers, especially Alimrose Designs and Cocoon Couture.

I am dreaming of going here, the place that is!

Amazing photographer whose images make you feel as though you are in the room with the subject

Lego, lego and lego. Can you imagine working in that office!

Christmas music

2011-12-14T13:17:00.002+11:00

Love this - the lyrics, the beat, the clip!

Christmas trees

2011-12-14T13:09:00.000+11:00

12 shopping days til Christmas....

I think I will just stop, breathe and enjoy this tree! From a blog I love Absolutely Beautiful Things - I share Anna's love of colour!!

My Favourites this week

2011-12-12T18:15:00.001+11:00

Favourite Book: A Christmas Goodnight illustrated by Sarah Jane Wright
Favourite Room: Delightfully pink and pretty
Favourite Party photos: courtesy of Bondville
Favourite Artwork: Love Jen Ramos' style
Favourite Blog: Love the Christmas doilies
Favourite Photographer: Not only is she talented, but incredibly generous
Favourite Clothing: Is there any other brand of clothing?
Favourite Toy: For me ;)
Favourite App for kids: Art Maker by ABC for kids
Favourite Furniture: Like. A lot

PS The image is from here - wow & thank you )

In the past 18 months ...

2011-12-01T21:01:00.006+11:00

Since I sold Mummys and MyFavourite here is what some of my favourite suppliers have been busy bringing us!

T2 Colour Club Featuring a thirst quenching quartet of French Earl Grey, Gorgeous Geisha, Strawberry Sensation and Sleep Tight teas

Mor Cosmetics Lychee Flower Perfume Oil

Mozi Milk Bottle Could also be used as a vase :)

Alimrose Snow White doll 36cm

I grew this for you by Belle and Boo

Little Chipipi have released a range of co ordinating linen and placemats as well as more moveable stickers

Cocoon Couture have released new denim beanbags, wall stickers and more

Glasshouse Candles Night Before Christmas

And this is what I want Santa to bring ...

2011-11-21T23:03:00.002+11:00

Posh Cakes

2011-11-21T22:33:00.003+11:00

I like to think that I can bake and decorate cakes like these. But I so can't. Thankfully Nicole from Posh Cakes can! I can't choose which one I love more. The attention to detail blows me away! Look at the straw in the manger and the detail to the snowflake. Wow!

Hopped over to the blog to write one post and I end up writing three ... its a little addictive :)

Table Tonic

2011-11-21T22:14:00.006+11:00

Last Christmas I bought myself one of these. This year I have been eyeing off Table Tonic's Moroccan Pouffe's. The one on the right reminds me of my grandparents one that I remember sitting on as a child that my cousin now has. I took a photo whilst at his place last year. I love the way it has worn over the years. I wonder who has rested their feet (or bottom) on it and the conversations that have been held around it.

Table Tonic have 25% off storewide at the moment ... might do a little Christmas shopping for my better half & create our own conversations :)

This Week...

2011-11-21T21:02:00.000+11:00

Favourite Book: Stuck by Oliver Jeffers
Favourite Room: Sooooo prettyyyyy!
Favourite Party photos: My Sweet Prints party
Favourite Place: Haven't got there this year, but wow!
Favourite Artwork: These glow in the dark wall stickers - wow!
Favourite Blog: Because your kids think you are cool when you find things like this post
Favourite Fabric: Amy Butler (who else?!)
Favourite Photographer: Tim and May capture people and nature in a way only some people can
Favourite Clothing: This tshirt - who would have thought?!
Favourite Flowers: These peonies

(Image courtesy TimnMay)

MATHLETICS GIVEAWAY winner

2011-08-21T22:48:00.000+10:00

Congratulations to the following posts:

Please email me at hello@jenniferbarker.com.au and I will forward your details!
You will love the site www.mathletics.com.au :)

Remember to log in during their competition time and to drop by www.dealsformum.com.au.

Craft ideas

2011-08-18T11:23:00.000+10:00

This post is purely to make sure I remember this gorgeous crocheted rug! Found here: http://www.madeit.com.au/detail.asp?id=300686

I almost deleted the newsletter in my inbox without opening. Never a good idea :)

There are so many lovely things in her store!

Oh, and as I search for her details, I came across her blog :)

The Happy Home

2011-08-17T13:34:00.000+10:00

I love reading Belinda's posts from The Happy Home. They are honest and lovely. You know when you can tell someone loves their kids ... she is one of them. Lots of little ideas and links. Lots of lovely photos and lots of reality checks. Enjoy! :)

MATHLETICS GIVEAWAY

2011-08-14T14:52:00.003+10:00

I was given one www.mathletics.com.au 6 month subscription to give away to one of our readers and one to keep for myself, but since we are Mathletics addicts already, I have TWO 6 month subscriptions to give away! (valued at $88 each)

If you aren't already familiar with Mathletics, it is a very very cleverly constructed online educational site full of maths problems for kids that are school year appropriate. It is a fabulous way to keep them busy and learning at the same time. Kids can create their own profile picture to best reflect their personality. I think my son has a helicopter on top of his hat :) One of the most popular sections is a real time competition against other students around the world. There are games, credits to earn, certificates and much more.

In conjunction with the Commonwealth Bank, Mathletics is hosting the Australian Maths Challenge between 30th-31st August. It is Australia's largest online maths competition with an expected 400 000 Aussie kids competing this year. Registrations open tomorrow, August 15th, 2011. It is a free event for students between four years and eighteen years. All students who participate will receive a certificate and the top 10 will go on to represent Australia in the 2012 World Education Games.

"Each day of the Maths Challenge has a different focus where students can earn points for themselves and their school by competing on the Challenge website, hosted by Mathletics. The competition kicks off on the Tuesday with the ‘Curriculum Challenge’, where students are tested on their knowledge of the Australian Curriculum. Wednesday will see students earn points via the Live Mathematics Game, where they will compete in real time against other students around the country in 60-second races of mental arithmetic. A comprehensive live leaderboard will keep track of the winning schools and students as the Challenge progresses, with some great prizes available to be won". (press release)

To win, please follow / join (where the faces are) this blog (see right hand column) and leave a comment below. We will randomly select two winners next Sunday, 22nd August.

** This was brought to you by www.dealsformum.com.au who have some FANTASTIC offers for Australian mums

Alimrose

2011-08-12T22:25:00.000+10:00

I have loved Alimrose since I worked in a pharmacy as a teenager.
Alimrose was (and still is) part of their gift range.

You can purchase their range of dolls, squeakers, bibs, rattles & homewares from www.petitluxe.com.au.

Urban Road

2011-08-07T21:33:00.000+10:00

I have been following Bondville for years. I love Steph's style. I should never, ever click on her links though because I find things like this ...

& then I came across the blog and I think I have found a new favourite. Just lovely! :)

Country Road Spring 2011

2011-08-06T21:45:00.000+10:00

Aren't these the most darling clothes for a baby girl?

I have spotted the following dress on four newsreaders in the past fortnight!

And these photos, just because! :)

Oh I love colour so much! Shop online @ www.countryroad.com.au

Anyone like these?

2011-08-04T23:38:00.002+10:00

Would you like these tickets? I can't make it. Email me hello@jenniferbarker.com.au

Date: Thursday 11 August 2011.
Time: 11.00am – 1.00pm.
Arrival Time: Morning tea will be served from 10.30am.
Location: Central Coast Dance Studio. Access available from the bus terminal. Closest parking in the yellow, red or green car parks.
Tickets: Two tickets, one for you and one for a friend. Photo ID or a print out of this email is required for entry.
Children: We ask that you don’t bring children along because the forum has been created for parents to discuss important family issues and some content may not be suitable for younger audiences.

