Summer 2012/2013
Welcome to the Summer issue of the Alphabet Street mini mag ! I have to say this Christmas has snuck up on me too quickly. It only seemed like yesterday that we started planning our Christmas promotions and now we are at the end with Christmas only days away.
This mini mag has been an absolute pleasure for me working with so many talented people. This issue we completed a full fashion shoot with the assistance of the very talented Liat Biderovsky from Lee Bird Photography and the ever so clever Belinda Ramanauskas from Styled by Belle. We hope you love it as much as we do. This issue is jam packed full of lovely, from Summer fashion to Christmas Gifts ideas and we can’t forget activities to schedule in the diaries over the Summer holidays. Thanks to all our contributors this month including All Abroad Bay, Melbourne Mamma and Indispensable Me. This will be the last mini mag for 2012 and look forward to some wonderful things happening with Alphabet Street in 2013. Penny Price OWNER 3
Lee is an accomplished, award winning photographer who specialises in fine art portrait photography. According to her wonderful clients, who she prefers to call her muses, Lee is able to somehow capture the essence of her muses in the images she takes. The essence of childhood, innocence, family, joy, laughter and giggles. www.leebirdphotography.com.au
Belinda Ramanauskas (“Belle”) is the creative director behind Styled By Belle. With a background in strategic marketing and incentives, she has a passion for styling and creating WOW factor events. Belinda is mum to two boys, Aidan and Lucas, and wife to former AFL player, Adam.
Mini Mag www.alphabetstreet.com.au
Editorial: Penny Price All editorial and advertising enquiries e:info@alphabetstreet.com.au ABN: 89826197104 Photography: Lee Bird Photography
Tracey is mum of two , owner of Melbourne Mamma and a self confessed shop-a-holic. Melbourne
Mamma is a guide to what’s hot and where to shop for mums, babies and kids.
Rachael Spencer-Smith is owner of All Abroad Baby, a place that brings together shopping, parenting and travel inspiration for mums of little ones.
COVER: Our Model Ayla wears Oobi Baby & Kids Smock Red Dot Dress
Alphabet Street Privacy Statement: This issue of the Alphabet Street Mini Mag may contain offers or competitions that require you to provide information about yourself if you choose to take part in. If you provide information about yourself including email address, Alphabet Street will use this information to provide you will the products and services you have requested. We will not onsell you details to a third party and will used for our publication only. 4
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Deck the Halls
The A-Z of Christmas 29.
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All I want for Christmas
The Anticipation of Christmas Summer Means... 39 Summer Styling 65
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Summer Memories
Off the Beaten Track 72 with little ones 75 Holiday Happenings 5.
Deck the Halls
This Christmas with this wonderful selection of Christmas Decor!
1. Ruby Victoria Letterpress& Printmaking Christmas Garland RRP $24 2. LOVE MAE Merry Christmas Banner RRP $79.95 3. OXFAM Shop Capiz Christmas decoration from the Philippines RRP $14.95 4. Christmas Wreath- Tiges and Wience RRP $40 5. Robert Gordon Australia Wooden Advent Calendar RRP $89.95 6. Cradle Rock Santa Sacks: Stripey Reindeer RRP $ 39.95
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Australian Boys Choir
The Australian Boys Choir has celebrated Christmas with the Melbourne community since 1939, and in 2012 the tradition continues as the boys invite you to join them for a festive treat at Melbourne Recital Centre. Christmas with the Australian Boys Choir will feature Benjamin Britten's A Ceremony of Carols, written in 1942 and first performed by the Choir in 1967 WHEN: Sunday 16 December 2012 at 3:00 pm WHERE: Melbourne Recital Centre BUY TICKETS
ACMI Kids Flicks
The Muppet Christmas Carol
We all love a Christmas movie to get into the spirit of Christmas and what better movie than A Muppet Christmas Carol. Join Michael Caine, and a legion of Muppets as they re-tell the story of the Charles Dicken's Classic Story. WHEN: Sun 16 Dec 2012, 10.30am, 1pm WHERE: ACMI Cinemas
Apples and Jam Christmas Workshops The kids will love booking into the Apples and Jam Christmas craft sessions to get into the festive spirit. Donâ€&#x;t miss the Gingerbread House Decorating, Candle making, Christmas Stocking and movie morning and finish off with Rock Around the Christmas Tree Holiday party. Bookings essential. WHEN: 18th, 19th & 20th December WHERE: Apples and Jam- 217-239 Montague Street, South Melbourne
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Bunnings DIY Santa Workshops
Bunnings have free children's craft every Saturday & Sunday from 12pm. Through out December the craft will be all based around Christmas. WHEN: 15th, 16th, 22nd & 23rd December WHERE: Bunnings Warehouse
Crown’s Christmas Fantastic Each year, Crown is proud to present their largest and most spectacular display of decorations to celebrate the magical season of Christmas. This year is no exception, amazing guests with a light, sound and 3D projection show running on 15 minute rotations from 10am to Midnight 7 days a week. Christmas Fantastic will feature 98 highly decorated gigantic Christmas baubles "scattered" throughout the Atrium in various sizes as well as the Twelve Days of Christmas in vision, soundtrack and special sound effects. WHEN: Sunday, 25 November to Sunday, 6 January 2013 WHERE: Crown Casino
Charity
K-Mart Wishing Tree Appeal Give to those less fortunate than ourselves this Christmas with a charity of your choice. The Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal is Australiaâ€&#x;s largest Christmas gift appeal. Thanks to the incredible generosity of Australians, the Appeal has collected more than 5 million gifts for people in need over the past 24 years WHEN: From the 14th November until Christmas Eve WHERE: Find your local K-mart Wishing Tree.
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Carols at Docklamds
Carols at Docklands is an amazing, free event for the whole family, with a kids' carnival, Santa, carols, guest artists Stan Walker and Evermore, and fireworks! The kids' carnival begins at 5:30pm with entertainment, face painting, fairy floss, a jumping castle, rides and much more. At 8pm the carols begin, with special guest artists Stan Walker, Evermore, hip-hop group No-Limits, a spectacular fireworks display and of course a visit from Santa! All ages welcome. WHEN: Sunday 23rd December 5.30pm-10.30pm WHERE: The Piazza at Docklands 429-437 Docklands Drive Docklands
Christmas Eve Carols and Pageant at Cruden Farm
Bring the family to enjoy Christmas Carols with singers and band. This popular community event includes a live re-enactment of the first Christmas with a baby, stable and donkey. Children are welcome to take part as angels or shepherds. Gate opens at 6.30pm – enter from Cranhaven Road, Langwarrin. BYO picnic, rug, insect repellent, warm clothes. NO candles or pets please. Entry by donation – net proceeds used to support the needy in the local area. WHEN: 24th December 7.30pm-8.45pm WHERE: Cruden Farm - 60 Cranbourne-Frankston Road Langwarrin
Christmas Week Story time Celebrate the holiday season at this special session of stories, activities and good cheer! For ages up to 5. Bookings are not required. WHEN: Wednesday 19 December, 11:30am - 12:30pm WHERE: State Library of Victoria
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Decorations
Experience a city that comes alive during the festive season with the City of Melbourne's new and revamped Christmas decorations. Discover 'Jingle Bells on Bourke Street', decorations suspended along the tram lines on Swanston Street, a 'gift-wrapped' Melbourne Town Hall and North Melbourne Town Hall, kiss under the mistletoe at Southbank pedestrian bridge, see the 12 days of Christmas in laneway decorations, visit the Christmas Tree at City Square (renamed Christmas Square in December) and marvel at giant presents on Flinders Street Station. Make sure you look out for giant gifts scattered throughout the city, use your smartphone to scan QR codes (scannable bar codes) to reveal special offers from city retailers. Pick up a Christmas decorations map from the Melbourne Visitor Centre, Melbourne Town Hall or the Melbourne Visitor Booth or online HERE. WHEN: 1st December 2012-10th January 2013 All Day WHERE: City Square 44-86 Swanston Street Melbourne
Daydreamer Indoor Play Centre Christmas Craft
Escape the hustle and bustle of the shopping centres and head to Daydreamers Indoor Play centre for a bit of fun leading up to the big day. Start the Christmas celebrations by making your own Santa on the 18th December! WHEN: 18th December WHERE: Daydreamers Indoor Play Centre- 61-71 McIlwrick St, Windsor
David JonesThe Magic Cave The enchanted world of The Magic Cave is where Santa and his friends get ready for Christmas. Meet Santa, David the Talking Tree and watch the elves busily prepare for Christmas Day. WHEN: From Saturday 10 November until Christmas Eve WHERE: David Jones - 5th floor Womenâ€&#x;s Store, Bourke Street Mall
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Eden Gardens Fresh Cut Christmas Trees
Baden Powell Park Scout Group will be selling fresh cut Christmas Trees at Eden Gardens Mt Eliza for the first 3 weekends of December. Prices are as follows: Medium (5-6 foot) $40 Large (6-7 foot) $50 Extra large (8-9 foot) $70 WHEN: Sat Dec 15 2012 - 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Sun Dec 16 2012 - 9:00 am - 12:00 pm WHERE: Eden Gardens - Corner Nepean Highway and Canadian Bay Roads, Mt Eliza
Fed Square Spirit of the Square
Celebrate the festive season at Fed Square with songs from the Salvos, community choirs and the playful festivities of In The Pines – an installation of over 250 recycled plastic Christmas trees by local urban artists, The Projects. Don‟t miss the family portraits sessions amongst the festive pines on the 15th,16th & 22nd,23rd December. WHEN: 1st – 25th December WHERE: Fed Square-Entire Precinct
Gingerbread Village by Epicure The magical Gingerbread Village by EPICURE is built entirely out of gingerbread with a display of iconic Melbourne landmarks. With activities and plenty of treats for the kids, the Gingerbread Village is sure to add smiles to your festive season. EPICURE‟s pastry chefs will be whipping up tasty creations which can be purchased at the exhibition.
