magazinepeekabooSYD // ISSUE 04 // MARCH 2012

™

FASHION GETS WILD ‘MAX’ OUT ON SLEEPWEAR CUTENESS

SPACE INVADERSINTERIOR DESIGN IDEAS TO HELP YOU

GET YOUR KIDDY ROOM GROOVE ON

WINA TROPICAL NORTH

QUEENSLAND HOLIDAY

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FEATURES Not-so plain Jane 18Would you believe Aussie actress Jane Hall is a dab hand at interior design?

Space invaders 34We had the questions and these interior stylist gurus provided the answers

Danish delight 48Gillian Rose takes us behind the scenes of her popular children’s furniture business

COMPETITIONS 59Win a Novotel Cairns Oasis holiday, LeapFrog products or a designer Isoki nappy bag

FASHION The wild ones 36Max will be well dressed for his next bedtime adventure with these yummy PJs

Ten candles 45Eeni meeni miini moh turned 10 recently and Peekaboo was invited along to the party

SPACESpace 24Checkout our fave picks in children’s mobiles, wall art, sleep options, linen, furniture and light

REGULARSCalendar/markets 11Noteworthy by Sunny Mummy 12Hot I see red 17Travel Ski glee in NZ 50Last page by Zac’s mum Black 62

CONTENTS

ON THE COVER

Love Mae wall stickers, $79.95. Lazybones quilt, from $210.

Model Lila wears Tutu du monde dress, $149.95 and headband,

$19.95 available from www.mamashome.com.au

Styling by Leah Williams of Little Maison www.littlemaison.com.au

Photo by Naomi V Photography

Peekaboo Magazine’s Privacy Notice (1) This notice describes our privacy policy. (2) By reading our publication you are accepting the practices described in this privacy policy. (3) We acknowledge that your privacy is very important to you and that you have a right to control your personal information. (4) We know that you care how information about you is used and shared and we appreciate your trust that we will do so carefully and sensibly. (5) The informa-tion we learn from customers helps us personalise and continually improve our publication. (6) We receive and store any information you give us. (7) We use the information that you provide for such purposes as responding to your requests, improving our publication, and communicating with you. (8) We will not collect any personal information about you except when you knowingly provide it. (9) We acknowledge that providing personal information is an act of trust and we take this seriously. (10) Under no circumstances will your personal information be used for any other purpose than intended. (11) The owners of this publication will retain and protect the information provided by you (but may be legally required to disclose it in some circumstances such as if ordered by a court to do so). (12) It is impossible to guarantee the protection of your personal data absolutely. (13) Your data may be exposed due to loss, unauthorised access, use, modification or disclosure. The owner of this publication will not use the information for on-selling to list brokers. Competition Terms and Conditions: (1) By entering the competition you are acknowledging that you accept these competition terms and conditions. (2) By entering the competition you acknowledge that there is one prize per competition and that the winner of the competition will be notified by Peekaboo Magazine that they have won. (3) The prize/s are not redeemable for cash or otherwise transferable. (4) The decisions of Peekaboo Magazine in relation to any aspect of the competition shall and will be final and binding upon every entrant who enters into the competition. (5) Each person may only enter each competition once and must only enter the competition on their own account. (6) The promoter of the competition is Jumpin Publishing Pty Ltd trading as Peekaboo Magazine. (7) Peekaboo Magazine accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to prizes in transit. (8) Peekaboo Magazine makes no representation or warranty as to the quality or suitability of the prizes. (9) To the extent permitted by law Peekaboo Magazine is not liable for any loss suffered or sustained to any person or property by reason of any act or omission, including deliberate or negligent acts or omissions, by Peekaboo Magazine or its agents in connection with the supply of any prize to the prize winner. (10) In the event of that any prize item is unavailable, Peekaboo Magazine reserves the right to substitute a prize item of equal or greater value.

co!te!ts

06 / MARCH 2012

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08 / MARCH 2012

SPONSORS

public relationsbelle

weddings | portraitsMummy

Over the Christmas break, we gave Peekaboo magazine a little bit of a cut and polish and the shiny new result is a little bit ‘greener’ than before. And we couldn’t be more excited.

With a beautiful new masthead and small tweaks to the design inside, Peekaboo is also now printed on delicious new PEFC Certified Australian-made paper. So, not only does Peekaboo read well, it ‘feels’ great too! And what feels better than keeping jobs in Australia and putting our environment first? We hope that you like our shiny new ride.

This issue is also a first for its theme – Space. A chance to showcase some amazing furniture and interior decorations available both online and in stores to help fill your cherubs’ own bedroom spaces. Personally I couldn’t believe the huge array of items now out there. When I was decorating my first daughter’s room, I am sure half of these items were not around, or maybe I just wasn’t looking in the right places. There are now also so many blogs, blogs and more blogs of interior design tips, quirky decorations, linen to suit any colour theme and super modern cubbyhouses. Seriously, the choices are overwhelming! So, hopefully we have presented a few items you have never seen before and some interesting web addresses to help you research your next interior decorating project.

We would love to hear from you with a feedback letter. Please write to us at info@peekaboomagazine.com.au and a few special letters will be published in our next issue. Thank you again for taking the time to read Peekaboo – we love bringing it to you.

HELLO THE START OF A NEW YEAR IS ALWAYS A PERFECT TIME FOR FRESH BEGINNINGS

Creative Director/Publisher

Peekaboo Magazine Brisbane/Sydney/Melbournefollow us Peekaboomag

Creative director/publisher Bianca Shugg | bianca@peekaboomagazine.com.au

Editor Belinda Glindemann | belinda@peekaboomagazine.com.au www.bellepr.com

Graphic designer Vanessa Russell | vanessa@peekaboomagazine.com.au www.raspberrycreative.com.au

Photographer Naomi Vasington | Naomi V Photography info@naomivphotography.com.au | www.naomivphotography.com.au

Special thanks Wendy Somerville, Michael Somerville, Jenna Somerville, Cambell, Claudia and Heidi Shugg xx

ADVERTISE WITH US

PEEKABOO TEAM

NEXT ISSUE – JUNE 2012 – THE ‘PARTY’ ISSUE

NSW & VIC Advertising manager

Claire Cassey | claire@peekaboomagazine.com.au

MEL Advertising manager Jodie Gay | jodie@peekaboomagazine.com.au

QLD Advertising manager Jo Braithwaite | jo@peekaboomagazine.com.au

West Brisbane/Toowoomba Advertising manager

Karrie Harte | karrie@peekaboomagazine.com.au

South Brisbane/Gold Coast Advertising manager

Kate Day | kate@peekaboomagazine.com.au

North Brisbane/Sunshine Coast Advertising manager

Krystie van Duikeren | krystie@peekaboomagazine.com.au

DISTRIBUTION If you are interested in distributing our magazine, please suggest your business, childcare centre, cafe or boutique to bianca@peekaboomagazine.com.au. Peekaboo Magazine is printed in Brisbane, Australia, by PMP Print. Distribution via Fastways and Australia Post. Peekaboo magazine is owned by Jumpin Publishing Pty Ltd.

Peekaboo magazine is now printed on Australian-made paper stock. www.peekaboomagazine.com.au

Sweet Little Birdy is an online home decor, party inspiration and baby and kids store bursting with

gorgeous party items, children’s boutique wear and decor, homewares and gifts, high quality kitchen and bakeware,

and many more gorgeous and sweet things.

www.sweetlittlebirdy.com.au

10 / MARCH 2012

Beautiful Bedrooms at Siroccohome.

Visit our NEW website/online shop www.siroccohome.com.au Join our email list for all SALES and new releases. Freecall 1800 8888 36 for all orders and enquiries. Sirocco Willoughby 63 Penshurst Street Willoughby 2068 Phone 02 9958 1566

Sirocco Bronte117 Bronte Road Bondi Junction 2022 Phone 02 8668 4636

FAMILIES WHO STICK TOGETHER, STAY TOGETHERGET CREATIVE, TO WIN

The United Nations decreed that May 15 would be International Day of Families and Australia followed suit with National Families Week from May 15-21. Now, to celebrate the Aussie family in all its glory as part of the national event, The Sticker Family (TSF) is running a photo competition to find Australia’s most creative family.

TSF are the creators of the original My Family car stickers which have taken over the country and now also

the rest of the world. They want you to get creative with your stickers for the chance to win a family holiday for four at Novotel Twin Waters Resort with flights from your home city, a family pass to Australia Zoo to use during your holiday, and other prizes.

And remember, stickers don’t necessarily have to be stuck to your car. Think outside the square. It’s the most creative My Family sticker display that will win.

www.thestickerfamily.com.au

What would motherhood be in those first few years

without the support and understanding of fellow new

mums going through the same trying times? For many,

playgroup dates are sanity savers. Playgroup NSW is

excited to announce this year’s National Playgroup Week

will be held at the Australian National Maritime Museum

from March 22-24.

Entry is free and you don’t have to be a member to stop

by and join in the celebration. The museum will be packed

full of activities for 0-5 year olds and will showcase the

wonderful experience of Playgroup for parents and

children. World’s Biggest Playgroup Day will be celebrated

at the museum on March 24 with meet and greets by

Dorothy the Dinosaur and Henry the Ocotopus from the

Wiggly Play Centre. Among the fun of all of the Playgroup

activities over the three days, you can also explore the

museum with the kids and enjoy some of the exhibitions

including ‘Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns and

Mermaids’.

www.playgroupaustralia.com.au

CELEBRATE NATIONAL PLAYGROUP WEEKSTAY AND PLAY

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ar

OFF TO MARKET WE GO...

MARCH

Heritage Craft FairMarch 4: St Ives Showground, Mona Vale Rd, St Ives, 9am-3pm, www.heritagecraftfair.com.au

Handmade, Handcrafted Creations MarketMarch 11: Gosford Showground, Gosfordwww.handmadecreationsmarket.vpweb.com.au

Mumz Share The Love Boutique MarketMarch 17: Gosford RSL Clubwww.mumzsharethelove.com

Baby and Kids MarketMarch 4: Kellyville. March 11: Terrigal.March 18: Cambridge Park. March 25: Five Dockwww.babykidsmarket.com.au

Western Sydney Community Indoor MarketMarch 18: St Mary’s Memorial Hall, St Mary’swww.westernsydneycommunityindoormarket.com

APRIL

Heritage Craft FairApril 1: St Ives Showground, Mona Vale Rd, St Ives, 9am-3pm, www.heritagecraftfair.com.au

Mathilda’s Markets April 29: Albert Hall, Commonwealth Aven, Canberra, 9am-1pm, www.mathildasmarket.com.au

Baby and Kids MarketApril 1: Avalon Recreation Centre, 59 Old Barrenjoey Rd, Avalon, 9am-noonApril 29: Bernie Mullane Sports Complex, Marella Ave, Kellyville, 9am-noon www.babykidsmarket.com.au

MAY

Heritage Craft FairMay 6: St Ives Showground, Mona Vale Rd, St Ives, 9am-3pm, www.heritagecraftfair.com.au

Mathilda’s Markets May 19: Byron Kennedy Hall, 122 Lang Rd, Moore Park, 9am-1pm, www.mathildasmarket.com.au

Baby and Kids MarketMay 6: Lane Cove and Broadmeadow. May 20: Hurstville. May 27: Berkeley. May 27: Mum’s Big Day Out, Rosehill Racecourse, 9am-1pm, www.babykidsmarket.com.au

Handmade Craft MarketMay 20: Bridgecoast Stadium, Terrigalwww.handmadecraftmarket.blogspot.com.au

Western Sydney Community Indoor MarketMay 20: St Mary’s Memorial Hall, St Mary’swww.westernsydneycommunityindoormarket.com

APRIL

MAY

16Get out your glitter gel –it’s Crazy Hair Day, part of the Leukaemia Founda-tion’s World’s Greatest Shave fundraiser. www.worldsgreatestshave.com

31At 8.30pm, switch off your lights for Earth Hour and send a strong message for action on climate change. Some 5200 towns in 135 countries took part in 2011.

