tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63518164619990211552024-03-14T04:37:23.727+11:00 Not So Secret Women's Business Sharing Secrets That Aren't Best Kept To OurselvesNot So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-35657163728286796272017-01-11T06:14:00.000+11:002017-01-11T06:14:04.617+11:00Kitchen Hack - Be Juice Ready<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This kitchen hack came about because I hate wasting <u>anything</u>!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It was one of those weeks when I had bought fruit with every intention of making a healthy juice to start my day. It was the week before Christmas. The first week of the school holidays. It got frantic. I had been ambitious.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Before the fruit got to the super mank stage, I chopped and divided what I had into snap lock bags and froze them, ready for juicing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This particular snap lock bag is watermelon, pineapple, ginger and mint.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You could freeze any number of winning combinations including (but by all means don't limit yourself to) mango, strawberries, any berry for that matter, oranges, limes, anything you like in a juice. All the fruit is then chopped, in desired portions and combinations for your juice and ready to go when you are!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Easy peasy.</span></div>
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-74897220017064891462017-01-08T08:47:00.002+11:002017-01-08T08:48:00.570+11:005 Questions to Ask Yourself Daily in 2017<div style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; color: #777777; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 1.5em;">
I was captivated watching a video my brother shared on FB by Prince Ea. Look him up. You will be inspired.</div>
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After watching this, I got to thinking – over the washing up, where all my good thinking happens!</div>
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I came up with a handful (literally) of questions to ask myself on a daily basis. Because time does fly and it can be too easy to get caught up in being ‘busy’. These help me STOP and reflect and ultimately stay on track.</div>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">WHAT HAVE I ACHIEVED TODAY?</strong> This will keep me accountable on the daily goals I set for myself. It will serve as a check in and also as a pat on the back. I have a tendency to wander, move on to the next thing, switch concentration. Think Dory and you’ve got it. I am naturally short term focused so this will help me maintain long term focus.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">WHAT AM I GRATEFUL FOR?</strong> It is good to be grateful so it had to be on the list. There is ALWAYS something to be grateful for, and usually a whole lot more than just one thing!</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">WHAT MADE ME LAUGH?</strong> It is too easy to get caught up in crap. Even as a natural optimist, sometimes I forget to remember the little things that tickled my fancy. If I have had what I considered to be a bad day, I now contemplate the saying I saw a short time back ‘was it a bad day or a bad 5 minutes?’ There is always something in my day that made me laugh. It’s good to be mindful of that when reflecting on my day..</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">WHAT MADE ME THINK?</strong> Having a deep moment is a blessing. It is a time of learning: from the positive of inspiration to the realisation of how something could have been done or handled better and everything in between. These are the sections of my day that make me a better person.</li>
<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">WHAT DID I DO TODAY THAT MADE ME ‘LIVE’ / BROUGHT ME CLOSER TO MY DREAMS? </strong>2016 flew. Time flies. I figure if I don’t consciously keep this in mind, 2017 will fly and I may not have progressed (enough) towards my dreams, or got so caught up in being ‘busy’ that I didn’t ‘live’.</li>
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Time is windows of opportunity occurring every second.</div>
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It’s great to have this check list whilst I reflect on my day and consciously think about how it was spent. It makes the days mean more than they already do.</div>
Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-23434182916380085772016-09-27T05:29:00.002+10:002016-09-27T05:29:34.184+10:00Home Made Chicken Stock<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I can't take the credit for this recipe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I always thought that making your own chicken stock was a complicated affair. But.... I was watching <a href="http://www.lifestylefood.com.au/tv/river-cottage-australia/" target="_blank">River Cottage Australia</a> when they ran through the recipe and I was happily gob smacked at how simple it really is. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I then of course changed it. A little! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We buy a bbq chook every so often - which never ceases to thrill the furry pants off our two Tibetan Spaniels who can smell it 5km away! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Once I've removed the drumsticks and chicken wings, removed and shredded all the meat for us and the bits for the pooches, all I am left with is a carcass filled with stuffing! </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">I used to throw the bones and mankier looking bits out. Now I use them to make super easy stock. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I put all the bones, stuffing, even skin in a saucepan. I roughly chop a carrot and by roughly I mean it's not peeled and it's cut into chunks. I do the same with a brown onion. If you have celery, cut up one stick and add it to the saucepan, leaves and all. Parsley, same deal. Whatever you have that you think will compliment the taste. Season with salt and pepper and add some mixed herbs. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Cover all of this with water. Bring to the boil and then simmer for about 1 hour. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Drain the liquid from the veggies and carcass and discard them, reserving the liquid which is now your stock! </span></div>
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I pour mine into containers and freeze it. I then will often use it as the base for my <a href="http://notsosecretwomensbusiness.blogspot.com.au/2016/08/chicken-and-sweet-corn-soup.html" target="_blank">chicken and sweet corn soup</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Easy peasy!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">From this....</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To this!!</span></td></tr>
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-87586466902627264132016-09-14T06:03:00.002+10:002016-09-14T06:11:45.946+10:00Chicken Korma - Slow Cooker Tuesdays<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am all about short cuts in the kitchen. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I love making a dish from scratch and used to balk at the idea of using a jar of anything. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Then I had kids and time constraints hit me in the kitchen.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I still of course love flavour and I love making a variety of dishes. Heck, you only live once, you might as well try everything on offer!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I also love improvising, much to my husband's dismay. But in my defense, my improvising works. Mostly!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On this occasion, I came across a jar of simmer sauce when I was doing the groceries and figured it would work in the slow cooker. Isn't that what a slow cooker does anyway? Simmers (kind of) throughout the day? Well, that was how I justified it in my mind.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For this recipe (fancy I can even call it that!), I used:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 brown onion, roughly chopped</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">500g chicken tenderloins</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 jar Korma simmer sauce</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1/4 - 1/2 cauliflower, chopped into florets</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 zucchini (corvette the courgette) diced</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Garlic Naan</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">4 tbsp plain Greek yoghurt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1/2 Lebanese cucumber diced</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I don't believe in browning anything before putting it into the slow cooker - that's how much of a short-cutter I am these days.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I tossed the chopped onion in first with the chicken and cauliflower on top. I poured the simmer sauce over this, then filled the empty simmer sauce jar about halfway with water, put the lid back on, gave it a shake to get ALL the sauce off the sides (I hate waste) and poured that into the slow cooker as well. Gave it a good stir to coat the chicken and cauli in the sauce, put the slow cooker lid on and I set it to LOW. Low and go slow! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That was at about 7.30am. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At about 1pm, I added the zucchini.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Come 5pm I put the rice cooker on (I know. I used to do it myself on the stove once upon a time....) It was also at this stage that I threw into the slow cooker some left over cooked pumpkin that I had in the fridge to warm up before serving.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With my spare time (!!) I decided to whip up a 'not quite' Raita. I diced the cucumber and mixed it in with the yoghurt and seasoned with salt to taste.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The plus with the Korma is that it is mild, so the kids enjoyed it immensely.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is such a simple, effortless (quite literally) yet impressive dinner to make. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here's cheers to improvisation!</span></div>