This Christmas EPICURE are supporting the Starlight Children‟s Foundation. Donations received at the exhibition will help fund Starlight‟s programs including granting oncein-a-lifetime wishes for seriously ill children. All donors will receive a cardboard gingerbread man to place on the Christmas tree, with the aim of having a Christmas tree full of gingerbread men by the 24th December . WHEN: 1st – 25th December 9am-5pm daily WHERE: City Gallery, 90-120 Swanston Street, Melbourne 15.
Hello Music Carols by Daylight
Join in the fun at a sing-along Christmas variety concert for the whole community at Fed Square. The 6th annual Hello Music Carols by Daylight will feature the Australian Schools Orchestra Programme (ASOP) - a combined performance of over 120 young performers aged between 5 and 15 who have learnt music through ASOP, a Hello Music initiative which develops orchestras in schools around Melbourne. Also performing will be some of Melbourne‟s best classical, pop and jazz musicians, Hello Music Land friends Penny Piano and Dimmie Drum, and last but not least - Santa Claus! WHEN: Sunday 16 December, 3pm – 4.30pm WHERE: The Edge-Fed Square
Ice Carvings at Chill On
The Chillon Ice Lounge is not just for adults. Kids will love the experience too being surrounded by 50 tonnes of carved ice. State-of-the-art lighting sets the tone, a fan-forced blizzard quickly gets you in the mood, and exquisitely carved ice sculptures provide the cool decor.. Guests are provided with ski jackets, gloves and woollen boots so they are kept warm and comfortable within Melbourne's coolest space. kid‟s are welcome everyday up until 7pm when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Get set for an amazing winter wonderland experience, filled with chills and thrills whilst slurping on a frosty fruity drink. WHEN: Christmas Ice Carvings- November 25th until Boxing Day Daily 10am till 10pm WHERE: 3 Southgate Ave Southbank
Ivanhoe Boulevard Christmas Lights
From Saturday 15 December and every evening leading up to and including Christmas Eve, the traditional Boulevard Christmas Lights will be on display from 8:30pm to 11:00pm. The Boulevard Lights event has been running for over 50 years, with residents of The Boulevard and surrounding streets decorating their houses, gardens and windows with colourful Christmas lights. The resulting display brings smiles to thousands of people every year. WHEN: Saturday 15 December - Monday 24 December WHERE: The Boulevard, East Ivanhoe
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Jesus
He‟s the reason for the season. Head to a Christmas Eve, Midnight Mass or Christmas day service to listen to the gospel and celebrate the birth of Jesus.
Junior Republic Christmas Party
Come and Build a Christmas Teddy Bear, indulge on party food, take home treats, and bubbles for the adults at the Junior Republic Christmas Party! Bookings essential WHEN: Saturday 15th December, 11am WHERE: Junior Republic -51 Bay St Port Melbourne
Kris Kringle Night Markets Northcote Town Hall
Over 50 stallholders offering individually handcrafted and locally designed products including fashion, jewellery, ceramics, prints and much more. Come and find that unique gift for Christmas. WHEN: Thursday 20th December 5.30pm-10pm WHERE: Northcote Town Hall –Main Hall & Civic Square 189 High Street Northcote
Kristmas at Kindred Studios Yarraville Join The Mudcakes and Socrates Monk for our final shows of the year at the beautiful, comfy and arty space just across from The Yarraville Gardens. Two shows (10 and 11.30am). Perfect for preschoolers with seasonal songs, dancing and fun! Tickets $10 and $8 at the door til sold out or from www.themudcakes.com. Special appearance by the 10 foot cuddlepot sock monkey, Socrates who will be available for hugs and photo ops WHEN: Wednesday 19th December 10am WHERE: Kindred Studios Yarraville- 212a Whitehall Street, Yarraville
Letters to Santa
How will Santa know what your little one wants for Christmas if they don‟t send him a Christmas wish list? Place your wish for Christmas in the City Square post box, which sends letters directly to Santa.. Include your postal address and get a reply from Santa himself. Letters to Santa can also be posted over the counter at your local Australia Post retail outlet or in any red street posting box using the following address.; Santa NORTH POLE 9999 WHEN: City Square Post Box-Until 16th December WHERE: 44-86 Swanston Street Melbourne
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Langham Lights Entitled 'Imagine a World of Enchantment', the four-minute light show is a beautiful display held in Langham Hotel Melbourne - combining light, shadow and colour. It tells the story of a fairy who brings the Hunter to life and takes him on a journey filled with wonder and magic. Set to the soundtrack of Tchaikovsky's famous 'Sugar Plum Fairy' the light show is set to entrance both young and old. WHEN: 7th – 28th December 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:00pm,3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm, 6:00pm,6:30pm, 7:00pm, 8:00pm,9:00pm, 10:00pm, last show 11:00pm WHERE: Langham Hotel Melbourne- 1 Southgate Avenue, Southbank
Lyrebird Community Christmas Festival and Carols
The 7th annual Lyrebird Community Christmas Festival and Carols is being held in the car park of the centre on Sunday 16th December 2012 There will be lots of affordable, community and family friendly activities such as; Face painting, Rides and amusements, Craft activities, Delicious food stalls, Music, entertainment and carols Then conclude the wonderful night with a spectacular fireworks display. - Carols commence at 8:30pm, BYO chairs, rugs etc. WHEN: Sunday 16th December 5pm-9.45pm WHERE: Lyrebird Community Centre Car Park, 203 - 205 Lyrebird Drive Carrum Downs
Myer Christmas Windows & Santaland
Taking the family to see the Myer Christmas Windows is an annual tradition. This year celebrates the 57th year the windows are displayed and in 2012 the windows will not disappoint with this year‟s theme of the much loved children‟s book Russell‟s Christmas Magic. Head to Myer‟s Santaland where a trip on the Santa express will be a magical treat for kids (and adults) of all ages. Pick up a golden ticket from the Station Master and ride the train through the tunnel as the train tours the Santaland village. WHEN: Santaland will be available until the 24th December. Myer‟s Christmas windows will be displayed until Sunday 6th January WHERE: MYER Melbourne - Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne
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www.minifashionista.com.au
Medibank Icehouse Christmas Show
WHEN: Sunday 16 December 4.00pm 6.00pm Monday 17 December 7.00pm - 9.00pm WHERE: Medibank Icehouse - 105 Pearl River Road, Docklands
Medibank Icehouse is delighted to present 'Christmas on Ice' – a fabulous on-ice production featuring a stellar cast of international skating superstars, Victorian state champions and a huge ensemble cast of 90 amateur figure skaters, Melbourne Ice hockey players and synchronised skating teams. In addition to our popular General Skating sessions, the 'Christmas on Ice' show is the perfect holiday activity for the whole family. Come and see Santa and Yeti, in his debut performance, in this dazzling on-ice show, complete with magnificent costumes, choreography, lighting and scenery. Families can sit back and enjoy popular musical including all The Beatles classics and Christmas favourites!
