absolute
mama S o u t h A f r i c a ’ s P re m i u m L i fe s t y l e M a g a z i n e fo r t h e D i s ce r n i n g Pa re n t
THE HUNGRY HERBIVORE Plant Based Food. Culture. Lifestyle
Better
behaviour
A GAME PLAN FOR POSITIVE PARENTING
For the love of
SUMMER 2018
R45.00 (VAT incl.) ISSN 2617-4502
9 772617 450004
Summer
THE SWEETEST SUMMER FASHION FOR YOU & YOUR LITTLE ONES CHASING THE SUN - ESCAPE TO MAGICAL PORTUGAL THIS SUMMER
Browse our full range of baby car seats, strollers, cots, high chairs and more at www.hauck.co.za To view the Use the code “absolutemama� for a 15% discount on our online store
full range of our car seats, prams, cots and high chairs visit us at
Overalls from R250
Tops from R129
Dresses from R219
Tops from R129 T-shirts from R79 Shorts from R99
Shirts from R179
Blouses from R149
Menlyn Mall Pretoria www.facebook.com/LCWaikikiSouthAfrica
Sandton City Johannesburg www.corporate.lcwaikiki.com
Tyger Valley Coming Soon iroperationza@lcwaikiki.com
Contents SUMMER 2018
28 26
DIGEST 14
Mama Love
Must haves for this season
16
What’s On
95
New Books
24
Dates & events not to miss for the Summer months
38 22
Sweet reads for you and your little one
FASHION & BEAUTY 20
Beauty Notes
Natural beauty essentials to keep the body and skin happy
22
Summer Fling
24
Beach Babe
26
Bold Moves
Fabulous Summer fashion for Mom
Swimwear for sun-sational days by the pool or the beach
Embrace cool colours and striking prints for your little fashionista
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PARENTHOOD 28 Game plan for Positive Parenting
How to encourage positive behaviour in your kids
34
Eco-Mom to the Rescue
Recycling to get the whole family involved
40 Combat Social Anxiety in Kids
Teach your kids coping mechanisms to help ease their social anxiety
contents | SUMMER 2018
82
64
68 HEALTH & WELLNESS 44
46
MTHFR What?
Tips on how to live with the mutation naturally
46 Remedies for Summer Ailments
Survive these common afflictions naturally
50
Plant Power
The benefits of a plant-based diet
TRAVEL 76
Fun in the Sun Holidaying on the South Coast has never looked this good
82
FOOD & FITNESS 56
88
Superfood Smoothies Wholefood smoothies full of
Swedish Excellence Thule products designed to ensure you live your best active life
goodness & nutrition
60
Food for the Soul
64
On Trend
Delicious plant-based recipes to make you feel good
Get summer ready with one of these latest exercise regimes
HOME DÉCOR
60 8
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A Touch of Magic
Discover the natural beauty and fairy tale charm of Portugal
68
Fresh Air
The latest outdoor living trends for your home
DAD’S CORNER 90
The Tao of the Toddler
A satirical entry into our resident Dad’s diary
MOTORING 92
The Mighty Touareg
Volkswagen’s latest offering combines luxury with practicality to make the perfect family ride
Kids fashion, page 26
Editor’s
LETTER
Hello
Positive parenting page 28
Moms fashion page 22
Beauty page 20
Natural remedies page 46
December, here you are! I cannot believe how quickly this year has gone by…. and so much has happened and even though there are only a couple of weeks left of 2018, we still have some memories to be made. This year has seen a lot of changes in my darling daughter’s life. Ava left the tween status behind and flew straight into teenagerhood, much too soon. Gone are the days of hours building Barbie furniture with you, playing dress up and watching Shrek over and over and over. I never thought I would want to watch Shrek rescue Fiona again, but I could watch it another 1000 times with you. This has been the fastest 13 years of my life, my first born as well as the child that made me a Mom basically only has 5 more years before she’s considered an adult. This mama was definitely not ready for you to grow up so quickly and become fiercely independent and so much more mature than I ever was at your age. But I am ready and excited to be here for this new chapter in your life. We won’t see eye to eye on everything and will make Absolutemamamag
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mistakes, but I will try my best to be your biggest ally and most ardent supporter. Now, let’s take a look what’s in the Summer Issue. This issue we focus on combating social anxiety in our children and the benefits of positive parenting. We delve deeper into what the MTHFR gene mutation is and how to naturally live with it and bring you some natural remedies for sunburn, insect bites, summer colds, etc. We also have a special feature on the benefits of a plant-based diet along with some yummy wholefoods recipes and smoothies from Nutribullet. All the usuals, décor, fashion and much more can also be found in this issue. Those hot summer days are back and I am not complaining! Sunny strolls, fun, family vacations to the beach, endless ice cream cones and beautiful memories to be made. Grab your copy or your tablet and a tall glass of something cold and enjoy this issue! From all of us at absolute mama HQ, we wish you a safe and fun filled holiday season. Keep Safe xx
When all else fails, take a vacation. – Betty Williams
Join me online Absolutemamamag
www.absolutemama.co.za
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absolute
mama S o u t h Af r i c a’ s P re m i u m Li fe s t y l e M a g a z i n e fo r t h e D i s ce r n i n g Pa re n t
Publisher: Absolute Mama (Pty) Ltd Managing Editor: Anje Hill Sub Editor: Reta Robberts Design & Layout: Indio Design Contributors: Alasdair Cunningham, Jennifer Campbell,Mariza Halliday, Taryn Dekel, Vann Van Staden Accounts: Candice Swart Images & Illustrations: Supplied & Shutterstock Advertising Sales: Jason Hill Distribution: Media Support Editorial enquiries: anje@absolutemama.co.za Sales enquiries: jason@absolutemama.co.za The absolute mama Magazine is published by Absolute Mama (Pty) Ltd www.absolutemama.co.za Tel. 022 409 2304 Fax: 086 416 2977 info@absolutemama.co.za DISCLAIMER ŠAbsolute Mama (Pty) Ltd. ISSN:2617-4502 No article or any part of any article in absolute mama may be reproduced without the prior written consent of the publisher. The information provided and opinions expressed in this publication are provided in good faith, but do not necessarily represent the opinions of Absolute Mama (Pty) Ltd or the editor. Neither this magazine or the publisher can be held legally liable in any way for damages of any kind whatsoever arising directly or indirectly from any facts or information provided or omitted in these pages, or from any statements made or withheld by this publication.
Printed by
A division of Novus Holdings
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HAVE A
N U F FLIGHT!
Spacious volume Lightweight 25L capacity 1,75kg
Durable wheels
Easy to grab handles
2 point ďŹ xed lock
Shoulder strap
digest | WE LOVE
The Natural Hand
For original, affordable and fun artistic creations, The Natural Hand offers unique clothing and gifts printed by hand and is hand-sewn in their home studio. These kiddies’ booklets are made from natural, light weight 100% cotton fabrics, sourced locally and printed with water-based inks, which have a lower impact on the environment. Facebook: TheNaturalHand
ALWAYS FRESH. ALWAYS HEALTHY.
Whether your baby is ready to start eating solids or you want to offer your sprout something healthy and fresh, there is definitely no better way than with the Baby Bullet. Fresh baby food with a fast prep time, easy cleanup and saves you money, what more could you ask for!? Give your baby food with love. www.nutribullet.co.za
WE LOVE
Stunning dresses, cute cuddlies and a celebration of natural hair and beauty are among our top picks this Summer
Love your skin & hair, naturally
Born out of the lack of chemical and preservative free hair and skin care products for persons of colour, Kafui Naturals celebrates and enhances the natural beauty of skin and hair. Made with mindfulness and lots of care, most of the products are vegan with all their products being cruelty free. www.kafuinaturals.com
CROCHET MAGIC
With a love for yarn and needles passed on by her grandmothers, Michelle Pillay of Ruby and Rose takes crochet to the next level. Stunning high-quality crocheted items with great attention to detail, the perfect cuddly for your little one. www. rubyandrosecrochet.co.za
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LET LITTLE GIRLS BE GIRLS Bunny & Mouse designs gorgeous smocked dresses for little girls of 1-6 years. These garments with their intricate designs, excellent precision and quality fabric is one of a kind, a must for any girl’s cupboard! www.bunnyandmouse.co.za
Diss the plastics, go plastic free! Handmade by women working in home industries in and around Cape Town, The Spaza Store’s dish covers are an absolute must-have for any kitchen. They come in an array of gorgeous prints and are simple to use. They fit various shapes and sizes, are machine washable and long lasting. www.spazastore.com
Pomegranate Revivification
The Royale Afrique du Sud story is one of love, passion and determination. An authentic and natural product that heals, enhances and uplifts. Pomegranate seeds produce a rich nutritious oil that has countless proven health and beauty benefits. Their oils are natural, vegan and pure, and ethically produced in the Western Cape. www.royalesa.com
The Brand You Can Trust
Tobbie & Co offer parents inspiring, yet practical products. All their products have been certified, giving you as a parent peace of mind. The Organic bamboo suction bowl with silicone underplate and silicone spoon prevents spillage during feeding time, great fun for children 6months + www.tobbieandco.co.za
MEET FINN & FERN, THE FLAMINGO’S
The latest addition to the Pure Beginnings brand is the perfect natural alternative to comparative conventional hair care offerings for children. The Fun Time Conditioning Shampoo is extremely mild and does not contain parabens, silicones, sulphates, colourants or synthetic fragrances. Perfect for everyday use, it’s ideal for children with a normal to dry scalp. Certified organic, sustainably sourced and vegan accredited. www.purebeginnings.co.za
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WHAT’S ON Fun filled events and activities for the whole family
DECEMBER / JANUARY Festival of Light Art 8 Dec – 30 Jan ‘19 Spier Wine Estate, R310, Stellenbosch
Experience a dazzling array of light and sound artworks as Spier presents its first Light Art Show. Choreographed by Jay Pather, sound and light sculptures will be revealed as the audience follows the procession. Arrive early and enjoy a light dinner before the procession starts.