The Design Files and Cocoon Couture Tree

2011-08-03T14:38:00.000+10:00

I must get my account happening on pininterest.com so I can post images like this one there! From The Design Files

Love affair with stationery

2011-08-02T10:07:00.000+10:00

I have a collection of papers from childhood. I loved beautiful paper and writing sets and always kept one sheet of each with a corresponding envelope. Kikki-K catalogues are dangerous ... but fun to look at ;)

365 days grateful, Mia Freedman and more

2011-07-28T22:14:00.001+10:00

When I was working on Sunday nights in a cold warehouse packing boxes ready for Australia Post, I would tune in to Open House on Hope103.2. I loved the interviews and I loved the style of the show, it made the time go quickly and less focussed on not being at home on a Sunday night!

I hadn't tuned in for a while but did again recently. The interview was with Hailey Bartholomew, one half of the authors of 365 grateful blog. Hearing how the blog started as a way for her to focus on the positives in her life resonated with me. I love how Hailey tries to focus on the here and now and not looking to tomorrow.

Leigh Hatcher is the host of Open House (think channel seven and sky news reporter). This Sunday he is interviewing Mia Freedman on cyber bullying. I am really looking forward to hearing her thoughts on it, but will enjoy the here and now first ;)

Beautiful Winter days. One of the zillions of things I am grateful for :)

Blog Lovin'

2011-07-28T05:37:00.000+10:00

I can't remember how I came across The Design Files. It may have been via Belinda Graham's blog, The Happy Home. Who ever it was, I thank you :)

Each day my inbox is filled with visual delights such as today's interview with Jane Hall (yes, actor Jane Hall). Her home is delightful as is her blog, Salvation Jane.

Mozi working with the Salvation Army

2011-07-27T07:46:00.003+10:00

Mozi has always been one of my very favourite brands.
This is a fabulous initiative.
www.mozi.com.au

See Olivia's home in the current issue of Real Living Magazine

(image courtesy of Mozi)

I heart these (a lot!)

2011-07-26T08:00:00.003+10:00

(image via www.stamprugs.com)

Some ideas for staying in control of the mess at home ..

2011-07-25T08:48:00.000+10:00

(real photo taken 20 minutes after I tidied our sunroom)

On Facebook over the weekend I asked the question of what is your best tip for maintaining a tidy home. I find Sunday evenings exhausting trying to tidy up after the weekend.

Here is some of the advice I received ...

Donate /recycle / re-gift

Be organised

Teach girls to put things away and unfortunatly be a nagger to make them do it!!!

Invest in a cleaner! I get mine done fortnightly and works out to be about $40 a week. Best money I spend in a week.

Recycle toys often! and get the kid to pop their own washing away

Lower your standards - aim for safe

Ride it out until your children leave home

Don't look at it on the weekend, knowing Monday is coming and it can all be tidy again then (at least for 6 hours while they are at school.) There will come a time very soon when they have all left home and we will wish for the mess back again. So just enjoy it with them

I made the rule that they only play with one set of toys at a time and must get packed away before the nex comes out. Also we do 15 mins speed clean every night and I judge the most improved room. I had to model and help when they were younger. However we are often still in a mess!!

A friend once told me the OHIO method - Only Handle It Once.

Imagine the tidy house and the lack of what creates the mess and then thank God daily for the gift of the mess generators! Read that once in a reflection and it's now my messy house blessing - may it be yours also :-)

*Have you got a magic wand tip that you can share? (pretty please!)

Magazine Cover Love ...

2011-07-24T23:31:00.000+10:00

There is something about a sea of magazine covers that I love.

I was particularly taken with this months's House and Garden. The way that it peeps into the home, the outside in rather than inside out. I love the idea of French accents. Lavender ... And the Chelsea Flower Show was mentioned. That is an instant must - read tag line for me.

One of my goals before I turn forty is to learn to speak French. I have five years ... and then I will have to treat myself to a trip ;)

T2

2011-07-23T23:49:00.002+10:00

One of the things that brought me great pleasure whilst running an online store was the very difficult task of trying out new products ;)

A box of T2 was often used in our giftboxes, both for personal gifts and corporate. I loved the orange box, but loved what was inside even more. During the week I visited the Bondi Junction store. I could smell the tea from miles away and I had no choice, I just *had* to follow my nose.

The. Best. Tea.

You can buy from t2 direct here: http://t2tea.com/

Mosman

2011-07-23T22:38:00.001+10:00

The rain in Sydney over the past week has been remarkable. There are muddy puddles in my lawn which I can't recall happening ever during Winter. To escape the confines of home we headed over to Mosman to enjoy any rays of sun that we could. Whilst there we popped into one of my favourite stores, Bonza Brats. We roamed around the Allan Border oval and swung on the swings in the park. Perfection!

AND I'M BACK ...

2011-01-07T12:56:00.000+11:00

but I am not sure in what capacity! This is my first blog since selling www.myfavourite.com.au to the gorgeous Phoebe Olsen 5 months ago. I was able to quickly fill any spare time I might have had with starting those many tasks that I have had on the backburner for the last four and a half years and get a little more sleep!!

Feeling a little lost not having a role to play online anymore, this blog I hope will be of use to those who are online businesses, online shoppers and people who love lovely things. I miss not writing about it and sharing about it!

Hope you enjoy it!! x

February Magazine is out!

2010-02-14T19:16:00.002+11:00

The toy that is too popular!

2010-02-13T07:51:00.004+11:00

I have witnessed the popularity of this toy first hand with my son. Each Sunday he took another boy's black model out from under his eyes with all the charm othat a 12mth old can muster. I managed to track one down for him in a store on the way to Melbourne in December. The joy on his face and the shriek was unmistakeable recognition of 'his' racing car.

We are so pleased to be able to offer these to our customers. Like everything by Brio they are very well constructed, perfectly sized at approx 14cm.

These will run out fast! Click here

New Gourmet Getaway designs ...

2010-02-10T14:00:00.000+11:00

Fresh in the store are some new designs from Built & French Bull - Gourmet Getaway is the perfect name for these fabulous and handy bags.

Super soft and made from thick neoprene (the material of wetsuits), they are perfect for lunch for one or two people (maybe more if they are little people!)

They measure 30cm x 30cm and definitely have the wow factor when unwrapped! Large enough for a couple of rolls and fruit and waterproof so perfect for the beach, park or work. Treat yourself and use your imagination for some gourmet getaway type food or if you have a limited imagination when it comes to roll fillings, at least the bags will help you get away with it!

Click here to see the whole range, including a HOT PINK version ... mmm... which one ...

Oopsie

2010-02-09T18:55:00.004+11:00

I can't claim the credit for finding this gorgeous Australian brand. I wish I could claim the name - the word oopsie does something cute to your voice as you say it. I was more than curious when I was recommended it via our Facebook fan page from one of our Melbourne customers (to find us btw on facebook click here)

The bags and bottle holders are not only made from the cutest fabric (love that it is unique to them & not going to be seen on everything and anything) but are perfect in sizing and style.

With plenty of weeks of Summer left, we Australian mums really need help in keeping milk and sandwiches from going off or soggy.

I LOVE that the Oopsie range makes a great gift for a new mum, kiddie or a 50 year old! I think my aunty in Pukekohe, NZ would probably love the scooter print :)

Oopsie's range is delightful! Click here to view

If you know a range of products that you think our customers would love, please email me directly at mumfav(@)gmail.com so you don't get caught up in spam!

Jen x

Hello!!

2010-02-08T19:57:00.003+11:00

I hope you are having a Happy New Year!

It has been quite a couple of months around here. Really looking forward to lots of product reviews, revealing of new ranges and interviews. Not to mention pretty pretty pictures!

