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Tag: Reviews

A thrifty way to travel – our Melbourne holiday with kids

WHEN I say thrifty, I’m talking about Thrifty Car Rental, which set us up with the Black Beast during our family holiday to Melbourne last week. They gave us a roomy Ford Falcon XR6 (it was meant to be a Hyundai i45, but I’m starting to get over that), a GPS (which was introduced to some rather colourful language from The Bloke in The Shed), a fuel card (yet we didn’t even use half a tank!) and they took care of my tolls (when asked what tollways we used we just shrugged our shoulders. There are no tollways in Tasmania. In Tassie, we’ll pay you to use our roads).

As part of this post, I thought I’d show you where the Black Beast took us to inspire you on your next Melbourne visit. Digital Parents Conference, anyone?

You’d think this post would start with a lovely family photo of us standing around the Black Beast, right? Well, unfortunately the Beast was a tad camera shy. Or, quite possibly, we forgot to actually take a photo in all the excitement. Instead, here’s a photo I stole from Ford.

And now, here’s what I know about what to do with kids in Melbourne:

Thursday:

At the Melbourne airport we picked up the Black Beast from the Thrify Car Rental desk, completely fitted out with blue child car seats, in what was a no-fuss experience and headed straight for… shopping. We’ve taken in most DFOs and shopping precincts and the relatively new South Wharf DFO has been among the best. In the afternoon we princesses spent some downtime in our perfectly located hotel, Medina Executive South Yarra. The Bloke in The Shed took to the hotel gym. Our two-bedroom unit was incredibly roomy and Ella was chuffed at her BIG bed. We were surprised by how close it was to everything we needed access to, including the Royal Botanic Gardens. We had a picnic dinner with the Claire family, with so much space in the gardens it’s hard not to find a secluded spot for yourself.

Friday:

While the Kids Business Bloggers Brunch was only a few blocks from our hotel, the GPS went into a tizz when it tried to take us down a few closed streets. Thankfully, with the temperature reaching 34 degrees, the Black Beast’s air con prevented us from going into a tizz. Once I finally arrived at my Prahran destination, The Bloke in the Shed and the two princesses headed to the air-conditioned Melbourne Museum. While hubby said the children’s area was good, Princess Ella (4) was apparently more interested in the general section. In the afternoon, the Beast lured us to Prahran Market where I fell in love. And I’m not talking about the fact we saw Russell Gilbert. The array of food – and the quality – was too much temptation. It’s not the sort of thing you’d spend a lot of time at, especially with kids, but if you’ve got the ability to cook in your hotel it’s well worth it. That night we dined at a café on Toorak Rd.

Saturday:

We detoured via St Kilda (yay GPS!) to pick up my brother and then headed straight to the Melbourne Zoo. You can read the full review about how much we enjoyed ourselves. That night we over indulged on the yummy delights we’d picked up at the Prahran Market.

Sunday:

Our flight left at 8.30am, so we preprogrammed the airport into the GPS the night before. At the airport carpark, Ella turned to me and said: “Can we take our car home with us, Mum?’’. Sure, why not. I’ll pack it in with our luggage (which had already reached its limit after the Bloggers Brunch goodies). As we headed out of the terminal to board our Qantaslink flight, it felt like all the spoils of our holiday were now behind us. Then we were presented with the above Dash 8. Yes, a pink one. Ella, again, thought the airport had turned it on especially for her. We’re not about to ruin her fun.

What would you recommend we do next time we visit Melbourne?

Linking up Shae from Yay for Home’s Things I Know. Make sure you click to learn what others’ know.

DISCLOSURE: We received a car, GPS and fuel card from Thrifty Car Rental. We received a two-bedroom room at Medina Executive South Yarra at a media rate. All opinions expressed are my own.

November 25, 2011
Monkeying around at the Melbourne Zoo (review)

WHEN it wasn’t raining at the Melbourne Zoo on Saturday, we were drenched from the hot rain dripping off the trees. However, in the words of a corny cadet journalist, it didn’t dampen our spirits. See?