A Christmas Carol at Montecasino
Tickets range from R75 – R200
28 Nov - 6 Jan ‘19 Montecasino - JHB
Crewworks brings A Christmas Carol to life as you have never seen it before. Charles Dickens’ timeless tale portraying Scrooge, promises to be a sumptuous banquet for the eyes, ears and imagination. Perfect for the entire family, this outing is bound to become a family tradition!
Tickets cost R130pp
GABRIËLSKLOOF FAVOURITE THINGS MARKET
14 – 16 Dec Gabriëlskloof Estate, Gabriëlskloof Wine Estate, R43, Botrivier Attend this popular market just outside Botriver with its picturesque views of the Babylonstoren mountains, only an hour and 20 minutes out of Cape Town. Stalls selling handmade goods and wine, chocolate and olive tasting sessions and country-style meals that are slow-cooked and authentic at the restaurant.
Free
Joburg Ballet’s Cinderella
14 Dec – 23 Dec Teatro at Montecasino, JHB
Cinderella, a family-friendly production brimming with charm and magic, the ultimate fairy-tale, marks the company`s first major season at the highly popular venue. Choreographed by Joburg Ballet`s director Iain MacDonald in 2013, Cinderella will waltz across The Teatro stage with Johann Strauss`s melodies providing the perfect musical setting for the ultimate rags-toriches tale.
Tickets range from R150 - R450
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digest | WHAT’S ON
Food Truck Festival 15 Dec Springfield Value Centre, Durban
For an experience of Flippin’ Good Food! Grab your friends & family - come & enjoy gourmet slow-cooked artisanal food from a variety of food outlets.
Free
PEPPA PIG LIVE
15 Dec – 30 Dec Amphitheatre V&A Waterfront, CT Peppa Pig and her little brother George are coming to the V&A Waterfront this December for “Peppa Pig’s Sing-along Surprise” in partnership with Ignite Fitness! This live show will have young fans clapping, dancing and singing along to all their favourite songs!
Free
TRIBUTE FEST SA
26 Dec Hillcrest Quarry, Hillscrest Wine Estate – Cape Town Hillcrest Quarry hosts the 5th annual Tribute Fest South Africa, a concert dedicated to some of the greatest “Rock Legends” of all time, performed by top local artists. Drink and food stalls available at the event.
Tickets range from R190 – R300
SHUT UP & DANCE
15 Dec – 12 Jan’19 Barnyard Suncoast Casino, Durban A new show not to be missed, featuring a live band with 3 dancers and 3 singers getting the party started from the opening song, Can’t Stop The Feeling! The audience is split in 2 making a fun dance-off competition to everything from Cheerleader to Macarena, featuring music by Justin Bieber, Shawn Mendes, Selena Gomez and many more.
Tickets costs R120pp
Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts What better way to welcome the warmer months than with live local and international music acts in Cape Town’s historic botanical gardens. Here’s the line-up: 9 Dec Mi Casa 13 - 16 Dec Kirstenbosch Carols 23 Dec Boney M. featuring Liz Mitchell 30 Dec Lira 31 Dec NYE: Jeremy Loops / Crimson House 6 Jan Goldfish 13 Jan The Parlotones
20 Jan Freshlyground 27 Jan Mafikizolo 3 Feb The Soil 10 Feb Fokofpolisiekar 17 Feb Cape Town Folk ‘n Acoustic Music Festival 24 Feb The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra 3 Mar Amanda Black / Sun El
Musician 10 Mar Matthew Mole 17 Mar Spoegwolf / Jan Blohm 24 Mar Shortstraw / Bam Bam Brown 31 Mar Goodluck / Easy Freak
Tickets range from R150 – R415 available from www.webtickets.co.za
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digest | WHAT’S ON
FEBRUARY / MARCH ROCK ON THE LAWNS – THE CURE 16 Mar’19 Carnival City, JHB
Galileo Open Air Cinema 17 Oct – 21 Apr’19 Various venues, CT
The Galileo Open Air Cinema welcomes you to a magical movie experience of cinematic delights, tantalizing treats and breathtaking scenery under a canopy of stars. Every event is a unique experience that starts at 6pm on weekdays, 5pm on Saturdays and 4pm on Sundays. A festive market of mouth-watering artisanal food and drinks are for sale.
Tickets range from R89 – R175
After bringing cult 1980s indie-rock band Pixies to Joburg in early 2018, Rock on the Lawns brings another much-loved band from yester year to the Carnival City show grounds in Joburg’s East Rand. The Cure’s recent re-emergence on the live music circuit has been met with praise by critics and this show supporting acts include Fokofpolisiekar and Karen Zoid.
Tickets range from R495 - R895
Elvis & Friends
26 Feb – 3 Mar’19 Barnyard Suncoast Casino, Durban
Elvis Presley passed away at the young age of 42 in 1977. His death created a void in the hearts of music lovers the world over. Elvis & Friends is a tribute to the legend that was Elvis - both the man and the performer. The show captures the onstage excitement of Elvis’ greatest performances and energetically reproduces hits from the 50s, 60s and the 70s Vegas-era. Reliving the magic of the king is Shaky Russell accompanied by a band and singers wearing costumes which are of true reflection in every detail.
Tickets cost R150pp
Top shows to see
THE BOY WHO CRIED NINJA
HAIRSPRAY
CHICAGO – THE MUSICAL
4 Dec – 12 Dec – Montecasino, JHB A remake of The Boy Who Cried Wolf based on South African writer Alex Latimer’s children’s book. This zany musical follows a young boy with a conundrum; he really is trying to tell the truth but nobody believes him that a giant squid ate his book bag and a ninja took his last piece of cake. www.pietertoerien.co.za
2 Feb – 16 Feb’19 – Artscape, CT Hairspray is a feel-good stage musical and winner of eight Tony Awards. With memorable songs such as Good Morning, Baltimore and You Can’t Stop The Beat, the show will have you tapping your feet and smiling for days! www.artscape.co.za
14 Mar- 16 Apr’19 – Artscape, CT Killer hit musical CHICAGO returns to razzle dazzle SA again! A nightclub singer, a double-murderess, a smooth-talking lawyer and a cell block of sin surrounded by the razzle dazzle of the world’s sexiest musical returns in 2019! Show-stopping songs including ‘All that Jazz’, ‘Cell Block Tango’ and ‘Mister Cellophane’. www.computicket.co.za
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CAPE TOWN CITY BALLET presents ARTSCAPE THEATRE
featuring hit tunes and big band favourites of the 1930’s
20 DEC 2018 to 5 JAN 2019
TICKETS R150 and R 200
ARTSCAPE THEATRE
Book at COMPUTICKET or ARTSCAPE Dial-a-Seat on 021 421 7695
OUDE LIBERTAS AMPHITHEATRE STELLENBOSCH
6—9 MAR, 2019
Tickets: R100—R300
TICKETS R180 and R 220
Summer
ESSENTIALS
Your body needs extra TLC over the summer months. Indulge in these trending natural beauty products to stay hydrated and protected.