This weekend is Valentine's Day. It is my 15th with Kirk ... he proposed 2 days before Valentine's Day which shows that he is really not a Valentine's Day person! I like doing some fun things with the kids and have a few red and white decorations around the house to celebrate.

We plan to have friends over for a picnic on Sunday (could be weather dependent!). I am thinking of noodle boxes for the kids with little sandwiches, a cupcake, fruit and a popper. The adults will be a little more ambitious! I am hoping Milly (who turned 4 in January) will decorate the boxes for me this week.

We have been selling these pillowslips for ages. They don't lose their appeal. These canphone pillowslips are adorable. Perfect for couples apart relying on the phone to stay in contact!!

At Mummy's Favourite, we send any purchase under 500g via express post - plenty of time to get a pair on your bed this weekend! Click here

Dear Blog ...

2009-11-19T22:32:00.004+11:00

To my dear blog friends,

We are a little snowed under right now as we are having fun helping our customers find their gorgeous gifts this Christmas (2009!). We want to keep up our great customer service record and in order to do that we need to say farewell for a few weeks. It really is a matter of priorities and right now we need to spend the 10 minutes a day elsewhere. I hope this doesn't offend you.

I will leave you with some photos of some of the things we have been wrapping this week. Our rubbish bins at the end of the day look so Christmassy and happy. We are loving the red and white spot theme!! It is such a joy to find products on the shelf and pack them. It makes me smile when I do the final check of a box before we tape it up when we see what combination of delights someone has chosen to give their special family and friends.

Take care. We hope you enjoy the silly season, which by the way can be made so much easier and less stressful by having the postman arrive on the doorstep with a box of goodies.

With love,

Jen x

Belle and Boo Review by Belinda Graham

2009-11-19T22:24:00.004+11:00

When I was pregnant with Layla, I had a few things on the to-buy list if the baby was a girl: an Oobi Baby dress (done), Country Road leather ballet flats (got ‘em) and Belle & Boo prints. I found them so gloriously girlie, so Holly Hobby-ish and somehow so carefree and innocent, they appealed to my inner child as well as to my adult self. It’s not often you find children’s illustrations that are stylish, but all of Belle & Boo’s are. Beautifully illustrated, all of the prints reflect a fun, pure time in a child’s life, which is why I think I like them so - who hasn’t swung from a tree, chatted to a bunny or fed the birds? I know I have, and I know my children will. And so my collection began with three little prints - I even framed the thank you note that came with the purchase - and I know there are many more to come. The latest addition is Flowers for Mummy. Not only is it cute, it’s signed by the illustrator Mandy Sutcliffe! And if that’s not reason enough for me to love it, here are three more…1. Layla loves to pick me flowers and bring them to me. (She picks weeds too, but it’s the thought that counts, right?).2. Layla’s middle name is Belle (yep, named after me. How narcissistic of me!) 3. Steve and I often tag “O-boo-boo” to the end of Zak and Layla’s names. I’m not sure why, but we just have since Zak was tiny. They get Zakky-o-boo-boo and Layla-o-boo-boo.I have a feeling Layla already loves her collection too - she points out the birds and bunny and makes their noises, and I’ve caught her a few times talking to the picture wall when she’s meant to be sleeping. Good to see they’re keeping her company…

Find them here

twenty ten is the year to be organised!

2009-10-27T10:01:00.006+11:00

I am an organised person or maybe a routine person. A friend commented to me yesterday, "you like your routine don't you!". I have survived a lot from memory though with dates which is starting to become hard with 5 people in the family. I missed Milly's pre school orientation and went to reading groups on the wrong day in this past week. I think I need to start keeping a more thorough personal diary!

Here is a more up close and personal look at the OTI diary for twentyten :)

There is a cute pocket in the front to pop in receipts, notes, recipes, business cards ...
I love the post it notes inside the back cover ...

Page view - one week to an opening with lots of room for activites, exercise plan, meal plan, to do column and people to contact section...

Medical page ...

Going away plans (love this!)

Goals for twentyten ... ooh what will mine be?!

And the professional shot

I love the grey print, the smooth, soft but hard cover with cute illustrations (wipeable!)

and the yearly planners

and the entertaining page

public holiday notes & school holidays...

and that $2 from every one sold goes to the Australian Childhood Foundation

They are a bit larger than half an A4 and about 1cm deep. Not too heavy and so well laid out. The font is just the right size. I like the idea of popping the ribbon onto the next week, placing the elastic around it and thinking "organised!"

Click here to find them! $36

A cute customer

2009-10-27T09:43:00.003+11:00

Thanks to Belinda for this photo of her cute little boy Caleb and our monkey rattle from Alimrose. Please send photos our way of your little ones with our products and we will send you something to say thank you :) This one was given to Caleb by his godmother. Belinda gave her friends a link to our site when she had her baby shower. Fabulous idea!

What I'm listening to ...

2009-10-27T05:39:00.000+11:00

No idea what she is singing but I love it, so cute and girly! I couldn't download the music from itunes so bought the cd instead. I reclaim the music in the evenings once the kids are asleep. I might ask my cousin to translate for me or maybe there is more fun in not knowing :)

I love the titles of Rosie Thomas' albums. They are a little bit AA Milne! "If songs could be held", "When we were small"

Cocoon Couture gift with purchase

2009-10-26T13:33:00.002+11:00

Kris Kringle Gift Ideas

2009-10-26T08:15:00.000+11:00

I LOVE our Kris Kringle gift section. We have a fun selection of gifts that are guaranteed to be well received by anyone. Perfect for the office, mother's group ...

How gorgeous is this retro style print on the luggage tag?! A tag like this will make anyone smile when they see it on the carousel!

The wrapping on these MOZI soaps is gorgeous. A gift wrapped soap! The wrapping of our our soaps is something to be seen to be believed. Think MOZI, think MOR, think Glasshouse :)

Don't buy a random, useless gift for someone this year. There are no excuses ;)

Another cute idea are these handmade vintage wallpaper rulers. $4.95 :)

Summer ....

2009-10-22T08:54:00.000+11:00

Sewing, reading, dreaming, writing, sounds like the perfect summer break (throw in a beach and some sun) ....

We are loving amy butler

cute and cuddly!

2009-10-21T20:35:00.003+11:00

One day it will be possible to scratch and sniff the computer screen, or have touchy feely bits. For now though, take my word that these cute as pie toys from Mamas and Papas in the UK are ever so soft and oh so cuddly! They are bound to one day be scraggy too when they are dragged to a teddy bears picnic or a favourite teddy day at school in 6 years time. I think that it is the greatest compliment for a teddy to look worn. Loved! The perfect gift for a newborn :)

Click here

Party time for Henry!

2009-10-20T07:49:00.003+11:00

Henry turned one last week and we had an excuse to use the Sambellina party range. I didn't get a chance to take a photo once it was all laid out, but here is a early on snap of the table. We had a red and white theme - with the exception of one pink balloon for Miss 3 :)

I am so grateful for all three of my children, and thankful that Henry has had a happy and healthy first year of his life.

What did we give him? These BRIO blocks were a huge success (with him & his brother & sister!). This morning he has pretended that the arched blocks are telephones. So cute! Click here to find them.

Teepees are back in stock!

2009-10-19T07:46:00.001+11:00

(photo courtesy www.reallivingmagazine.blogspot.com

FABULOUS gift idea this Christmas. I have put one aside for my three tiddlywinks - opened deliberately as I have sold three of their allocated ones in the past 12 months! If it is opened, I can't sell it :)

Click here to find them in our store

Beautiful Seasons ...

2009-10-18T20:08:00.004+11:00

One of most popular wall stickers is the Seasons design from the American brand, Wall Candy. They have been selling out faster than we can keep up with them! With this latest container load arrived the Season elements air and Season elements land for added sweetness!

Click here to find them in our store

Finally ...