How dashing do I look? Actually, don’t answer that. If I had realised there were kid ponchos, I would have snavelled one of those.

It was then followed by a Bear Grylls parenting moment, when The Bloke in The Shed had to master a dummy chain from the plastic of his fetching blue poncho to stop Li’l Holly from dropping her pacifier onto the ground – and possibly into poo. The animals. Not hers.

The monkeys were a wonderful start to our day, including this little guy who was keen on giving hubby a lip-smacking kiss.

It was all fun and games until he decided to start drinking his own wee. I’ll refrain from showing you that photo.

Princess Ella was taken to the Melbourne Zoo when she was 14 months old – nearly the same age as Li’l Holly now. Of course, Ella has no memory of it, but we vividly recall how much she enjoyed it, making all the different animal noises she’d just started to master. One of the highlights from that trip was the excitement in her eyes when she saw a butterfly land on her Uncle Rick’s shoulder.

We tried to recreate that moment this time but, of course, it didn’t happen. I did manage this pretty photo though.

And a similar shot of Uncle Rick with Li’l Holly.

My brother and Li'l Holly at the Melbourne Zoo

Speaking of déjà vu moments, this was Ella as a tot, cuddling up to her dad as they watched the elephants together.

Ella as a tot making elephant noises

This is about the same spot, watching the elephants again now a few years on.

It’s fair to say, the elephants are still a big hit for the O’Briens, especially that beautiful baby elephant who, just like Holly during a fussy Wonder Week, stuck by her mum like glue.

Sadly, it was at this point the camera battery died. It was my fault for not charging it, but let’s just keep that one between ourselves. Thank goodness for iPhones with HDR though. It allowed us to get Ella’s favourite animal, the giraffe, along with the seal show (truly fabulous), the new mini aquarium area (well, new since we were last there),

witnessing an alpha male moment between two lions (quite chilling)

and Ella’s first ride on the carousel (and about my 10^th).

Although, movement was a little challenging for the iPhone.

There were two other creatures we weren’t bargaining on. The first was this little fella:

Can you see the rat? Not sure if he is factored into the price of admission or not. And then this rather jolly creature:

As if Ella’s eyes weren’t already falling out of her head. He may well have outdone seeing a giraffe for her.

We thoroughly enjoyed our day at the Melbourne Zoo, despite the rain. The variety of animals on show is always impressive and the ability to get so close and see how they would interact in their natural environment is quite surreal. We were also thankful for all those viewing platforms in keeping us dry. Our only feedback would be on the bistro meal, which could have been a little heartier for the price. But a minor point in the scheme of the day.

The zoo is one of those wonderful attractions that has no age barrier – from Li’l Holly at age one to the many grandparents wandering around. I highly recommend it for your next visit to Melbourne, especially if you love learning about new animals. And we’ll be back again, for sure.

Cost: Children 4-15 (Saturday, Sunday, public/school holidays) free; Children 4-15 Monday to Friday) $12.60; Children 0-3 free; Adult $25.40. See the Planning Your Visit page for concessions.

Opening hours: 9am-5pm every day of the year.

More information: Visit Melbourne Zoo

Have you visited the Melbourne Zoo or do you have another favourite zoo? What was your highlight?

DISCLOSURE: We received complimentary passes to the Melbourne Zoo and the carousel. However, we did pay for the ponchos! All opinions expressed are my own.

November 21, 2011
WIN: Aussie Giveaway Linkup #25
My brother and Li'l Holly at the Melbourne Zoo

IF YOU’RE reading this early Sunday morning, I’m about to board a plane home to North West Tasmania after four days in muggy, wet Melbourne. If you’re working on QantasLink this morning, apologies, that smell is eminating from MY suitcase. Need to invest in some more powerful deodorant, I think.