Melbourne Town Hall Christmas Projections Gaze at the Melbourne Town Hall this festive season and something wise might peer back at you from a particularly iconic piece of architecture, thanks to nightly projections from world-class projection designers, The Electric Canvas. The Electric Canvas has created a 3D model of the Melbourne Town Hall, and a team of eight artists and designers will celebrate Christmas in a playful and transformative way. WHEN: 23rd November-25th December 9pm-11pm WHERE: Melbourne Town Hall
A Nutcracker Christmas
Melbourne Ballet Orchestra presents an exciting program of some of the bestloved ballet music, including Tchaikovsky's complete suite from The Nutcracker. You may have seen these players on the concert stage, in ballet and opera performances or accompanying leading international artists. Come join them at the Centre for a wonderful family Christmas celebration! WHEN: Saturday 22nd December 7pm WHERE: Melbourne Recital Centre- Cnr Southbank Boulevard & Sturt Street SOUTHBANK
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Olympic Figure Skating ClubChristmas on Ice Spectacular
The Olympic Figure Skating Club would like to invite you, your family and friends to their 2012 Christmas On Ice Spectactular. This year we will be showcasing songs and music from all corners of the globe. WHEN: Saturday 15th December 5pm WHERE: The Olympic Ice Skating Centre 1080 Centre Road, South Oakleigh
PNP-Portable North Pole
Experience the magic of Christmas with the PNP-Portable North Pole console! The PNP console lets you create personalized videos from Santa for the young and the young-at-heart. This is the 5th year Portable North Pole has offered a free personalized video message from Santa Claus to your loved ones! This year at a small cost there is also an option to have Santa phone your child . This is a must do for every parent who would love to see the joy on their childrenâ€&#x;s faces when Santa send s a personalized message to them. WHEN: Until Dec 24th 2012 WHERE: www.portablenorthpole.com
Polar Express Free Movie Cinema Nights at La Piazza Italia A special Christmas free screening of Polar Express - starring Tom Hanks will entertain the whole family from 7.30pm at Piazza Italia. Enjoy dinner before or after the movie in Lygon Street for a complete night of entertainment. Seating is provided, and kids can sit on the turf matting. Bring a blanket in the event of a cool evening. WHEN: Saturday 22nd December 7.30pm WHERE: La Piazza Italia
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Petit Atelier Christmas Craft Christmas Door Wreath & Decorations
Get into the spirit of Christmas with this class at Petit Atelier, where you will make a wreath for your door & decorations for your Christmas Tree WHEN: Sunday 23rd December 10.30am-12.30pm WHERE: Petit Atelier- 517 High Street Prahran
Queen Victoria Market Santa’s Christmas Kingdom Visit Santa in his Christmas Kingdom and let him know of all your good deeds. Pick up a card from Santa throughout December, complete 10 good deeds and receive a special invite to Santa‟s Good Deeds Christmas Party on Sunday 16 December, a fun-filled day of face painting, balloon artists, craft activities and more. Visit Santa at the Market on the 8th, 9th, 11th, 13th,14th & 15th of December to pick up your Good Deeds List. Once your Good Deed's List is complete, return it to the Market to receive an invite to Santa's Good Deed Christmas Party. WHEN: From 8 December 2012, 10am - 1pm WHERE: Queen Victoria Market
ReindeerCam.com
ReindeerCam is Santa‟s official reindeer live feed. At 11am, 6pm and 9pm USA Eastern Standard time , Santa comes out to the reindeer pen to feed them. On various occasions he will check the mail or will be accompanied by an elf on his duties. On the back of the barn there is also a running ticker feed of all the children on the good list. This is a lovely festive treat for the children to see Santa feeding the reindeers by live web cam. WHEN: Daily until Christmas Day at 11am, 6pm and 9pm USA Eastern Standard time. WHERE: www.reindeercam.com
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Rudolph’s Birthday at Santa’s Magical Kingdom Celebrate Rudolph's birthday, as well as enjoy all the wonders of Santa's Magical Kingdom on the 17th, 18th & 19th of December. Not only will your ticket include access to the beautiful interactive walk-through, the gingerbread decorating, the bauble decorating, the Christmas themed circus show and the rides, kids will ALSO be treated with Rudolph nose upon arrival and birthday cake. In addition, there will be reindeer face painting, reindeer balloon modelling and other reindeer activities to celebrate in style! WHEN: 17th, 18th & 19th December WHERE: Santa‟s Magical Kingdom- Burnley Oval, Intersection of Swan Street & Madden Grove, Richmond
Residential Christmas Lights A Christmas tradition for a lot of families is to drive around to view the Christmas lights on the residential homes in Melbourne. If you would love to see the houses that have gotten into the Christmas spirit and adorned their houses with lights, there are two websites that give details on the homes in your area. Christmas Lights Melbourne list the lights by area giving you addresses of the festive houses. If you are on the Peninsula click HERE to find your local residential Christmas lights. WHEN: December/January WHERE: www.christmaslightsmelbourne.com.au
Santa vs the Snowman 3D Imax Melbourne
There‟s no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than to see a Christmas movie with the kids. IMAX Melbourne brings Santa vs The Snowman 3D to the big screen for another year. Santa Vs The Snowman 3D tells the tale of a cheeky and loveable snowman who finds his way into Santa‟s village and reaches into the workshop window to pick up a shine new flute after having broken his own…. What ensues is an all-out, riotous battle for Christmas, with the Snowman and his minions squaring off against Santa and his elves for the rights to the worldwide gift delivery franchise. WHEN: From December 3 WHERE:IMAX Melbourne- Melbourne Museum Precinct, Rathdowne Street - Carlton Gardens
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Santa Specials Mornington Railway HO! HO! HO! SANTA IS COMING Yes it‟s that time again – come and ride the train with Santa and his helpers. December trains run on the 2nd, 9th and 16th of December starting at 11:00am . WHEN: Next Santa Special 16th December at 11am WHERE: Mornington Railway
Swimming Santa Visits
Have fun with jumbo inflatables in the toddlers‟ pools throughout December, and watch out for Swimming Santa making a splash in his red wetsuit. WHEN: Sunday 16 December 2012 & Saturday 22 December 2012 WHERE: Harold Holt Swim Centre - High Street, Glen Iris 12.30 - 2pm daily Prahran Aquatic Centre - Essex Street, Prahran 3 - 4.30pm daily (weather permitting)
Trees, Trees, Trees Are you a real tree or faux tree family? It‟s a personal choice when selecting a tree each Christmas. If you are a real tree fan, there are a number of locations where you can choose your very own real tree at the Christmas Tree Farms. We recommend The Christmas Tree Farm, The Dandenong Christmas Tree Farm, Ports Christmas Trees, A Christmas Tree Farm, and Xmas Tree Farm. WHEN: Check with various locations WHERE: Click on links for more locations.