1. Skoon Skin Sips This luxurious product is a silky, light serum with wakame extract for a drench of hydration. Its enriched with hyaluronic acid and Vitamin B5. Add 1-2 drops to your moisturiser to boost skin moisture. 15ml at R489
2. Lulu & Marula Naartjie Lip Balm This sweet-smelling lip treatment deeply nourishes dry, chapped lips and superbly conditions happy ones too. Made with shea butter, marula and avocado oils, this balm services more than just your lips. Use it on dry patches of skin like elbows and cuticles. R70
3. MYHRU HIGH! Serum This multi-tasking product allows you to simplify your skincare routine without making compromises. It is a concentrated, 100% natural blend of pure and highly-prized oils, including African marula, baobab and Kalahari melon. It is packed with a variety of “natural beautifiers” such as vitamins (A, B, C, D, E, F) and natural acids (omegas 3,6,9 + phenolic antioxidant acids, including ferulic) for all skin types. 50ml at R680
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4. Elemis Cellutox Active Body Oil Combining the richness of the sea with the power of aroma, this powerful synergy of sea buckthorn and sea fennel extracts with lemon and juniper essential oils can be used as part of a body cleansing programme. Or you can use it as part of your anti-cellulite and body cleansing programme. 100ml at R900
reducing moisture loss for heels, cuticles and elbows. 100ml at R270
7. Africology Skin Conditioning Marula Oil Marula oil blended with rooibos and neroli softens the signs of aging through it’s anti-stress action. An all-over body serum that is rich in palmitic acid, sealing the skin from free radical attack. 50ml at R395
5. Oh-Lief Natural Body Sunscreen
8. Back 2 Nature Skinfood Body Butter
This broad-spectrum sunblock is made using non-nano zinc oxide, a natural soft mineral that sits on the skin without sinking in. That means the Oh-Lief sunscreen creates a physical “sunblocking” barrier, protecting your skin without absorbing into your bloodstream. This fragrance-free, water resistant SPF30 sunblock is ideal for use all over your body, and perfect for the whole family to use. 100ml at R245
The combination of oils including coconut oil, almond oil and ylang ylang provide a variety of needed vitamins to keep the skin healthy and nourished. The natural, raw oils hydrate the skin, allowing more oxygen in, which makes it a great treatment for eczema and dry, itchy skin. 100ml at R125
6. Lulu & Marula Soothing Hand & Foot Balm A rich and luxurious blend of butters and oils, including avocado, coconut and sweet almond, deeply moisturises and protects hands and feet, feeding skin with the goodness it needs. Ideal for repairing dry, chapped skin and
9. Africology Neroli Natural Spring Water Mist This hydrating mist spray contains pure spring water which is charged with energy from crystals. This mist is a natural source of AhAs, which safely exfoliates dead skin cells and stimulates skin cell renewal, leaving the skin feeling smooth, firm and moisturised. Neroli, one of the world’s most precious and expensive essential oils, has a relaxing and uplifting effect on the nervous system. 100ml at R195
fashion & beauty | BEAUTY BUZZ 1
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fashion & beauty | MAMA FASHION
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For the love of Summer Fun fashion pieces and accessories to complete your wardrobe this season
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fashion & beauty | MAMA FASHION
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1. Black and white wide-sleeve t-shirt, Karen Millen R1300 2. Lakshmi printed stripe jogger, Poetry R699 3. Tassel earrings, Colette R199,50 4. Twist detail slingback heels, Charles & Keith R849 5. Embellished front flap bag, Charles & Keith R849 6. Heeled sandals, Charles & Keith R829 7. Red multi-colour Dress, Karen Millen R3000 8. Tree of love pendant, Thomas Sabo R4475 9. Oya dress, Poetry R999 10. Kingdom of dreams ring, Thomas Sabo R2975 11. Bjoanne handbag, Steve Madden R999 12. Multi Cadilac Dress, Pringle of Scotland R1999 13. Tassel earrings, Colette R176
14. Cross body bag, Mat & May R449 15. Forum wedge, Steve Madden R699 16. Embellished criss cross sandals, Charles & Keith R829 17. V-neck tie front top, Woolworths R350 18. Zani seamed skirt, Witchery R2199 19. T ie waist Bardot top, Karen Millen R2300 20. Pomona printed soft trouser, Poetry R799 21. Mini vintage watch, Thomas Sabo R9475 22. Embellished buckle crossbody bag, Charles & Keith R999
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fashion & beauty | SWIMWEAR
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Beach Babe
Suit yourself with these sensational swimwear and accessories 2
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1. Pendants & chain, Nomination starting from R699 2. Striped mesh inset swimsuit, Woolworths R399 3. Market string bag, The Cotton Company R145 4. Frankie swimsuit, Poetry R799 5. Striped crop bikini & high waist bikini bottoms, Woolworths R299; R19
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6. Halter neck swimsuit, H&M R429 7. Super push-up bikini top & bottoms, H&M R329; R249 8. Patterned swimsuit, H&M R429 9. Soft pink bikini top & bottoms, Women’s Secret R399; R249 10. Scuba swimsuit, H&M R529
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11. Leaf print wrap swimsuit & print ruche viscose beach shorts, Woolworths R399; R279 12. Lou swimsuit, Poetry R 799 13. Sá˝’d Turkish towel, The Cotton Company R380
fashion & beauty | KIDS
FOR THE LOVE OF
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1. Elastic bracelet, H&M R49 2. Frilled bikini, H&M R249 3. Pineapple purse, Country Road R148.99 4. Floral dress, Country Road R529 5. Trainers, H&M R329 6. Floral tier cami, Country Road R329 7. Patterned pull-on trousers, H&M R179 8. Patterned swimsuit, H&M R229 9. Braided sandal, Country Road R429 10. Sleeveless jersey dress, H&M R99 11. So awesome bather, Woolworths R180
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fashion & beauty | KIDS 7 1
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1. Swim top with UPF 50, H&M R249 2. Slip on, Country Road R499 3. Patterned swim shorts, H&M R179 4. Sunglasses, H&M R99 5. Lobster t-shirt, Country Road R299 6. Ocean animal board short, Country Road R399 7. Faded peak cap, Woolworths R99.95 8. Patterned swim shorts, H&M R179 9. Slub jersey t-shirt, H&M R149 10. Espadrilles, H&M R229
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parenthood | POSITIVE PARENTING
Game plan FOR POSITIVE PARENTING By Mariza Halliday
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parenthood | POSITIVE PARENTING
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parenthood | POSITIVE PARENTING
W
e all want a perfect family life, to be the ideal parent. Parents’ relationships with their children is the purest, most selfless and unconditional relationship in the world. But at the same time, it is also the most challenging and stressful duty to perform. We know that encouraging positive behaviour and implementing reward systems, produce better results than punishments and harsh discipline. It helps children feel confident and good about their choices and makes them more likely to repeat them, rather than find ways to avoid a punishment. As human beings we naturally seek the praise and acknowledgment of our peers, children are no different. Using this to our advantage to steer their behaviour can have so many benefits
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for the child as well as the parents. Positive parenting is a great way to form healthy and strong relationships with your children and to build trust. When you use parenting tactics that are encouraged by positive guidance, it is easier for your children to develop self-discipline. More importantly, positive parenting tactics encourage self-love and self-respect. This does not mean that you parent without any discipline or boundaries. To be a positive parent, you must still acknowledge poor behaviour and correct it in a manner that encourages good behaviour, and not just avoidance of the punishment. As parents, we all understand how frustrating it can be when you are exhausted, overworked and your kids just won’t come to the party and behave. We have all been in a position where we lost our temper. It is important for us to constantly revisit our parenting techniques and to see if
they require changes or adjustments to suit the needs of our children. Studies have proven that positive parenting yields better results than time-outs, harsh punishment and scolding – but where do we start?
1 Communication and building a meaningful relationship with your child are valuable first steps to creating positivity in your home. It is important to focus and be aware of your body language, the tone of your voice and general attitude when you are speaking to them. Be present, listen and stay calm. 2 Invest in one-on-one time with your children. The best thing you can do to improve your children’s behaviour is spending time with them individually every day, giving them your undivided attention and forming an emotional connection. When
LET US COLOUR YOUR DAUGHTER’S FUTURE Spaces available in certain grades for 2019 Horwood Street, Edenvale, Johannesburg | Telephone: +27 11 457 0900 | marketing@holyrosaryschool.co.za @HolyRosaryJHB | HolyRosaryJHB | @holyrosaryjhb | www.holyrosaryschool.co.za
parenthood | POSITIVE PARENTING
6 Set clear rules and boundaries and follow through with fair consequences. Praise and reward good behaviour to encourage them to repeat it. 7 Nobody’s perfect – kids, teenagers or adults – so don’t expect your child to do more (or less) than they’re capable of. And remember, we all
children do not get the positive attention that they are hard-wired to need and crave, they will seek out attention in negative ways. When this happens, consequences and other discipline methods won’t work. Aim for 20-30 minutes one-on-one time a day per child and you’ll see measurable improvement almost immediately.
3 Give them a choice. Avoid a typical power struggle by giving your children choices instead of commands. Avoid situations where the typical response will be “no” as it is usually met with defiance. Giving your children a choice empowers them and makes them feel valued. 4 Kids thrive with a routine, so set clearly defined routines for the busiest times of the day. Some kids find a visual routine chart or aid extremely helpful. It can help ease the stress and tensions around getting ready for school in the mornings or
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bedtime. It is extremely important that you stick to these routines to create balance in your home.