I’ll have a few posts this week about my trip, but some highlights were:
- The location of Medina Executive South Yarra couldn’t have been more perfect. It was actually a coincidence, but it ended up being close to EVERYTHING we needed to get to. I highly recommend it.
- We became so familiar with South Yarra as we drove around in our Ford, courtesy of Thrifty Car Rental, Ella began to notice familiar sights. The Bloke in The Shed introduced her to the Treasury Building and when seeing it a second time, she piped up with: “Look Dad, that’s the building that has treasure in it’’.
- DFO South Wharf was probably one of the better DFOs I’ve been to in Melbourne. I am the world’s worst shopper (Julian outdoes me in this department), but I still managed a pair of Guess jeans, some heels and too much clothing for the girls. Always the way.
- Meeting so many bloggers in one spot at the Kids Business Bloggers Brunch was truly fantastic, not to mention inspiring. It was nice to put some more real-life faces to pint-sized avatars. Although, once again, the main comment I received was: “you sound so much bigger on your blog’’. My only regret was not meeting everyone or spending more time with those I had brief chats with.
- And on the Bloggers Brunch, there were a few brands which really stood out for me. I’m hoping to introduce you to some of those over the next few weeks.
- There was so much rain at the Melbourne Zoo for our visit we noticed zoo staff building an ark. Despite the weather, an animal-loving one-year-old and four-year-old thoroughly enjoyed it. The highlight was the giraffes, because Ella really wants one as a pet. For The Bloke in The Shed and my brother it was this animal:
- A picnic dinner at the Royal Botanic Gardens with good food and even better company was a relaxing start to our trip. Ella and her new friend Bliss hit it off so well, you’d swear they’d been friends for years. You would be astounded to hear the type of adventures that await highly imaginative pre-schoolers in the gardens.
- I have fallen in love with the Prahran Market. I am seriously considering moving to Melbourne now. Ella was salivating as she eyed off all the olives. I’m ready to head back for a Caramalised fig and almond gelato.
What do you love about Melbourne?

If you love shopping, trying out new products or simply getting free things, start clicking on the links below.

If you’re a blogger or business wanting to take part in the Aussie Giveaway Linkup:
1. Only link directly to the giveaway post/s and include the prize and end date in the linky tool below. Link each giveaway separately. If you need to delete it, hover over your link, wait until the red “x’’ appears and click.
2. Giveaways must be open to Australian residents.
3. Grab the button to add to your post.
4. A new list is added each Sunday at 7am so bloggers need to add their links weekly.
5. Start entering the giveaways
InLinkz

Hosted by Three Lil Princesses

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November 20, 2011
My Tasmanian Backyard: Princess Theatre Launceston

TODAY I was hoping I’d be posting about what I was going to wear when I met Princess Mary next week. Instead, you get to hear about another Tasmanian princess – the Princess Theatre at Launceston in the State’s north – as part of the My Tasmanian Backyard series. Yesterday The Bloke in The Shed received an invite (plus one – aka me) to lunch with Prime Minister Julia Gillard (yeah, whatever) and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark (woohoo!).

Except he declined. What? I know. It seems getting from Tasmania to Canberra and back in the hours the girls are in childcare is just a bit beyond Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar.. Why did I have children again?

So while I’ve just forgone an entire week’s worth of princess posts, here’s a post about a more child friendly princess that will still tickle your fancy. And might I add that she turned 100 this year. She’s looking mighty fine for an old duck.

Is that a cheesy grin, or what?

On Sunday she hosted fairies. Now you wouldn’t get that in Canberra. Actually, maybe you would. The fairies in question happened to be THE Fairies – Harmony, Rhapsody, Fairy Minuet, Barnaby, Elf and Wizzy.

Oh, and Santa. Anyone would think the big guy in red was part of The Beatles, considering the reception he received.

The old theatre is exactly what you’d expect to see in most cities – old grand buildings with exquisite detail,

Looks much more impressive in ``real life''.

elaborate seating, beautiful lights

and red velvet curtains. The Princess Theatre, under the Theatre North umbrella, has featured some of my favourite concerts while an entertainment journalist. We usually got treated to far better seating than we did on Sunday too.