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-86629536062938235312016-09-10T05:42:00.000+10:002016-09-10T05:42:17.679+10:00Vegetable Cous Cous<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I still can't leave it alone. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A simple packet, meant as a side dish. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Hubby is out and all I see is a main meal for one waiting to happen. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Here's how it went down:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">1 zucchini (courgette) diced<br />
1/4 red capsicum (pepper)<br />
1/4 yellow capsicum (pepper)<br />
1/4 green capsicum (pepper)<br />
1/2 cucumber diced</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Cook the cous cous to packet directions. Whilst it is sitting, waiting to be fluff ready, cook the remaining ingredients in a small fry pan. This will take up the 3 minutes cous cous sitting time. Add the veggies to the cous cous and fold in to combine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Wella! You have yourself a vegetarian main meal. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Or, I will often have this with a piece of salmon.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Note to self (and others) Do not fluff cous cous then tap the fork on the side of the saucepan. Unless you want to see cous cous fly!</span><br />
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-56078713696105149082016-08-30T12:46:00.001+10:002016-08-30T12:46:11.752+10:00Crunchy Salad - For Those Like Me Who Never Really Liked Coleslaw.<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once upon a time when I used to work in an office, I was offered to taste a salad that quite frankly, blew me away.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Being the true to form Taurean that I am, I of course asked what was in it (meaning the dressing because the contents, you will see, were pretty darn obvious) with a view to replicating this at home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We now have this salad most weekends. It is healthy, super crunchy, and delicious. And if you are like me and have some foods you wished you loved but don't - like I do with coleslaw - then this is for you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This recipe though allows me to improvise like nothing else. With supermarkets producing packets of already chopped salad ingredients, I just go to town with what looks good on the day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here we go:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1/4 red cabbage finely shredded*</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1/4 green cabbage finely shredded</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 carrot grated*</span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">4 slices red onion</span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 avocado, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 tbsp sunflower seeds</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 tbsp pepitas (pumpkin seeds)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dressing:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 tbsp mayonnaise**</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mix all of these together and you have yourself a healthy and delicious lunch time salad. Add a tin of tuna for an extra protein hit!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">* the cabbage and carrot form the base of the salad. However, rather than chop the ingredients myself, I have also been known to purchase a pre-packed bag of coleslaw and just add to it, or more recently, a pre-packed bag of chopped beetroot, carrot and zucchini. I will also add avocado, capsicum (peppers), cucumber - whatever you think</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">** to add a little extra zing to the dressing, I will mix in a teaspoon (or thereabouts) of caesar salad dressing or ranch with the mayo</span><br />
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-12820571681175234152016-08-30T11:41:00.002+10:002016-08-30T11:41:48.027+10:00Tuna Pasta Bake<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This recipe is a simple go-to that uses ingredients you already have at home in the pantry and freezer. I love it for those times I forgot to take something out for dinner or haven't done the groceries as yet.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What started as simply following a recipe from the internet, I couldn't help myself, I had to improvise!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's how I put my Tuna Pasta Bake together:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">250 g pasta (spirals, penne, whatever you like)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">40 g butter</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 tbsp plain flour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2 cups milk (full or low fat)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3/4 cup grated cheese</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">425 g can tuna, drained</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 cup frozen corn</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 cup frozen peas or half cup finely chopped broccoli if I am smuggling vegies. I've even finely diced a zucchini. (Desperate measures with kids!!)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pre-heat your oven on 180 deg C.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Boil a medium sized saucepan of water and cook your pasta until al dente. Sounds fancy! Just cook it until it's done. Drain.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Over medium heat, melt the butter in a medium saucepan. Add the flour and stir until combined. Remove from the heat. Add the milk, stirring to combine. Place back on the heat and continue to stir until the sauce boils and thickens. Remove from the heat again and add half of your grated cheese, stirring it in to combine. Mix in the drained tuna. Pour all of this mixture into the drained pasta and stir through.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pour into a prepared oven dish. I use about a 6 cup capacity Pyrex dish. Preparing means I have pulled it out of the cupboard! Smooth the mixture out so it is even. Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the top.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 10 - 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is great served on its own or with a side salad.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Serves 4 (with lunch leftovers!!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-68529244112125930452016-08-27T17:26:00.002+10:002016-08-27T17:26:31.868+10:00Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The extent of my winging it in the kitchen goes as far as making a dish based solely upon what I think may be in it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For my chicken and sweet corn soup that tastes like the real deal, I use:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2 chicken breasts<br />
420g can creamed chicken<br />
420g can cream of chicken condensed soup<br />4 cups chicken stock<br />
125g vermicelli (optional)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Serves 4 </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Place your vermicelli in a bowl and cover with boiling water to soak and soften. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />
In a frying pan, cook your chicken. You could use bbq chicken if you wish to save on time (and who doesn't love that!) If using fresh chicken breast, I use a frypan with a lid to cook it quicker. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />
In a large saucepan, bring your chicken stock to the boil. Add your condensed soup and creamed corn and stir. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Shred the chicken and add to the soup, reducing the heat to a simmer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />Drain the vermicelli. Place in the bottom of your serving bowl. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Pour soup on top and serve. </span><br />
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-13689873914658935112016-08-17T05:10:00.000+10:002016-08-17T05:10:10.699+10:00Chilli Con Carne - Slow Cooker Tuesdays<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is becoming widely known - because I keep reminding you - that I improvise (a lot) in the kitchen. Turns out, so does my father, and his mother before him. So it is fair to say it is in the genes!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today's recipe is a play on Taco Tuesdays. My kids heard that term on a show once and decided to run with it</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tonight however, it is not taco's as such. We are having Chilli Con Carne. And I decided to do it in the slow cooker. Here's how it's happening:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 tin crushed tomatoes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 tin mixed beans (you could use red kidney beans)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">500g lean mince</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">3/4 cup frozen corn kernels</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 sachet Chilli Con Carne recipe base powder mix </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(I would also use taco seasoning if I had to. It smelled the same!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I emptied the tin of tomatoes into the slow cooker first. I then filled the tin to about half way with water, swished it around and poured that in as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rinse the tin of beans under water until the soapy looking bubbles are no more. Pour them in to the slow cooker. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Add the mince, the contents of the recipe base sachet and the corn. Give it all a good stir to combine. Lid on and turn to LOW.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Time on was 7.30am.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Because I am feeling all fancy and Mexican (and mainly because I have today off), I am serving this with corn chips, avocado, sour cream, lettuce, red onion and grated cheese, almost (but not quite) turning this into a Nachos-athon.</span><br />