Uh-Oh.... we can’t find anything for u! Now is the perfect opportunity to thank all our Alphabet Street supporters in 2012. We appreciate you staying with us from year to year and we look forward to providing you with even better and exciting things in 2013!
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Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight
Each year Vision Australia's Carols by Candlelight® presented by Myer is a sell-out. Held at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, this year's event promises to be as vibrant and captivating as ever. The Christmas Eve tradition attracts a crowd of over 10,000 at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne. Hundreds also flock to the Live Site Federation Square where the event is broadcast on the big screen. In 2011, record numbers of over 9,200 carollers attended Rehearsal Night at the Bowl on 23 December. WHEN: Monday 24th December from 4.30pm WHERE: Arts Centre Melbourne, Sidney Myer Music Bowl
Wonderland Fun Park Christmas Spectacular
This Christmas season, Wonderland Fun Park will transform itself into Santa's Magical Wonderland. Santa's Magical Wonderland will feature a Christmas Village where you can enjoy all of your favourite Christmas treats, The North Pole with snow falls daily and an Enchanted Forest complete with Santa's Mailbox to post those special letters. Keep your eyes peeled for Santa and his friends who will be making appearances throughout the day or secure your own intimate meet and greet with Santa. Santa's Circus Spectacular Show will be running LIVE in the Wonderland Spiegeltent Theatre. Plus all the fun of Wonderland Fun Park! WHEN: November 17=December 24 WHERE: Wonderland Fun Park- 120 Pearl River Road Harbour Town Docklands
Christmas or Xmas? Christmas has been referred to Xmas since the mid-16th century. The “X” in Xmas originally referred to x, the Greek letter chi, which is the initial word for “Christos,” or Christ, in Greek. In recent generations, Xmas is used much more controversially, because some claim that it attempts to remove “Christ” from “Christmas.” Xmas is often used as a form of shorthand for Christmas, and is not commonly used in formal forms of writing.
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Yarraville Christmas Markets
Yarraville Markets is an indoor market full of delicious handmade, gorgeous products. The stallholders are super friendly and the Masonic Hall is full of charm and fairy lights. With up to 30 different stallholders, you are sure to find a handmade treasure or two Donâ€&#x;t miss the special Christmas markets on the 15th & 22nd December for all your last minute Christmas Gifts. WHEN: 15th & 22nd December 10am-5pm WHERE: Masonic Hall- Cnr of Willis and Canterbury St Yarraville.
Yarraville Carols in the park
The Yarraville Carols will include performances by the Yarraville-Footscray City Band, internationally acclaimed opera singers as well as local community groups. The evening will conclude with an appearance by Santa and a spectacular fireworks display. WHEN: Saturday 22nd December 7pm-10.30pm WHERE: Yarraville Gardens, Hyde Street, Yarraville
Christmas Concert Werribee Zoo
The festive spirit is alive and well at Werribee Open Range Zoo with its annual Christmas concert. Back by popular demand, the Werribee Concert Band will delight visitors with plenty of Christmas-themed music during two 45 minute performances in the African Village. The large community band has more than 25 members who have been sharing their passion for music for over 20 years. Donâ€&#x;t miss this special once-a-year Zoo event! WHEN: Saturday, 15 December 11am-11.45am and 2pm-2.45pm WHERE: African Village, Werribee Open Range Zoo
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All I Want for Christmas Tracey Cotroneo from Melbourne Mamma lists her 10 top gifts for babies, girl, boys and stocking fillers this Christmas!
Haba Whirligig Clutch Toy www.justtoynaround.com.au RRP $24.95
Bunny Rabbit Night Light RRP $18.95 www.naughtsandcrosses.bigcartel.com
Uncle Goose Classic Lower Case ABC Blocks www.buttonbaby.com.au RRP $64.95
Top Rainbow Twinkle Twinkle Little Star Wall Art www.lovejk.com.au RRP $79.95
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Jellycat Boing Ball www.funkmelbourne.com.au RRP $14.95
Christmas Gifts Moonbeam Huggie Bear www.tinywardrobe.com.au RRP $29.95
Alimrose Fairy Doll Rattle www.littlebooteek.com.au RRP $18.95
Babies
Very Hungry Caterpillar Jack-in-the-Box www.tarbea.com.au RRP $39.95
2 in 1 Baby Gym Playmat www.elctoys.com.au RRP $65.00
Mesmerised Book www.hellocharlie.com.au RRP $12.95
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Fire Fighter Builder www.moosaidthecow.com.au RRP $64.95
Prism Switch Kite www.kitepower.com.au RRP $45
Automoblox C9 Red sports car www.lucaslovescars.com.au RRP $55.00
Top Train Box Set by Tiger Tribe www.shop4toys.com.au RRP $59.95
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Wishbone Bike RRP $239 www.melbournemamma.com.au/wishbone
Christmas Gifts Pirate Ship by Le Toy Van www.tlbc.com.au RRP $89.95
Micro Scooter www.microscooters.com.au RRP $179.50
Boys
Planks www.greenhatworkshop.com From $59.00
Explorer Case by Egmont RRP $36 www.orangesandlemonsboutique.com.au
Jurassic Dinosaur Bag www.buttonbaby.com.au RRP $34.95
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"Spineless Classics" Alice in Wonderland www.spinelessclassics.com.au RRP $69.95
Princess Castle RRP $35.00 www.naughtsandcrosses.bigcartel.com
"Tiger Tribe" Dollhouse Box RRP $59.95 www.spoiltgiftandhomewares.com.au
Top Pink Retro Toy Play Kitchen www.hipkids.com.au RRP $199
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Miss Ruby May Doll www.missrubymay.com.au RRP $59.00
Christmas Gifts Lil Fairy Door RRP $36.00 www.thelittlehomewarescompany.com.au
"Little Lamb Designs" Sterling Silver Bluebird Necklace www.littlelambdesigns.com.au RRP $60
Girls
"Living Like Lulu" Apple Baskets www.littletinkers.com.au RRP $89.95
"Tiger Tribe" Vintage Tea Set www.peanutgallery.com.au RRP $34.95
Mini Dollies Fairyland www.cradlerock.com.au RRP $24.95
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Tiger Tribe Super Clay Minis - Flowers www.cradlerock.com.au RRP $4.95
Coq en P창te Paper Toys - Jet Set Pets www.littlebooteek.com.au RRP $15.95
Sweetie Petite Doll Kit-Daisy www.bubbabling.com.au RRP $20
Top
Funny Face Magnetic www.rudyandthedodo.com.au RRP $17.95
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Makedo-Find and Make Flowers www.ittybittygreenie.com.au $11.96
Christmas Gifts Apple Patchwork Handbag RRP $9.95 www.oobi.com.au
Origami Paper www.enchantedbybooks.com.au RRP $9.99
Stocking Fillers
Scribble Down Dinosaur Encounter www.boyosaur.com.au RRP $8.95
Guitar Nano Blocks www.mudpuddle.com.au RRP $11.95
Kaboodles Craft Kits Create your own Picture Frame www.freerangeliving.co RRP $15.00
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Kate Anderson from Indispensable Me shares her childhood memories leading up to the big day! 34.
Christmas 1975. I was 6 years old and obsessed with the colour purple. My family used to call me the “Purple People Eater” after that strange novelty song. I wore a lot of purple clothes back then. So of course I wanted a purple bike for Christmas - well a tricycle to be perfectly accurate. I was probably old enough for a bike but the combination of poor gross motor skills and protective parents ensured it had to have three wheels. It was all I wished for that entire year. Nearly 40 years later Christmas is almost here again, and the underside of our tree is filling up with presents. My young girls are getting excited. This year they haven‟t really asked for anything “big” and quite frankly there is not a lot that they need. I am delighted by their restraint but anxious that the gifts we have organised for them are not very “magical” and not quite what Christmas memories are made from.