See the dots on the stage? To be honest, despite being as far back as was possible (because someone booked the tickets too late), our vantage point was still impressive. This wasn’t our first concert at the theatre this year either, having also watched The Wiggles. You’ve got to love a man in a skivvy.

And a dinosaur in pink.

Conclusion: Entertainment buffs will enjoy the variety the theatre offers, with everything from children’s entertainment, theatrical performances, concerts, comedy and school productions. There’s little fear of numb bum with comfy seating and the slope of the theatre making viewing easier – important for someone who’s shorter than a Melbourne jockey.

Highlights: Seeing Ella have the entire aisle to herself to bust a move. If only Rhapsody was close enough to see her triple twist, which led into a back flip and finished with the splits.

What does it cost: This depends on the show. See the site for the latest concerts and prices.

Attractions nearby: For The Wiggles, we arrived early and had a picnic at City Park – also known as the Monkey Park to locals. It has plenty of area for the kids to run around, Japanese Macaque monkey enclosure, a miniature train for children to ride on, duck pond, barbecues, play equipment, clean toilets and the John Hart Conservatory. It’s within walking distance to the theatre.

How to get there: 57 Brisbane St, Launceston.

View Larger Map

LEARN MORE: Visit the Theatre North website for shows and bookings or the Facebook page.

DISCLOSURE: Not necessary for this post.

What shows have you seen and enjoyed with your children this year? Do you have a favourite venue?

November 15, 2011
WIN: Aussie Giveaway Linkup #24
ANOTHER month, another birthday. It is seriously like that in this house. Yesterday we marked Princess Ella’s fourth birthday. Writing that down just blows me away. It seems like only yesterday I was holding her in my arms for the first time. Totally dependent. Oh, so tiny. And covered in gunk.

Now, she’s a super confident young girl. A social butterfly, who can ease the toughest of social situations. Incredibly bright and a big thinker not bound by limits. And she also happens to be the funniest person I know.

We marked her birthday today with a small family barbecue at the Bells Parade park, at Latrobe,

a princess tiara cake (again) made hours before the party (tutorial to come)

and the traditional O’Brien candle race (it’s seriously like watching grass grow, but they love it). Note there are only two candles. We forgot to pack more.

She was also spoilt with some beautiful gifts, including a 300-piece bead set. We ended up with the 300-piece bead set on the floor, at which point I was tempted to get the Dyson out.

I might add the majority of her presents are still on Christmas layby. Well, seriously, what store creates Christmas laybys that can’t be picked up until Christmas!

Before you go clicking to try and score yourself a bit of Christmas cheer, here’s a video of Ella’s first year of life, put together for her first birthday. Please, feel free to fast forward to about the 50-second mark. The first part is her family members and obviously rather boring for most readers. Every time I watch this video I end up in tears. The music is by my Twitter friend Martina McBride. Although, at this point, she’s unaware we’re friends.

If you’re a blogger or business wanting to take part in the Aussie Giveaway Linkup:
1. Only link directly to the giveaway post/s and include the prize and end date in the linky tool below. Link each giveaway separately. If you need to delete it, hover over your link, wait until the red “x’’ appears and click.
2. Giveaways must be open to Australian residents.
3. Grab the button to add to your post.
4. A new list is added each Sunday so bloggers need to add their links weekly.
5. Start entering the giveaways!
Hosted by Three Lil Princesses

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Do all your birthdays seem to fall at the same time of year? Or is that just our family?
November 13, 2011
WIN: The entire Keratinology by Sunsilk range (valued at $100)
REGULAR readers will already know I had my hair done on Saturday. After my hairdresser styled it, I kept that look for three LONG days. That’s right, I didn’t wash it. You can only imagine what’s been breeding in there.

So yesterday morning I treated my very-much-in-need-of-a-wash hair to the new Keratinology by Sunsilk range. I was sent through the Advanced Reconstruction Range and the Sun-Kissed Colour Therapy Range.