2009-10-13T08:38:00.001+11:00

I have been locked away these past few weeks putting together the final touches of our Christmas Collection for 2009 and are just about ready to reveal ...

A friend of mine's status update on Facebook was that she had bought and wrapped all gifts for Christmas. wow!

Weddings ...

2009-10-12T23:32:00.005+11:00

Thomas and Milly were part of my cousin Cathie's wedding party last weekend. They were so excited to be the page boy and flower girl. The theme was spring flowers and despite the rain outside, it was like a spring garden inside the church. Cathie looked so beautiful and radiantly happy :)

Thank you to my cousin Michael for these photos. Find him here

FRIDAY!!!

2009-10-09T18:46:00.001+11:00

What better way to finish the week than Feist on Sesame Street?!

Thank you to Sarah Wilson for this clip. Find lots more on YouTube :)

Lil Fraser

2009-10-08T20:31:00.004+11:00

Which product do our customers keep on coming back for and send their friends to us for? Lil Fraser wraps. They are quite simply fabulous. Long lasting, easy to clean, large, stretchy ... they tick all the boxes!! Click here

Loving ...

2009-10-06T23:33:00.003+11:00

One of the first toys to ever arrive in our warehouse and he is still as popular as ever. Find Gertie here

We received a frantic email from a customer last week who needed a second Coco as her daughter had hijacked the original purchase she bought as a gift. Find her here

I love stylish storage solutions! Find BinGo here

My Henry turns one next Wednesday. It feels like yesterday he was born. I am so grateful for the gift of my children. The events of the day he was born are so clear still. He was born after a mummy shift at pre school ... it was quite a day!
Find Sambellina here

Carolyn reviews the B.Box

2009-09-30T22:26:00.003+10:00

5 things I love about the b-box …

1. It fits into my favourite handbag! I rarely go anywhere without my gorgeous apple-green Kate Spade handbag that I fell in love with & purchased in Soho NYC. Well, now my B-Box is it’s perfect companion. It’s a miracle that I’ve found room for another new addition to my handbag, but the B-Box is compact & cleverly-designed. Our nappy bag’s zipper broke recently and of course I was heartbroken! Weeks of running around town with loose nappies & broken wipes containers stuffed into my handbag…not fun. Now all Jesse & I need is my favourite handbag & his funky B-Box inside! Saved!

2. Quality Quality Quality…The B-Box is a very ‘tough’ container that will last for years to come. With thoughtful mechanisms for opening & closing different parts of the B-Box, it is sure to win the war against time! The design is successful in keeping the contents securely in-place & the easy-wipe change-mat is the perfect size for it’s purpose.

3. No Excuses for Daddy! With the B-Box within reach at all times, whether at home or out adventuring, there is no way Dads can find an excuse to get out of nappy-changing! No more “I can’t find a nappy anywhere!”, or “Where are the wipes?”. This little nappy-changing kit saves the day.

4. Gorgeous Designs & Colours! When I chose a B-Box for a friend’s baby shower gift, I wasn’t sure which design to decide upon! The adorable ‘Cherry Delight’? The very stylish ‘Falling Leaves’?? It was the oh-so groovy ‘Retro Circles’ that caught my eye for a bubs whose sex is unknown; perfect unisex pattern & colours! Jesse & I love the blue & red cars on our ‘Beep Beep’ B-Box change-mat…so fun!

5. The gift that just keeps giving…Jesse & I love to go for walks to the beach, sometimes up to the park or through the country-side & an essential task before taking these walks is always remembering the ‘pram-check’! Leaving the house without an adequate number of nappies and wipes can be a dangerous activity! Now, this Mummy simply needs to check that our B-Box is in the pram & off we go!

click here to find at Mummy's Favourite!

What are our customers saying?

2009-09-28T04:56:00.000+10:00

I believe that Mummy's Favourite has one of the nicest customer bases. It is so so lovely and quite humbling to open emails that someone has taken the time to write to us. Here are some received over the last couple of weeks:

"Hi Jennifer,Thank you so much, my order just arrived!
I am sure I will be purchasing from your store again. Your service was excellent.
Kindest regards,C"

"Hi Jennifer,
I received my order this morning, thank you. I'm very happy with the goods.
Kind regards, L"

"Hi Jen, I just wanted to say we received the trunki and it is fantastic, my daughter is already dragging it around the house and filling her things up with it. Thanks again, your website is great. T"

"Yay - thanks babe... love your work! K"

"Hey Jennifer!We received Sophie this afternoon. Thank you so much! She is totally adorable and my son looked at her with wide eyes when I took her out of the box. Finally something good for him to chew!Thank you again From E"

"Hi Jen,I got everything in the mail today - thanks again...very happy with everything ..Cheers, M"

"Hi Jen Thank you very much for the quick delivery of my purchase. I will be recommending your site to my friends. It's always nice to get such great service. Will definitely be buying from you again B"

So - thank you back dear customers for putting a smile on our faces. We appreciate it xo

45 cent postage weekend has commenced :)

2009-09-25T14:09:00.002+10:00

jen x

And whilst we are talking about warm weather & babies...

2009-09-25T05:25:00.000+10:00

Muslin wraps are a must! A good one will be used in multiple ways

1. covering the baby against the hot sun when all they have is a nappy on whilst ducking between air conditioned locations
2. throwing over the pram for the same reason as above
3. wrapping baby up in to help settle them on hot evenings.

These ones are great! Another helpful thing about muslin wraps is that they dry quickly - ready to be used again. You can't have too many muslin wraps!

Moses Baskets

2009-09-24T20:16:00.004+10:00

Last Summer our thermometer reached 48 degrees outside the car when I was collecting Thomas from school. Like everyone elses, our home was like a hot house. The air conditioner seemed to go into meltdown. I bought one of these so I could let Henry sleep in whichever room was the coolest as it was tricky maneuvering his cradle around and I didn't want it bumping into other pieces of furniture or doorways! It proved invaluable on holidays and general visits. I don't feel comfortable taking a pram inside other peoples homes, especially onto carpet, so this was perfect.

Initially I didn't buy the stand, but I did at a later date. It was good keeping him off the floor when we were away and there were a few Summer loving creepy crawlies around ...

It is now used as a toy basket under Henry's cot. I am sure it will be in our family for a long time!

New from Glasshouse Fragrances ...

2009-09-23T16:38:00.003+10:00

(bad photo I am sorry - snap taken in the warehouse - terrible lighting!!)

Too exciting! New fragrances from Glasshouse arrived today & I can't resist but add a second post for the day.

There is now a body bar in the Miami fragrance (Pomelo Grapefruit) & it is beautiful!

Also ...

Two new fragrances!!!

Esperance (Mimosa & Wild Apple) and Lizard Island (Lemon Flora). We will be photographing them this weekend with my well, Kirk's :) new camera and popping them on the site next week. It goes without saying that they are AMAZING!!

Other exciting news today is that the Angel at my Table teepee is in the current issue of Real Living.

Have you seen these?

2009-09-23T08:08:00.001+10:00

I didn't realise when we first got Automoblox instore but the components of these cars can be interchanged between models. We now also have the mini versions in. Fantastic gift for boys or girls!

King of the Jungle

2009-09-22T07:50:00.004+10:00

On Sunday mornings for about 40 minutes, Henry and I play in a little room about 3m x 6m with 6 + other babies & their mums or dads. It is a room at our church dedicated for parents and bubs during the service with audio streamed in. It is great. We are welcome to be in the main room, but it is so much more relaxing in the baby room. Henry is almost old enough to be in the creche, but I am LOVING having some 1:1 time with him so am in no rush to hand him over. Henry crawls around making boofy boy sounds like a lion, knowing he is the biggest of the pride. It is adorable.