5 Time-out just doesn’t work. Having time out in the corner or bedroom doesn’t teach kids how to make better choices the next time and generally, a timeout just escalates a power struggle. Kids, especially the strong-willed, will generally push back resulting in a futile exercise and wasted energy.
make mistakes sometimes. Slow down and prioritize relationships over stuff and activities, this is the best way to embrace positive parenting. Parents often get caught up in wanting to provide their children with all kinds of amazing opportunities – kids don’t need busy schedules and tons of stuff. They need playtime, downtime, and connection. Slow down, embrace positive parenting and enjoy a happier and calmer home.
parenthood | ECO MOM
Eco mom
Recycling By Mariza Halliday
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parenthood | ECO MOM
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s parents, we all want our children to have a safe and sustainable future. While it sometimes feels like it is completely out of our control what happens down the line, one of the best ways to ensure that there will be a healthy planet for future generations is to teach our children about sustainability, living a green life and recycling now. This will ensure that they grow up with awareness about waste and an appreciation for preserving our planet’s limited resources. Recycling might seem like a daunting
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT RECYCLING • Recycling 1 plastic bottle will save enough energy to power a 60 Watt light bulb for 6 hours. • Nearly 11% of all household waste is plastic and 40% of that are plastic bottles. • About 75% of the water we use in our homes is used in the bathroom. • Up to 80% of an average car can be recycled. • SA’s paper recycling rate is 70%. In 2017, 1,3 million tons of paper, boxes and liquid packaging were recovered for recycling.. • Recycling one ton of paper saves 3m3 of landfill space.
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task, but to keep our environment safe and to decrease landfill space we must understand the importance of implementing it in our homes. Recycling should be an important part of our daily lives to make a lasting impact on the environment. Not only will we create a cleaner, safer environment for ourselves – but also for generations to follow. Children can learn the importance of recycling and sustainability from an early age and can participate in family recycling efforts. We have compiled a list of 5 tips to get your child involved and to teach them about recycling in a fun and educational way:
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The best way is always to lead by example. The example you set as a parent and the attitude you have towards tasks are what your kids will learn from, more than what you try
teaching them through words. Your words are not what they remember – they remember who you are. Be consistent and explain to your kids what you’re doing when you recycle and how it works.
2 Show kids the fun side of recycling by making something new out of old materials. You can make a bird feeder out of plastic bottles, a sock dispenser out of an empty tissue box or use your empty yogurt tubs and egg cartons to create a robot! The possibilities are endless, and your child will see ‘garbage’ in a whole new light! 3 Try to avoid single-use plastic wherever possible and replace it with recyclable glass to save our environment and marine life. If single-use plastic cannot be avoided, then there is a simple way to turn
parenthood | ECO MOM
your waste into green construction material. EcoBricks help keep plastic out of the landfills and our oceans, and it is a fun way to get the kids involved in a worthy cause. An EcoBrick is a plastic bottle packed very tightly with waste that is nonbiodegradable. These bottles are then used as building materials to create sustainable homes, schools, and furniture. There are several drop-off locations across South Africa where you can take your completed EcoBricks. You can visit www.aquarium.co.za for more info on how to create your EcoBrick and to view the various drop-off points.
4 Keep it clean! Take your kids to a park or beach and point out the garbage on the ground. Explain how this can affect wildlife. For example, birds might eat the garbage and get sick. Bring some black bags and pairs of disposable gloves to help clean it up. Reward them afterward, help them understand what a good deed it is to keep our planet clean and litter free.
5 Recycle Paper… Keep it clean, dry and in a separate bin or bag. By recycling paper products, we not
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only keep a useful raw material out of landfill, but we ensure that the paper fibre stays clean and dry for manufacturers to make new paper packaging, the kind we use every day. According to RecyclePaperZA, South Africa’s paper recycling association, more than 150,000 people are employed because the country farms trees, makes paper products and recycles them. Mpact makes recycling paper easy through their Ronnie Banks that are located
strategically at schools throughout South Africa. They also offer a free Recycling Kerbside Paper Pick-Up Programme in certain designated areas in Gauteng. Recycling doesn’t have to be a pain. Teaching our kids how simple a waste-free life can be is our responsibility as parents and as citizens of this planet. Let’s be the change we want to see in the world. Sources: https://www.aquarium.co.za/blog/entry/ how-to-make-ecobricks-reducing-waste-at-home http://www.mpactrecycling.co.za/recycle-now/ kerbside-collection, http://www.recyclepaper.co.za
parenthood | SOCIAL ANXIETY IN KIDS
Combat social anxiety in young children Teach your child essential coping mechanisms to help ease their social anxiety. By Taryn Dekel
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parenthood | SOCIAL ANXIETY IN KIDS
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parenthood | SOCIAL ANXIETY IN KIDS
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hen does being ‘shy’ cross over to social anxiety? Social anxiety disorder goes beyond not wanting to meet and socialize with new people. For many children (and adults), it is a debilitating fear of social situations including speaking in front of others and reading out loud, to name a few. Due to the nature of social anxiety disorder, children will avoid situations and activities such as sports and other group activities. Parents can help their children by understanding the nature of social anxiety and arming them with coping mechanisms to boost their self-confidence. Typically, you’ll notice increased fear and anxiety of social situations
NOTES FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS: being aware of the needs of a child with social anxiety means having the positive support and involvement of parents and caregivers. Recognize and praise small achievements and remain calm when the child displays anxiety. Adjust expectations and adapt your discipline style for the anxious child.
between the ages of 8 and 15, in certain cases in children as young as four years of age. Not every child is a textbook case and triggers can produce a variety of reactions such as tantrums, crying and having trouble communicating their feelings. SIGNS TO LOOK OUT FOR: • Fear, anxiety and avoidance that lasts longer than 6 months • Constant dread of social events • Clinging to familiar people at social gatherings • Sweaty palms, shaky voice,
trembling, nausea and difficulty speaking • Avoids eye contact HELPING YOUR CHILD COPE WITH SOCIAL ANXIETY Firstly, speak to your child and acknowledge their fears. Validating their feelings and helping them connect the dots is a crucial step towards managing their physical symptoms and negative thoughts. Teach your child problem solving skills by acting out various scenarios at home and help troubleshoot reactions to avoid anxiety. Give your child an example of when you feel anxious in social settings. Make the behaviour more relatable and show your child that their feelings of fear do not need to cripple their confidence or limit their interactions with others. WHEN TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP If all efforts at home and school have been exhausted and the behaviour affects their ability to socialize and attend school, it’s time to call a professional. A child psychologist will use various methods to help your child overcome their social anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy works to improve the child’s attitude to enable coping mechanisms during anxiety fueled situations. This form of therapy teaches children to change their default anxious thought patterns and replace them with healthy methods to overcome fear. In severe cases your psychologist might suggest cognitive therapy, coupled with pharmaceutical treatment to manage the social anxiety your child experiences.
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health & wellness | MTHFR GENE MUTATION
What is the
MTHFR GENE MUTATION? By Mariza Halliday
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health & wellness | MTHFR GENE MUTATION
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ll humans have the same set of genes, it is the tiny variations in those genes that make us different from one another. Those little variations determine how we look, how we behave and how our bodies react differently to external factors. Especially how it reacts to the foods we consume and lifestyles we lead. We all have certain genetic variations or “defects” that can influence how our bodies break down, metabolize and use certain nutrients. One of the more common variations is known as an MTHFR mutation.
MTHFR WHAT?!
Contrary to how it looks, “MTHFR” is not an abbreviation for a curse word, but a shortened form of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase… quite a mouth full. It is a very important enzyme in our bodies and is necessary for Methylation to occur, a metabolic process that switches genes on and off, repairs DNA and many other important things. This gene variation can have an impact on how well your body metabolizes folic acid and folate. Folic acid and folate are both forms of vitamin B9, required for numerous critical bodily functions. People who have the MTHFR mutation may have trouble effectively eliminating toxins
from their bodies, and it is linked to several quite serious health problems. However, most people with a mutation remain unaffected and do not experience any symptoms at all. Although studies are still underway to confirm statistics, it’s believed that 30 -50% of the entire population might carry a mutation in the MTHFR gene, which is inherited and passed down from parent to child. If you believe you may have an MTHFR mutation, the only way to verify your suspicions is to get tested. There are some common “MTHFR symptoms” that has been experienced among those with a defect that warrant an MTHFR test: • High homocysteine levels • Folate deficiency causing extreme chronic fatigue, light-headedness, and forgetfulness. • Miscarriage/s • Longstanding gastrointestinal issues • A prolonged history of anxiety or depression • ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) • Autism • Autoimmune disease and thyroid issues • Cardiovascular disease • Digestive issues, including IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) • Hormonal issues, including PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) • Migraines
TIPS ON LIVING WITH AN MTHFR MUTATION…
There is no cure and it is not possible to change the gene, but there are things that can be done to minimize the potential for problematic symptoms: • Focus on your gut health by reducing the intake of inflammatory foods, increasing the intake of probiotic foods, consuming only healthy fats and gut-friendly foods. • Minimize alcohol intake as it can make your symptoms worse by interfering with methylation. • It is extremely important to consume more natural folate, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. Some of the best whole-food sources of folate include dark leafy greens, avocado and lentils. • Get enough quality sleep, a minimum of 8-9 hours sleep every night is crucial for your well-being. • Boost detoxification by taking detox baths, exercising regularly, drinking plenty of water and taking activated charcoal • Reduce stress and anxiety. High levels of stress can exacerbate MTHFR mutation symptoms. Tips for decreasing overall stress include starting a regular meditation practice, journaling and spending time in nature. Always consult with a Dietitian or practitioner who can put your results into context. And eat more folate-rich foods… That goes for everybody.