25Today marks the start of National Playgroup Week. Register your group’s event online at www.playgroupaustralia.com.au

25It’s the last day you can enter the Harvey Norman Baby & Toddler Moment photo comp to win $10K. See www.harveynorman photos.com.au/win

17Keep your eyes peeled for four-leaf clover, little green leprechauns and drunken Irishmen today – it’s St Patrick’s Day, to be sure, to be sure.

It’s your day today Mums: International Women’s Day. There are so many events on. Check out www.international womensday.com

08

01 05Three words: Royal Easter Show. 190 years of his-tory, sideshow alley and all those showbags just can’t be beaten. www.eastershow.com.au

25Take a minute to remember the Anzacs today, and make sure you pick up a poppy too.

24The Sydney Comedy Fes-tival kicks off today and the laughs continue until May 12. www.sydneycomedyfest.com.au

13If you know a talented youngster, get them involved in the National Youth Week competitions. NYW runs until April 22. www.youthweek.com

2615National Families Week runs from May 15-21 under the theme ‘Helping Kids to Grow and Learn’. Get amongst it at www.familiesaustralia.org.au

30Peekaboo to you! Keep an eye out for our June edition in the com-ing days. It’s all about parties!

13Mum’s Day! Breakfast in bed, gifts galore and sweating up a fun run storm is all in a day’s work. www.mothersday classic.com.au

16

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO IN THE COMING MONTHS, LOOK NO FURTHER THAN PEEKABOO’S EVENTS CALENDAR

LOCAL EVENTS CALENDAR

Make your son’s day by taking him along to Trucks on Show at Rosehill Gardens Event Centre. www.truckson show.com.au

MARCH

MARCH 2012 / 11

April Fool’s Day! Go on, start a rumour or do something outrageous. We dare you! Oh, and don’t forget to turn your clocks back.

06The bunny’s on his way! Make the most of your Easter long weekend with your family and make sure you indulge in a chocolate, or 200.

23Whether you follow NRL or not, State of Origin Game 1 is on tonight in Melbourne. There’s little doubt you’ll be able to escape the frivolity so just enjoy it, with hubby.

Holy smokes – New Kids on the Block are back in town! Yes, seriously, at Allphones Arena with the Backstreet Boys. Hello teenage memories...

ca!e"dar

For those readers who don’t know about Sunny Mummy, in 2010 I founded an organisation committed to motivating and inspiring mothers to look after themselves, in order to look after themselves best. Over the past two years, Sunny Mummy has grown into a global online community of more than 7000 women.

I am proud to announce, as of January this year, Sunny Mummy became an official part of the SunnyKids family and my dream of establishing a not-for-profit organisation to help mums SHINE, is now a reality.

The team at SunnyKids works with disadvantaged children and families by providing accommodation to those homeless, youth suicide prevention, plus a host of award-winning children’s programs and support to other community groups working with children. All profits from Sunny Mummy now go directly to the SunnyKids charity, including a $40 donation to support an at-risk Aussie kid, from every Sunny Mummy Sisterhood membership purchased. To find out more about how you can look after your children’s mother and support an at-risk child at the same time, visit the Sunny Mummy website.

!oteworthy

TAKE NOTEWHEN SOMETHING MAKES YOU SIT UP AND SAY ‘WOW, COOL!’, YOU JUST CAN’T KEEP IT TO YOURSELF. SHARING IS CARING, RIGHT? MAKE SURE YOU SHARE THESE NOTEWORTHY THINGS WITH YOUR FRIENDS

STORY STACEY SULLAPHEN OF WWW.SUNNYMUMMY.COM.AU

ONE BIG SUNNY FAMILYWWW.SUNNYMUMMY.COM.AU

When a link to The SCAR Project popped up in my Facebook feed recently, I had no idea the effect this project was about to have on me. With tears streaming down my face, I was mesmerised by portrait after portrait of young breast cancer survivors, shot by fashion photographer David Jay. Primarily an awareness raising campaign, The SCAR Project (which started in Sydney some years ago, but now operates out of New York) puts a raw, unflinching face to early onset breast cancer while paying tribute to the courage and spirit of so many brave young women. It is a frightening fact that more than 10,000 women under the age of 40 will be diagnosed with early onset breast cancer, this year alone.

Whilst most of us are aware of the pretty pink ribbon, The SCAR Project is an exercise in awareness, hope, reflection and healing that helps young survivors see their scars, faces, figures and experiences through a new, honest and ultimately empowering lens. It is my hope that by sharing this project here, it will prompt you to check out the project for yourself and of course, your breasts. As women and mothers, we must not put ourselves and our health, at the bottom of the ‘To-do’ list.

THE SCAR PROJECTWWW.THESCARPROJECT.ORG

When a woman is pregnant there is so much focus on each of the three trimesters that the ‘fourth’ trimester is almost forgotten. The fourth trimester begins the day the baby is born and mum begins a whole new life! Whilst the hospital bag is generally packed with birthing essentials and bringing-home-baby requirements, one thing sure to be on the list now is this great new app designed to deliver words of wisdom for new mums. Providing expert nurturing tips for mother and baby and delivering real and honest advice from mums on things they wish they’d been told, the Mum’s Manual app delivers words of wisdom for all new mothers reminding them that they are not alone in the joy and challenges that come with motherhood.

Designed to be downloaded the day baby arrives, mothers receive a daily piece of inspiration for the first three months and then a weekly message until baby’s first birthday. The app is available through iTunes for $9.49 and is an ideal gift idea for those wanting to help mothers through the whole spectrum of what to expect in their new life.

MUMS MANUALWWW.MUMSMANUAL.COM

WWW.PEEKABOOMAGAZINE.COM.AU

Did you know that you can purchase an annual subscription to this, your favourite

parenting/lifestyle read, at www.peekaboomagazine.com.au (just click ‘buy me’). For

just $25 a year, a subscription is the best way to make sure you don’t miss an issue.

subscriptionL I V E .

L I F E .

L O V E.

12 / MARCH 2012

Custom cakes, cupcakes and cookies for all occasions

www.sweetcheekscookiesandcakes.com.au

Sweetcheeks Cookies and Cakes offer specially designed custom cakes, cupcakes and cookie favours for all occasions from birthdays and weddings, to christenings and corporate events.

Sister cake designers/artists Danielle Emeny (Melbourne) and Renee Emeny (Sydney) take great pride and enjoyment in creating the cake of your dreams, that not only looks spectacular, but tastes fantastic too.

We are located in both Melbourne (Patterson Lakes) and Sydney (Ruse) and ship our cookies all over Australia - a perfect and unique gift for family and friends interstate.

It’s a family meal time revolution!

NEW Toosh Coosh Kids’ Support Seat is more than a booster; it gives juuust the right amount of height and comfort (it’s very soft)

for children 3 years+, so everyone can enjoy family meal times.

Relieve the mess and stress with Toosh Coosh: Small, lightweight and easy to clean Ergonomic design improves seated posture Safe and secure – no need for straps Portable with cute carry bag provided More comfortable than an ordinary cushion More attractive than a phone book!

Special O!ers available online!

www.tooshcoosh.com.au

Mr 2 loves any excuse to visit the park, no matter what time of the day or weather conditions. On the day we visited Flying Fox Café it was overcast and rainy but this didn’t stop Mr 2 or the dozens of other children climbing all over the playground. Set on the shores of Pittwater, this café is the perfect destination for a family meal or just a simple coffee. This place was most definitely designed with children in mind. The facilities are superb. For the little ones, the café has changing facilities, mini toilet, highchairs and a dedicated kid’s menu. But the “piece de resistance” is the playground. Filled with all types of swings, slides and play equipment this place is guaranteed to keep the kids amused.

STORY WWW.HEYBAMBINI.COM.AU

Unless you are local or someone has tipped you off about Seahorse Inn, you would most probably pass it by. Nestled in bushland and perched on the ocean’s edge, it’s a fair drive from the main highway but well worth the trip along the winding, tree-lined road. Located in a magnificent 1800’s building, it features a few beautiful restaurants, bars and a brassiere with boutique accommodation. The brassiere offers relaxed dining and is open for lunch and dinner and specialises in local seafood. There are a few dining areas in the main hotel but we chose to sit on the front lawn. The kids had such a wonderful time running around, with the beach just a stone’s throw away from our table.

STORY WWW.HEYBAMBINI.COM.AU

This warm and inviting café is the perfect space for a spot of brunch or lunch with the little ones. It’s a corner café that gets the morning sun, has friendly staff and seems to be a local favourite with families. On our visit, Mr 2 was hanging to get out to the back courtyard which is filled with small bikes, a cubby house and other various toys to keep the kids busy while parents enjoy their meals. There is room to accommodate the pram either inside the café or out in the spacious courtyard. To keep Mum and Dad happy, Bellagio offers a good menu. They don’t have a specific kids menu, but still offer dishes like raisin bread, porridge and a fresh fruit plate which would be suitable for the little ones.

STORY WWW.HEYBAMBINI.COM.AU

FLYING FOX CAFÉ2 MONA ST, MONA VALEWWW.FLYINGFOXCAFE.COM.AUM

SEAHORSE INN: THE BRASSERIELOT 1, BOYDTOWN PARK RD, EDENWWW.SEAHORSEINN.COM.AU

BELLAGIO CAFÉ285 BRONTE RD, WAVERLEYFIND THEM ON FACEBOOK

eat

14 / MARCH 2012

When self-professed foodie Emily Dupuche entered the world of motherhood she never guessed that twin babies Sophie and Louis would have her questioning her ability.

“I approached the introduction of solids with great gusto and was shocked to find how nervous I was the first time I pulled out a saucepan to stew some fruit,” she says. Emily was relieved to discover these nerves were common. It made her realise that there was need for some practical help to guide mothers through the process of introducing solids and so, Food Babies Love was born. The book makes a beautiful gift for a new mum and also contains plenty of useful info for those of us more experienced, but stuck for new and interesting food ideas.

www.foodbabieslove.com.auwww.facebook.com/foodbabieslove(launching April 1)

FOOD BABIES LOVE EVEN THE MOST CONFIDENT KITCHEN MAESTRO CAN SUFFER CONFUSION AND ANXIETY AT THE HANDS OF A HUNGRY BUB

PHOTOGRAPHY GUY LAVOIPIERRE FOOD STYLING MISH LILLEY

It’s nice to spoil your baby and in Winter, a warm and hearty rice pudding is a lovely way to end the day before they head off to bed to sleep the night through. Well, we can only hope...

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and simmer over low heat for about 5 mins, stirring occasionally. Rice flakes will soften and you will end up with a porridge-like consistency.

For variation, add 1 tsp sultanas to the mix at start of cooking (you can omit sugar), or omit sugar and add 1 tsp strawberry jam at end of cooking, stirring thoroughly.