Watching the other babies on their backs kicking their little legs and reaching out for objects makes me wonder where time has gone! It wasn't long ago that Henry was lying on a mat like this entertaining himself whilst I was on the computer next to him.

Summer Entertaining

2009-09-21T07:33:00.004+10:00

Over Winter my French Bull Salad Bowl was given a workout with popcorn infront of the Saturday evening Disney movie. I reclaimed it this weekend with Summer Salads! My favourite one at the moment is one that I found on the back of Creative Gourmet (nope - mistake they are the berry people - great site though!)I meant to say the Gourmet Garden site. It has great non fuss recipes. The kids love the Chicken Pasta. It is a meal in itself and left overs make a great next day lunch. Find it here

Find our French Bull range here

More gorgeous Sambellina photos!

2009-09-17T01:09:00.001+10:00

My eldest, Thomas is not into cars. I find it quite curious - his dad works in the automotive industry and drives the sort of car that makes other boys (big and little) stop and gawk in awe. Thomas is not fussed. Not into cars, trucks & the like (except for a brief flirtation with vw 'herbie'). He is more into adventure - Indiana Jones style, lego construction etc.

I am making a point of pointing out trucks with Henry, I take him to see the garbage truck first thing in the morning. Play with cars, make brrrmmm sounds. It will be interesting to see if by his second birthday we choose the Sambellina invitations shown above! For a truck design - they are cute! Click here to see the range ...

Daily Shipping to NZ

2009-09-16T13:11:00.003+10:00

My cousin gave birth to a baby boy yesterday morning Auckland time. He looks ADORABLE don't you think! I can't wait to see him. My maternal grandma has 5 great grandsons now and 1 great grand daughter. How fabulous would it be to get to that age and watch the family continue to grow.

We send express post to New Zealand every day. Makes it so easy to stay in touch with family and friends. It can arrive as fast as standard mail to Perth!

For every mood ...

2009-09-15T22:18:00.003+10:00

These mugs might look simple, but they are anything but. Perfect size for a decent cup of tea or coffee and a colour to suit every mood and every occasion. My preference is the pink but I have surprised myself at times with the colour I will choose for someone else or what I have even chosen for my drink.

Last month I gave a set to my sister for a combined housewarming / birthday present. She is young, flatting with friends and lives overlooking a popular Sydney beach. The mugs so suit her and her lifestyle. Friends all know which mug is theirs and they look awesome in her cupboard! When I gave them to her, it was infront of lots of my family. It was FASCINATING which colours people chose as their favourite. I would never have guessed my grandparents selection. I love it when people you think you know surprise you.

At the moment I am feeling a little orange, or maybe purple. Then again, maybe green - make that 3395C green!! :)

Click here to find them online.

Running out the door but have to share ...

2009-09-11T07:34:00.001+10:00

Amy Butler's new range of fabric!!! Better get back to getting ready for the school day ...

Have a great day! x

Q & A with Kate from Sambellina

2009-09-10T21:24:00.005+10:00

We have had a great response to the Sambellina range (see our cover of yesterdays magazine). I love it! Fresh, young, fun, stylish. Click here to see the range.

I happened to have Milly (3) with me at the warehouse the day the range arrived. She has her next 3 birthdays worked out (she is a little planner ...)

I am so pleased that we get to meet Kate from Sambellina ...

How long have you been running your business? We started up the company a year ago - and officially launched in July 2009, but I have been thinking about it ever since my daughter was born and found how much I loved children's birthday parties - planning them, styling them and being at them, eating fairy bread....

What were you doing prior to your current venture? I was an IT "nerd" - a software designer / developer for 12 years .... It gave me the opportunity to travel a lot, but going back to the corporate world in between kids even part time was really challenging - as much as I tried, my heart just wasn't in it. Somehow, along the way - probably at a party - I had the "light bulb" moment and decided to develop Sambellina. I have worked three times as hard ever since, but am completely passionate about the elements of what I work with now - graphic design and stationery....I feel so lucky to be able to say that about my "job".

If you had to choose your favourite product from your range, what would it be & why? I think the pink and white polkadot partyware - I'm obsessed with the classic spotty pattern - I can't even really say why - I think they make me feel happy - and they seem to be loved by kids but also by the adults (read - other polkadot addicts)
.
I also have a very soft spot for the Choo Choo invitations as there is a little person in my house who talks about his "choo choo rain set" all day every day .

What do you do to relax? Drawing, reading magazines, shopping, eating chocolate, drinking champagne, going out for a yummy gourmet dinner with my husband (dreaming here) - all followed by a massive session at the gym or walking the dog... ( or not !).

If you were able to go wherever you wanted to this weekend, where would it be?
My most favourite place in the world - Sunshine Coast - or somewhere warm. Melbourne is like living in a fridge (be it a stylish fridge) at the moment.

What was the last thing that you purchased? Chocolate

Who lives at your place? My husband Chris, our two cherubs - Samantha (5 yo) and Christian (2 yo) - and our very patient cuddly golden retriever, Cody. xx

Mummy's Favourite Magazine ...

2009-09-10T16:44:00.004+10:00

Our latest magazine issue came out today, full of gorgeous new designs!!

Click here to sign up to our fortnightly edition.

Gourmet Getaway

2009-09-09T01:01:00.004+10:00

One of my favourite actresses is Jennifer Garner. I loved her in Suddenly 30. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that it came out the year I turned 30 and it seemed to be talking about my thoughts (fears?) at the time. I pulled it out last week because Thomas wanted to learn the dance to Thriller and I didn't want him watching Michael Jacksons film clip with Milly around. It was a good excuse to have a little dance!! :)

Jen was spotted leaving Violets Santa Monica preschool carrying a Built Gourmet Getaway in the new French Bull Multidot pattern. Click here to have a closer look.

An Angel at my Table review by Belinda

2009-09-08T20:41:00.004+10:00

This month we welcome Belinda Graham, aka gorgeous mummy to 2 and reviewer extraordinaire. This is how she describes herself: "I’m a wife, a mum, a freelance writer, a blogger, a renovator, a decorator, a redecorator, a crafter, a chocolate addict and sometimes - sometimes - I can be a total bludger. But that that doesn’t happen very often because I like being busy."

Belinda is over qualified as a reviewer of our range - she was the deputy editor at Real Living and their online editor until recently. Welcome Belinda and Thank You!

Her first review is the An Angel at My Table (click here)

“Oh wow, that’s a really, really, really nice tent mummy. You like it?” asks my two-year-old son, Zak.“I do like it Zak,” I say. “And I’m so glad you like it. You’ll like it even more when it’s out of the bag and actually made into a tent.”And so begins Zak’s love affair with his brand new “house”, also known as the Angel At My Table Teepee. His crazy grin once it was all up said it all: “AWESOME”. And awesome it is for me too – both he and his little sister, Layla, 15 months, zoomed in and out for hours, locked themselves in (and the other out) by doing up the Velcro straps, had lunch in there, played shops where little plastic balls were selling at the highly inflated price of $50 each, and actually gave me a chance to do sit back and relax (when I wasn’t being demanded to “buy something”.)

I’m a big believer in toys that have a purpose: those that teach them something, encourage creative and/or imaginative play, and develop fine and gross motor skills. Funnily enough, this cute little teepee does all of the above. Zak wanted to help me put it together, and seeing as it was simply connecting a few poles together via “tunnels” (plastic pipes), he could, which helped his fine motor skills; he asked me a hundred things about it – “how does the bell ring” “how is it closing” “something more about Indians?” which taught him all sorts of things he will relay back to me next time it’s up; and it instantly made them creative - it’s a shop! A house! Layla’s bed! A reading spot! A garage for the ladybug!