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health & wellness | NATURAL REMEDIES
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NATURE’S
healers All-natural remedies for summer ailments. By Jennifer Campbell
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ummer is for family time and fun, but unfortunately, some of the season’s most common ailments can lead to uncomfortable (and grumpy) family members. Here’s how to remedy them — the natural way.
health & wellness | NATURAL REMEDIES
Ease the effects of sunburn
It is, of course best to try and avoid sunburn as much as possible, but if you or your children do end up spending too much time in the sun (it is holiday season after all), you’ll be pleased to know there are a number of natural remedies that can help to reduce discomfort. If your little one gets sunburnt, make sure that they drink plenty of water to rehydrate and give them a cool bath to soothe the skin. If you need a remedy in a hurry, raid the kitchen cupboards — honey can be applied to burnt skin to aid recovery in children over the age of one-year-old, while finely ground oatmeal mixed with water acts as an anti-inflammatory. Some other all-natural solutions include aloe vera, which moisturises the skin and speeds up the healing process; coriander oil, which has antiinflammatory properties; and witch hazel, which reduces itching.
Soothe itchy insect bites
If you spend time outdoors this summer, you’ll know that insect bites are often an unavoidable reality. While most bites are
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harmless, they can cause unpleasant itchiness and swelling. The good news? It’s possible to whip up your very own remedy to ease discomfort. Studies have shown that a chemical compound found in the basil plant could help soothe itchy skin. Make your own basil rub for mosquito bites by boiling two cups of water and adding around 15 grams of dried basil leaves. Leave the mixture to steep until it’s cool enough and rub
it directly onto bites with a cloth. Another helpful herb, thyme has both antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help to reduce the risk of irritation and infection around insect bites. Chop the leaves into fine pieces and apply them to the skin for around 10 minutes. Alternatively, make a concentrated rub by boiling the leaves in some water and applying to the bites with a cloth as you would the basil.
health & wellness | NATURAL REMEDIES
Calm heat rash
Heat rash, sometimes known as prickly heat, affects people of all ages but is particularly common in babies and young children. It generally occurs in humid weather and is characterised by a red rash that becomes inflamed and itchy. If your child is affected by the condition, try applying aloe vera to the inflamed area — the natural ingredient effectively soothes the skin and is packed with antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Keep it in the fridge so that it’s cool when you apply it.
Deal with summer colds
There’s nothing like a snotty nose to dampen holiday spirits and unfortunately, the common cold can spread just as easily in the summer as it does in the cooler months. Herbal remedies can kill a cold-causing virus and there are a
number of natural ingredients that can support the immune system to better fight off illness and ease some uncomfortable symptoms. One of the most popular herbal remedies is Echinacea, a plant whose roots and leaves are used for their antiviral and immune-strengthening properties. You can find it in the form of tablets, tea and liquid drops. To deal with some of the common symptoms of the common cold, consider giving your child honey to help ease coughs, while frozen berries can serve as natural lozenges to relieve scratchy throats (just make sure your child is old enough for this one).
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health & wellness| PLANT BASED DIETS
Plant power Plant-based eating is gaining traction, both locally and around the world. By Jennifer Campbell
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health & wellness | PLANT BASED DIETS
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here was a time when the plant-based diet was viewed as a mere craze, limited to niche cafés and alternative communities. But as the trend grows, it’s clear that more and more people are trying out a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. And, plant-based food needn’t be boring — more and more restaurants are coming up with innovative meat-free dishes. In fact, according to Dutch food design agency Marielle Bordewijk, plantpowered vegan food is set to become one of the biggest food trends of 2019. So, what does plant-based eating involve, and where can you try it locally?
WHAT IS IT, EXACTLY?
Veganism refers to a diet in which no animal products are consumed —
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that includes eggs and all dairy products. To make sure that all nutritional requirements are met, a balanced plant-based diet includes vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seed, legumes, and fruit as well as plantbased milks like soy, almond and coconut. But, plant-based eating goes beyond food choices — according to the South African Vegan Society, veganism is an ethical movement geared towards solving issues surrounding animal exploitation, health, and the environment.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Besides the ethical reasons for going vegan, there are a number of health benefits to opting for a plant-based diet, provided it is carefully planned and balanced. Eating a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes and fibre have been linked to a reduced
risk of heart disease, while whole-food vegan diets are generally high in nutrients, fibre, and antioxidants. A study has confirmed that people who have a diet rich in plant-based proteins are sixty percent less likely to develop an unhealthy build-up of plaque in the arteries of the heart, opposed to the people that have a diet rich in animal-based protein. It has also been shown to improve blood sugar levels.
HOW BIG IS THE TREND?
The trend towards plant-based foods is driven largely by the millennial generation, and while it’s not yet mainstream, it’s become a popular choice for a wide range of people, from athletes to celebrities. Unfortunately, there are no up-todate statistics regarding the exact number of vegans in South Africa, but
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health & wellness | PLANT BASED DIETS
according to a study performed by research agency Mintel, four percent of all global vegan products launched in 2016 were in South Africa, putting us in the top ten countries to produce vegan food. Internationally, it is clear that the trend is growing. According to a 2016 poll conducted by the Vegan Society in the UK, Britain’s vegan population has grown by five times in ten years, almost half of whom are between 15 and 34 years old; while plant-based food has become a top search trend in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Austria and Israel.
TRY IT YOURSELF
Thanks to the rising popularity of plant-based diets, there are now a number of restaurants in our main cities that serve up fresh veggie fare. Raw & Roxy Café in Cape Town specialises in raw vegan food — think lasagne made with zucchini, raw cashew nut cheese, green pesto and tomato relish; raw pizza crafted from activated buckwheat and flaxseeds topped with nut cheese and veggies, and ice cream made with frozen cashew nut milk and coconut oil. Oh My Soul in Durban is a vegan café that serves up a good selection of salads and plant-based burgers, as well as shakes made with coconut milk. They also offer superfood smoothies and a range of sweet treats, like waffles served with nice cream. In Joburg, you can find loads of plant-based dishes at the Greenside Café. Their breakfast menu includes options like scrambled tofu on rye, and baobao yoghurt granola fruit salad topped with cashew cream. They also have a selection of pastas, salads, wraps and pizzas.
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One of the greatest challenges for human wellbeing in the 21st century will be to focus on the advantage of having a healthy colon and therefore a good immune system – this is where probiotics can play a significant role. Probiotics are critical for normal digestion and for defence against infection. Bacteria in the gut are known to: • Stimulate the immune system • Enhance the mucosal barrier • Aid digestion and break down toxins • Inhibit adherence of pathogens
A good probiotic can be beneficial in the following ailments: • Diarrhoea or constipation • Bad breath, gas and bloating • Irritable bowel and lactose intolerance • Gastroenteritis and playschool diseases in young children
Superfood
Smoothies Wholefood smoothies are full of fruit and vegetable (and nutty) goodness, packed with nutrition, fibre and antioxidants, they will literally change your life! With your NutriBullet you won’t miss out on any of this goodness, it completely breaks down ingredients into their most nutritious, most absorptive state! Here are 3 healthy smoothies to try this summer.
Lean & Green Blast
The fibruous greens in this smoothie are experts in binding and flushing the toxins out of your body. Parsley is a detoxifying superstar that is also rich in vitamin C and K and iron. Spinach, cucumbers, and mint leaves can help support healthy digestion too. Ingredients • 1 cup spinach • ½ cup parsley • 5 leaves mint • ½ cucumber • 1 small apple, cored • 1 tblsp coconut oil • ½ cup coconut water • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk Directions Add all ingredients to your Tall Cup and extract for 30 seconds, or until smooth.
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food & fitness | SMOOTHIE POWER
Triple Berry Beet Smoothie Bowl
This thick and spoonable Triple Berry Beet Smoothie Bowl is full of blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries, you won’t even taste the beets! Thanks to the spoonful of chia seeds, this smoothie bowl stays thick and won’t melt on you – perfect for those warm, sunny days! Ingredients • 1 cup steamed beets, cooled and chopped • 1 cup blueberries, frozen • ½ cup strawberries, chopped • ½ cup blackberries • 1 tblsp chia Seeds
Directions 1. Add all ingredients to your Tall Cup and extract for 30 seconds, or until smooth. 2. Top with fresh berries, chia seeds, and other favourite toppings. Enjoy!
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food & fitness | SMOOTHIE POWER
Beetroot Blast
Beetroot’s gorgeous colour, mixed with the sweetness of honey and berries and the freshness of mint and lime juice, makes an un-beet-able combination! Not only is this smoothie delicious, it also contains a generous dose of fibre from the berries, spinach and chia seeds to keep you feeling good inside and out! A little lime juice goes a long way in flavour and health benefits. Lime juice contains antibacterial and antifungal properties and has been shown to slow atherosclerosis. In addition, lime juice packs a mighty punch of vitamin C and can help with the absorption of iron, which you’ll get plenty of from the spinach and beet.