Age: fourth month of eating, plus

Suitable for freezing

Makes: 1 generous serve

Prep time: 1 min

Cooking time: 5 mins

! cup rice flakes (available in the health food section of your supermarket)

" cup milk

" tsp castor sugar

SLEEPY RICE PUDDING

Jam, chutney, relish – whatever your preference, a homemade batch of any of these delights is best shared with special friends. And when going for presentation points, foodies will love the beautiful handmade ceramic jar tags from Paper Boat Press. As well as these beauties, artist Kylie Johnson also produces stunning ceramic bowls and plates each hand stamped with poetry from her own book Count me the stars. If there’s one thing the Peekaboo team insists you do today, it’s visit Kylie’s online store. You can thank us later.

www.paperboatpress.com

PAPER BOAT PRESS

BY EMILY DUPUCHE

Simple  recipes  that  look  and  taste  delicious  to  help  your  baby  

 on  the  way  to  a  lifetime  of  food  enjoyment

Food Babies Love is a collection of recipes, anecdotes and tips to help overcome some of the

nerves associated with introducing solids to your baby. It is not designed as an A-Z of

nutritional guidelines, but rather a practical approach to a big and impor tant job all parents

have to under take. The recipes are baby-fr iendly versions of well known family favourites. They are

designed to expose your lit tle one to a wide variety of f lavours to help them develop an appreciation

for food, for diversity in f lavour as well as colour and tex ture – the cornerstones of healthy eating.  

BY

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MIL

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UP

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love

food

MARCH 2012 / 15

magazinepeekaboo

decorations nvitat ions partyware

love to celebrate

www.lovetocelebrate.com.au61 hi l l street, rosevi l le nsw 2069 ph:02 9416 4868

decorations • invitations • partyware

www.lovetocelebrate.com.au61 hill street, roseville nsw 2069 ph: 02 9416 48 68

love tocelebrate

Kido Store owners Luke and Lauren say their store is very much a reflection of their personal style – they sell things that they like, their kids (Gia and Dillon) like and their friends like. The range of products suits all ages –not just the little people. The pair are constantly travelling overseas, scouring the internet and speaking to contacts and associates to keep one step ahead. They have two retail stores as well as the online store which operate independently. You’ll find items for sale online that are not in the bricks-and-mortar store and vice versa. So keep your eyes peeled for bargains aplenty and check back to the website often for new features and a constant flow of fresh new product.

Charlie’s Lane Cove is a leading children’s boutique established by long-time local, Bec Mitchell. Having owned and run the Lane Cove Dance Academy (LCDA) for 22 years, Bec felt it was time for a sea change – without having to move. Taking her love for children and the beautiful fabrics of tutus and dance costumes, Bec combined her two passions by opening up Charlie’s. She stocks brands such as Fred Bare, Snugglebum, Mini Haha, Big by Fiona Scanlan, Havaianas, Purebaby, Willow & Finn, Bebe by Minihaha, Seafolly, Tiger Joe, Toshi, Uh Oh PJ’s, Mossimo, Woof, Andy & Crew, Ouch and Alimrose, Charlie’s Lane Cove is available both in-store and online for your convenience.

Small World Children’s Boutique finds delight in watching children embrace their imagination because they have a fanciful, fun way of seeing the world. Small World stocks only Australian boutique designers that have a unique approach to style. This diverse mix of designers provides the hallmark for the store’s and online shop’s identity. Each season, brands are reviewed and they look at new generation designers that they can support. Small World caters for boys and girls from premmie to 14 years of age. The store’s collection is a reflection of what your stylish child would love for any occasion. See the website for a full list of the labels available.

KIDO STORE159 CLOVELLY RD, CLOVELLY / 475 CROWN ST, SURRY HILLSWWW.KIDOSTORE.COM

CHARLIE’S LANE COVE7/115–119 LONGUEVILLE RD, LANE COVE WWW.CHARLIESLANECOVE.COM.AU

SMALL WORLD 682 NEW SOUTH HEAD RD, ROSE BAYWWW.SMALLWORLDCB.COM.AU

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SEEING REDRED. IT’S THE COLOUR OF PASSION AND LOVE AND WE CAN ALL DO WITH A LITTLE BIT MORE OF THAT

KIND OF ACTION IN OUR LIVES, RIGHT? SURROUND YOURSELF WITH THIS PRIMARY COLOUR - IT’LL BRIGHTEN YOUR DAY

STOCKISTS 1. Jellystone Designs bangle/BPA-free baby teether, $15 each www.jellystonedesigns.com 2. Butterscotch Hunter Original boots, $209 www.downthatlittlelane.com.au 3. Insulated no leak Cocoon bottle, $34.95 for 600ml www.ecococoon.com.au 4. Petite rouge crochet cushion, $55 www.lillyandlolly.com.au 5. Santa Monica bedroom set, $490 www.ecochic.com.au 6. Ohara Jillian bag, $369.95 www.downthatlittlelane.com.au 7. Wool felt rug, from $280 www.lillyandlolly.com.au 8. Strawberries and cream bunting by Giggleberry Crea-tions, $36 www.giggleberrycreations.com 9. 10-pack of kikki.K thankyou cards, $19.95 www.kikki-k.com 10. Petite Rouge lamp, $89 www.lillylolly.com.au 11. Vintage bird cushion, $80 www.ecochic.com.au 12. Pashley Britannia vintage bike, $1659 www.pashleybikes.com.au

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MARCH 2012 / 17

When you hear the name Jane Hall, many will automatically think of that famous TV neighbour Rebecca Robinson, or the bubble of personality that appears regularly on The Circle couch or behind the desk on The Project. And if you live in Melbourne, she’s also that breakfast radio voice you laugh along with while eating your Weet-Bix or dropping the kids to school. In a move that may sound completely random, but is in fact the realisation of one of Jane’s long-time dreams, her name is also gaining traction in interior design and styling circles since the launch of her Salvation Jane homewares label last year. Yes, you read right. Homewares.

When Peekaboo caught up with Jane recently, she was madly rushing between appointments. She speaks at a million miles an hour but she has to, to keep up with her “chaotic” million-miles-an-hour life. With Salvation Jane taking off and orders coming in a constant stream, Jane has also just started a full-time radio gig with Mix 101.1FM alongside The Circle’s Chrissie Swan. It’s a job that gets her up at 4.30am, but she’s not complaining. Motherhood has prepared her well for early morning starts.

Jane says she spent the best part of 2011 preparing for the launch of Salvation Jane but it was well before this time that the beloved Aussie actress first scratched her visual arts itch. She was still a teenager when, after enjoying “the actor’s version of a gap year” on Home and Away after high school, she enrolled in a fashion design course at the prestigious RMIT University. Admitting she was “lucky to get in”, Jane was forced to quit the course after 12 months to concentrate on her role as Anna Sumner in the hit sitcom All Together Now, alongside Jon English, Rebecca Gibney and Steve Jacobs. Fast forward

some decades and many more notable TV roles and Jane came to an intersection in life. Lucky for lovers of designer homewares, she was tempted by the road less travelled. “As an actor you are really beholden to other people for an income and other opportunities,” Jane says. “This is something I thought I could do for myself. It’s always been something I’ve wanted to do.”

Jane admits that getting Salvation Jane up and running was no mean feat. “I had absolutely no experience in screenprinting and production and that kind of stuff. I’m so lucky that I have the help of a team of creatives so that once I have formulated a plan, they can help me execute it,” she explains.

The Salvation Jane range includes wall stickers, scatter cushions, larger floor cushions, tea towels, sheets and coordinating pillowcases in top quality fabrics. Designs are simple and effective with pops of bright colour, and all the linen is hand printed in Melbourne. And when you read ‘pops’ of colour – they are ‘pops’. Jane is totally “mad for colour”. “If I was a colour I’d be hot pink,” she laughs. She loves nothing better than a slick of hot pink lipstick, or a hot pink pedicure, or to throw on a hot pink cardi. But don’t give the woman anything orange. She explains that she was a child of the early ’70s and may or may not have been exposed to one too many bright orange shagpile rugs, lava lamps and other equally as retro-revolting orange decorator items.

As the name suggests, Salvation Jane is all about ‘salvation’. Jane strongly believes that interior styling should be more about resurrecting and repurposing pieces that already exist in the home, rather than going out and buying shiny new things all the time. “It’s all about tweaking stuff. You can bring

a whole new look to a room by painting a piece of furniture or even just putting it somewhere different in your home,” she says. “And they don’t have to be particularly valuable pieces or collectable. Don’t get me wrong, collectables are great, but they aren’t accessible to most people.”

Jane says there’s been a noticeable shift in buyer preference for boutique labels. “People are tiring of mass-produced rubbish,” she says. “They prefer to spend a bit more to buy a bespoke piece with a story behind it. Something that’s not disposable. A little piece of art.”

As well as the homewares range, Jane is also available for client consultations under her personalised home decorating service. And she says she has especially great pleasure in styling children’s bedrooms, like when she redecorated Chrissy’s son Leo’s own bedroom, on air for The Circle.

“Kids’ rooms should be filled with their personalities,” she said. “As a general rule, you don’t need specifically kiddy furniture, like tiny little chairs. Buy things that will age with the child, and move with them. If you buy and decorate well, those pieces should last up to 13 years.” Jane uses her own daughter Lucia’s room as a good example. Plain white functional furniture, including a bunk bed and a long trestle table, are a backdrop to bright and funky bed linen and an ever-changing feature wall. When asked to recall her own childhood bedroom, Jane has many memories. Being the eldest of three girls, Jane spent most of her years sharing with one of her sisters. She vividly remembers the day her parents finished a renovation and extension of the family home that allowed Jane, at 13, the privilege of her very own room for the very

POPULAR AUSTRALIAN ACTRESS JANE HALL IS READING FROM A DIFFERENT SCRIPT THESE DAYS AND THE STORYLINE IS AN INSPIRING ONE OF NEW BUSINESS SUCCESS

STORY BELINDA GLINDEMANN

Not-so plain Jane

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18 / MARCH 2012

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first time. “I thought all my Christmases had come at once,” she laughs. “I had a huge desk and my own pinboard and I got to choose the paint colour. I was a big dag though. I didn’t have any pop singers’ posters – just dried flowers up on the walls and that kind of thing. Even back then I was a decorator!”

Keep your eyes peeled over the next few months for more pieces to be added to the Salvation Jane range, including European pillowcases. And a little birdie tells us there’s also a kitchen linen range on the radar featuring tablecloths, placemats and aprons. Whatever the item, you can be assured it will have the signature Salvation Jane appeal. And how cool would it be to share your lounge or kitchen with a little piece of Rebecca Robinson or Anna Sumner each day? Neat.

www.salvationjanehome.com.au

Children are amazing little creatures. They do funny things that keep us entertained and there’s no end to the inspiration they provide…on their good days. For graphic designer Jennifer Henderson, her niece and nephews are just the mini focus group she needs to help her come up with the beautiful stationery and homewares that make up her Love JK range.

Originally from Perth, Jen graduated from Curtin Uni’s Bachelor of Design course with honours before hitting the corporate world, here and in London, working with some big branding and design agencies. But a crazy, life-changing thing happened to Jen while she was living in Zurich, Switzerland, in 2009. With the arrival of a new nephew, Jen went looking for a card to send back to Australia – and she couldn’t find one.

It would prove to be the moment when the idea for Love JK (‘JK’ being Jennifer Kate) was conceived. But, before the official ‘birth’ of the range last year, Jen had to overcome her own branding dilemma when she uncovered another person had already claimed her original business name. It was a fair way into

the process before Jen made the discovery so her website design and complete business brand had to be scrapped and it was, literally, back to the drawing board for the designer.

“It was a bit embarrassing, especially because of all the work I had previously done in branding, but it taught me the value of trademarking and more of the business side of things,” she admits.

In hindsight, Jen says the experience wasn’t all bad. It was during that period of research and rebranding that she decided to focus her range moreso on kids, especially those aged from birth to 10 years.

“I had been trying to be all things to all people under the previous plan,” Jen says. “I decided to just focus on one thing. The rebrand was actually a blessing in disguise.”