I am troubled, in a first-world angsty kind of way. What exactly am I trying to deliver to my girls? The best toy ever? The magic of Christmas? I am not sure. Perhaps I just need to travel back to 1975, to see Christmas through my eyes as a child... I can remember needing to share my fervent wish for a purple tricycle with Santa. Mum suggested writing him a letter, addressed to the North Pole. I was by then a competent writer - with my first year of school under my belt. I also drew a picture of a purple trike, just to make it clear. And I mentioned the colour purple, more than a couple of times. I also discussed my wish with Santa‟s special intermediaries, the ones I had access to on a daily basis. And though I can‟t remember the discussion - Mum and Dad tell me it was persuasive and convincing. My message delivered I presumed (well, hoped!) that Santa‟s elves were tinkering away in their workshop creating my special purple trike, just for me. So that just left the waiting and the anticipation. On Christmas morning I woke feeling strangely buzzy and jumpy. We had a couple of rules for this special morning - no one out of bed before the 7am signal from Mum. And then we were all required to head down the hall together. So you can imagine, waiting in my bed the anticipation was excruciating. I was far from certain that Santa had said yes to my request. It was a big present, the sort of thing I rarely asked for and could barely imagine receiving. I was almost afraid to get out of bed, in case of disappointment
But there it was, purple and shiny and BIG and just waiting for me to jump aboard. It was more beautiful than I had even imagined. I felt giddy and silly and smiley and just wanted to sit on it. After all the anticipation in the days and weeks leading up to Christmas I think I was in some kind of delirious shock. At that point it seemed like the world was perfect. And for a little while after Christmas, zooming up and down our concrete back patio - I'm pretty sure it was! As the years have passed the warm-fuzzy feeling generated by that Christmas and the purple trike have grown. All my childhood memories of waking up on Christmas morning and wondering what would be found under the tree share that same feeling - first experienced in 1975. It became the template for how Christmas morning was supposed to feel. Excited, expectant and with that added early lesson on the joy of delayed gratification. Now, as a grown up and a mother myself I also appreciate the pain and joy of my parent‟s journey that Christmas. They too suffered from gift anxiety, wanting me to have the best possible Christmas, with the most perfect present. And apparently a purple tricycle was not an easy thing to find. In those days before internet searches my parents just had to spend time doing the legwork. Mum visited a lot of bike shops and Dad spent a lot of time letting his fingers do the walking in the Yellow Pages. He tells a tale of the mad 100km round trip to a warehouse in the city, just two days before Christmas to pick it up. Halfway home he panicked. What if it wasn‟t purple? He hadn‟t even checked. Unable to face the possibility of delivering the wrong colour, he jumped out of the car and ripped open the box. All good and safely delivered to be hidden in his shed till Christmas Eve. So there is little wonder that I too LOVE the experience of playing Santa for my children. And why I want it to be special and magical for them both. We also make our girls wait until an agreed time before racing down to open their presents. A growing body of literature has linked the ability to delay gratification to a host of positive outcomes, including academic achievement, psychological health and social success. But I doubt that was ever my parents intent. Like me, I am sure they simply loved watching our eyes light up on Christmas morning as we ran into the family room to discover our special wishes (no matter how big or small) had come true.
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Christmas Memories “At the age of 7, I received a gorgeous musical jewellery box with a dancing ballerina from my Nan. It makes me sad to think I no longer have it, given she is no longer with us. However I thought I was the luckiest little girl in the world when I received it. So beautiful, delicate, graceful and very special; everything my Nan was. Although such music boxes are not rare, I can still recall unwrapping it on Christmas Day and watching the dancing ballerina for hours. The box would hold all of my precious little knick knacks and would sit proudly on my bedside table. With 3 boys of my own, I cannot foresee giving anything similar as a gift but I do look forward to the day where I can possibly give such a gorgeous gift to my own granddaughters at Christmas time.” Natalie - marketing professional, mum of 3 “I was beyond excitement the year I got my Evel Knievel stunt cycle for Christmas. Its the first year that I can remember asking Santa for something and actually getting it! And the only toy I remember from my childhood that actually did what the TV ad showed it doing! I spent an entire summer jumping the bike off the end of tables and benches and one time (our greatest triumph) from the edge of the pool, across the water and onto a lilo. I was a legend in my own backyard. The only downside was that poor old Evel was the only boy doll in the house so he often got kidnapped by my older sister and was forced to play „tea parties‟ with Barbie. I wish I still had my Evel. I reckon my son would be interested in it for about half a day! Mark - builder, dad of 1
““A gift from my parents – my beautiful tin of Derwent pencils. 36 in total. Apparently the 72 seemed a bit excessive to those in charge of present giving. I treasured those pencils, always keeping them well sharpened but not too sharp. Often reordering them in number/colour/shade order, just for the joy of it!? Many an average work of art was created over the years with those pencils. I loved the colours and how well they drew. Yes, I have given a set of Derwents to my own sons. They are to be shared. They are even watercolour too which means you can use a wet paintbrush to create water colour type effects. The boys love and treasure them and
they too make sure every last one is packed away each time they complete a session of creative exploration. They don‟t spend the time to put them all back in number/colour order....but I must confess, I have done it once or twice for old times‟ sake.” Rochelle - marketer, mum of 2 My most wonderful present was my first 'big girl's' bike that I was given by my parents the Christmas I turned 10 (sadly that was 30 years ago). It was a BSA bike, an English brand, that my Dad had hunted down in Melbourne because that was the same brand of bike as he has been given when he was a boy in England. It was bright red with a silver pack rack and a little wicket basket and white rim tyres, a brown leather seat and BSA in white lettering on the frame. So retro! I rode that bike until I was 16(!!!) and I had truly grown too big for it then. It was the best present and it meant that I could ride around the neighbourhood (no helmet!), ride it to school and visiting my friends - the freedom! Dad kept it in the shed when I moved out of home and I was so, so sad when it was stolen when my parents were away on holiday a few years later. I would love to have it now for my girls.” Nat - illustrator, mother of 2
“My very own watch, given to me by my parents. I thought it was absolutely great. It made me feel important. I was a „someone‟ with my watch on. I had a school friend who coveted my watch and in turn for allowing him to wear my watch for a period of time he would give me money to go and buy peanut butter sandwiches from the tuck shop (Imagine – nuts at school!?). Now in my forties, I no longer wear a watch and haven‟t done for years. I‟m too prone to breaking them and besides, the time is now on my phone, lap top or upside down on someone else‟s wrist when I need it. I think I would perhaps buy a watch for my sons, but I wouldn‟t want to get them a digital one. It would have to be a handsome analogue version so that they could learn to tell the time the old fashioned way.” Stephen - international man of mystery, dad of 2
Kate Anderson is mum of two girls and owner of Indispensable Me, a Publicity, project management and administration business in Melbourne.