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Ingredients 2 cups spinach ½ small beet 1 cup frozen blackberries (or blueberries) 2 tblsp fresh lime juice 5 leaves fresh mint 1 tblsp chia seeds 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup) 1 tsp salt 3 ice cubes 1 ½ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk Directions Add all ingredients to your Tall Cup and extract for 30 seconds, or until smooth.
food & fitness | RECIPES
Wholefood
Soul food Delicious, nutritious, plant-based recipes to make you feel good and feed your soul
Hummus 3 Ways
Hummus is easy and affordable, and the resulting flavour is far superior to those tubs of store-bought dip. Ingredients (makes about 1kg hummus altogether) Base Hummus • 6 cloves of garlic • 3 x 400g tins of chickpeas • 150ml lemon juice (juice of 3 lemons) • 6 tablespoons light tahini • 3 teaspoons salt • A pinch of freshly ground black pepper • ½ tsp pinch of ground cumin • 9 tablespoons water Herb Hummus • ½ cup roughly chopped fresh parsley • ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh tarragon or basil • 2 to 3 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh chives or green onion • 2 tablespoons of olive oil Sweet Beet Hummus • 1 medium raw beetroot • 4 tablespoons of olive oil
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Base Hummus: 1. Peel the garlic. 2. Drain & rinse the chickpeas. 3. Add all the ingredients into a food blender until it reaches the desired consistency (longer if you want a smooth hummus, shorter if you want chunks to remain). 4. Separate the mixture into three bowls. Herb Hummus 1. Roughly chop your fresh parsley, tarragon or basil and chives. 2. Add chopped greens and additional olive oil to the base mixture and blend. Sweet Beet Hummus: 1. Chop up your raw beetroot in small-medium chunks, sprinkle with some olive oil and a pinch of salt and pop into the oven for about 25mins. 2. Add the roasted beetroot and additional olive oil to the base mixture and blend. Serve with flatbreads, olives, roasted peppers, roasted tomatoes, artichokes, just about anything works.
food & fitness | RECIPES
Baked Chickpea Falafels and Yogurt Sauce These falafels are light in fat and so flavourful, this recipe is about to become your new go-to. Ingredients (makes 12 patties) Falafels • 250g dried organic chickpeas, soaked in twice their volume of water overnight • ½ bunch organic parsley • 2 tablespoons avocado oil • 1 tablespoon flaked sea salt • 2 cloves roasted garlic Sauce • 1 cup Greek yogurt • 1 tablespoon minced chives • 1/4 red onion, minced • black pepper and flaked sea salt, to taste Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180ᵒ C. 2. Combine the chickpeas, parsley, avocado oil, salt, and garlic in a food processor or a blender until you have a thick, slightly textured paste. You may need to add water to get the blades to turn but keep the dough as dry as possible. 3. Use your hands to make 12 patties, forming them between your palms. Place them on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. 4. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown and firm. While the patties bake, make the yogurt sauce. Combine the yogurt, chives, and onion, and season with salt and pepper. These falafel patties are delicious served with a cucumber and tomato salad, hummus, or fresh pita bread.
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food & fitness | RECIPES
Creamy Lime and Avocado Tart This tart has a creamy avocado coconut filling with a coconut pecan crust. It’s super easy to make, vegan and gluten-free! Ingredients Crust • 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut • 1/2 cup chopped pecans • 1/2 cup dates (about 12 dates) • 1-2 teaspoons lime zest • pinch of sea salt Tart Filling • 2 avocados (about 1 1/2 cups of avocado puree) • 1/4 cup of fresh squeezed lime juice • 1/4 cup coconut or agave nectar (or honey)
• 1 Tablespoon coconut oil • 1 teaspoon lime zest Method 1. Process the crust ingredients (coconut, pecans, dates, lime zest and sea salt) in a food processor or mini chopper until the dates have turned into sticky paste holding the crust ingredients together. Take the mixture out of the processor and press evenly into a springform pan. Place the pan in the freezer
while you make the tart filling. 2. While the crust is setting in the freezer, blend ingredients for the filling (avocados, lime juice, agave, coconut oil and lime zest) in a high-speed blender or food processor until creamy. 3. Pour the avocado filling over the crust in your pan and use a spoon to make sure the filling is even and smooth. 4. Place the pan in the freezer to set up, at least 2 hours, but can be overnight. Take out of freezer, remove the springform pan, let sit out for 10-15 minutes, decorate with raspberries, cut into slices and serve. The longer it sits out, the filling will soften and become more like pudding. It still tastes amazing, but not as firm. Store any leftovers back in the freezer.
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food & fitness | FITNESS TRENDS
Fitness
TRENDS
Take a look at the latest fitness trends hitting the exercise circuit and pick one to get you ready for summer. By Taryn Dekel
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food & fitness | FITNESS TRENDS
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food & fitness | FITNESS TRENDS
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e know you’re busy being supermom, so we took the time to track down the latest fitness trends for you. Every mom needs some me-time and what better way than to detox and exercise the stress away while getting fit?
LOW COST FITNESS
Ever made the excuse; it costs too much? Enter low cost fitness. We know that living costs and school fees all add up, so this exercise routine might suit you if you’re budget savvy. There are various options such as fitness apps, jogging after work and exercise videos. This style of exercise also allows for flexibility, so you can choose which type of exercise and what time to schedule it.
THE WOD
It all sounds so mysterious…and that’s the point! We all know how tedious exercise can be if you’re doing repetitive routines. WOD stands for Work-out of the Day and has gained steady popularity with those who like variety. Additionally, the variety of exercises can contribute to a total body work-out.
TRAMPOLINING
Reclaim your childhood and take up this fun, yet effective work-out that develops upper and lower body strength. This fitness trend requires little effort but has major pay-offs such as improving balance and coordination, increases muscular strength and endurance and strengthens your lung and cardio capacity. You can reap the benefits and take your kids with, its a win-win for all.
GROUP TRAINING
Group training is great for those who like social interaction. Having extra encouragement from a friend can go a long way towards motivating you, plus the added benefit of getting a little chat session in every-day. This type of exercise is great for stay at home moms who often crave adult conversation.
RUNNING CLUBS
Running clubs are a great way to get fit and stay committed to getting fit. You’re more likely to cancel on your trainer at the gym, he’ll just move on to the next client; but you can’t leave Debbie from accounting in the lurch too many times. You can add as many members to your running club as you want and enjoy the outdoors with your fitness friends. Finding the right type of exercise routine makes all the difference when you want to commit to getting fit. Try a few different things until you find the fitness routine that suits your needs and lifestyle.
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home décor | OUTDOOR LIVING
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home dĂŠcor | OUTDOOR LIVING
Outdoor living Master the art of outdoor living by transforming your patio with these gorgeous must have furniture and dĂŠcor pieces this season.
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home dĂŠcor | OUTDOOR LIVING
Relax
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1. Sayap wing chair, Weylandts R6450 2. Scoop new mirror, Weylandts R6995 3. Slipper lady in a glass jar, Block & Chisel R1495 4. Cut out hurricane, Weylandts R595 5. Palms scatter, SHF R690 6. Zigzag stripe basket with handles, Weylandts R1195 7. Portofino modular sofa, Weylandts from R29790 8. Praying mantis, SHF R390
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home décor | OUTDOOR LIVING
Have fun
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9. Palmer scatter, SHF R990 10. Core sofa, Weylandts R20 180 11. Midnight vase, SHF R590 12. Mercury votive gold, Weylandts from R85 13. Gemma Orkin snack bowl, Poetry R250 14. Large reed lantern, SHF R750 15. Rizki pouf, Block & Chisel R1495 16. Luna pod hanging chair, Mobelli R6999 (Pod only) 17.Bird 2, SHF R390 18. Birkin coffee table, SHF R7500
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home décor | OUTDOOR LIVING
Enjoy
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19. Maxwell horse, Weylandts R14995 20. Ibiza lounger 2018, Weylandts R15130 21. Etch medium vase, SHF R550 22. Ava occasional chair, Weylandts R8250 23. Cotton rope hammock, Weylandts R595 24. Dembe wall décor, Block & Chisel R1895 25. Donut inflatable by Intex, Sportsmans Warehouse R79,90 26. Succulent 3, SHF R190 27. Milly coffee table, Weylandts R3950
Titan Designed for the future
~ 9M
12 Y
Available at leading baby stores www.facebook.com/MaxiCosiSA @maxicosisa sales@brandsafrica.co.za Tel: 041 811 3355 for Trade Enquiries
local travel | KZN SOUTH COAST
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local travel | KZN SOUTH COAST
Fun in the sun A holiday on the South Coast promises plenty of seaside fun, plus some unexpected family-friendly activities By Jennifer Campbell
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local travel | KZN SOUTH COAST
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ZN South Coast has long been a popular holiday spot for South Africans seeking sun and sea, and it’s easy to see why. The seaside towns along this stretch of coast are laid-back and unpretentious, the beaches are great for swimming, and there are loads of activities to keep the whole family entertained. Extending from Scottburgh to Port Edward, the coastline has a sub-tropical climate and enjoys warm temperatures for most of the year, ideal for your next planned family trip.