The Love JK online store features a wide variety of wonderment including Jen’s own party invitations and other party accessories, cards, gift tags, personalised prints and other wall art, bespoke fabric bunting, softies

and cushions printed in her own designs, as well as DIY softie kits for those keen behind the sewing machine.

One theme resonates throughout Jen’s work – the Dala horse. With a part-Swedish father, Jen says she owned a traditional Swedish Dala horse toy as a child and it always took pride of place in her bedroom as she was growing up. The Dala horse can be found on Jen’s party invitations, nursery prints, cushions and softies. In fact, each design has a personal story to it. Jen’s husband Ryan collects vintage toy robots, so they frequent her work. And those crazy busy nephews of hers can be thanked for her ‘Off to the moon’ range and the farmyard theme.

Although Jen doesn’t have children of her own – yet – she is excited by the thought of hosting 24-7 market research under her own roof one day. Until then, we will just have to thank all those other little extended family members for giving us some beautiful online shopping options.

www.lovejk.com.au

WE LOVE JKDALA HORSES, ROBOTS, ROCKETSHIPS AND FARMYARD ANIMALS. THEY’RE ALL PART OF JENNIFER HENDERSON’S DAILY SCHEDULE. AND SHE CAN’T EVEN BLAME IT ON HER KIDS – YET

STORY BELINDA GLINDEMANN PHOTOGRAPHY HAYDN CATTACH

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+

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+Scandinavian craftsmanship, timeless design and superior quality are the foundations of the Leander nursery range. From the safety and comfort of the Leander Cradle, your baby can move into the elegant Leander Cot, which converts into a modern junior bed as the child grows. The Leander Change Table complements the range perfectly and converts into a smart desk for your growing child. Add the Leander High Chair – a modern, unique timber high chair that grows with your child from baby to adult – and your home is filled with Scandinavian elegance, quality and longevity.

HILO, HILO IT’S OFF TO DINNER WE GO...

–

www.kiekaboo.com.au

TURNING HEADSFROM A HIGH CHAIR TO AN UNDER-TABLE CHAIR WITH JUST ONE SWIVEL? AND ECO-FRIENDLY TO BOOT? NOW THAT’S A ‘TURN’ FOR THE BETTER

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My Busy Day is a colourful and fun activity chart designed to help your pre-school age child have input into their day.

The ideal activity and routine chart for school children designed to give them a pictorial view of what is happening in their school week.

ALSO AVAILABLEMY TOILET CHART

Our workshops on Sensory Processing and Children’s Behaviour are aimed at helping parents or teachers understand howsensory needs can be refl ected in children’s behaviour.See our website for details of our next workshop.

NEWWORKSHOP

SERIES

For more information visit us online at:

magneticmoves.com.au admin@magneticmoves.com.au

MARCH 2012 / 15

space

EXPECTING? OR JUST SICK OF THE SIGHT OF THAT MISMATCHED KID’S BEDROOM BOMBSITE? HERE ARE SOME IDEAS TO GET YOU FROM ZERO (STYLING SKILLS)

TO HERO (MUM) IN NO TIME

space

STOCKIST

Red mushroom wall stickers, $85 www.lillyandlolly.com.au

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STOCKIST

1. Milbot and Chooky handmade mobile, $33 www.madeit.com.au/MilbotandChooky 2. Jall und Tofta’s Mr Moustache mobile, $28 www.jaellundtofta.de 3, 4, 5. Birdynumnum Under the Sea driftwood wall art, $155, Mama owl on driftwood, $130, Daddy buy me a pony mobile, $150 www. birdynumnum.com.au 6. Tiger Tribe boys’ whale mobile, $32.95 www.myfirstroom.com.au 7. Dragonfly garlands, $35 www.lillyandlolly.com.au

WWW.PUKAPUKA.COM.AU

A whole new stylish (adult) take on the

humble children’s mobile. The Sea Sponge

plywood mobile is a winner.

WWW.RUDYANDTHEDODO.COM.AU

An oldie, but a goodie. Shop by age group

(love the category names!) or choose

‘Stuff for home’ for kiddy decor beauties.

WWW.BLINKDESIGNS.COM.AU

Check out the plywood hand-printed

wall plaques – super cute and unique

to boot, and we all love that.

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“A beautiful mobile over a cot is vital for your baby’s stimulation and can keep them amused when they wake in their cot. Bright colours and movement are the key features of a mobile and they should add a fun and happy fashion element to the room. Remember to hang them so they are out of your child’s reach.”

Melanie Quirk www.gypsykids.com.au

“Steer away from mass-produced mobiles. Instead, create your own

bunting to hang. I recently cut shapes out of some leather offcuts including squares, triangles, circles etc. Then I used superglue to attach the shapes

onto a length of jute and spraypainted the whole thing gold. My son loves it!”

Jane Frosh www.janefroshstylist.wordpress.com

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WEBSITE WATCH

26 / MARCH 2012

STOCKIST

1. Mister Mista Bernhard art print, $64.95 www.mistermista.com 2 and 6. Printspace 8x10” prints, $30 each www.printspace.com.au 3. Evie the Elephant personalised print, $27 www.evietheelephant.com.au 4. Personalised 8x10” print, $25 www.bubbabling.com.au 5. Gelati Art ‘Leafy Tree’ wall decal, $110 www.gelatiart.com.au 7. Little Maison Isla & Oski bluebells print, $45 www.littlemaison.com.au 8. Enchanted forest trees fabric wall decals, $329 set of five www.milkbottles.com.au

WWW.MYMUNCHKINHOME.COM.AU

Seriously loving the quote wall stickers:

“Reach for the stars because mum and dad

will always be there to catch you...”. Bless.

WWW.GIGGLESMILEDESIGNS.COM.AU

The chalk wall stickers on this site are

practical and fun and will keep the kids

entertained for ages.

WWW.MOOO.COM.AU

Wall stickers, framed art, canvas –

whatever your wall art preference for

your little one’s room, it’s here.

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“Art work such as a David Bromley piece, or an original

vintage poster can not only look amazing but can

be taken with your child when they move out of

home (yes, it does happen!), and the art can even double

in value over the years.”

Jacinda Malloy www.hidesleep.com.au

“Try not to get too caught up in wallpapers and decals that scream the child’s age. They will grow out of them all too quickly. Also, walls, decals or wallpaper that is too bold can be too overpowering in a child’s room. Look at doing a feature wall in a wallpaper rather than the whole room. Use the leftover wallpaper in a grouping of frames on another wall.”

Belle Hemming www.spaceplanners.com.au

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WEBSITE WATCH

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MARCH 2012 / 27

WWW.INCYINTERIORS.COM.AU

Another all-round goodie. We lurve the

Incy chairs (especially the Egg) but you’ll

also find the blog full of really useful info.

WWW.ONENIGHTINJUNE.COM

Here’s a neat idea for you and your

kids, to turn a plain old bed into

something unique and stylish.

WWW.BELLINI.COM

With 25 years in the game, Bellini

furniture combines modern features

with old-world craftsmanship.

STOCKIST

1. Danish by Design Leander bed including mattress, mattress protector and junior kit, $1679 www.danishbydesign.com.au 2. Ubabub Nifty junior bed kit, $259.95 www.ubabub.com 3, 4. Ubabub nifty timber cot, $1199, Pod and Junior kit, $1899 and $199 www.ubabub.com 5. Kalon Caravan cot, $1299 www.kidostore.com.au 6.Oeuf Sparrow single bed, $1199, with trundle, $399 www.metromum.com.au 7. Stokke Sleepi system including bed and mini, see www.stokke.com for a stockist near you

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“It’s easy to choose colours, pictures and decorations that you like but your child will be much happier to head off to sleep if he is surrounded by personal ‘treasures’ that make him feel comfortable and cosy. Start with a customized bedhead where you and your child can choose the fabric together so he has a bit of ownership.”

Erika Hellstrom www.onenightinjune.com

“I love vintage iron beds for older children. They are inexpensive to buy,

are a lovely length and as a bonus, you can personalise them by painting them in a gorgeous vibrant hue. Think

yellow, peach or aqua.”

Jane Frosh www.janefroshstylist.wordpress.com

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WWW.SERENAANDLILY.COM

I want a Marni quilt cover and I want it

NOW! Pick a room and shop the entire

stunning look with one click. Easy.

WWW.FUNKYFABRIX.COM.AU

If you still can’t find just the right decorator

cushion, then DIY. You’ll be giddy with the

fabric options on offer from these guys.

WWW.CHILDANDBABY.COM.AU

There’s a nice selection of nappy stackers

on this site which can also be a great way

to store children’s linen post-nappy stage.

li!en

“Buy the next quilt size up from the mattress size so the quilt extends well

over the sides of the bed to compensate for kids who move

around a lot in their sleep.”

Joanne McWhinney www.kidsindesignedspaces.com.au

“Decide on bed linen first and then collect decorator pieces to match, highlighting the key colours. Simple equals stylish, so lean towards less complicated patterns.”

Melanie Quirk www.www.gypsykids.com.au

STOCKIST

1. Olli and Lime’s Billie cot set, $219.95 www.danishbydesign.com.au 2.Raspberry Ripple doona single $145, double $175, pillowcase $39, cushion $55, alphabet cushion, $39 www.lillyandlolly.com.au 3. Dwell Studio’s Skyline Nursery collection, from $32 www.dwellstudio.com 4. Tea for Evie ‘Heirloom Collection’ pinwheel cushions, $35 each, scalloped bunting, $20 www.madeit.com.au/teaforevie 5. Kate Lauren Designs’ Bella Grace collection www.katelauren.com.au 6. Red Plum Linen printed cot sheet, $128 www.myfirstroom.com.au 7. Lullaby Linen Bluebird cot comforter, $242, square cushion, $70 www.myfirstroom.com.au 8. Cot Couture grey blue zoo cot comforter set, $195 www.cotcouture.com.au

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MARCH 2012 / 29

WWW.HOMESTYLEFILE.COM.AU

From the team behind KidStyleFile

comes this new site for all your

homewares needs.

WWW.METROMUM.COM.AU

Shop in age categories, by brand, by

colour or price range, it’s all here on

this easy-to-navigate site with the lot.

WWW.MILKBOTTLES.COM.AU

Normal kids’ beanbags are generally

ugly, but the super-stylin’ beanbag

chairs here are way cool.

STOCKIST

1. 3 Sprouts purple hippo storage bin, $49.95 www.boutiquebrands.com.au 2. Ouef toy store, $649 www.kidostore.com 3. WEAMO Midi Table for One, £184.95 www.weamofurniture.co.uk 4. Petite Rouge bedside table (red or white), $499 www.lillyandlolly.com.au 5. Stokke’s Keep storage system, www.stokke.com for all the options available 6. Skip Hop playspot mat, $135 www.top3.com.au

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“To create a room that is unique to your child, find an old piece of furniture that you can transform – if your parents have held onto something from when you were young that you can use, even better! Maybe try an old chest of drawers you can paint and change the handles, or a vintage chair that can be reupholstered to suit.”

Julie Palmer www.oliveandjoy.com.au

“You are creating a beautiful space for your baby and yourself, so make

sure you can enjoy it by having enough floor space for a lovely rug where you

can play with your baby. This means keeping the furniture to a minimum and making each piece functional.”

Melanie Quirk www.gypsykids.com.au

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WEBSITE WATCH

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WWW.ANNETTETATUM.COM

Check out the framed canvas

night lights which can even be

personalised. What a great idea.

WWW.BAMBINIPRONTO.COM.AU

A one-stop shop for your baby needs.