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Mini Sandcrabs Short Sleeve Rashie - Bondi RRP $49.96 Swimshorts - Aqua Tom & Teddy RRP $31.95 Penguins Swimshorts RRP $49.95
Eyetribe-Frankie Ray Sunglasses Picnic-Pink Gingham RRP $29.95 Cancer Council Kids sunscreen From $9.95
Roxy Kids Go Fish Thongs RRP $19.99
Stay cool this summer with these must have summer items for little ones! Penny Scallan Drink Bottle RRP $19.95
Saltwater Sandals-Shiny Yellow Minibots RRP $69.95
Tilly & Otto fedoraespresso RRP $15
Hide & Seek Cindy Cover-Up Purple Feather RRP $44.95
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1. U-Pick Season
There is nothing like fresh fruit direct from a farm or orchard, and what better way for the kids to learn about where the food they eat comes from, than picking their own during U-Pick Season. There are a few farms around an hours drive from the city that provide pick your own berries, including Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm (strawberries), Blue Hills Berries and Cherries, (Cherries, Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, youngberries and red & black currants), Pennyroyal Raspberry Farm (Raspberries, Brambleberries, Youngberries, Boysenberries, Marionberries, Strawberries, Jostaberries, Loganberries, Red and black currants) Summer also brings stone fruit season and you can pick your own at Paynes Orhard. WHEN: Nov-Mar (depending on fruit) WHERE: See locations above
2. Outdoor Cinema Watching movies under the stars is a wonderful experience for the whole family to enjoy. There are a number of Outdoor Cinema options, some paid and some free but either way there are plenty of family flicks in the outdoor cinema schedule that everyone will enjoy. Check out the following options; OPEL Moonlight Cinema- will be screening advance previews, contemporary, cult and classic movies on the Central Lawn at Royal
Botanic Gardens. Mark in the diaries the following family flicks; Diary Of A Wimpy Kid: Dog Days -22nd Dec Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted -28th Dec Paranorman -1st Jan 2013 Frankenweenie -4th Jan 2013 The Avengers -9th Jan 2013 Rise Of The Guardians -19th Jan 2013 Wreck-It-Ralph -25th Jan 2013 Aladdin -2nd Feb 2013 WHEN: Dec 2012-Feb 2013 WHERE: Royal Botanic Gardens
Ben & Jerryâ€&#x;s Openair Cinemas- are a quintessential summer event, with feature films lighting up our huge movie screen from dusk. Donâ€&#x;t miss the cult classic The Labyrinth on the 30th December. WHEN: 2nd Dec-6th Jan 2013 WHERE: South Beach Reserve, next to the St Kilda Sea Baths. Cinema Nights at Piazza Italia- Bring the whole family to enjoy cinema under the stars on Lygon Street in the heart of Carlton. Every Saturday night there will be free family movies and cartoons screening in the piazza. Upcoming family flicks include; Sat 15 Dec: Geek Charming Sat 22 Dec: The Polar Express Sat 29 Dec: The Three Stooges WHEN: 1st-29th December 7pm-9.30pm WHERE: Piazza Italia Argyle Square Carlton
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Movies by the Bay- Bring a picnic, rug, or a deckchair and enjoy a FREE film with friends and family throughout January . Friday, 4th January-Madagascar 3 (PG) Friday, 11th January-Ice Age 4 (PG) Friday, 18th January-The Avengers (M) Friday, 25th January-The Sapphires (PG) WHEN: 4th-25th January WHERE: Logan Reserve, Altona & The Rotunda, Commonwealth Reserve, Williamstown Fed Square Outdoor Cinema- Pull up a deckchair, find a spot in the sun or bring your own picnic rug and enjoy free family films on Melbourne‟s biggest public screen. Sunday 6 January - Horton Hears a Who Sunday 3 February - Gnomeo and Juliet WHEN: 6th Jan & 3rd Feb from 2pm WHERE: Big Screen Federation Square
3. New Years Eve Celebrations
Early Eve offers you and the family all the excitement of a New Year‟s Eve celebration, without the late curfew. With entertainment from 6pm, Early Eve at Yarra Park will provide the whole family with a range of free activities. Participate in the New Year gift exchange, drop into the dress-up station, have your face painted, or be part of a unique community art installation. For the musically inclined, let the kids loose on karaoke or sit back and enjoy a local line-up of fantastic stage acts. At 9.30pm, adults and
and children alike will join us in the official Early Eve countdown, which will culminate in a spectacular midnight-worthy fireworks display . WHEN: 31st December 6.30pm-9.30pm WHERE: Yarra Park Brunton Avenue Jolimont
4. Australian Open -Kids Tennis Day Kids can have a hit on the world-famous Melbourne Park courts, get their photo taken with the Australian Open trophies, visit Autograph Island and the whole family will love the free Rod Laver Arena Spectacular featuring some of the world‟s best tennis players, a surprise singer and your favourite Nickelodeon characters at the Kids Tennis Day. WHEN: January 12th 2013 from 8.30am WHERE: Melbourne Park (Garden Square, Western Courts and Rod Laver Arena)
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5. Sand Sculptures Each year families way their way to South East Melbourne to visit the one of the biggest sand sculpting exhibitions in the world. For 4 months from Boxing Day, Frankston Waterfront will again be transformed as 3,500 tonnes of sand is carved into spectacular sculptures. This year, Sand Sculpting Australia‟s team of talented International and Australian sculptors will bring to „life‟ in meticulous detail “Under the Sea” – a submerged world of breathtaking beauty and foreboding . A world where reality and fantasy combine in massive sand sculptures that will delight and enthral visitors of all ages. Sculptures of Mermaids, Sea Witches, Poseidon and Atlantis will stand alongside Whales, Submarines, Sharks and a Coral Reef. This year, Australian Children‟s writer and illustrator Graeme Base‟s “The Sign of the Seahorse” will be featured with Graeme onsite over a number of weekends for book signings . Integrated with the sculptures will be children‟s activities including Sand Sculpting Workshops, Sand Art, Sand Bottles, Sand Diggers, our Giant Sand Pit, Children‟s Activity Sheet and our NEW Lego Play Zone and Channel 9 Summer Chill Zone. Plus, on weekends and school holidays, there will be roving entertainment, face painting and, for the first time, Speed Carving will be showcased. WHEN: 26th January-28th April 2013 WHERE: Frankston Waterfront
6. Pony Rides at Cantani Gardens If your little one has an interest in ponies, take them down to Cantani Gardens every Sunday for a gentle pony ride. Cost is $8.00 per ride or you can buy a discount card for $50.00 which will give you 10 rides. WHEN: Every Sunday WHERE: Catani Gardens, Beaconsfield Parade, St Kilda
7. Australia Day Celebrations
RACV Australia Day Picnic and Federation Vehicle Display - A real favourite with families, the Kings Domain Gardens will feature the famous Federation Vehicle Display with more than 450 veteran, vintage and classic vehicles, entertainment including multi-instrumentalist James Morrison, free activities and scrumptious food stalls. The many activities include: * working dog displays rounding up sheep * sheep shearing demonstrations * activity arena including soccer for under 5's with soccer time kids, tai chi, make your own bird feeder to take home with you (for under 16s), mini golf, mini basketball, bocce, chess with the master, learn to lace, fencing and plenty more.... WHEN: 26th January 2013 10am-4pm WHERE: Kings Domain Gardens, Melbourne
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8. Pool Parties Throughout Summer, the North Melbourne Recreation Club is holding regular poolside activities. There is plenty on in the warmer months to keep you cool and the kids entertained. Inflatable Tuesday will kick start summer with the giant pool inflatable scheduled every Tuesday in January between 1pm & 3pm. There will also be special themed days where you can get dressed up and be involved in the fun activities. Pirates Ahoy! Come dressed as a fierce or friendly pirate to sail the NRMC pool. Boat races and prizes for best costume on the day. Sci-Fi Wipeout- Beam yourself to MNRC for some great fun on the pool inflatable and other great water activities. Prizes for the best Sci-Fi Costume. Get your geek o! Sunny Sombreos- Who has the biggest sombreos? What about a funky towel poncho? Prizes for the best outfits plus heaps of fun games in the pool. Super Hero Splash-Super Hero Splash Day means you can some in your best super hero costume for your chance to win prizes. Plus you may even see a real super hero or two. WHEN: January 2013. Check Facebook for updates on days scheduled. WHERE: North Melbourne Recreation Centre204-206 Arden Street Melbourne
9. MusicPlay Children's Festival MusicPlay is an exciting summer holiday music festival for children and families. MusicPlay aims to encourage young music lovers and their families to immerse themselves in music through an array of interactive concerts and musical activities. Shows include The Kookaburra Who Stole the Moon, Invisible Me, Carnival of the Animals, Aussie Babes, Making Music with Mark Atkins, Peter Combe's Great Australian Songs and Free Foyer Fun. WHEN: 17th-19th January WHERE: Melbourne Recital Centre- 31 Sturt Street Southbank
10. Trop Jr Trop Jr is a filmmaking competition and free outdoor festival for kids 15 years and younger. Now in its sixth year, Trop Jr is about encouraging young people to make short film no longer than 7 minutes . On festival day, families are invited the Sidney Myer Music Bowl to watch the Trop Jr finalists show their films. Live screenings are scheduled across various locations at 11am-12pm. WHEN: 17th February 2013 11am-12pm WHERE: Sidney Myer Music Bowl
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Summer Styling Photography: Lee Bird Photography Styling: Styled by Belle Hair and makeup: Simone Clarke Youshiki Scissor
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Charlie wears aqua check shirt RRP $24.95 & yellow shorts RRP $24.95 from Cotton on Kids.