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-61164117720987648032016-08-06T16:55:00.003+10:002016-08-06T17:09:17.990+10:002 Things To Keep In Mind When Dealing With Difficult Customers <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">More often than not, customers can interact and transact with us on a daily basis and all will be completely fine.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Then there are the times, for one reason or another, we have difficult customers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Knowing how to handle these situations can hinder or help our ongoing relationship with that customer and ultimately our business.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When I really stop and think about the best way to deal with difficult customers, I think it comes down to two things:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">PERSPECTIVE and COMMUNICATION</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></b><br />
<b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Perspective</b><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Communication is paramount. It is the key driver to all relationships. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A lack of communication can harm, or worse, destroy a relationship, and great communication can build and strengthen a relationship. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But first of all, let's look at perspective. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To do this, let me give you an example of what I mean by perspective.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Many moons ago, I lived with one of my best friends. She is a nurse that works in operating theatres and at the time was the nurse who assisted the </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.2px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">anaesthetist</span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Answering her question of how my day was, I launched into a (no less than) 20 minute rave about how bad my day had been. I can't even remember why it was apparently so ordinary in order to fill you in! At the end of my rant, I returned the question "so, how was your day?" </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Her reply put <i>everything</i> in perspective. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"We lost a patient today."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The patient had gone in for what should have been a low risk, routine operation, but he had arrested on the table. She and the anaesthetist had worked on him for 45 minutes but could not bring him back.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It rarely happened so when it did, it never failed to rock her boat. Having a patient die and then having to inform their family <i>never</i> gets easy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That conversation stopped me in my tracks.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I thought I'd had a bad day, but I had not had anyone die. It gave me perspective and I have never forgotten it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The reason I tell that story is that when I have a difficult customer, I always shoot to that memory...has someone died? Chances are, the answer is no.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am not diluting the customer's concern. I am keeping it in perspective.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Of course the customer's issue is important and I treat both the customer and the issue with respect. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Perspective can help you detach from taking it personally. Unless you have done something yourself to upset a customer, the complaint is often not about you directly. Keep that in mind when dealing with them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It also helps to keep in mind that you never truly know the full story of what is going on in someone's life: stuff that can heighten their emotional state and possibly magnify their view of the situation they are taking up with you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Communication</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This brings me to communication.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By no means am I condoning or excusing a customers' less than desirable behaviour towards you by blaming it on what they have got going on in their lives that you may not know about. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is no excuse for bad manners and that goes for bad behaviour too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It does help you however to be mindful. It helps keep things in perspective. Be respectful towards the customer, but detach yourself from allowing their heightened emotions to have more of an impact on you than they should. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We have all been customers and we have all been upset with the (lack of) service we have received at one time or another. Our meal took too long to arrive, it wasn't cooked through, we were overcharged, our flight was late, being attended to took way too long, we did not receive the return phone call we were promised, we were disconnected. The list could literally go on and on forever. Sad but true.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dealing with difficult customers is not something anyone enjoys.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you have built a relationship with your customers, dealing with an issue or delivering unpleasant news to them is made all the easier. It may not alleviate all of their frustration or angst over the situation, but they will be less likely to take it out on you because they KNOW you. Though I am the first to acknowledge it can certainly test the strength of the relationship!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My background is in the freight industry. Over the years I have had my share of customers who have not had their freight arrive on time, their freight arrive damaged, their freight did not arrive at all. I am happy to say this was not a regular occurrence but it has happened.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Not knowing how a client will react to you delivering the 'news' you know they don't want to hear can create a little anxiety to say the least!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Empathise. And, as best you can, manage their expectations. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is all done through communication.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">These days emails are often considered the way to go because everything is in writing and cannot be mistaken in the 'he said, she said' game.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When a situation has turned sour however, face to face communication - where applicable - or a phone call, instead of or in addition to an email, can do wonders.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Speak in a calm voice, hear what the customer has to say and by that I mean really listen to them. What you think is important and what the client thinks is important, could be different. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You will often find that a disgruntled customer simply wants to vent. So let them. If this turns to blatant abuse and outrage, firmly but calmly remind them you will not accept that tone or behaviour. Do not move to that level with them. It can be difficult, but remain calm and in control.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Often, this is not about you personally. The worst thing you can do is argue back with the customer. Dealing with a difficult customer is still a form of customer service and arguing is NOT endearing you to ongoing business.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Be mindful of what you say but more importantly HOW you say it. As I said earlier, empathise. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Acknowledge how and why the situation is not what the client wanted.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Dependent upon circumstances, ask the client how they would like the matter resolved or let the client know how it will be resolved. I am one for exceeding expectations, however now is not the time to over-promise unless you absolutely know you can deliver. So know your boundaries.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you have told the client you will get back to them in an hour, make sure it is in an hour. If you do not have the answer by then, call them and let them know you are still working on it and offer another timeframe to call them back in. And stick to that timeframe.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This is all part of managing their expectations. And re-instating credibility with you and/or your company.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When the client knows you are in their corner, the heightened emotional state softens.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A great place to learn about dealing with difficult customers is at the airport. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Airports are places of peak emotions: from e</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">xtreme happiness and excitement to sadness, frustration or even anxiety. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This can make for an interesting time for the staff who work there. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From the passenger who has missed their flight, is running late for their flight, wants to change their flight to the "don't you know who I am" passenger. (Yes, they're out there).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Next time you are at an airport, watch the transactions at the check in counters and you will see how dealing with difficult customers is really handled. When dealing with customers who are often operating at these peak emotions, the staff must be trained masters at negotiating and delivering information in order to keep the customers happy and the airline rolling.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The absolute bottom line is, it is the customer </span><a href="http://notsosecretwomensbusiness.blogspot.com.au/2016/04/who-pays-our-wages.html" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">who is really paying our wages</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> so it pays to know how to handle difficult situations when they arise and to keep the customers as someone who continues to support our business.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Do you have an example of handling a difficult customer? Do you have a situation you'd like to know how to handle or handle differently? Feel free to leave a comment below.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-27646122106733493542016-06-04T12:25:00.001+10:002016-06-04T13:47:30.581+10:00This Judging a Parent Thing Is Bullsh!t.<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's a harsh title but it's true.</span><br />