The portable, rechargeable LED night

lights are clever.

WWW.OZLIGHTING.COM.AU

The range of children’s lighting on this

site is huge – from pendants to wall

lights to desk lamps, it’s all here.

STOCKIST1. Light up your mood light switch stickers, $14.95 www.littlemelittleyou.com.au 2. Mushroom lamp, $125 www.childrenslighting.com.au 3. Little Maison Spring lampshade, $75 www.littlemaison.com.au 4. Dinosaur string lights, $39.95 www.limetreekids.com.au 5. Zzzoolight Gatto Led Lamp, $115 www.thelittlekidzcloset.com.au 6.Road traffic lamp, $175 www.lillyandlolly.com.au 7. Yellow pendant, $262 www.top3.com.au 8. Giimmo rabbit night light, $44.95 www.thehipinfant.com.au

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“Lighting enhances the ambience of the room but bedroom lighting should not be too bright. It is worth investing in dimmers, especially for those middle-of-the-night feeds in the nursery.”

Chavy Abelesz www.designersnursery.com

“For a whimsical look, hang a bird’s cage and add some fairy

lights inside. It provides soft lighting and looks adorable.”

Jacinda Malloy www.hidesleep.com.au

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WEBSITE WATCH

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MARCH 2012 / 31

1. Play Modern’s Cuba system (accessories sold separately), POA www.play-modern.com 2. Hip Kids’ Jack’s cubbyhouse, $999 www.hipkids.com.au 3, 4, 5. The Cubby Shed $3990, The Adventure Centre frm $4550, The Cottage from $1785 www.customcubbies.com.au 6. Little Green Lotus eco-friendly playstand, $398 www.littlegreenlotus.com.au 7. Hip Kids’ Alice cubbyhouse, $999 www.hipkids.com.au

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space

Mechanical Adventures dining table cubby by My Playhouse Adventures, $195 www.myplayhouseadventures.com

Magis Villa Julia cubbyhouse, $490 www.top3.com.au

i!door cubbies

Whether your Dad risked life and limb to fashion up a treehouse for you with mismatched timber offcuts and rusted nails, or you simply threw a sheet over Mum’s dining table, the humble cubbyhouse is always responsible for some of the most fun childhood moments. Nowadays, there are so many options available, it’s hard to know where to start. Here are some of our favourite finds...

HOME SWEET HOMEMANY OF THE BEST KIDDY MEMORIES FEATURE FAB FRIENDS AND A CUBBY

MARCH 2012 / 33

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SPACE INVADERSPUTTING TOGETHER A FABULOUS NURSERY OR CHILD’S BEDROOM ISN’T ALWAYS AS EASY AS IT SOUNDS. THERE ARE SO MANY VARIABLES TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT. PEEKABOO TURNED TO FOUR NOTEABLE STYLISTS (AND MUMS!) TO GET THE LOW DOWN ON CREATING A PERFECT SPACE FOR JUNIOR

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When designing a child’s room, where do you start? Age, gender, if children are sharing and what the desired outcome is. Will it be used as a playroom or just to sleep in? Does the child like to read, play sport, play an instrument, climb trees etc? Rooms should reflect the client’s personality.

What’s the most important thing to get right? For me it’s that the child is drawn to their room and wants to be in there. I want them to love it so much they want to drag their mum, brother, sister, nanna, whoever, into the room to show it off.

What do parents overlook when putting together their first nursery? Storage space. Think about what storage you need and then times that by three and that’s what you’ll actually need.

What are your fave products for a child’s room? For wallpapers and decorative items, I’m a big fan of Ferm Living. Cushions, quilts and soft toys from Maiike store, Hawthorn, are always welcome in my rooms. Down to the Woods for lamps.

What’s your fave luxe item for a child’s room? I am loving wallpaper at the moment and one of my favourites is Clouds Sunshine by Aimee Wilder.

What’s your fave bargain item? Lots of bargains can be found at stationery shop Typo. They have cheap but cool clocks, wooden letters, prints, book ends and cards that can be framed as artwork.

Fave colour scheme for girls? I love purples, lilacs and violets, with pale grey and peach.

Fave colour scheme for boys? I love black and grey. Strong masculine colours with accents of red, yellow, orange or green to brighten the room.

Any general hints for parents? Invest in items that can grow with your child. Choose a rug that will look great in a nursery and also in a teenager’s room. Don’t buy child size cupboards or drawers – they will grow out of them very quickly.

JACINDA MALLOYHIDE & SLEEPWWW.HIDESLEEP.COM.AU[Yet to become a mum]

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When designing a child’s room, where do you start? I like to take inspiration from one object, be it an artwork or a piece of furniture. For Willow’s room, I started with a multi-coloured Eames Hang-It-All rack which inspired the colour palette.

What’s the most important thing to get right? Storage! Ikea is great for this and Stuva is a nice simple system that will grow with your child.

What do parents overlook when putting together their first nursery? As much as we love to fill the room with beautiful things, it is really the function of the room that is most important. Everything needs to function well for those 2am wake ups – the change table must be in the right position and you need a comfortable chair to feed your baby in.

What are your fave products for a child’s room? Love Mae’s fabric wall decals, Puka Puka for beautiful mobiles, and I prefer old-school natural wooden toys for children from Etsy.

What’s your fave luxe item for a child’s room? The Stokke Sleepi cot which can grow from a bassinet, to cot, to toddler bed, even transforming into a pair of chairs for older kids. A sound invest-ment and modern Scandinavian style for your home.

What’s your fave bargain item? A gorgeous card or even a piece of fabric framed as artwork.

Fave colour scheme for girls? Lots of bright colours used sparingly against a white base. For the brave, you could embrace the current trend of neon pink against a neutral base and pale wood furniture with a tiny amount of black for definition.

Fave colour scheme for boys? Light blue contrasting with the vibrance of orange or red.

Any general hints for parents? Don’t be afraid to bring some of your own grown-up style to your child’s room, it will help bring a more cohesive feel to your home.

When designing a child’s room, where do you start? I start by helping my clients decide on a design direction and a focal point.

What’s the most important thing to get right? It’s important to create a space that is not only beautiful but functional.

What do parents overlook when putting together their first nursery? If parents make the right decisions early on, they can acquire pieces that will grow with their baby and still be useful and appropriate through the child’s toddler and primary school years – and even beyond.

What are your fave products for a child’s room? Olli & Ella nursing chairs. So many waking moments are spent feeding your new bundle so it’s important to have a chair that is not only stylish but comfortable. Olli & Ella chairs meet both these requirements.

What’s your fave luxe item for a child’s room? Serena & Lily’s Sarah bird lamp.

What’s your fave bargain item? Ikea’s Expedit shelving. It’s perfect for storing books and toys.

Fave colour scheme for girls? Pink and turquoise or coral and yellow.

Fave colour scheme for boys? Red, pale blue and taupe.

Any general hints for parents? Break the rules. You don’t have to fill your child’s walls with cartoon characters. Fill their room with the things you love and make it an extension of your own style. Also, make it easy on yourself by purchasing ready-to-go coordinating furniture/linen packages such as Little Maison’s new Nursery in a Box. It includes cot, change table/chair, lamp, soft furnishings and wall art in coordinating fabrics and colours. This will save you time and energy and give an instant, professionally styled feel to the room.

When designing a child’s room, where do you start? It is important to establish whether the room will be just for sleep or also used for play or study as this will affect layout and the selection of furniture, lighting and accessories.

What’s the most important thing to get right? That the type and quality of furniture and that accessories are suitable for the age of the child.

What do parents overlook when putting together their first nursery? Multifunctional furniture that will adapt with the child as they grow. Eg. a cot that converts to a toddler bed then a junior bed so the item will last for years.

What are your fave products for a child’s room? Leander, Ouef and Stokke ranges of furniture for babies through to junior years as they are all high quality and multifunctional. Ouef and Lilly & Lolly have quality furniture for tweens to teens.

What’s your fave luxe item for a child’s room? Good quality wallpaper such as Marimekko, Porters Paints and Designers Guild. There is also wallpaper from Graham & Brown where kids can inject their own personality by colouring it in.

What’s your fave bargain item? Washable cushions in various sizes. They can be piled up on the bed to create an impromptu lounge or thrown on the floor to sit on or to kneel at a low table.

Fave colour scheme for girls? Deep pink, purple, white and grey with injections of yellow or lime.

Fave colour scheme for boys? Lime, bright blue, navy, grey with injections of yellow, black, white.

Any general hints for parents? Don’t use more than three main colours in a room or it will be overwhelming and tacky. Use neutral colours on the walls and window dressings and add colour in manchester, rugs and accessories. Kids love rugs to sit or lie on so use them, even over carpet.

JULIE PALMER OLIVE & JOYWWW.OLIVEANDJOY.COM [Mum to Willow, 2 months]

LEAH WILLIAMSLITTLE MAISONWWW.LITTLEMAISON.COM.AU[Mum to Isla, 3 and Amaya, 1]

JOANNE MCWHINNEYKIDS IN DESIGNED SPACESWWW.KIDSINDESIGNEDSPACES.COM.AU [Mum to Rhys, 14 and Rohan, 13]

MARCH 2012 / 35

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1.

THE WILD ONES

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LET MAURICE SENDAK’S CULT CHILDREN’S BOOK TAKE YOUR IMAGINATION ON A JOURNEY TO ‘WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE’, BUT MAKE SURE YOU’RE WELL

DRESSED FOR THIS ADVENTURE IN SOME OF THESE BEDTIME LOVELIES

2. 3. 4.

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“ A N D N O W , ” C R I E D M A X , “ L E T T H E W I L D R U M P U S S T A R T ! ”

THE WILD ONES

5.

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“ P L E A S E D O N ’ T G O . W E ’ L L E A T Y O U U P . W E L O V E Y O U S O . ”

THE WILD ONES

6. 7. 8.

MARCH 2012 / 39

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THE WILD ONES

STOCKISTS 1. From left, Rube & Harri’s Alex flannel PJ set, $49.95. Huckleberry Lane Firetruck PJ set, $42.95. Cocoome Dandelion organic PJ set, $44.95. Eeni meeni miini moh pyjama set, from $49.95. 2. Cocoome Dandelion organic PJ set, $44.95. 3. Left, Huckleberry Lane Bunny PJ set, $44.95, and right, Cocoome Organic Pearls PJ set $44.95. 4. Eeni meeni miini moh pyjama set, from $49.95. 5. From left, Eeni meeni miini moh pyjama set, from $49.95. Rube & Harri’s Charlie flannel PJ set, $49.95. Huckleberry Lane Moose PJ set, $42.95. Rube & Harri’s Bonnie playdress, $44.95. Rube & Harri Lily knit top and flannel pant PJ set, $49.95. 6. Rube & Harri’s Bonnie playdress, $44.95. 7. Eeni meeni miini moh pyjama set, from $49.95. 8. Huckleberry Lane Firetruck PJ, $42.95. 9. Cocoome Organic Whale Tail organic PJ set, $44.95. 10. Left, Rube & Harri’s Lachie piped flannel PJ set, $49.95 and right, Charlie piped flannel PJ set, $49.95. 11. Cocoome Organic Polar Bear organic PJ set, $44.95. Visit www.rubeandharri.com.au, www.huckleberrylane.com, www.cocoomeorganic.com.au, www.eenimeeni.com

PHOTOS NAOMI V PHOTOGRAPHY PROP HIRE DESIGN ME VINTAGE

9. 10. 11.