As for the parent test (ie, is it easy to assemble?) I passed that one too. I deliberately didn’t look at instructions the first time and worked it out in just a few minutes, being the clever person that I am. There’s also two ways to erect it – the lazy way as I call it (and as pictured in my images) which means you can simply push back together and lean against the house without taking it apart for the next day’s play; or the sturdier way with the extra posts at the bottom which is ideal if you have the space to leave it out all the time – it keeps it in perfect teepee shape.

A final test? When it was time to pack it away, I just closed it up and brought it inside past Zak who was sitting on the couch reading . “No, mummy, put it back out.” “But it’s getting late, time to pack up outside.” “I might go play again in a little while. I might.” So out it went again. Out he went again and if it wasn’t for the rain, they might still be out there…

Read more about Belinda over at her blog

& to see the teepee on our site click here

Aren't these photos just the sweetest?!

Q & A with Mirabai from Pure Baby

2009-09-07T00:03:00.004+10:00

I can thank my Grandma for discovering Pure Baby for me almost four years ago. She purchased a singlet for Milly from a boutique in Adelaide. Pure Baby has since become a favourite of mine. It ticks all the boxes; easy to dress baby in for its envelope necks, front zips, press studs in all the right places, it is organic and soft soft soft (beyond the first wash, unlike inferior brands that look good on the rack) and it washes really well. I have yet to have an issue with stains. Henry's entire newborn wardrobe has been almost entirely Pure Baby. I am quite pleased that 6 mths down the track he can wear some of the Summer range again.

It has been so important for us to bring Mummy's Favourite customers the right brand of clothing for babies. In future blogs, I will give you more reasons why we have a mummy crush on Pure Baby.

I am delighted to introduce you to Mirabai ...

How long have you been running your business? I started Purebaby eight years ago following the birth of my daughter Samara.

What were you doing prior to your current venture?I was studying Law and being a mother.

If you had to choose your favourite product from your range, what would it be and why?My favourite product is most definitely our zip growsuit because it makes changing so easy in the middle of the night! I also love our muslin wraps as they are so versatile – they breath well in summer and make a great shade cloth across the pram.

What do you do to relax?The best way for me to relax is to jump into a hot bath with a few drops of lavender oil. I have also been taking tennis lessons which are a great stress relief.

If you were able to go wherever you wanted this weekend, where would it be? Luckily for me, I am going to the place where I love going on the weekends with the children – Somers on the Mornington Peninsula.

What was the last thing that you purchased? Some delicious organic olive loaf from the local bakery.

Who lives at your place? Husband Sanjay, daughter Samara (9 years) son Oliver (2 years) and our black cat Lucky.

Clever Marketing

2009-09-06T20:22:00.002+10:00

LOVING these ads

Who taught them to say BACHELLLLOOOORRSSS like that. Hilarious!

Thank you to my Uncle Stephen who put me onto this one. SOO cute!!

45 cent delivery weekend!

2009-09-05T12:00:00.001+10:00

Of course - only at www.mummysfavourite.com.au

Happy Weekend!! xx

FRIDAY FRIDAY YEAH YEAH YEAH!!!

2009-09-04T12:06:00.000+10:00

At my son's school they do a Friday dance. It is so cute. Today was the spring version. Winter was running on the spot. They punch the air during YEAH YEAH YEAH. Oh I love a school with spunk! Hoping to dig these out this weekend!! Hope you have a lovely weekend :)

Q & A with Karen from Karen Miles Pty Ltd :)

2009-09-03T14:03:00.006+10:00

Meet Karen, she is one of those people who always leaves you feeling great after a conversation. She is one clever mummy to boot! I have just learned that she is a girl after my own heart - Paris & jeans with linen shirts....

How long have you been running your business? Two years

What were you doing prior to your current venture? I ran a business for 5 years providing career skills development and entrepreneurship training for young professionals, Gen X and Y, and the youth market.

If you had to choose your favourite product from your range, what would it be & why? I love my book 'The Real Baby Book you need at 3am' because I both wrote and designed it, and it helps make new mums feel ok about the challenges of motherhood (click here). My design confidence then grew to create a new business Miss Scarlett http://www.missscarlett.com.au and my favourite invitation design is the Chocolate Cream baby shower invite because of the classic colours and Burberry-esq pram.

What do you do to relax? I walk twice a week to de-stress, and I love going antique shopping at markets.

If you were able to go wherever you wanted to this weekend, where would it be? Paris Paris Paris.

What was the last thing that you purchased? Some new clothes for my birthday - boyfriend jeans, linen shirt and bead/ribbon charm bracelet.

Who lives at your place? My husband Stu, Harrison (4) and Scarlett (15 mths), and me!

Party?

2009-09-02T03:20:00.001+10:00

A couple of months ago I received an email about a new range of party invitations - Sambellina. I immediately jumped on the site and placed an initial order. I got back to Sam within 24 hours and placed an amended order - I added all the designs as I couldn't choose! We now are selling this totally cute and adorable range as well as the co ordinating plates, gift tags and cups. Could not be any easier!!

My favourite is the Choo Choo design (of course for sentimental reasons). Thomas was called Choo Choo by his special friend when they were little. It was too cute. When I saw that design, I wanted him to be three again! Maddy would have approved :)

International Post

2009-09-01T05:06:00.001+10:00

We send international parcels everyday. All sorts of things - from posters to keyrings, to FLATout bears. Its so easy now that we have an arrangement with Australia Post. It is fast, trackable & we only charge what Australia Post charge us for the service.

ZONE A (NEW ZEALAND) Up to 2kg $35, Over 2kg we will send you a quote
ZONE B (ASIA / PACIFIC) Up to 2kg $44, Over 2kg we will send you a quote
ZONE C (USA / CANADA) Up to 2kg $52, Over 2kg we will send you a quote
ZONE D (UK & REST OF WORLD) Up to 2kg $64, Over 2kg we will send you a quote

It is cheaper to send via regular post, but this service is reliable and straight forward. Love that!

Boxes :)

2009-08-31T12:46:00.006+10:00

Everywhere I look at the moment there are boxes!!! The last photo was taken at about 7pm last night when we had already taken 2 loads of boxes to the recycling skip bin. The ones in the top photo are the last ones for me to attack. I am so grateful to Kirk and my sister who helped me open, put away product and collapse boxes. They worked like Trojans! My parents too who looked after the 3 tiddly winks.

There is a buzz in the air as LOTS of new products arrive for Christmas. We will be offering a wider range than ever before this year and I can't wait to show them to you!!

I still need to unpack some - but I am pleased that at least they are sitting in the right place on the shelf. I LOVE ticking jobs off my to do list - especially when it involves gorgeous new goodies :)

Baby Belly :)

2009-08-28T13:04:00.003+10:00

This positively gorgeous bump belongs to my beautiful sister in law. She is 24 weeks pregnant with her first baby. Inside is my first little nephew or neice!!! I can't wait to meet him or her. This is my first experience of being an aunty and I am amazed by how much love I can have for someone else's baby. I have watched the love between my 3 kids and my 2 brothers and sister (and now 2 sister in laws) and have been so grateful for their love for my kids.

Em is wearing the tummy tie! (click here) I love knowing when products work :)

If someone could please let me know when they have found a way to click the heels together to travel quickly interstate (Melbourne preferably) and back again, please let me know!

Have you ever followed your butterflies?

2009-08-25T21:06:00.002+10:00

Have you heard of National Newfeeling Day? It is all about facing your fears on September 1st.

Here is a quote from their website:

"Face your fears, get out of your rut,
do that thing you’ve always wanted to do.
My dream is to…
One day I’ll…
If I won the lottery I’d…
So often we come incredibly close to living our dreams. We write down inspirational goals about starting a novel, running a marathon, giving up smoking, learning a new language… Then the fear of change drags us back behind that white picket fence that surrounds our comfort zone.
What if there was a day where we all faced our fears at the same time? That’s National Newfeeling Day."