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Ella wears Fabrik lemon picnic smock RRP $69.95
Zac wears Organic boy's custard tshirt by La Queue du Chat RRP $35.90. Available from Little Frenchy & Jimmy Navy Shorts RRP $49.94 from Oobi
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Charlotte wears girls summer dress from Eternal Creation RRP $64.95
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Ayla wears butterfly t-shirt Target RRP $14 and Shorts Gumboots RRP $34.95.
Scarlett wears Night Owl Together Dress from Minti RRP $45.95
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Charlie wears aqua check shirt RRP $24.95 & yellow shorts RRP $24.95 from Cotton on Kids.
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Ella wears KissKiss Organic blouse in pink by La Queue du Chat RRP $51.90 and Organic girl shorts pink stripe by La Queue du Chat RRP $34.90 from Little Frenchy.
Scarlett wears Lexie Pink Chevron Dress RRP $49.95 from Oobi
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Zac wears T-shirt Cotton On RRP $14.95 & Shorts Cotton On RRP $16.95
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Charlotte wears Little Horn Balloon Heart Tee in Pink RRP $34.95 & Organic bloomer trousers pink stripe by La Queue du Chat RRP $56.90 from Little Frenchy
Ayla wears Smock Pink Forest Dress RRP $34.95 from Oobi
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Zac wears Dragstar Tee RRP $29.98 from Monstar Kids & Mossimo Shorts RRP $59.95. Hat-Stylists own
Charlie wears Mossimo T-Shirt RRP $30 & Beastie Check Shorts RRP from Oobi RRP $49.95. Hat from Gumboots $19..95
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Charlie wears Blue & White Fish Swim Shorts RRP $49.95 from Tom & Teddy
Zac wears SonnyBoy "Noah's Arc" shorts RRP $32 from Summaskye. Gumboot sunglasses $9.95. Hat Stylists own
Scarlett wears Yellow stripe Bathers Gumboots RRP $29.95. Hat Pumpkin Patch RRP $24.99. Sunglasses Gumboots RRP $9.95.
Alya wears Roxy Aqua Stripe Bikini RRP $49.99 Sunglasses Gumboots RRP $9.95.
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Charlotte wears Fabrik Miami Bikini RRP $49.95 Hat Gumboots RRP $19.95. Sunglasses Gumboots RRP $9.95
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Ella wears Roxy Rash Vest RRP $49.99 & Roxy Beach Shorts RRP $45.99
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From Left: Ayla wears Oobi Out to Play Playsuit (Cherry check) RRP $44.95 . Scarlett wears Fabrik Explorer Jumpsuit Lattice Print RRP $69.95. Charlotte wears Oobi Amalie Tiered Sky dress RRP $49.95 Ella wears Oobi Carmen Dress (Cherry Check) RRP $44.95 . Zac wears Dragstar Tee RRP $29.98 from Monstar Kids & Mossimo Shorts RRP $59.95. Hat-Stylists own
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Scarlett wears Fabrik Explorer Jumpsuit Lattice Print RRP $69.95 Charlotte wears Oobi Amalie Tiered Sky dress RRP $49.95
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Charlotte wears Oobi Tinkerbell Marshmallow Dress RRP $49.95 Scarlett wears Oobi Anastasia Dress Marshmallow RRP $69.95
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Ella wears Paris Pink Kaftan from Kaftan Kids RRP $32.00 Ayla wears Read + Bell Coco Kids Tunic - Watermelon RRP $35.00
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Summer Memories
Sights, sounds and scents quickly evoke memories of when we were small. We asked some Alphabet Street friends to take us back in time to their childhood summers.
That’s me with my sister!
What a cutie!
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Sisterly Love
Julia Whitney Owner of Rudy and the Dodo
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Andrea Rembeck Owner Tutu Du Monde
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Alex Riggs Founder/Designer Oobi Baby & Kids
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Julie Lemmon Owner Cradle Rock
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Kate Nelson Owner Meetoo
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Amanda Evans Designer/Director Cocoome Organic Sleepwear & My Munchkin Home
Did you enjoy the odd backpacker-style adventure before your little ones arrived? If you look back on old photos and feel nostalgic for those days, All Abroad Baby has some top tips on how to do the road less travelled with very little ones. 72
B.C. (Before Children) my husband and I were
the intrepid travel types. We caught the overnight train from Thailand to Laos with the locals. We canoed down the Mekong and did homestays with traditional Laos families. We drove from Darwin to Sydney over six weeks, camping all the way. We even climbed 3726 metres above sea level to the top of Mount Rinjani, an active volcano on Lombok in Indonesia. Then our little monkeys came onto the scene and we kissed our Bear Grylls days goodbye. “We never did get to Machu Picchu. Oh well. Maybe in another life,” we‟d thought… Don‟t get me wrong, we adore our little ones and wouldn‟t change our new lives as doting parents for anything. But when our second arrived, we realised we hadn‟t been struck down with Panicky Parents Syndrome, like we had with our first. Before long we felt the need to regain a sense of our old selves. After all, nothing makes kids happier than seeing their parents doing things they love. Could we really go camping with a baby and a toddler? Or take a trip to one of our favourite destinations, South East Asia, and venture beyond the tourist havens? Sure we could. We stuck to a few handy tips and off we went. Did anything go wrong? Two small mishaps: while camping, our airbed sprung a leak and we had to buy a new one. In Bali, we forgot to bring Vegemite (our toddler‟s daily staple) and paid the equivalent of $13 AUD for a small jar! Here are All Abroad Baby‟s top tips for intrepid travel with little ones:
• Travel in summer
The best part about holidaying in summer is that you don‟t need to worry about heavy coats and clunky shoes, which overload your suitcase or luggage allowance. Packing light is one of the keys to having an enjoyable holiday – no one wants to cart items that weigh more than your baby.
• Take a lightweight stroller
Think light in regards to everything – even your pram. If you‟re flying, an umbrella stroller (called this due to the way it easily folds) is accepted as hand luggage on most airlines (double check with your
airline first). This means you can keep your stroller with you right up until you board the plane.
• Pack your own nappies & formula
If you‟re going to a foreign country and you have a favoured brand of nappies, take them with you (or contact your hotel and ask if your brand of nappies is available). In Bali, nappies were nearly twice the price they were in Australia. The same goes with formula – it‟s a good idea to take it with you if you‟re going overseas.
• Hire a driver with kids car seats
Hotels can arrange a driver with kids car seats to pick you up from the airport. You may even be able to book a driver for a few days so you can venture to places you can‟t get to on foot or by public transport. We hired a driver in Bali, this cost $60 AUD per day and we went all over the island.