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FREE SHIPPING* for Peekaboo readers

on all orders over $75. *Excludes furniture and bulky items, special prints

and customised items. Free shipping not to be used in conjunction

Enter “peekaboo” at checkout to redeem.

www.designchild.com.au

Layby and

Gift Registry

available

Secure online

shopping

www.kiekaboo.com.au

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WE KNOW THAT MUMS GENERALLY HAVE EVERYTHING AND CAN SOMETIMES BE HARD TO BUY FOR, FOR THAT REASON. BUT YOU CAN’T GO WRONG WITH A BIT OF BLING TO PUT A

SMILE ON HER MOTHERLY DIAL THIS MUM’S DAY

A MOTHER’S BEST FRIEND

Lovestamp - Sterling silver Cubed pendant on ball chain, $99www.lovestamp.com.au

Lovestamp - Sterling silver journal necklace, $165www.lovestamp.com.au

Kooloman Designs - Sterling silver Julia pendant, $210www.koolamandesigns.com.au

Lovestamp - Infinity Circles in rose, yellow or white gold, $299 www.lovestamp.com.au

Lovestamp - Sterling silver Abstract pendant with ball chain, $79www.lovestamp.com.au

Kooloman Designs - Sterling silver Tully cuff bangle, $210www.koolamandesigns.com.au

WWW.CONNECTDESIGN.CO.KR

Check out the cute iPhone covers on this

website for that special mum.

WWW.OCCASIONBYDESIGN.COM.AU

Got your gift sorted? Now you need to

wrap it – and here’s the place to find just

the right gift box.

WWW.MADEIT.COM.AU/

LONGANDTHESHORT

We especially love the iPad covers

here for mum.

website watch

MARCH 2012 / 43

Kooloman Designs - 9ct gold Victoria pendant, $770www.koolamandesigns.com.au

Kooloman Designs - Sterling silver Edward keytag, $210www.koolamandesigns.com.au

w w w . m y f i r s t r o o m . c o m . a u

07 3899 4003 interiors@myfirstroom.com.auTelephone: Email:mon-fri sat sun10-5pm 9-4pm 10-2pm! !

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The first double-digits birthday for any child is truly memorable – especially for mums who may start to feel a little long in the tooth. But not Elizabeth O’Connor-Cowley. Her ‘baby’ – children’s fashion label eeni meeni miini moh – turns 10 with the latest Autumn/Winter ’12 collection and Libby was good enough to let Peekaboo have a ‘peek’ behind the scenes at their recent look book shoot.

Among the backstage antics (including kiddy tanties, lolly bribes and, mostly, loads of fun and giggles) was another stunning range of clothing, as you would expect from the label of choice for some high-profile celeb parents.

“Ten years is a major milestone for us,” Libby said. “From our original PURE newborn collection, we have grown with the children we have dressed and now design for children up to 12 and 14 years. Our brands have dressed many national and international children of celebrities including Naomi Watts, Dannii Minogue, Cate Blanchet and Hugh Jackman – that feels pretty good.”

Libby says even after 10 years behind the drawing board, she is never stumped for ideas.

“As a mother, my children constantly inspire me. I am in love with my family and our gorgeous and very energetic boys Emrys, 10, and Anselm, 7, are a source of inspiration – and our chief road testers!” she laughed. “I also draw inspiration from my surrounding environment. Everything I am in contact with, whether it be an everyday object around the house such as a container, one of my son’s artworks, an article of clothing or the cover of a book, I like to assess it for its design and functionality.

“Painting is my ultimate release of expression. I can spend hours in my studio at home producing works on canvas and paper, which in turn lead to inspiration and the evolution of additional ideas for my designs.”

And when she’s not painting, designing or playing Mum, Libby can think of no other place she’d rather be than Paris.

“Paris always inspires me. Pastries in patisserie windows –particularly macaroons, children’s voices in the schoolyard, carousels, Centre Georges Pompidou, La Tour Eiffel, random people in the street and, of course, the fashion.”

www.eenimeeni.com

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TEN CANDLESWHAT’S THAT OLD SAYING? NEVER WORK WITH CHILDREN OR ANIMALS? ELIZABETH O’CONNOR-COWLEY

IS ONE BRAVE LADY – AND SHE WOULDN’T HAVE IT ANY OTHER WAY

STORY BELINDA GLINDEMANN PHOTOGRAPHY NAOMI V PHOTOGRAPHY

10

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EASTER IS A MUCH ANTICIPATED HOLIDAY FOR MANY AUSSIES – A FOUR-DAY WEEKEND, CAMPING, PICNICS, BARBECUES AND GENERALLY SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS IN THE MILD AUTUMN WEATHER

But more than anything, Easter is a time when we really get to indulge in our children’s imaginations and create a magical world for them where giant fluffy bunnies bring them chocolate eggs and candy. For them it’s about parties, treats, games, prizes, friends and chocolate, chocolate, chocolate. And what do we get out of it? Chocolate-stained clothes, over-tired children, sugar hangovers and memories that we will treasure forever.

STOCKISTS Photography by Michelle-Leigh Photography, styling by Sweet Little Birdy, printables by Style Me Gorgeous, tablecloth by Saffy and May, floral design by Sapphire Designs, cake topper by The Cake Princess, invitations and signs by Little Flamingo, felt bunnies and bags by Tied with a Ribbon, bunting by Ruby May Designs, pom poms by Divine Drops, wooden letters by Ryder loves Miller, children dressed by Billynmoo and Belle White.

party

EASTER IN THE BUSH

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party

Living on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast with glorious beaches aplenty, Amanda from Tout Mon Amour styled this beachside high tea for some lucky little girls.

STOCKISTS Tablecloths, teaset, cake stands, mason jars, favour jars by Tout Mon Amour, cakes and cake pops by Chocolate 2 Chilli, dresses and hair accessories by Chicoco, photography by Andrea Sproxton Photography.

BEACHSIDE HIGH TEA

This was a collaborative shoot designed and styled by Little Sooti Events. Contributors drove into the mountains on a freezing cold day to ensure an authentic forest feel.

STOCKISTS Photography by Laura Cioccia Photography, cake and desserts by One Sweet Girl, floral arrangements by The Bouquets of Ascha Jolie, invite and printables by Mitchell and Dent, bunting by Petite Bijou.

VINTAGE LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD

Who doesn’t love a safari party – especially one focused on repurposing items from around the home and supporting small businesses at the same time?

STOCKISTS Styling by Ah-Tissue, photography by Katie Takes a Picture, banana lollypops by Candy Addictions, balloon animal kits by Occasion by Design, framed animal prints by The Animal Print Shop, bamboo baskets by Creatively Bespoke Weddings & Events.

AFRICAN SAFARI

MARCH 2012 / 47

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WHILE MOST COTS ARE RECTANGULAR, THE DANISH MAKE THEM OVAL. WHILE SOME PREFER CHEAPER, MASS PRODUCED PIECES, THE DANISH AIM FOR QUALITY, LONGEVITY, VERSATILITY AND FUNCTIONALITY. WHILE SOME ‘ZIG’, THE DANISH LIKE TO ‘ZAG’ – AND IT’S FOR THAT REASON THAT WE LOVE THEM

STORY BELINDA GLINDEMANN PHOTOGRAPHY JULES GOWER

Denmark is responsible for some of the world’s most beautiful, functional, well-known things. Think Lego, The Little Mermaid, Princess Mary’s babies and, how could we forget, Danish pastries. And when you think about Scandinavian beauty and functionality in respect of coveted products for your child, stylish furniture pieces from Danish by Design are right up there at the top of many new parents’ wish lists. If the business name doesn’t ring a bell, you will have heard of their stunning Leander cradle, the Leander chair or the rounded Leander cot/bed, for sure.

Based out of Melbourne’s Black Rock, Danish by Design was created by, you guessed it – a Dane. Born and bred in Denmark, Gillian Rose was a 19-year-old backpacker when she first discovered Australia. With a Bachelor of Commerce and Marketing degree under her belt, a European recession in full swing and the lease expired on her place of residence, Gillian said she had to get creative about finding a job and a home after her studies. She moved back in with her parents who were, and still are, based in a little village four hours from Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen. Although Gillian says the village is “stunning”, it was also quite “dead” for a young, well-travelled woman with a hunger to do something with her life. In one of those ‘Sliding Doors’ life moments, she answered a tiny advertisement in the back of her local newspaper for waitresses in the French Alps. It was on only her second night in the new town that she met an Australian man named Nigel. He would eventually become her husband.

Gillian says she married Nigel in a week-long celebration in Denmark in May, 1995, with her extended family and 20 of Nigel’s closest Aussie family members and friends. It was just two weeks later that she boarded a one-way flight to Melbourne. “My father gave me away (at the wedding ceremony) in the true sense of the word,” she laughs. Gillian and Nigel went on to have three children – Anna-Sofie, 12, Maia, 11 and Mattias, 8 – and although she doesn’t get back to her homeland as much as she’d

like, Gillian’s parents travel out to Australia annually. Gillian says Skype and email also ensure the distance between her and her brother and the rest of her Danish family is purely geographic, not personal.

Gillian says her children can speak fluent Danish and do so frequently in the home so the history and bond she has with her beloved Denmark is not lost. Nigel, too, has picked up enough of the Danish lingo to hold a conversation with the rest of his family. And, of course, the other thing keeping her ties close to Denmark is Danish by Design. The story behind the business is reminiscent of many working mums who’ve gone on to big things. When Anna-Sofie was just six months old, Gillian took a trip back to Denmark to show off her beautiful new bundle and while she was there, she started to look into Danish-designed children’s furniture. She fell in love with a portable high chair and bought it back to Australia and that one piece became a talking point among many of her friends. It wasn’t until Maia was born however, that Nigel’s encouragement for Gillian to look deeper into importing Danish children’s furniture actually turned into their first container of goods in 2001.

“It was so tough,” Gillian recalls. “I literally went through the Yellow Pages and rang every baby store in Australia. The hardest part was juggling the business with the kids. I am so lucky that we were working in the baby industry so it was seen as OK to have children tag along to appointments or have them calling out in the background of phone conversations.”

With her cherubs now at school and her business based out of a nearby warehouse, Gillian tips her hat at WAHMs juggling children and home businesses.“It’s not as rosy red as everyone makes out,” she says. “I was so lucky to have the support from Nigel.”

The success of the business really is testament to the products’ beauty and functionality. You see, Gillian has no background in retail or importing and

Nigel is a physiotherapist who, as of last year, now works alongside his wife. They are just two people who saw an opportunity and a hole in the high-end children’s furniture market – and made the most of it.When asked which of the Danish by Design pieces is her favourite, Gillian is stumped. She has a soft spot for the Leander cradle. And she says she loves the convertible chair as it is so versatile and is the Leander piece that lasts the longest through a child’s life (Anna-Sofie uses hers as a piano stool, Maia’s chair is at her study desk and Mattias is still using his at the dining table). But Gillian admits the Leander cot/bed is probably her favourite for its unique round shape – a stand out feature among other mainstream children’s sleep options. Other popular items on the Danish by Designs product list are the Leander change table that converts into a sleek desk, the Nathi wall-mounted change station, the Bamboo bouncer by Bombol and the 3D play rugs from IVI. Quality? Tick. Functionality? Tick. Oh-so-cool? Double tick.

Gillian is directly in contact with Stig Leander Nielsen in Denmark, the design talent behind the Leander range. She says Stig, along with many other Scandinavian designers, understands the requirements of Danish people for quality furniture.“It’s so cold in Denmark – it’s -9°C there now – that people spend a lot of time in their homes. Your home really is your castle over there. People like furniture with good looks, yes, but functionality and quality are also very important to them,” she explains.