GO OUT FOR WAFFLES
The Waffle House in Ramsgate has been going since the 50s, and just about anyone who has holidayed in the area will list this as a must-do on the South Coast. Located on the edge of the Ramsgate lagoon and within
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close walking distance to the beach, the restaurant specialises in waffles with a focus on using organic ingredients as much as possible — go classic with banana and cinnamon, or all out with chocolate mousse or lemon meringue. If savoury is more your style, try your waffle topped with cheese sauce and mushrooms,
chicken mayonnaise or a traditional bobotie. Their menu also caters for kids with portions just right for little bellies, plus a children’s play area in a lovely setting.
SPEND A DAY AT THE BEACH
The South Coast is dotted with no less
local travel | KZN SOUTH COAST
centre, where you’ll learn about the life cycle of the butterflies. Walk-through tours are available for parents with young children. The centre also has a section for curious creatures, which gives guests the chance to see unusual species like spiny leaf insects, scorpions and rare lizards.
HAVE A PICNIC
than 39 internationally rated ‘7 Blue Flag’ beaches, so no matter which area you stay, you’ll find one that suits you. Southport Beach is popular for its tidal pools and shaded braai areas, while Hibberdene also has some lovely rock pools to keep little ones entertained. Ramsgate Beach is ideal for a day out — the main beach features a tidal pool, a lagoon and a shady, grassed area equipped with braai and picnic facilities. There are also pedal boats available on the estuary. The seaside resort town of Margate boasts a long beach where you’ll find a public children’s pool as well as a
number of restaurants along the promenade. Other favourites are Scottburgh, Pennington, St Michaels on Sea, Marina Beach, the choice is endless.
VISIT A BUTTERFLY FARM
If you’ve had enough of the beach and need an outing that the whole family can enjoy, take a trip to the Macbanana Butterfly Dome or Ramsgate Butterfly Valley. Both centres have flight domes in which guests are free to walk around and view a broad range of butterflies. Expect to be transferred to a different world!. You can also visit the breeding
If you’re craving some time spent in nature, consider a day trip to one of the area’s nature reserves. Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve is near to Scottburgh and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including zebra, wildebeest, vervet monkeys and caracal. The reserve also boasts over 300 bird species, and a diverse landscape of coastal forest, grasslands, rivers and wetlands. It’s open to day visitors who are welcome to make use of the walking trails and picnic site. Also near Scottburgh is TC Robertson Nature Reserve and a great Eland Game Reserve with a multitude of activities for the whole family. Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve located about 20 kilometres inland from Port Shepstone is also a good option for a day trip. The reserve is well known for its dramatic views, hiking trails and birdlife and there are some lovely picnic sites along the banks of the picturesque Umzimkulwana River.
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local travel | KZN SOUTH COAST
REPTILIAN INTRIGUE
To entertain even the youngest holiday maker, a visit to Croc World Conservation Centre or Riverbend Crocodile Farm is without doubt a must. As part of the Mpambanyoni Conservation Development that seeks to establish sustainable and sensitive development of the greater Scottburgh area, it will put you in touch with a wildlife experience and many exciting offerings, including crocodile dishes for the daring. Depending on the season, some hatchlings are retained to enable young visitors the unique chance of holding a baby crocodile. Their focus is on connecting people to nature, with conservation and education being key. Also boasting one of the country’s top 100 restaurants, run by
French chef Julien Lepront, Le Rendez-Vous is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The menu ranges from simple to fine-dining and you can even try some crocodile meat brought in from another croc farm.
THE ULTIMATE RUSH
Taking your South Coast holiday to the next level ranging from mild to wild. Only 36 min drive from Margate you will find the ultimate rush in a
setting of phenomenal natural beauty. From cruising along a cable that spans across Oribi Gorge 165m above the treetops, to abseiling down a 110m cliff face alongside a waterfall or being suspended between heaven and earth on a suspension bridge above the Gorge floor whilst enjoying views of Baboon’s Castle –you choose. But if you are just looking for a place to spend the day with your family, you can sit back, relax and some of the most breathtaking coastal and forest views and bird life. Visit www.tourismsouthcoast.co.za for more activities and accommodation options.
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international travel | PORTUGAL
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international travel | PORTUGAL
A touch of magic Soak up the natural beauty and fairy-tale charm of Portugal with easy day trips and local cuisine. By Jennifer Campbell
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international travel | PORTUGAL
W
ith its beautiful beaches, medieval castles, and vibrant cities, Portugal has a lot to offer for its small size. If you’re travelling with kids, you’ll want to find ways to keep the whole family happy. The good news - there are plenty of activities that are suited to travellers of all ages.
VISIT A CASTLE Portugal is packed with castles, and kids are sure to love the country’s most colourful one. Located in the Sintra Hills outside of Lisbon, the National Palace of
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Pena is beautifully whimsical with its pink and yellow walls and pretty mountain setting. There are daily guided tours of the park and palace available, as well as a number of family programmes like pony and carriage rides. Also, in Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira has a gothic facade decorated with turrets,
gargoyles and ornate carvings. The real magic of the place, however, lies within its gardens. Ideal for exploring with little ones, it’s filled with tunnels, underground passageways, a hidden waterfall, caves, and a spiral staircase. Look out for quirky details and mythical features scattered throughout the grounds.
international travel | PORTUGAL
tours will provide lunch and drinks, as well as stops along the way, while others combine boat and rail to really explore the area.
GO TO THE BEACH
EXPLORE THE NATURAL BEAUTY The oldest wine region in the world, the Douro Valley is well worth a visit for its scenery (and a taste of the local port, if you’re so inclined). The valley can be explored by road or train from Porto, and
it’s possible to visit vineyards and small villages, explore a walking trail, or simply soak up the landscape along the way. For a fun family trip, take a boat cruise on the Douro river — there are a number of routes to choose from, ranging from short trips to overnight options. Some
If you’re looking for an easy family outing, consider heading to one of the country’s beaches. If you’re based in Lisbon, you’ll find a number of options, many of which can be accessed by train. If you’re willing to travel a little further than the city limits, take a trip to the pretty Portinho da Arrábida in the Serra da Arrábida National Park. Also, within the national park is the town of Sesimbra, which has some good swimming beaches and a selection of seafood restaurants. If you’re in Porto and in search of a
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international travel | PORTUGAL
fuss-free spot away from the bustle, try Moreiro Beach, which is around a half hour drive from the city. Further out is São Jacinto, which is set in the Dunas de São Jacinto nature reserve. The drive from Porto is beautiful, and you can enjoy views of the Aveiro lagoon and
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estuary on the way. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.
EAT LIKE A LOCAL Portugal is well known for its seafood and rice, and one of the most loved dishes includes both of these staples — arroz de
marisco is made with prawns and clams cooked together with rice and vegetables, much like the better-known Spanish paella. You’ll also find whole crabs on local menus, often cooked with butter, garlic, white wine and chilli sauce, and served in the shell. For a taste of street food, try bifana, slices of pork marinated in wine and garlic and served in a fresh bun — it’s served in food stalls and food trucks all over Lisbon’s streets, and makes a great snack on the go. For a meal that’s made for sharing, order cozido a portuguesa. It’s a combination of tender pork and beef with vegetables served family-style in a big pot. For a popular sweet treat, try pastéis de nata — custard tarts made with pastry and dusted with cinnamon. And if you pop into a bakery, pick up some cavacas, a traditional cupcake-style pastry topped with a sweet glaze.
travel | SPONSORED FEATURE
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travel | SPONSORED FEATURE
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parenthood | DADDY DIARIES
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parenthood | DADDY DIARIES
The Tao of the
TODDLER
W
isdom is supposed to come with age but that’s not always the case. Take my kids for example, they can drop Zen bombs with the best of them. Just last week I was humbly reminded that “sharing is caring, Dad.” This was from my youngest who has just turned four, and sure, it was because I still had ice-cream in my bowl while he clearly did not, but his heart and his head were in the right place.
By Alasdair Cunningham
presume they learn these little koans at school because they definitely don’t get it from me or my wife. From me they get half-muttered expletives in rush hour traffic that they then proceed to (much to my shame) repeat in front of their peers and teachers. I try and blame my wife for this, but when I hear them say it, it comes out in such a brogue that they could have learned it from no-one other than their Scottish father. The nicest nugget of wisdom was delivered by my then 3-year-old to his older brother who was five at the time.