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTKeY1TjpBFxBIj72LwZX5x0ANB2NRnbgBPL-H7hMx9k_7Bofgx" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Image result for judging does not define" border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTKeY1TjpBFxBIj72LwZX5x0ANB2NRnbgBPL-H7hMx9k_7Bofgx" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What's with all the judgement? And for those that do it, who are you to think you have a right to express it?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I chose to write this post because I get sick and tired of the endless judgement that goes on of parents. I've seen it this week in the news and I hear of it often when speaking with other parents. And I just don't get it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Personally, the most judged I have ever felt has been since becoming a <a href="http://notsosecretwomensbusiness.blogspot.com.au/2014/04/the-right-way-to-raise-child.html" target="_blank">parent</a>. I am sure you feel the same way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To me, you just never know a person's </span><u style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">entire</u><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> story. So making a judgement can be completely unfair.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am very lucky that I have learned to mentally block judgements that are coming my way. If what I do doesn't please you, I don't give a right royal toss. Your thoughts are exactly that. Yours. Not mine. I feel quite secure in what and how I am doing my gig as a parent. And for the times I don't, I have my husband and family to check in with for honest feedback.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To give you an example, just earlier this week I was challenged on what I pack for my sons school lunches. I was told it should contain less sugar, that a sprinkle sandwich should be reserved for fairy bread at a party not a school lunch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yes, that is true. And I agree 100%. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It is a sandwich people. Let's not get carried away. He will not be doing sprinkle sandwiches in high school. He probably won't do them next term. But for now, when he has refused all other healthier options, my priority is that he eats. Something.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I know I am not the only parent who feels like this.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In an ideal world, I would pack the healthiest of lunches and snacks and my scholastically brilliant, athletically brilliant, perfect-all-round children would eat every last bite. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In an ideal world, I would have the figure of Heidi Klum and get 8 hours of unbroken sleep a night too. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Every night. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am just stoked that my children eat! Is it unhealthy? No. What 'treats' they have, they have in moderation. They are a healthy weight, with healthy energy levels and are of good mind, body and spirit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But, we don't live every day in an ideal world! Some days can feel like they come close, other days couldn't be further away!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was chatting to a mum at school today. I felt for her so much. Regardless of how many children you have, parenting is a tough gig. And she was really feeling it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The expectations that are either there or that we believe are there from society can be insurmountable, especially on those tough days.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">There is endless housework, school work, work work, spending time, quality time with your kids, and the list goes on and on. In a perfect world we would be on top of everything ALL THE TIME. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I believe the hardest thing about parenting is copping the judgement we never asked for. The opinion or advice we are offered because really, a judgement has already been cast upon our efforts. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The irony is, in parenting we judge ourselves the hardest.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Are we good parents? Are our children ok? Are they behaving in public? Are <i>we</i> behaving in public? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We can send ourselves around the twist hoping that we are doing a good job as a mother.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">These days, social media makes it so easy to cast aspersions on someone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We all know what happened in the news earlier this week when a person's parenting came into question after a beautiful animal had to lose its life. Who knows how that situation could have played out differently. But a lot of people have jumped on the band wagon of attacking the parents for not watching their child more closely.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For those of you with children, you will know that those little tackers can move at the speed of light if they really want to. Yes, sometimes it can be a case of not watching your child, but it can also often be a case of watching your child and a situation still going pear shaped. For those of you with more than one, you will know too well that whilst attending to one child your other(s) will take advantage of the situation and either get into something they shouldn't or go somewhere they shouldn't. As a parent, we have to be prepared for these sorts of things but we cannot always be prepared for which option the unattended child will take! So hold off on your judgements if you do not know all the facts or more so, if you weren't there.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By judging, what you are doing is expecting parents to effectively be perfect parents in that situation. That is like asking a brain surgeon to do his best work ALL THE TIME when he has had months on end of broken sleep. As much as we'd like to, we cannot have laser focus ALL THE TIME. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yes, there are times we drop the ball. Don't you think we know that? Do you honestly think we need you to remind us?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am aware we live in a world where the blame is often shifted and accountability for our own actions seems to occur less and less. But we know ourselves when we have not done our best work in a parenting situation so ease up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Some days we can only give 100% of the 80% we have to give.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Whether in your mind we are doing our best or not, whether we meet your expectations or not, your judgement does not necessarily help the situation. Because you may not truly know the situation.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When my son came third in his race at the athletics carnival today, his response to my congratulations was priceless. "I tried my best Mum." </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That is all we ever ask of our boys - to try their best. And if that is what you are doing as a mum, as a parent, trying your very best, then that is all you can ask of yourself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Even on the days you can only give 100% of 80%. It is still 100%. And I for one, withhold any judgement of your efforts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-91513873522353842132016-05-28T11:17:00.000+10:002016-05-28T11:38:48.434+10:00Parc Cafe - a haven of food awesomeness AND great customer service!<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">You know already I am a huge advocate for a high standard of <a href="http://notsosecretwomensbusiness.blogspot.com.au/2016/03/customer-service-is-win-win-situation.html" target="_blank">customer service</a>. I am also Taurean which means I am all about food. When the two come together in the most delicious way, my stars have truly aligned.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yesterday I caught up with my dear friend Tina who suggested we meet at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/parccafe.clovelly/" target="_blank">Parc Cafe</a>. It's on the corner of Clovelly Rd and Earl St at Randwick, not far from Centennial Park.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I cannot lie. I was starving by the time I arrived. And stinging for a coffee.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">With coffee ordered - and delivered by the time we did the usual and mandatory 10 minute (could have been 15 perhaps?) initial catch up assuring the waitress we only needed two more minutes, um, maybe another two please (we've all done it) - we decided to get serious and peruse the menu. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Oh the menu!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">E V E R Y THING on the menu looks enticing. I'm not just saying it. Go there. You will see what I mean.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My eyes locked on the <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BA3RYeVJN4x/?taken-by=parc.cafe" target="_blank">Poached Eggs, Quinoa Tabouli with Haloumi, Pistachio and Green Dressing</a>.</b> I have to put it in bold. It deserves it. I did ponder for a moment the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BBa23bfJN_a/?taken-by=parc.cafe" target="_blank">Smashed Avocado and Feta with Poached Eggs</a> (I'm a sucker for avocado) but when I asked the waitress for her advice in my decision making, she told me the Haloumi was "pretty good". With a smile and a nod. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Her "pretty good" actually translates to a dish I could eat often. Every. Single. Day. Every day. It was without a doubt THAT good. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The service at Parc Cafe is great. I love a place that is equipped with enough staff to ensure the ordering and delivering of meals and drinks is not held up (well, except by patrons who keep asking for two more minutes!) The staff are friendly and very helpful and always just over your shoulder should you need them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I love a menu that is simple yet has such a diverse range of dishes on offer, not to mention freshly squeezed juices to boot. All eat in or, wait for it....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I noticed a fridge that stocked pre-made take away dishes from the menu - from salads to soups to yoghurts to curries. Coupled with the pricing which I thought was very reasonable, I thought the convenience of having those dishes (including the Quinoa Tabouli) there already done for you was hard to resist. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That did it for me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am in complete love with Parc Cafe.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Would I go again? Of course! I need to make my way through that menu!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Would I recommend it? Absolutely! I am, right now!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The fridge-full-of-take-away-options is such a simple idea, but it extends the customer service of Parc Cafe beyond their venue. When they can achieve extra sales by offering affordable convenience it is a win / win for both Parc Cafe <u>and</u> their customers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Parc Cafe have achieved a winning formula. The location and atmosphere is awesome. The food - well, if you don't know by now how I feel.... And the customer service is an all round great experience. That you get to take home too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Photo credits go to Parc Cafe Instagram and Facebook sites.</span>Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-11207485467796323242016-04-17T08:48:00.000+10:002016-04-18T08:26:44.271+10:00Who Pays Our Wages?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wwo_WcFPxXk/VxK22PlJXBI/AAAAAAAABdE/6hBe8P-neIIw41xOaR80dRn2BvTB_rsBgCKgB/s1600/b84a5e56f233e5d09e004bb433e14ea5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wwo_WcFPxXk/VxK22PlJXBI/AAAAAAAABdE/6hBe8P-neIIw41xOaR80dRn2BvTB_rsBgCKgB/s640/b84a5e56f233e5d09e004bb433e14ea5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">These words by Mahatma Gandhi are logical and true, yet seem to be such a difficult concept for many to grasp.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We can go about our days, starting and finishing work without giving so much as a thought to who <i>actually</i> pays our wages.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For many, we believe it is our employer and in the direct sense, this is true. However our employer paying our wages weekly, fortnightly, monthly - whatever the case may be - is only one link in a chain of events. A chain that we as the employee are an integral part of. And so is the customer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">Why then is the customer often treated with no regard, respect or value? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">After all, a business would not be a business without them. Indeed, many ideas only become a fully fledged business once customers are on board. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">But is it customers who make or break a business? Or our treatment of them?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">We live in a world where competition is a reality. It is ignorant to think our customers do not have choice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">By having a product that meets their wants or needs will gain us a customer. Treating them well will allow us to gain their loyalty.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">If you think about it, it all comes down to communication.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;">Customer service <u>is</u> communication. And there are countless ways we can communicate with our customers. I'm not just talking about emails, phone calls or face to face. I will be going through various ways to up the ante on our customer service levels in upcoming posts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">What truly matters is that the discipline we give to our service levels needs to be as automatic as getting dressed in the morning. We must always remember how important the customer is and treat them as such. This even goes for those customers who fail to offer a reciprocated level of respect in return. More on how to deal with that later.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;">For now, regardless of our position in the company, even if we own it, we should never forget who really pays our wages.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Photo credit: aubis.com.au</span>Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-49025366414778690322016-04-12T17:58:00.001+10:002016-04-12T18:22:34.999+10:00Autumn - Soup Season!<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It's Autumn, which means it becomes Soup Season in our house. I also revive Slow Cooker Tuesdays and even though it is Tuesday, I have not used the Slow Cooker today so will save that for another post! Why on earth did I even mention it then?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Back to the soup.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You know that I am all about giving credit where credit is due. I love this soup and back when Mum was still with us, she would ask for this soup which was a real compliment given she was rapidly reaching the point of not eating much at all. This little beauty however seemed to always hit the spot.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So without any further ado...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Today's soup is by the lovely Kim McCosker over at <a href="http://www.4ingredients.com.au/" target="_blank">4 Ingredients</a>: the super delicious and ridiculously simple LEEK AND POTATO SOUP.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here are the 4 ingredients you will need:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">45g butter</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">4 leeks, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">350g diced potatoes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">1 litre chicken stock</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I sauteed my leeks first up in the butter.</span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The remaining ingredients are added. Ignore the cheeky bit of leftover cauliflower I snuck in!</span><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Once the</span> <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">soup has boiled, reduce to a simmer, cover and cook until the potatoes are tender - about 40 minutes. Zhoosh with a stick blender or blend in a blender (funny that) until smooth. Your soup is now ready to serve. The photo below is Kim's from her</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.4ingredients.com.au/product/4-ingredients-one-pot-one-bowl-4-ingredients-herb-it" target="_blank">4 Ingredients One Pot One Bowl</a> book. The link I have included will take you straight to purchase a copy should you wish.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is not a sponsored post, just simply giving credit where credit is due and sharing the good secrets I happen to come across. In this case, I happen to have the whole book of them!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Do yourself a 'flavour' and follow 4 Ingredients on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/4ingredientspage/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/4ingredients/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and lose yourself in their <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/4ingredients/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> page. Or head straight to their website http://www.4ingredients.com.au/</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Bon appetit! I'm off to serve dinner!</span><br />
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<br />Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-55244574301173846202016-03-30T06:50:00.002+11:002016-03-30T06:59:40.280+11:00Customer Service Is a Win / Win Situation<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For my entire working life, customer service has been at the core of my focus. It has been what has helped me increase business, smash budgets, build and manage teams, expand departments, earn promotions and succession plan. It is easy and the domino effect within your business is profound.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What exactly is it about customer service that has enabled me to successfully do this?</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w0bEgaqleFc/VvrXvUzXRqI/AAAAAAAABcY/gtujvqGngVgaAOF1bRyCakfikj8Sg68CA/s1600/b756add6566554a501791d9aab10f743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w0bEgaqleFc/VvrXvUzXRqI/AAAAAAAABcY/gtujvqGngVgaAOF1bRyCakfikj8Sg68CA/s320/b756add6566554a501791d9aab10f743.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">First of all lets look at the definition. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">What is it I mean by </span><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">customer service</b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">? My interpretation is pretty close to the Wikipedia definition:-</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Customer service is the provision of service to customers before, during and after a purchase. The perception of success of such interactions is dependent on employees who can adjust themselves to the personality of the guest."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For me, I put myself in the customers shoes. I make my role about understanding the customer - what they want, why they want it, why it is important to them to achieve it. And then I deliver. Beyond their expectations. I anticipate what else they may want before they ask for it. And I see everyone as the customer, even if indeed I am theirs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Purely because of the results I achieve, it has been suggested to me time and time again over the years that I should think about doing sales. My response is always the same: I am not a sales person. I do not see myself as a sales person. What grows the business I work on is not my sales skills but my customer service skills.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Customer service is not hard. Customer service is as easy as spending money. Yet it continually baffles me in this day and age why a good customer service experience seems so rare. Mediocre is the current trend. To the point where when I receive good customer service, I have mixed emotions. I am happy to have had the experience yet sad it was so noticeable. Great customer service on the other hand just about blows my mind. I am not hard to please. I just believe that delivering customer service is not difficult. And why, as a boss or business owner, would you not expect this from yourself or your staff when it means growth in your business and therefore your bottom line.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Customer service is a win / win situation.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I will be covering more on this in the coming weeks, providing examples and giving you ideas of how you can improve your level of customer service. You will be amazed at the positive effect this has on your role and your business.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After all, as the image says, 'Nobody raves about average.'</span><br />