And you know you’re on a good thing when the Royal family wants in on the action. Prince Frederick and Princess Mary’s twins sleep in Leander cots (and on the topic of Princess Mary, Gillian says she’s been lucky enough to meet her homeland princess on two of Mary’s official visits Down Under). So, if it’s good enough for royalty, we believe Danish by Design products are good enough for us too. The style-conscious readers of Peekaboo salute you, Gillian, for sharing a fabulous little piece of your country with us. Keep it coming.

danish delight

MARCH 2012 / 49

Miss 5’s life came full circle on our most recent trip to New Zealand’s stunning South Island ski Mecca, Queenstown. You see, without going into graphic detail, my husband and I had such an awesome time there last trip that we, well, conceived her. Now, five years later, it was with extreme pride that I waved my ‘Made in EnZed’ daughter off on her first day of ski school on the slopes of Cardrona Alpine Resort.

But before I get into details of the slopes, let me make one thing clear – skiing as a ‘family’ compared to skiing as ‘DINKs’ requires military-precise organisation and then some. Firstly there’s the complete excitement and enthusiasm for the cold, wet, white stuff that will have children of all ages wandering off in their own little worlds, generally among a massive crowd and/or in the direct path of professional skiiers. Cue the motherly screaming. And then this whole skiing thing requires loads of ‘stuff’. Think gloves, beanie, scarf, two or three layers of clothes, ski boots, socks, goggles/sunnies,

snacks, water, lift passes, skis and poles. Times four people. And once you have all those things in check and are ready to venture out with your mini Michelin Men, someone needs to go to the toilet. Cue the motherly disgust. And have you ever tried to wedge a 2.5-year-old’s hand into a padded glove at 3°C, 40 times a day? No words. In situations like these it is sometimes better to divide and conquer.

Cardrona is set up well in this regard. For the kids, Ski Kindy is a brilliant option. Set right on the slopes, the licensed early childhood centre is everything you’d hope a childcare centre to be – art and craft galore, loads of toys and happy smiling staff. There is also the option to have your kids participate in personal or group ski lessons (rental and lift passes are free for Ski Kindy kids). While Miss Almost-3 was happy playing in the centre, Miss 5 was champing at the bit to get her ski groove on. A wonderfully patient instructor named Charlie had our complete ski newbie up and mobile in no time. The cordoned off

beginners’ area, with easy magic carpet lift, means parents can be comfortable in the knowledge that their littlies won’t be mowed down by the pros. So, it was with a sigh of relief that hubby and I were able to leave our cherubs in safe hands for a couple of hours to enjoy the slopes ourselves. Not that we are professional skiers by any stretch, but it was nice to have the freedom to explore the trails at our own pace and concentrate on improving our own form. In fact, we even had time to squeeze in a private lesson, which is always a good thing if your ski trips are several years apart. We scored an amazing instructor by the name of Biff who spends his entire year chasing snow seasons around the world and he’s been doing it for decades (Biff says his skiboot-clad feet never see the sun and are so white they are see-through). Biff had us confident beginner skiers trying our luck on the advanced blue runs. Yes, you read it right – blue runs. A little bit faster and tighter than the beginner green runs, the blues required more concentration and loads more confidence. A

SKI GLEESNOW, GLORIOUS SNOW. NEW ZEALAND’S QUEENSTOWN IS DEFINITELY KING OF THE FAMILY-FRIENDLY SKI ADVENTURE HOLIDAY OPTIONS FOR US NEARBY AUSSIESSTORY BELINDA GLINDEMANN

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hot chocolate break mid-lesson at the Captain’s Café allowed us to rest our knees a minute, regroup on some lesson theory and really take in the amazing alpine views that seem to whiz by so fast while you are busy concentrating on staying vertical. And alive.

With Cardrona crossed off the to-do list, it was off to The Remarkables the following day for even more ski action. Again, ‘The Remarks’ lived up to our family-friendly requirement. Skiwiland Early Learning Centre keeps the littlies amused with all the usual indoor daycare activities and time outside to play in the snow. For kids a little older, there’s the Kea Club which offers ski and snowboard lessons for all skill levels. While Miss Almost-3 came out of Skiwiland with a fistful of snow-inspired art projects, Miss 5 came out of Kea Club proudly displaying a report card filled with ticks and the biggest tick of all – she had progressed enough in her two days of skiing to tackle the “big people’s chair lift” and conquer a proper green run. Proud Mummy moment.

The Remarkables is also home to one of the best-fun things of any Queenstown ski resort – Ozone Tubing. If you’ve ever enjoyed being towed behind a boat in one of those over-sized rubber tubes, you will love this place. There’s no ski experience necessary here – you just jump in a tube, allow the tow rope to take you to the top of the hill and then hold on

for dear life as you and your tube whiz and bounce your way back down at speeds that had this scaredy-cat melodramatic Mummy fearing for her life while her small children giggled their hearts out. In fact, it was Miss Almost-3 who (surprisingly) had the most fun. On the whole, Cardrona and The Remarkables both offer great family service. The eateries provide enough options to satisfy all ages, the toilets and locker service are easily accessible and, in our experience, the staff really did their utmost to make the kids’ visits memorable.

Once you’ve got your ski itch scratched, Queenstown itself provides more holiday entertainment options than time will generally permit. We were lucky to experience the biggest snowfalls in town in 50 years during our stay (the local paper labeled it a “snowcalypse”) and had some 20-30cm of snow piled up outside our front door. While this made for convenient snowman building, snow fights, snow angels and the odd homemade Frozen Coke (albeit generally with a dash of squashed lizard scraped up from the frontyard), we were keen to get out and about.

The historic steamship TSS Earnslaw takes visitors across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a 3.5 hour tour that the kids will adore. A walking tour of the farm will have you up close and personal and hand-feeding the deer, Scottish

Highland cattle and alpacas. And what would a New Zealand holiday be without sheep? Depending on the conditions and the season, there are sheep herding and shearing displays as well as wool spinning lessons. A beautiful high tea and some free time to wander about the farm round out the visit before you jump back on the TSS Earnslaw and enjoy a family singalong, complete with printed songbooks, with the onboard pianist.

Skyline Gondola is another Queenstown must-do. The gondola is visible from all parts of town, snaking its way up the very steep hill. You board it just a few streets away from the town centre and the view of Queenstown and the lake is unbeatable. Once you get to the top, you can enjoy the café or buffet meals and there are also two 800m luge tracks with rides on purpose-built carts for the adrenalin junkies.

But if all this energy-zapping holiday excitement has your energy zapped, organise for hubby to watch the kids for a few hours and let your ski-weary body relax at Sofitel Queenstown’s LeSpa. The Hammam steam room is heaven on Earth and the therapists will have your body floating off into the land of bliss in no time.

Queenstown really is a family-friendly destination and a place we will visit, no doubt, time and time again. Especially if we are keen to add another baby to the mix.

The 2012 ski season starts at The Remarkables on June 16 and at Cardrona on June 22. Skiing wraps up on October 7. www.cardrona.com, www.nzski.com/remarkables

A Queenstown Family Adventure package is $1017 per person (based on a family of four) and includes seven nights at Queenstown’s Pounamu Apartments in an executive two-bedroom fully self-contained suite, four-day lift passes for two adults and two children valid at Coronet Peak and The Remarkables with breakfast basket on arrival www.nzski.com

Sofitel Queenstown’s Magnifique Family package entitles families to 50 per cent off a second room when booking two rooms, and under 16s eat breakfast free. While you’re there Mum, make sure you drop in to LeSpa for a two-hour Winter Warm Up treatment to boost your immune system and increase energy levels. www.sofitelqueenstown.com

More Queenstown ski deals are at www.newzealandski.co.nz

MARCH 2012 / 51

This charming 1930s self-contained two-bedroom cottage located in Katoomba, Blue Mountains, is aptly named as it is surrounded by a picturesque English cottage-style garden. It is the perfect escape for a couple, group or family. It’s close to tourist attractions and walking distance to shops, supermarket, cafes and a train station. Spend the days relaxing, bushwalking, shopping for antiques or visiting one of the many nearby open gardens. Features include an open log fire, fully equipped kitchen with breakfast basket daily and pets are welcome too.

This cute self-contained cottage is ideal for a couple or a small family (including pets) with its large, fully fenced garden and breathtaking mountain views. There’s an outdoor barbecue and entertaining area, plenty of wildlife and friendly farm animals, a combustion log fireplace and all the necessities. Lake Lyell is only five minutes drive away from Wattle Cottage and offers fishing (fishing gear can be provided by Wattle Cottage) and swimming. There’s also great bushwalking and mountain biking trails, horseriding, the Jenolan Caves and glowworm spotting, all nearby.

Located within its own 4000-acre conservation reserve and nestled between two national parks bordering the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa sets new standards in luxury travel. Operated by Emirates, the property caters to the high-end traveller while ensuring a broader social, ecological and environmental appeal. The resort features 40 individual suites surrounded by private decks, each with its own indoor/outdoor swimming pool. It is currently the only luxury resort in the world to achieve carbon-neutral certification.

SECRET GARDEN COTTAGE12 MORT ST, KATOOMBA WWW.SECRETGARDEN-COTTAGE.COM.AU

WATTLE COTTAGE 271 MARTINS RD, RYDALWWW.WATTLECOTTAGE.COM

WOLGAN VALLEY RESORT & SPA2600 WOLGAN RD, WOLGAN VALLEYWWW.WOLGANVALLEY.COM

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Welcome to an exciting collection of invitations that will begin your journey to your next magical party event.

Each invitation has a little diamanté to add extra sparkle to your day! Matching party bag tags, thank you cards and cupcake toppers.

www.raspberrycreative.com.au email info@raspberrycreative.com.au Find us on facebook!

‘fabulously stylish’ invitations with sparkle!

Nursery & Kids Wall Art

www.41orchard.com

The French believe ‘Life is beautiful’ and so do we – when

you’ve got a strategic communications plan in place for your

business. Belle PR’s ‘One-­page Wonder’ media kit will get

your good news story into the media (and get people talking

about you) the affordable, simple, professional way. We also

love larger-­scale business campaigns and event PR too

www.bellepr.com www.facebook.com/we.are.bellepr

La vie

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BELLE!...with good

PR

OK, so the ‘philosopher’ may have been children’s author Dr Seuss but the message should still resonate, especially among Mums and Dads everywhere; instilling a love of books and reading in young children is one of the most important jobs on every new parent’s ‘To do’ list.

Glottogon Children’s Books have made that job all the more easy with their own new range of unique children’s board books and jumbo learning cards. The range has been produced by a Sydney mum – Glottogon director Karen Mennie – so you can be guaranteed she has utilised her own life experiences as well as feedback from customers of her popular online children’s bookstore when developing the products.

“Our books are durable, lightweight and easy to clean, making them a great play activity for even the most active baby, toddler and Vegemite fan!” Karen says.

There are two board book ranges. The three-part ‘Our’ series is for first-time readers and features titles Weather, Food and Clothes. The ‘My’ series of three books on Manners, Body and Week are pitched at

those slightly more advanced readers and are physically larger than the Our range. All books feature a BPA-free foam core and foam edges making them unbelievably lightweight and resistant to the bumps and bangs that quickly ruin the look of traditional board books. The squishy foam edges also make reading a tactile and memorable learning experience for little hands.

As well as the book titles, learning cards make up the rest of Glottogon’s new range. Bigger than most other flash cards on the market, this set of 20 double-sided glossy cards are perfect for babies through to early readers with their vibrant, delightful images courtesy of children’s illustrator Doriana Berkovic. Packaged in a sturdy hinged box, they make a gorgeous gift idea.