I started with the Keratinology by Sunsilk Sun-Kissed Colour Therapy, Colour Therapy Shampoo and Express Treatment Conditioner. It was followed by five minutes of the Keratinology by Sunsilk Sun-Kissed Colour Therapy Glossy Mask. And before you scold me about being in the shower too long (like someone else I know), it rained all day yesterday so there’s plenty of water in the dams. The entire day I felt like flicking my hair about as if I was in a shampoo commercial, because of how soft it felt.

Last night, before bed, I popped on some of the Keratinology by Sunsilk Advanced Reconstruction Program Overnight Treatment. I must admit, I only tried it in the ends of my hair because I was concerned I’d wake up greasy. However, it couldn’t be further from the truth. My hair this morning is soft and silky and has no evidence of product residue. Last night it even melted into my skin as if I was putting on a gentle moisturiser. Although, I do wonder how it performs on more oily hair.

Packaged in stylish light brown and black bottles, each product has a pretty, sweet smell, but is by no means overbearing. The collection uses advanced Keratin Micro Technology to address the common damage symptoms from repeated bleaching, colouring or ironing and to prolong that salon look. Obviously what I’m after, if I’m not washing my hair for three days! I’ll be interested now to see the effects long term.

Getting my hair done is my idea of bliss. I only wish I could be at the Keratinology by Sunsilk, in association with marie claire, pop-up salon in Sydney this week. Imagine a pampering wash and blow dry, the ENTIRE Keratinology by Sunsilk Advanced Reconstruction Range, the latest issue of marie claire and… champagne for a mere $20. The lot is valued at $90.

If you’re in:

Burwood: Park Ave, Burwood (opposite Westfield Shopping Centre): Today

Parramatta: 182 Church St, Parramatta (in front of Parramatta Town Hall): tomorrow, Monday, November 14 and Tuesday, November 15.

call 0426 293 611 to book your salon appointment. You can also find out more information on the Keratinology by Sunsilk Facebook page.

If, like me, you can’t get to Sydney for this bit of luxury, you can still treat yourself at home. Heck, I’ll even let you open a bottle of champagne. To win the ENTIRE range –
- Keratinology by Sunsilk Advanced Reconstruction Program Detoxifying Shampoo & Express Treatment Conditioner – RRP: $10.99, 200ml (each)
- Keratinology by Sunsilk Advanced Reconstruction Program Heat Protector Spray – RRP: – $13.99, 180ml
- Keratinology by Sunsilk Advanced Reconstruction Program Overnight Treatment – RRP: – $13.99, 100ml
- Keratinology by Sunsilk Advanced Reconstruction Program Hair Spa Mask – RRP: – $13.99, 200ml
- Keratinology by Sunsilk Sun-Kissed Colour Therapy , Colour Therapy Shampoo & Express Treatment Conditioner – RRP: $10.99, 200ml (each)
- Keratinology by Sunsilk Sun-Kissed Colour Therapy Glossy Mask – RRP: – $13.99, 200ml
tell us why your hair needs some reconstruction. The giveaway closes Thursday, November 24 at 7pm and a winner will be drawn randomly and announced on this blog and via Facebook and Twitter. Australian residents only. Limit of four entries.

Want extra entries? Then here’s how you can up your chances in the draw. Each task is worth one extra entry, but must be included as a separate comment (or it won’t count).
1. Click the Facebook button below and share this giveaway with your Facebook friends. Then leave a separate comment saying something along the lines of “I’ve shared this on Facebook’’.
2. Click the Twitter button below and share this giveaway with your Twitter followers (Twitter handle is @ThreeLil). Then leave a separate comment saying something along the lines of “I’ve shared this on Twitter’’.
3. Follow me via the Google Friend Connect button over there in the sidebar and leave a comment telling me you’re now a follower.
**DISCLOSURE: I received the full range of Keratinology by Sunsilk products for review. All opinions expressed are purely my own.

Hosted by Three Lil Princesses
November 10, 2011