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-35853639616092705112016-02-21T10:02:00.000+11:002016-08-30T13:14:18.254+10:00Herb or Dukkah Yoghurt - Healthy Snack Option<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I love the benefits of eating yoghurt, I just never seem to eat enough of it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Enhancing my yoghurt with herbs or Dukkah has solved this issue. I spread it on my morning toast in place of butter and it is DELICIOUS. And healthy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Yoghurt on toast I hear you say? Trust me, I would have said the same thing until I tried it. Still balking at the idea? Try the yoghurt spread on to some crackers or use as a dip with crudites instead.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Here is how I make it:-</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I take one 1kg tub of Greek Yoghurt and stir through about 2 teaspoons Salt.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Take a piece of muslin and lay it in a sieve that is sitting over a bowl. Fill the muslin with the yoghurt. You can tie the muslin if you like, to cover the yoghurt. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Place the yoghurt, sieve and bowl in the fridge for the next 1 - 3 days. This drains all of the liquid from the yoghurt.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Once your 1 - 3 days are up, it is time to add your herbs or your Dukkah. Or you can s</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">plit the quantity of yoghurt in two and make both!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For my herb yoghurt, I used Rosemary, Mixed Herbs, Oregano and Garlic Salt. You can use whatever dried or fresh herbs you like. I took half of the drained yoghurt mixture and stirred the herbs through. Place this into a container and keep refrigerated.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For the Dukkah yoghurt, I made my own Dukkah. You can use store bought or make your own as well. For mine I used Sesame Seeds, Coriander, Cumin, Moroccan Seasoning, Salt and Pepper. Once again, I stirred this through the plain, drained yoghurt, then placed it into a container to store in the fridge.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Try it - let me know what you think!</span><br />
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<br />Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-35159395201520531242015-12-11T06:09:00.000+11:002015-12-11T06:11:16.303+11:00Festive Cocktail - Citrus Drop<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is that time of year when the frocks are out, the drinks are flowing and we are at our socialising peak!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you are looking to add a little zing to the party you are hosting, here is a simple and delicious cocktail recipe just for you:-</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>CITRUS DROP</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In a cocktail shaker with ice, mix equal parts of </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ruby Grapefruit Juice</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Absolut Citron Vodka</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Strain into a glass, adding a squeeze of lemon </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Image courtesy of yummly.com via Pinterest</span></div>
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-86414489776480108162015-12-04T05:50:00.001+11:002015-12-04T05:51:32.125+11:00My 3 Fav Budget Friendly Items For A Healthy Summer Glow <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Summer is finally here. That means sun, swimming, Christmas and lots of socialising.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If, like me, you are conscious of the sun's effect on your skin and don't have time to lay around getting a tan (even with +30 SPF on) then you will love these products that help you achieve that healthy summer glow. The added bonus? They are all budget friendly! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For a natural looking tan that doesn't compromise my health, I look to the following products:-</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>LACURA BB Cream - </b>available at Aldi for AUD7.99</span><br />
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I use the Medium Tint colour because I am olive skinned. For the days I don't want a full face of make-up but just an even coverage that looks like I have gone to some effort, I love this. I don't look made up, my complexion just looks natural, even and fresh.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>LACURA Foundation - </b>available at Aldi for <span style="color: red;">AUD5.99</span></span><br />
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For days, and nights, when a full make-up face is required, this has been my go to foundation now for a few years. I have tried many foundations in my time (being a make-up artist by trade) and for me, this one just works. I like the coverage, I like how it blends, I like its staying power and for those that are budget conscious, you will love its price!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>DOVE Summer Glow Body Lotion - </b>available at supermarkets and pharmacies for approximately AUD7.00 per 250ml bottle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hands down, this has been my 'go to' self tanning lotion for years. The reason is two fold: a) it gives a gorgeous and natural looking tan to my skin and b) it does not have an offensive scent. I use this as my sole body moisturiser during spring and summer, and some other times of the year if I want a tanned look. Upon first use for the season, I find it takes about 3 days to build up to the colour I like and then I just maintain it. I constantly receive questions about where I have been - on holidays, out in the sun etc. If you like self tanning and want a lotion that doesn't streak, this is it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With these 3 'Not So Secrets' out and about, have a fabulous weekend enjoying the sunshine - or looking like you already have!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Note - this is not a paid or sponsored post. It is just me giving credit where it is due and sharing the secrets!!</span></div>
Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-51817900657229876842015-09-26T07:54:00.000+10:002015-09-26T07:55:01.389+10:00Treating Ourselves To Tasmania<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Life happens. You meet, grow up, move away and.... remain friends! In celebrating our 30 years of friendship, 3 girlfriends and myself recently re-united in Tasmania for a 5 day getaway. In August. It was not cold. It was FREEZING! But I did get to live out my desire to dress like I was weathering a New York winter complete with gloves, coat and hat for the duration of our stay. I was in heaven!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Tasmania has so much to offer. It is scenic beyond description. We were embraced by our great country's stories, immersing ourselves in the abundance of history and the fresh surrounds in varying shades of green that only Australia displays.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I learned that Tasmania is not just history and lush scenery. Along with the freshness of the temperature was the refreshing discovery that Tasmanians offer a friendliness and an effortless helpfulness I have not experienced in what seems like forever. Not just one, but ALL. Whether we were out for dinner, buying groceries, doing the tourist jaunts, </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">e v e r y single person we came into contact with was pleasant and helpful. And it was apparent that this was neither an effort or out of the ordinary for them. Old fashioned perhaps, but the 'mainland' could learn a thing or two from our southern neighbours customer service.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We chose to stay at a house high up on a hill overlooking what I thought was all of Tasmania then quickly realised it was only all of Hobart, called, funnily enough, <a href="http://www.stayz.com.au/accommodation/tas/southern-tasmania/hobart/89675" target="_blank">House on the Hill</a>. Did I mention customer service? Not a face as such to be seen by our hosts, but their touch was incredibly visible. To walk in to the home and see that quite a few of our needs for the weekend had already been thought of and catered for just took my breath away. Have I become that jaded not to expect such consideration? From our hosts Simon and Jennifer, it is probably all in a days work. To us, it was attention to detail beyond measure.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Part of the view from The House on the Hill</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Our first sight seeing venture took us south to <a href="http://portarthur.org.au/" target="_blank">Port Arthur</a>. Such an amazing experience to learn more of Port Arthur's early days as a convict settlement. The weather was overcast, cold and drizzly - befitting the stories of its history. It is perfectly picturesque and so beautifully kept to maintain its heritage.