In keeping with Karen’s vision for bilingual opportunities for all children, she has also released the new Glottogon books and learning card set in Greek and Italian versions as well. The ‘Our’ books retail from $8.95 each, ‘My’ books are from $14.95 each and learning card sets are from $24.95.

www.glottogon.com

JUNIOR BOOKWORMSA GREAT PHILOSOPHER ONCE FAMOUSLY SAID, “THE MORE THAT YOU READ, THE MORE THINGS YOU WILL KNOW. THE MORE YOU LEARN, THE MORE PLACES YOU’LL GO”...

A SICK DAY FOR AMOS MCGEEPhilip C Stead

Every day Amos McGee spends a little bit of time with each of his friends at the zoo, running races with the tortoise, keeping the shy penguin company and even reading bedtime stories to the owl. But when Amos is too sick to make it to the zoo, his animal friends decide it’s time they returned the favour.

$19.99

A hilarious poem and cartoons about a mother anticipating the joys of Mother’s Day, from two outstanding Australian creators.

$9.99

While some say that psychic ability is a gift few people have, the truth is that all children are psychic, even though it might not be apparent. How do you know if your child has the gift, and what do you do when you find out? One of Australia’s leading psychic intuitives explores this increasingly common phenomena.

$24.99

A practical, realistic, down-to-earth and entertaining guide for all working women who want to have babies but keep their careers on track too. Co-author Melissa Doyle is presenter of breakfast TV program Sunrise and proud mother of Nicholas, 6, and Talia Grace, 3.

$29.95

THE NIGHT BEFORE MOTHER’S DAYDoug MacLeod, Judy Horacek

WORKING MOTHER’S SURVIVAL GUIDEMelissa Doyle, Jo Scard

PSYCHIC KIDSSue Bishop

love

!ead

MARCH 2012 / 55

weddings | portraits

www.naomivphotography.com.au

M: 0404 005 452 E : info@naomivphotography.com.au

memories... you create... we capture.

the Special Offer for Peekaboo Readers

Complimentary 8x12 print and session fee during March, April or May

HOROSCOPES - MARCH-MAY 2012PEEKABOO WELCOMES ASTROLOGER ELIZABETH BALL TO THE TEAM THIS EDITION WITH HER TAKE ON WHAT’S IN THE STARS FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY THIS QUARTER

ASTROLOGER ELIZABETH BALL WEBSITE WWW.ITSINTHESTARSONLINE.COM

ARIES March 21 - April 19

Prepare to spend big on gifts, clothing and music on March 7, 14, 30 and April 23, 24,

30. Until April 17, your regular diet and exercise program may slip but you can successfully rework the household chore roster, getting the kids’ input. Teach your kids about saving pocket money and the older ones about investing on April 21. Your kids may struggle with classmates or homework from May 14-31. Could a tutor help?

TAURUS April 20 - May 20

Let the kids plan the family holiday on March 14, April 30 or May 17. Many social

events could be cancelled or postponed March 24-April 6 while your kids may feel un-energetic until April 17. Work off your restless energy during April with yoga. Book a sexy ‘Date Night’ with your partner March 14, April 24 or May 14. Label your kids’ items before May 14 as they may go missing.

GEMINI May 21 - June 20

Allow for career hassles from March 24-April 6. Your kids may protest if you see

your friends on April 16 and May 6. Expect delays with a house purchase or sale, renovations and repairs, and a re-run of old family issues until April 17. Get the old romantic spark back with your partner on April 10 and May 4, 17, 28, 29. You may get a mortgage or invest-ment loan approved on May 17.

CANCERJune 21 - July 22

You may be totally booked up with social activities on March 7, 14, 30, April 23, 24,

30 and May 14, 23. Avoid booking holidays from March 24-April 6. You may juggle your boss and your kids on April 16 and May 6 but receive a sudden career oppor-tunity on April 23. Anticipate your kids’ unwillingness to do their schoolwork until April 17. You and your partner may discuss having another baby on May 17.

LEO July 23 - August 22

Your boss may offer you a promotion, transfer, more money, bigger clients or you

might open your own business on March 7, 14, 30, April 23, 24, 30 and May 14, 23. Keep money aside for unex-pected bills during March 24- April 6. Book a fun holiday with the kids on April 10, 18, 23 or May 4, 28, 29. Your friends or social activities may prove expensive on April 16 and May 6, 8, 31.

VIRGOAugust 23 - September 22

Book a fantastic holiday with the kids intrastate, interstate or overseas on March

7, 14, 30, April 23, 24, 30 or May 14 and 23. Your partner may oppose your investment choices on April 16 and May 6. Your boss could give you a raise, higher commis-sion or bigger territory or you may create a business out of your favourite hobby on May 17. You’ll focus on your career after May 21.

SCORPIOOctober 23 - November 21

You could feel torn about whether to have another child as soon as March 4 but you

may change your mind several times March 24-April 6. You can enjoy spending a lot of quality time with your partner, with great ‘Date Nights’ on March 7, 14, 30, April 23, 24, 30 and May 14, 23. You’ll feel like spoiling your kids, happily buying them what they want on April 10 and May 4, 29.

LIBRA September 23 - October 22

From March 24-April 6 you could hear from old colleagues, but job-hunting efforts

could prove disappointing. You could benefit in a big way from an inheritance, tax refund, share dividend or sale of joint property on March 7, 14, 30, April 23, 24, 30 and May 14, 23. Loved ones who live far away may ask you to visit as early as April 4 but holidays will be happier if you depart on April 10 or May 17, 28, 29.

SAGITTARIUSNovember 22 - December 21

Whether you’re on parental leave or work full-time, your career will seemingly tread water until April 17. Create as many invaluable contacts as possible and call in favours on March 14, 30, April 23, 24, 30 and May 14, 23. Surprise news about your kids (or a preg-nancy!) is likely on April 23 and you may discuss having another child on April 10 and May 4. These dates, plus May 28 and 29, are also super-romantic!

CAPRICORNDecember 22 - January 19

Your fertility goes sky high on March 7, 14, 30, April 23, 24, 30 and May 14, 23 and

you’ll feel loved-up then too. Your kids could struggle with their homework from March 24-April 6. A family holiday may be delayed until April 17. You may hear fascinating news about an inheritance or joint property matter from April 4 but if the paperwork is not finalised by May 14 it may be postponed until July 1.

AQUARIUS January 20 - February 18

Bank glitches, payment delays and other fi-nancial mishaps occur March 24-April 6 so

keep a cash stash. You may move, improve, sell, lease, renovate, decorate or repair your home on March 7, 14, 30, April 23, 24, 30 and May 14, 23, or just adore being with your family. Check out the latest electronic gizmo on April 23. Are they old enough to learn good man-ners? They’ll pick up etiquette easily from May 14-July 1.

PIECESFebruary 19 - March 20

Help your kids organise a party for their school friends on March 7, 14, 30, April 23,

24, 30 and May 14, 23. They’ll enjoy learning how to be good hosts and will cement new friendships. You may begin renovating or decorating plans from April 4 but anything incomplete by May 14 will remain that way until July 1. Your partner may stay in his ‘cave’ until April 17 – don’t take it personally!

stars

MARCH 2012 / 57

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TAG JUNIOR BOOK PAL CODE: BOOK PAL

Following the success of LeapFrog’s Tag Reading System comes a new toddler-sized book explorer, the Tag Junior Book Pal. The system helps youngsters build a lasting love for reading. Classic books, favourite characters and original titles make up the Tag Junior library. Designed for little hands, the Tag Junior Book Pal is an appealing character-based handheld device that toddlers can use to interact with specially printed board books. By touching the base of the Book Pal on the page of a Tag Junior board book, children can hear each page read aloud, sound effects embedded in the pictures and also listen to music. Peekaboo has two Tag Junior Book Pal and storage case packs to giveaway, valued at $80 each.

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PEEKABOO COMPETITIONS

Resort facilities include a large central lagoon pool with sandy beach, a swim-up pool bar for Mum and Dad, gym, barbecue area, restaurant and bar. Novotel’s family friendly policy – including 5pm Sunday check-out, Nickelodeon cartoon network, free breakfast and welcome gift for kids – makes it hard to find a better value property when visiting the tropical north. Until June 30, the resort is offering a fantastic ‘Family Fun in the Sun’ package which includes buffet breakfast daily for two adults and two children, complimentary upgrade to a superior pool-view room, free dinner from the kids’ menu for children when dining with parents and a bottle of Australian wine on arrival for Mum and Dad. The package is just $320 for two nights for two adults and two children (0-15 years) sharing with parents and you can extend your stay for just $160 per additional night. One lucky Peekaboo reader will win five nights’ accommodation in a pool-view room, daily buffet breakfast, one three-course dinner at the resort’s Mizuna Restaurant and a bottle of wine on arrival. The prize is valid for two adults and two children (0-15 years), excluding school holidays, subject to availability. Flights are not included.

www.novotelcairnsresort.com.au

NOVOTEL CAIRNS OASIS RESORT

Terms and conditions: Duplicate emails will be deleted. Your contact details will remain the property of Peekaboo for future newsletters and other correspondence. If you don’t want us to keep your details on file, please include the word “PRIVATE” in your entry. Please refer to page 6 for full competition terms and conditions. Competitions close, and entries will be drawn, April 30, 2012.

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www.isoki.com.au

MARCH 2012 / 59

Space is something I didn’t anticipate missing until it was gone. I mean, once I got pregnant I missed red wine and pate and cold prawns with beer and ham and sushi and grotty roast chicken from the supermarket.

I missed sleeping on my stomach. I missed flirting with waiters who now went pale at the sight of my swollen belly. I missed being able to avoid the creepy guy at work who trapped me by the lifts to tell me I was looking “fabulously fecund” – spew.

But one of my first memories of coming home after the birth of Zac was trying to find a moment to read a book on the porch (I was deep in denial and liked to pretend I didn’t have a baby by hiding outside) and not being able to escape the constant stream of visitors, the two-hourly breastfeeds, the physical pain of giving birth to someone with a head on the 99th percentile, and, well, the fact that I was facing an entirely new reality I wasn’t sure I wanted anymore.

While I definitely had a cracking case of the baby blues at this point, that overwhelming feeling of claustrophobia almost undid me in those early weeks. Like heaps of new mums, although many won’t talk about it in case someone reports them for crimes against the Sanctity of Motherhood, I often felt like I’d made a terrible mistake.

Fortunately, sticking him back where he came from

was impossible but don’t think the thought hadn’t crossed my mind.

Once the first few weeks of ‘baby jail’ were over, things got better. Sure, I was still leaky boobs on legs but a few tentative visits to a local café with Zac in a sling, moments stolen with a magazine, and a phone that let me read crappy gossip online while I breastfed at 3am all let me feel normal again – gave me space to reclaim parts of the old me.

Now he’s two, I have lots more space. I am back at the job I love part-time. I have a great partner who is more than happy to stay home with Z on a Friday night while I go out with friends. And when I’m not pretending to be a shark or driving cars through a tunnel made of toilet paper rolls, I get a moment here and there to read inappropriate books about serial killers and parasitic infections. Tomorrow, I am even heading off for a long weekend in Byron Bay with girlfriends while Zac does boy stuff at home with his Dad, like hammering stuff and digging other stuff. And the best part about all the space I now have, is how wonderful it is when it’s filled with Zac stuff again.

Bossy-pants mums LOVE to make others feel bad for needing more than just their kids in their lives but for me, it’s true.

Now, pass me a chicken.

last

pag

e

SPACE IS SOMETHING

I DIDN’T ANTICIPATE

MISSING UNTIL IT WAS GONE.

STORY ZAC’S MUM BLACK

62 / MARCH 2012

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