Want to find out more? Visit http://www.newfeeling.org/

It is for a great cause: Dymocks Childrens Charities (a fantastic not-for-profit organisation that helps kids in need read)

Billy Goat Soap - I LOVE IT!!!

2009-08-24T19:43:00.004+10:00

I ran out of Billy Goat soap last week and kept on forgetting to bring some home from the warehouse so I have been an alternative in the meantime. Oh my. I had forgotten what a massive difference the Billy Goat soak makes to his skin. He felt like the newborn baby again tonight. That silky soft, just born feel. There really is no word in the English language to describe the softness. Billy Goat soap was initially made to treat eczema, but it is worth using on any skin that you want to protect. I am never going to use anything else again. Soap is probably the wrong word for it - it is a milk bath. Think Cleopatra - she was onto something!

Click below to watch a YouTube video of the owner of Billy Goat soap talk about the growth of her business on Today Tonight.

Hurray for B.Box & Babyushka

2009-08-23T09:50:00.001+10:00

Whilst we are congratulating people, Well done to Dannielle and Monique at b.box and Emily from Babyushka.

We know how exciting it is to be featured in a magazine and both the b.box and the Babyushka wraps have been featured in the current issue of Shop For Kids. Thoroughly deserved feature. They are fabulous products. (note too that the Skip Hop nursery toolbox was mentioned as a Wonder Buy!

b.box: (The Scenario) You're off on a short trip to the shops. You'd rather not bring the nappy bag but fishing out what you need is too much trouble
(The Solution) The B.Box holds a pack of wipes, two nappies, a change mat, and a tube of nappy cream - perfect to pop in your handbag and run

Babyushka takes the baby wrap to a whole new level, with stretch colours we'd wear (hello, grey marle). Step by step instructions on the pack make it the perfect first-baby gift.

Add on: Il Tutto update

2009-08-22T20:38:00.006+10:00

How could I forget?

Congratulations Lucie for being awarded the *WINNER* in the Product Excellence Category of the Australian Business Awards for their Chiara Tote. Cheers to you Lucie. Well done girl!!

Also - hot off the press. We received a press release this week about some very exciting news from Il Tutto. I have a sneaking suspicion this new colour will be very, very popular - and some people may even go to extreme measures to get their hands on one. Some may even purchase it purely as a tote. Who said you need a baby to own a nappy bag?!!

Q & A with Lucie from Il Tutto

2009-08-22T20:16:00.004+10:00

I received an email from a customer this morning that read "Thanks jen,I got the bag and it is beautiful. I have already had many comments about it!" I am amazed with the number of emails we get from customers thanking us for our service or telling us how much they are loving their purchase. Every one is busy, so I am grateful for the 5 minutes that women take to send us an email. They make me smile.

The bag was an Il Tutto Mia nappy bag, beautiful in every colour - my favourite is the red.

Meet Lucie, the girl who knows a thing or two about designing the perfect nappy bag!

How long have you been running your business? Since January 2007

What were you doing prior to your current venture? I was the head designer at Oroton.

If you had to choose your favourite product from your range, what would it be & why? Oh - No! Thats like asking me to choose my favourite child!!!!! However, currently I am using the Nico tote and the Chiara in Cream depending on my outfit.

What do you do to relax? I love nothing better than a leisurely coffee or breakfast with friends, that and reading the papers in the sun with my husband.

If you were able to go wherever you wanted to this weekend, where would it be? Paris!!!! I love Paris!

What was the last thing that you purchased? A new camera - its my new toy and I love it.

Who lives at your place? Just my husband Mario and I, however we have a baby on the way so come November we will also have a little Baby Trinco living with us.

Belle and Boo print of the week

2009-08-21T22:30:00.001+10:00

I have a confession to make. I can't decide which Belle and Boo print I want to put in Henry's bedroom. There are not enough walls in my house for them all so I have to make a decision. At the moment I am simply loving these new ones (yes, supposed to be 'print' of the week, not 'prints' plural - but I can't narrow it down even for this task!!) Aren't they simply gorgeous!

All things owl

2009-08-20T22:23:00.000+10:00

As a child, one of the activities that kept us busy at my Grandparents home in the Blue Mountains was to search for and count the owls both in the house and in the garden. My children now do the same in their home in Sydney. I am sure that is why I am quite endeared to the owl. Alimrose have just released these owl squeakers. We now have quite a collection of our own owl treats!

Dolls as Christening Gifts

2009-08-19T22:19:00.000+10:00

Aren't these dolls just the sweetest things ever. I LOVE the attention to detail: bows, socks, tulle, lace, ribbons, eye lashes, rosy cheeks ....

Oh so girly girl!! Thank you Alimrose Designs :)

Gertie and Me Cow - Reviewed by Carolyn

2009-08-19T21:23:00.008+10:00

“Moo” by Gertie & Me

As soon as ‘Moo’ arrived in the mail, the entire family fell in love with him! This gorgeous ‘Gertie & Me’ product is everything a mother looks for in a children’s toy; machine-washable, small enough to carry easily and of course incredibly cute! It is clear that ‘Moo’ has been created with extra care, with child-friendly features such as flexibility, durability and completely devoid of dangerous small parts. He is also especially loved in our home as I was raised on a cattle farm and looking for toy cows has recently become a profession! ‘Moo’ is soft, snuggly and an obviously high-quality product that any child would adore. As a mother with very particular taste, it is so exciting to find a product that finally lives up to my expectations in terms of quality, practicality and cuddlibility!

My little boy Jesse has made such a special new friend in ‘Moo’ and we’re sure they’ll be inseparable for quite some time! He may even end up becoming a family treasure who is passed from generation to generation…

Love Carolyn xx

New Designs from Beep Beep

2009-08-18T22:14:00.002+10:00

I used an old style carrier for my three babies. It was great being able to carry them around. I remember the feeling of freedom I experienced the first time I used it with Thomas. It was purely to put the washing on the line as he cried as soon as he was put down. It was a feeling of exhileration and relief! Finally I felt like I was going to be able to achieve something! He hardly came out of it. I vacuumed with him in it, walked in it and shopped with him in it. The carrier is nothing like the gorgeous prints found from Beep Beep slings. There are two new fresh fabric designs. So pretty and fashionable. Love them :)

What I'm Loving Right Now!!

2009-08-18T16:40:00.006+10:00

Busting to share these with someone right now & who better than my blog friends!!

Some gorgeous new rugs from Amy Butler. Find more here

I am really hoping that someone will distribute them here in Australia!

Cool stationery for kids

2009-08-17T22:06:00.000+10:00

Whilst I was uploading these products to the site, I allowed myself to daydream about how I would have used these notebooks as a youngster.

Remember the % game where you worked out the love % of you and the boy that you were infatuated with at the time. The results were taken ever so seriously! There was the poetry stage, the drawing stage, the design stage, font stage (handwriting), this list could be endless!

I love the idea of notepads for boys especially. There is something about preserving the ideas rather than on random bits of paper. Thomas loves to draw maps of the backyard. We bought the kids a dinghy off ebay on the weekend. They are going to love playing their current favourite - Indiana Jones in and around it. I am going to dream of the days that we played Swallows and Amazons in ours. I would have drawn maps then in my notepad too.

Oops - its been a week!

2009-08-16T21:58:00.005+10:00

This past week has been like a tornado. Where does it go?!!

I finally got a chance to update our site with new products. I will pop one on here each day for the next seven days. There are still so many more to go. Shame on me for keeping them in boxes!