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Magnificent Port Arthur</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Picturesque Port Arthur</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Remains of a convict settlement, Port Arthur</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Jonquils line the original fence at the Commander's cottage, Port Arthur</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After a hearty home cooked breakfast on the Saturday morning, we set off for the renowned <a href="http://www.discovertasmania.com.au/attraction/salamancamarket" target="_blank">Salamanca Markets</a>. Most of where we wanted to go was either not that far or you get so swept up in the beauty of the scenery, it doesn't seem that far at all. In this case, Salamanca was about a 10 minute drive from where we were staying. And then... It is so easy to park in Hobart city, even on a Saturday! </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Salamanca Markets with snow covered Mt. Wellington in the background.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Salamanca Markets are something else. They are down on the waterfront and showcase loads of local produce from fruit and vegetables to honey, truffles, nuts and condiments, literally to name but a few. Local artisans display their craft: unique and practical items impeccably carved from Tasmanian timbers, jewellery made from kitchen utensils, loads of fashion ranging from clothing to various accessories, again to name but a few. The whole extensive experience is like one huge treasure chest.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Salamanca Markets</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">True to local form, there are many helpful signs at the stalls letting you know what is acceptable to be taken back to the mainland or back overseas, what can be carried as hand luggage, what is suitable for main luggage or prices for shipping to your destination. The stall holders are all friendly and know their products. They are more than helpful in explaining the item you are enquiring about: where it comes from, how it is made, why it is good for you. Tasmanians are exceptional at customer service! </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Cascade Brewery - how could we not come here?</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Need I say more? Well, in fairness to the <a href="https://cascadebreweryco.com.au/" target="_blank">Cascade Brewery</a>, yes I will. We came here on the Saturday afternoon to do a tour of the brewery. We learned not just of the beer and cider making processes but of the history of the brewery itself. Did you know it was once a flour mill? Being a weekend afternoon, the brewery itself was not operating but again, always thinking of the customer, there were detailed DVD's showing the brewery in operation so that we had a clear idea of how the amber nectar is brought to life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">At the beginning of our tour, we were given three bottle tops which we could 'cash' in at the end of our tour to try the various products. I was interested to learn, and saddened a little, that only a small variety of Cascade beers are distributed to the mainland. The good stuff comes up here whilst they keep the great stuff for themselves! True. I tried the great stuff. Made me sad we can't get it.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">View from the top of Mt. Wellington.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sunday saw me take the wheel of our hire car - a Ford Kuga. Of course! Because what other car do 4, dare I say it, middle aged women hire but a 'Kuga'? We aptly named her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SoniaKruger00" target="_blank">Sonia Kuga</a> and she was, I must say, a comfortable ride. So, yes, my turn. Of all days for me to take the wheel, it was the day we were heading up to the top of <a href="http://www.wellingtonpark.org.au/" target="_blank">Mt. Wellington</a>. Me who is petrified of heights! And edges. That. Have. Nothing. On. Them! It got the better of me half way up the mountain and my driving duties, for then, were relieved. Even the gentleman at the top of the mountain assisting the drivers where they could park was helpful, and friendly! Could this place get any better? I mean, seriously. This is not just a one or two person being helpful type of thing. This is now a running theme among all Tasmanians and my mind was being blown!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It was of course, chilly at the top of Mt. Wellington. 4 degrees cooler than at the bottom of the mountain to be exact. It was breathtakingly beautiful between the snow and the views. Hobart and its surrounds seemed to stretch on forever. After the obligatory snow fight, we jumped back in Sonia and took in a countryside drive heading towards the Huon Valley. Seeing a sign directing us to a winery we thought we would stop in for a quick visit. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.homehillwines.com.au/" target="_blank">Home Hill Winery</a> is at Ranelagh in the Huon Valley. An architectural delight and clearly with wines and food to savour, the restaurant was filled to Sunday lunch capacity. Being a Taurean and therefore all about food (and wine) I couldn't help but check out the meals heading to the tables. They looked delicious and plentiful and I was personally sorry that we had arrived a little too late to enjoy lunch there. Now I am very particular about my white wines. I tend to favour New Zealand whites and am on a personal mission to find a bad one! It has been an extensive search I can tell you. But on the simple geographical basis that Tasmania is roughly in line with some of the most amazing wine producing parts of New Zealand, I thought I would give the Home Hill Sauvignon Blanc a try. I was not disappointed. It was everything I had hoped it would be. From there I moved on to try Kelly's Reserve Pinot Noir. Oh. My. Goodness. Why did I only have hand luggage??? Rosemary who owns the winery with her husband Terry, talked us through each of the wines we wished to try and was so very friendly, happily answering all the questions we had about the wines, the winery, the architecture and the history of Home Hill Wines. This is one place on my list of places to re-visit when I return to Tasmania. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We continued on our Sunday drive winding through the Huon Valley. It is so pretty and picturesque and just so relaxing to take the time to enjoy the countryside. We made our way down to Cygnet - what a beautiful township this is. It has an outlook across the hamlet that makes you feel transformed by its serenity. As I say in the photo below, it is as pretty as a picture: colourful, rural, balanced. It is worth the drive there to check it out. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Cygnet - pretty as a picture.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We began to make our way back to Hobart, stopping in at the village of Kettering on the way. Kettering is the gateway for those wishing to travel to Bruny Island. Another pleasant little township with, of all things, a Turkish cafe. <a href="http://kettering.tas.au/entity/pashas-ferry-road-store-cafedeli" target="_blank">Pasha's</a> wasn't what I expected to see but clearly what the locals and visitors alike appreciate as business could not have been busier! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Back in Hobart, we headed out once again to the <a href="http://brunswickhotelhobart.com.au/" target="_blank">Brunswick Hotel</a> for our last dinner. I indulged in a huge plate of ribs and a pint or two of the Lazy Yak. The Brunswick has such a great vibe - live music, great food, chilled atmosphere, a tasty variety of craft beers and here I go again, helpful staff!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Up and at 'em come Monday morning. It was our last day in Tasmania and we still had a few things we wanted to see.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Richmond Bridge - the oldest working bridge in Australia.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We headed up to Richmond where we stopped and paid homage to the oldest bridge that is still in operation in Australia. As we stood with our beanies, scarves and winter coats on, we watched as the children at the school behind us played hockey in shorts and t-shirts! I guess you become acclimatised after a while.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You'll find this sign if you pop in to <br />the Man O Ross Hotel </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Further north we drove until we arrived at a quaint town called Ross. It is a heritage town with the most beautiful colonial buildings. Wandering around here is like stepping back quite a few decades. It is quiet, peaceful and yet draws many a visitor. The Post Office houses some fantastic and reasonably priced gifts and souvenirs. Across the road we found ourselves ordering Devonshire Teas, the famous Scallop Pie, Pasties and Coffees at <a href="http://www.bakery31.com.au/" target="_blank">The Bakery Cafe</a>. Not a crumb was left on my plate. The interior with its warmth and tasty aromas made it hard to leave. I could find myself a permanent spot just outside that kitchen any day! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A delayed flight home makes for extra sight seeing time. We were all grateful the stars had aligned like that for us. We called back in to Richmond to see more than just the bridge and take some time to explore the treasures it held. What a perfect maze of interesting boutiques housing a unique variety of content. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I couldn't go past the <a href="http://www.sweetsandtreats.com.au/" target="_blank">lolly shop</a>! With its free samplings and colourful array of every. single. sweet under the sun, I was in lolly heaven. And so were the bus load of school kids that had just arrived! </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9viqfITHZ2g/VgGvZXQ6IyI/AAAAAAAABZw/ZWLjXInJdhs/s1600/20150922_132849-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9viqfITHZ2g/VgGvZXQ6IyI/AAAAAAAABZw/ZWLjXInJdhs/s200/20150922_132849-1.