• Find out about baby bedding
If you need your hotel to supply a portable cot for your baby, ask them if they provide cot bedding as well. Not all mid-price hotels do (as we once discovered). You may need to bring your own cot sheets.
• Check out vaccine recommendations
If you are going overseas, visit your doctor and find out if your children need any vaccinations. Recommendations can change, so don‟t go off information you were given several years ago.
• Take a portable chair camping
You will need somewhere to prop up your baby. Camping means no carpeted or wooden floors. Just dirt, stones, grass and flowers – all the things babies love to put in their mouths. If your baby isn‟t in a high chair yet, a seat like the Bumbo® will do the trick. We took our portable IKEA high chair because the legs detached.
• Test airbeds before you go camping
Unless you fancy an unexpected trip to the closest camping supplies store, inflate your airbeds at home and see if they deflate!
All Abroad Baby is a website that brings together global shopping, parenting and travel inspiration for mums of little ones.
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School Holiday Snapshot
There are so many wonderful school holiday activities throughout the summer holidays that we can‟t list them all however check out some of our favourites below; Wind in the Willows
Melbourne and Sydney‟s favourite family entertainment continues its well-loved tradition of bringing the animals home to the Royal Botanic Gardens for summer. Over the years an audience of tens of thousands have delighted in the simple pleasures of this rollicking production. Pack a picnic, pack the kids... and join Rat, Mole, Badger, Otter, Portly and, of course, Mr Toad, as they bring to life Kenneth Grahame's immortal story of life on the riverbank. Read more... WHEN: 28 December 2012 to 26 January 2013 (no11.00am performance on 26 January)at 11am and 6pm from Tuesday to Saturday WHERE: Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne COST: Single tickets, $25, family of four (1 ticket admits four people) $90, handling fee may apply
Alice in Wonderland
Alice‟s Adventures in Wonderland, Lewis Carroll‟s classic story, is coming to life in the beautiful gardens of Rippon Lea House and Gardens and Geelong Botanic Gardens for the summer holidays. All the crazy characters will be there! Join Alice as she goes down the rabbit hole and follows the White Rabbit into the fun and magical world of Wonderland. This captivating promenade children's production will keep the whole family enthralled and entertained with acrobatics, shouting, singing, dancing and riddles and rhymes. There‟s lots of fun participation for the kids and even the adults have to turn into cards and march behind the Queen of Hearts – or it‟s off with their heads! Read more...
WHEN: 2 to 26 January 2013, Tues - Fri 11am and 6pm, Saturday at 11.00am - special 6pm performance on Saturday 5 January 2013 WHERE: Rippon Lea House and Gardens COST: Single ticket $25, group of four ticket $90, handling fee may apply
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Como House and Gardens Rewind and Replay in the olden days
Ever wanted to take a trip in a time machine? Rewind and replay at Como House and Garden this school holidays with a program that will send the world in backward spin! Kids unplug and log-off to explore the world of the 19th Century at Como House this holidays. They‟ll find out what it was like to have lived 100 years ago with no TV, no computers and no fast food! At the beginning of each session kids will put on their thinking caps to play “little detectives” and discover the use and importance of strange and WHEN: Wednesday 23 January 10am to mysterious thingamabobs from the Victorian 12.30pm WHERE: Como House & Gardens- Cnr Williams era. This will be followed by a gad -about in the gardens with our resident green thumb. A Rd & Lechlade Ave South Yarra COST: $15 per child, $10 per NT member child. variety of fun and games will follow including quoits and croquet, egg and spoon races and 10% off for group bookings over 10 children much more! Read more...
State Library of Victoria Front-Yard Fun
Share in the fun of stories, songs and games on the Library‟s front forecourt! Come as a pirate or mermaid for some swashbuckling activities and treasure-hunting. For families with children aged up to 8.! Read more... WHEN: Friday 18 January 2013, 11:00am 12:00pm WHERE: State Library of Vic-Swanston Street COST: FREE
National Gallery of Victoria Workshop: Paint with dots
Seurat and other artists in Paris painted pictures using colourful dots. Join in a dotty painting workshop including an exhibition tour for kids and Radiance: The Neo-Impressionists. Fully supervised. Ages 5–8 Read more... WHEN: Thursday 17th January 10.30am12.30pm WHERE: National Gallery of Victoria COST: $25 Adult / $22 Member Child (includes exhibition entry)
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Junior Rangers: Beetles, Bugs and Birds at Royal Park
Join the City of Melbourne Park Rangers as they take you on an adventure through the Australian Native Garden at Royal Park, where you'll learn about beetles, bugs and birds. Read more... WHEN: 21st Jan to 25th Jan 10am-12pm WHERE: Royal Park Flemington Road Parkville COST: FREE
Futurescape ARTPLAY
Did you know that ArtPlay has a Backyard? Well, we are slowly bit by bit decking it out with cool stuff to explore… next we‟ll be making an outdoor sculpture and this is your chance to be part of creating it! The sculpture will be a big boulder that has been split in two – as if a giant has dropped it from above and it‟s cracked open – but there‟s so much more to work out. Together with artist Helen Bodycomb you can help design what it‟s going to look like. First we will look back in time for inspiration from the best of Roman engineering and the best of traditional Greco-Roman mosaics. Then we will think about the present and then the future – imagining a Futurescape for our sculpture. Read more...
WHEN: Sunday 13 January, Sunday 20 January, Sunday 27 January, Sunday 10 February, 10.30am to 12.30pm; 2pm to 4pm WHERE: ARTPLAY COST: Free but bookings essential
Kids Cooking Classes Queen Victoria Market
Banish boredom these school holidays by enrolling your kids in a class at the Electrolux Cooking School. Older kids can learn to love healthy eating or master perfect pasta, while little ones can try their hand at breakfast feasts, barbequing and bikkies! Read more... WHEN: 15th - 25th January 2013 WHERE: Queen Victoria Market- 69 Victoria Street, Melbourne COST: $55 per person
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„S‟ is for summer Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
„S‟ is for summer, sweet corn… and showy sunflowers. Experience the delights of our summer vegetable patch with story telling, vegetable tasting and some summer gardening fun. Take home a small piece of the vegetable garden for your own home garden. Suitable for children aged 4 to 7 years. Adult participation is required.. Read more... WHEN: Friday 11 January, Wednesday 16 January, Friday 18 January 10 – 11.15am WHERE: Royal Botanic Gardens MelbourneMeet at the Visitor Centre, Observatory Gate COST: $12 per child
Giggle and Hoot and Friends Live The Arts Centre Melbourne
Jimmy Giggle, Hoot the Owl and their best owl pal Hootabelle are coming to Arts Centre Melbourne for their first ever live stage show, Giggle and Hoot and Friends. Joining Giggle and Hoot for this full-on 50 minute Giggle-liscious stage spectacular will be your favourite ABC characters, Bananas In Pyjamas and LazyTown. Bananas In Pyjamas, those lovable pyjama wearing fruit B1 & B2, will be up to their usual antics and bound to entertain with their humorous and whacky sense of fun. Your friends from LazyTown, the slightly above average super hero Sportacus and Stephanie, will sing, dance and flip their away across stage with some awesome high flying acrobatics. Read more...
WHEN: 3 - 18 Jan 2013 WHERE: Arts Centre Melbourne COST: $34.90 - $44.90
Children‟s Tour-Shrine of Remembrance
Young families can explore the Shrine of Remembrance this summer with the help of Lofty the Light Horse and Pat, an Australian Light Horse soldier. Pick up the Children‟s Tour book from the Visitor Centre and navigate around the Shrine through a series of fun and educational questions; find out about Australian military history and the importance of the Shrine in remembering our servicemen and women. Read more... WHEN: Thursday 3 January to Sunday 27 January WHERE: Shrine of Remembrance COST: Free 79
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would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a safe and memorable New Year! See you in 2013!