Today I uploaded these sweet rainbows. I have a thing for rainbows - they make me smile. These are extra special as they come from New Zealand, are made from sustainable pine timber and painted with non toxic paint. My sister brought one home for Thomas four years ago and they have been a favourite in this house ever since. His sits in our family room for us all to enjoy and play with. Its a great toy for quiet time! I think they make a nice Christening gift.

Madmen yourself ...

2009-08-09T08:33:00.004+10:00

You must visit this site for 5 minutes of fun!!! http://www.amctv.com/originals/madmen/madmenyourself/

Jen x

[new product] Little Chipipi Outer Space

2009-08-05T21:03:00.004+10:00

Sam at Little Chipipi has released her latest design - Outer Space! As always, the colours are gorgeous and the design is cute!

Thomas was obsessed with the moon, rockets and stars when he was little. One of his news topics this year was "What is your favourite nursery rhyme?" His was Twinkle Twinkle. He added a second verse when he was three. The lyrics were "moon"over and over again. It was very cute. I think every little boy goes through a moon, stars and rocket phase. There is something about being an astronaut that they find intriguing ... This design is going to go to the top of our sellers list I am sure. Boys will have a lot of fun re arranging these wall stickers!

What else I love about them:
"Gorgeous adhesive artworks that are removable and repositional over and over again.Perfect for little designers who love to decorate. These durable, easy to use stickers are a quick and effective way to brighten up bedrooms or play rooms.Little Chipipi’s premium Australian Made wall stickers will remove and reposition without damaging walls* or leaving residue. Just peel and stick."

Q & A with Jen from Mummy's Favourite

2009-08-02T19:46:00.003+10:00

I have been emailed by a customer and a reader of this blog that it is time for me to answer the same Q & A questions that I ask of our suppliers. So here it is with a new pic. I can't stand having photos taken!! We are our worst critics aren't we. I have had a terrible time with my hair since having Henry - lost lots of it around the hairline. It is now about 4cm long and driving me crazy. But - the loss of hair, stretch marks (my tattoos I refer to them as) etc etc are worth it to have 3 beautiful little ones in my house who call me mummy!! I am also getting used to having dark hair - I am a natural sun bleached hair girl.

How long have you been running your business? Since July 2006. We went online November 2006 although it took until late 2007 until I really worked out what direction I wanted to take the business. It has been a steep learning curve! I don't think I ever expected it to be a full time job but nor did I expect to enjoy it as much as I have.

If you had to choose your favourite product from your range, what would it be & why? This is far too hard!! I love all of our products and have a sentimental attachment to each. I am really proud to be selling some of Australia's best giftware. Gifts that really delight! I am thrilled each and every time a business relationship is formed with new suppliers. When we meet like minded people. One joyous moment was when our relationship with MOR Cosmetics was approved. We had to fill out quite a complex form for approval to sell their range which I love. This was before Mummy's Favourite was even online. It was a warm fuzzy moment knowing that someone shared my belief in Mummy's Favourite.

If you were able to go wherever you wanted to this weekend, where would it be? A toss up between a neighbouring suburb to see my paternal Grandparents and Pukekohe in NZ to visit my maternal Grandma. Life gets so busy it would be great to have time to sit and have time to really listen to them and their advice. If I could have a sliding doors weekend, it would be to escape somewhere warm with my husband and kids where I could swim in the waves and play with the kids in the sand.

What was the last thing that you purchased? A packet of scotch finger biscuits in a service station on the way to church this morning. Our cupboard was bare and I knew Henry would get the munchies.

Who lives at your place? My husband, Thomas (6), Milly (really Emily but Thomas called her enemy when she was born so we changed it quick smart! - she is 3.5) and Henry (9 months) No pets - yet!

Baby Skin

2009-07-31T20:08:00.004+10:00

My baby is now 9.5 months old. I love his chubby rolls. I love kissing his chubby cheeks and stroking his face as he lies in my arms.

When my eldest was born the midwife insisted that I didn't wash him for 3 days. As a first time mum I did whatever I was told (well, there were a few things that I raised my eyebrows at - but lets not go there!!). She told me not to use the (insert brand) baby wash that was in the bottom of the baby trolley. I was given the name of a brand of soap that she insisted was the only one that she believed was good enough to put on this precious soft skin. Mrs Beales was a great natural soap but was very hard to find.

When Henry was born last October I used Billie Goat Soap Soak. The water felt beautiful even running my hand through it checking the temperature. Compare the ingredients to what you will find on your typical supermarket bought baby wash. It says that one sachet lasts approx 4 baths, but I made it last at least 10.

Ingredients: Powdered goat's milk, colloidal oatmeal (avena sativa kernel flour), cocoa butter (Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter), Epsom salts (Magnesium Sulfate), Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate (mild preservative), tocopherol (Vitamin E).

Now that he is a little older I use the bath wash which I also use for mr 6 and miss 3. It goes on beautifully and my kids have never had issues with their skin.

I'll have 3 of those....

2009-07-29T01:39:00.000+10:00

My husband is a wonderful person. I love him to bits. Infact, he is the one who comes up with some of our best ideas.

He looks at our orders each day and noticed one come through this week that surprised him. The customer had bought three of each Alimrose product. I understood why. He presumed they were gifts. I knew that the customer is a fan of Alimrose and knows that their products are limited editions. Once the fabric runs out there is no more of that doll, bunny, rattle etc. I should know, I have missed out on a few of my favourite designs!

I also knew that this mummy was buying them for her daughter knowing that once attached to a favourite friend, if that friend ever gets lost or accidently destroyed, then it can be handy for her twin to be hanging around in the cupboard waiting for her chance to be cuddled. Sounds like something out of Toy Story doesn't it!!

Jennifer Barker

Supergirl Party

Valentine's Day ...

Starting tomorrow ...

Spineless Classics

Blog Love

Coffee Cup Obsession

My Favourites this week

Christmas music

Christmas trees

My Favourites this week

In the past 18 months ...

And this is what I want Santa to bring ...

Posh Cakes

Table Tonic

This Week...

MATHLETICS **GIVEAWAY** winner

Craft ideas

The Happy Home

MATHLETICS **GIVEAWAY**

Alimrose

Urban Road

Country Road Spring 2011

Anyone like these?

The Design Files and Cocoon Couture Tree

Love affair with stationery

365 days grateful, Mia Freedman and more

Blog Lovin'

Mozi working with the Salvation Army

I heart these (a lot!)

Some ideas for staying in control of the mess at home ..

Magazine Cover Love ...

T2

Mosman

AND I'M BACK ...

February Magazine is out!

The toy that is too popular!

New Gourmet Getaway designs ...

Oopsie

Hello!!

Dear Blog ...

Belle and Boo Review by Belinda Graham

twenty ten is the year to be organised!

A cute customer

What I'm listening to ...

Cocoon Couture gift with purchase

Kris Kringle Gift Ideas

Summer ....

cute and cuddly!

Party time for Henry!

Teepees are back in stock!

Beautiful Seasons ...

Finally ...

Weddings ...

FRIDAY!!!

Lil Fraser

Loving ...

Carolyn reviews the B.Box

What are our customers saying?

45 cent postage weekend has commenced :)

And whilst we are talking about warm weather & babies...

Moses Baskets

New from Glasshouse Fragrances ...

Have you seen these?

King of the Jungle

Summer Entertaining

More gorgeous Sambellina photos!

Daily Shipping to NZ

For every mood ...

Running out the door but have to share ...

Q & A with Kate from Sambellina

Mummy's Favourite Magazine ...

Gourmet Getaway

An Angel at my Table review by Belinda

Q & A with Mirabai from Pure Baby

Clever Marketing

45 cent delivery weekend!

FRIDAY FRIDAY YEAH YEAH YEAH!!!

Q & A with Karen from Karen Miles Pty Ltd :)

Party?

MATHLETICS GIVEAWAY winner

MATHLETICS GIVEAWAY