I try and blame my wife for this, but when I hear them say it, it comes out in such a brogue that they could have learned it from no-one other than their Scottish father. Then, just a few days later, my other little outspoken person of truth surprised me with words of Tao’ like brilliance that astonished even me. I was moaning about something ( I find I do this more often the older I get... not sure about the supposed wisdom part though) when he put his book down, reached out, put his hand over mine, looked solemnly into my eyes, and recited with all the cadence of a 1000-year-old Buddhist monk that, “ You get what you get, Dad, and you don’t get upset.” This from someone who can’t even tie his shoelaces and still digs merrily for diamonds in his nasal cavities! I
The eldest (whom we’ll call Steve after his favourite Minecraft character), was fretful about a race that was happening the following morning. It was fairly far, a hare and a tortoise over one kilometre, which I thought was quite a distance for a nipper like him, hell, to be honest, it’s quite a distance for me! Anyway, he was in a bit of a funk about it, hoping he was going to win it and was beginning to build up some serious expectations that I knew were going to be dashed, so I decided to do what every Dad would do and head that kind of crazy talk off at the pass. I sat him down, tried to calm his nerves and reminded him that it wasn’t all
about winning. I knew he would do well but winning it wasn’t an option just yet. The youngest (whom we’ll call Alex after his favourite Minecraft character), ambled into the bedroom, put his arm around his big brother’s shoulder, and said, “Steve, it doesn’t matter if you win or lose, just as long as you have fun and do your best.” Now, coming from me that would have just sounded twee, but coming from someone who is about the same height off the floor as my knees, made it sound as if it had been uttered by Yoda. Alex was so sincere, I was actually little choked up by it. Steve said, “I guess you’re right.”, hopped off his bed and that was that. The race was run, fun was had by all, with no pressure on him at all. The funniest one happened on our way to school one morning. It wasn’t exactly a chicken nugget of wisdom, but it did make me laugh. The boys were working on their rhyming skills as part of their homework: car, star, bar, far, you get the picture, when another vehicle appeared out of nowhere cutting us off, nearly causing an accident. Steve said, “Dad! He’s driving like an absolute muppet!”. I concurred while trying to watch my language and my temper, while the youngest leaned forward in his car seat, and said with unbridled glee, “Yeah, baby! I’m gonna poop in his soup!” I nearly drove off the side of the road, I was laughing so much. So, whenever someone does you wrong, just repeat that mantra to yourself: “Yeah, baby, I’m gonna poop in your soup”. Kids, they say the Taoist of things.
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motoring | CAR FEATURE
THE TERRIFIC
Touareg
Volkswagen’s latest offering combines luxury with practicality to make the perfect family ride. By Vann van Staden
Y
ou’ve worked hard to have what you have. You’ve provided for your family and have built a house that you can call a home. Now, it’s time to treat yourself with the ultimate pleasure — the joy of having Volkswagen’s brand new Touareg parked in your driveway.
LUCKY NUMBER THREE The marvellous and much-loved Touareg is in its third
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generation and it’s safe to say this is the best delivery to date. Not only have they managed to keep the essence of the Touareg we first met back in 2002 alive, but it’s been updated without losing any of its charm or presence. The model is still as large as ever, clearing an impressive 570mm off the ground with the assistance of its state-of-the-art air suspension. Packed with the latest innovations from tip to toe, it’s ready for action.
motoring | CAR FEATURE
SPACE STATION Being a family man or woman shouldn’t ever hinder you from driving your dream car and if your dream car can house half a soccer team, you’re good to go. When buying a family car, one of the top selling points is space — luggage space, an ample number of seats, leg room for those long road trips. Here the Touareg delivers on all levels. With five seats, up to 810 litres of luggage space, and a panoramic roof (the largest in the VW family), they’ve got you covered.
TECHNO DREAMS The new Touareg is Volkswagen’s most technologically advanced model to date. They have introduced the never before seen, fully digitalised ‘’innovision cockpit’’, which marries the digital cockpit with their Discover Premium infotainment system — a combination that will surely stand the test of time. Barely any of the traditional buttons or switches are needed, making the model a modern-day marvel. The ‘’innovision cockpit’’ holds all the information,
communication and entertainment features of the car, neatly tucked away into a digital operating system.
PARK IT When the call for adventure can no longer be ignored, answer it! When it comes to towing a boat, a caravan or a trailer, the Touareg has a neat trailer assist package that — wait for it — uses self-parking technology. The driver simply sets their desired trailerreversing angle on the impressive innovision screen. You can literally sit back and let the Touareg take over.
PRICE TAG For a cool R1 140 200, the new Touareg can be all yours. There are two options within the range: the 3.0l V6 TDI 190kW Luxury and the 3.0 V6 TDI 190kW Executive. The new Touareg comes standard with a 5 year/100 000km maintenance plan, 3 year/120 000km warranty, 12-year anti-corrosion warranty and a space saver spare wheel. The service interval is 15 000km.
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essentials | BOOKS
Summer READS Extraordinary women, imaginary numbers and gooey vegan brownies feature in the best new reads WEATHER AND SEASONS HOLLY BATHIE This delightful interactive book is a charming introduction to the four seasons, changes in the weather, changes in the natural world and seasonal activities. A fun introduction to a key early learning concept, with over 50 flaps to lift.
PEPPA PIG: PEPPA MEETS FATHER CHRISTMAS LADYBIRD It’s Christmas time and Peppa’s school is putting on a show. The children invite Father Christmas along to see their play, but it’s his busiest time of the year! Luckily, their very special guest makes it just in time and has an even more special surprise for Peppa and her friends. With a sparkly glitter cover, this is the perfect Peppa story to share at Christmas!
Hardcover | R150 Penguin Random House
Hardcover | R215 Penguin Random House
100 Things to Know about Numbers, Computers & Coding Usborne
FEMINISTS DON’T WEAR PINK AND OTHER LIES SCARLETT CURTIS We asked 52 women: what does the F word mean to you? The result is extraordinary.“Brilliant, hysterical, truthful and real. These essays illuminate the path for our future female leaders.” -Reese Witherspoon The must-read book for 2018. Follow @feminists on Instagram for updates. Trade Paperback | R260 | Penguin Random House
When was the webcam invented and why? Does imaginary numbers exist? What is fuzzy logic? Find the answers to these questions about the amazing world of numbers, computers and coding, along with loads of other curious, amazing and mind-boggling facts in this eyecatching book that is absolutely bursting with information. Hardcover | R215 Penguin Random House
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essentials | BOOKS
ATOMIC HABITS JAMES CLEAR
Vegan Cakes and Other Bakes
Jérôme Eckmeier and Daniela Lais
Packed with savoury and sweet ideas for vegan desserts, breads and even mains such as dairy-free pizza and eggless quiche, every recipe uses straightforward techniques and easy-to-source ingredients and has a beautiful photograph to tempt your tastebuds. Long-term vegans with a passion for cooking, the authors Jérôme Eckmeier and Daniela Lais teach you to bake irresistibly good treats such as gooey vegan brownies, light and fluffy vegan pancakes and eggless cakes, or a smooth and creamy vegan “cheesecake”. Use their clever tips to avoid disappointing, dry, or unrisen results and follow their instructions to make your own everyday vegan substitutions for mainstream baking ingredients such as cream cheese and buttermilk. With Jérôme and Daniela’s reassuring guidance even beginner bakers will triumph in the kitchen. Softcover | R320 Penguin Random House
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A revolutionary system to get 1 per cent better every day. People think when you want to change your life, you need to think big. But world-renowned habits expert James Clear has discovered another way. He knows that real change comes from the compound effect of hundreds of small decisions –doing two push-ups a day, waking up five minutes earlier, or holding a single short phone call. He calls them atomic habits. In this groundbreaking book, Clears reveals exactly how these minuscule changes can grow into such life-altering outcomes. He uncovers a handful of simple life hacks (the forgotten art of Habit Stacking, the unexpected power of the Two Minute Rule, or the trick to entering the Goldilocks Zone) and delves into cutting-edge psychology and neuroscience to explain why they matter. Along the way, he tells inspiring stories of Olympic gold medallists, leading CEO’s, and distinguished scientists who have used the science of tiny habits to stay productive, motivated and happy. These small changes will have a revolutionary effect on your career, your relationships, and your life.
Trade paperdeck| R320 Penguin Random House
Next Year In Havana Chanel Cleeton
After the death of her beloved grandmother, a Cuban-American woman travels to Havana where she discovers the roots of her identity – and unearths a family secret hidden since the revolution... Havana, 1958. The daughter of a sugar baron, nineteen-year-old Elisa Perez is part of Cuba’s high society, where she is largely sheltered from the country’s growing political unrest –until she embarks on a clandestine affair with a passionate revolutionary... Miami, 2017. Freelance writer Marisol Ferrera grew-up hearing romantic stories of Cuba from her late grandmother Elisa, who was forced to flee with her family during the revolution. Elisa’s last wish was for Marisol to scatter her ashes in the country of her birth. Arriving in Havana, Marisol comes face-toface with the contrast of Cuba’s tropical, timeless beauty and it’s perilous political climate. When more family history comes to light and Marisol finds herself attracted to a man with secrets of his own, she’ll need the lessons of her grandmother’s past to help her understand the true meaning of courage. Soft cover | R230 Penguin Random House
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