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UKrDGcKuwso/VgGu3b9vfMI/AAAAAAAABZc/KEF8QfJ00n8/s1600/20150922_132658-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UKrDGcKuwso/VgGu3b9vfMI/AAAAAAAABZc/KEF8QfJ00n8/s200/20150922_132658-1.jpg" width="180" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.peppercorngallery.com.au/" target="_blank">Peppercorn Gallery</a> is an amazing co-op of local artist's works. From photographs to jewellery to cards and carved timber pieces and so much more, there is something for everyone. Every year I like to add a keepsake ornament to our Christmas tree. This coming Christmas will be the first without my Mum so when I saw this delicately handmade angel made in Mum's favourite colour, I just had to buy it.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O9oi4S16wC8/VgGu_YXT8_I/AAAAAAAABZs/BM87siRApsk/s1600/20150922_133118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O9oi4S16wC8/VgGu_YXT8_I/AAAAAAAABZs/BM87siRApsk/s200/20150922_133118.jpg" width="112" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">A slight twist in the maze lead us into </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Rosehip-Co-366770693452933/timeline/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;" target="_blank">Rosehip and Co</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">. It houses some of the most glorious homeware and giftware creations I have seen in a long time, all amid crisp, modern and fresh surrounds. I purchased these Coconut and Grapefruit scented tealights...oh how I wish you could take in their scent through this post. They brighten my day - no pun intended!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You can smell <a href="https://www.facebook.com/scentsations.tas" target="_blank">ScentSations</a> long before you get there. Such beautifully handmade candles, oils and all the accessories you need to breathe gorgeous aromas in to your home - or a friends. My visit there could ultimately be described as out and out loitering. I looked, sniffed, admired and just stood there taking it all in for what must have seemed like an eternity to the lovely lady politely and proudly explaining each fragrance and methodology to me. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Richmond is a place where you could lose yourself for quite a few hours if time permits. If you are visiting Tasmania, Richmond is most definitely one place to add to your itinerary.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">With a name like <a href="http://www.wickedcheese.com.au/" target="_blank">The Wicked Cheese Co</a> symbolised by a huge pair of lips blowing us a kiss, who were we not to stop? We sampled some divine cheeses - my favourites being the <a href="http://store.wickedcheese.com.au/wicked-nanny-goat-blue-175g/" target="_blank">blue goats cheese</a> and the <a href="http://store.wickedcheese.com.au/wicked-camembert/" target="_blank">camembert</a> as well as their amazingly flavoured <a href="http://store.wickedcheese.com.au/other-tasmanian-cheeses/" target="_blank">yoghurt cheeses.</a> For a very reasonable price, we were able to purchase either a small or large icepack in order to bring our delectables home. And as luck would have it, the Wicked Cheese Co also have online ordering and a few outlets on the mainland where their wickedly tasty delights are sold.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Finally, it was time to bid Sonia 'adieu' and for us real live girls to enjoy one final drink together before heading off with our pilots into the sunset.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For anyone entertaining the idea of heading to Tasmania, I say do it. It is lush, scenic and bountiful with an endless assortment of things to do, buy, see, eat and lose yourself amongst. I will say it one more time. The people are beyond friendly. They have left the most amazing and lasting impression on me. It is the first thing I think of now when I think of Tasmania. I say thank you to the not so small island off our great southern land for being so hospitable and gracious in all manner of ways. You make a return trip a must on anyone's bucket list!</span><br />
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-90300580836633600632015-08-05T06:58:00.000+10:002016-07-18T06:29:20.553+10:00Cord Blood DonationWhilst on the topic of Donate Life Week - running from 31st July - 7th August - I thought it would be a great time to briefly talk about cord blood donation.<br />
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My personal view, as with organ donation, is that if I am finished using it, then whoever needs it can have it.<br />
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I first became aware of cord blood donation back in 1993 when it was an option looked at to help save my nephew's life. Unfortunately, it wasn't the match it needed to be, but the story still ends well. You can read it <a href="http://notsosecretwomensbusiness.blogspot.com.au/2013/10/organ-donation-personal-story.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Cord blood is the blood from the umbilical cord and placenta that your unborn baby uses up until birth. Once your baby is born, in most cases, the umbilical cord and placenta are discarded. You can however choose to donate your baby's cord blood.<br />
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My first son was born at Royal Prince Alfred Womens and Babies (RPA) which is one of the hospitals registered as a cord blood collection centre. I had wanted his cord blood donated but because he was an emergency caesarian it was unable to happen.<br />
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My second son however was a much more orderly birth, also at RPA. I had made known my request for donating his cord blood so the collection team were on hand to take the umbilical cord and placenta soon after his birth.<br />
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The cord blood collection team rang me the following day to say the blood taken from the cord was just shy of the amount needed to donate to someone. His cord blood would therefore be used for research. They apologised that it could not be used for a donation. Are you kidding me? He was still helping someone. Or many! The fact my son's cord blood could be used for research could potentially save countless lives. I was not upset in the slightest.<br />
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To save a life or lives on the very day he drew his first breath? What greater gift is there that my son could give?<br />
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If you would like to find out more about cord blood donation, you can do so <a href="http://www.cordbloodfoundation.org.au/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo cred: plus.google.com</td></tr>
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-81148066206797967242015-08-03T06:27:00.003+10:002016-07-18T06:26:36.105+10:00Donate Life Week 31st July - 7th August, 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="data:image/jpeg;base64,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" 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This year, Donate Life week is running from 31st July - 7th August.<br />
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If you have been thinking of registering to donate your organs or tissue, then this week is a great reminder to do it.<br />
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I talked about a story very close to my heart in this <a href="http://notsosecretwomensbusiness.blogspot.com.au/2013/10/organ-donation-personal-story.html" target="_blank">post</a> about organ and tissue donation. This week is a good time to remind everyone of the benefits of being on the register and possibly saving one or more lives.<br />
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For more information about becoming a donor, visit the Donate Life website <a href="http://www.donatelife.gov.au/donatelife-week-2015" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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It is really important to discuss this with your family members so that they are aware of your intentions should your donation time come once you have passed away. Because not all donations need wait until then.<br />
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-92100990485359225712015-08-02T06:17:00.000+10:002015-08-02T06:20:17.313+10:00How To Create Your Child's First CookbookBack in early March, I was discussing with my cousin Lisa what kids eat and of my cooking, what my children's favourite meals are.<div>
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Now I am one for memories and family sentiments. I have a memory box each for the boys and a joint one for my husband and I. Anything that I think will be nice to look back on one day goes in there. From photos to certificates to champagne corks (in mine, not the kids), to birthday cards etc. You get the idea. I have a journal each for the boys that I started before each of them was born. The entries were more frequent back when they were babies, but I still do write in there for them from time to time.</div>
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The idea being that maybe not right now, but in years to come, they will treasure what has been kept and written. Being boys, this may not be entirely the case, however it will be up to them what they choose to keep or if they choose to keep any of it. Being <i>my</i> boys, I can see already they both have a strong sense of family and a strong element of sentimentality about them. Neither look like me so at least they have something of mine!</div>
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When Lisa and I were discussing meals, she suggested I get a scrapbook each for the boys. As I make a meal they love, put the recipe in the scrapbook and one day when they are moving out of home, hand them over their very first cookbook filled with all the home-made recipes they love.</div>
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What a FABULOUS idea!</div>
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There is always that one recipe that your Grandma baked or your Mum made that you wish you had the recipe for. Being Taurean and constantly thinking about food, I have made sure that I have obtained these recipes as I have gone along in life. I NEVER miss out on anything food related. From anyone.</div>
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When one of my best friends broke up with her partner, she lamented that she no longer had the recipe for the best Caesar salad dressing you've ever tasted. I said "I have it." She also commented that there was this great Indian chicken dish that she would no longer know how to make. I said "I have that recipe too." Then there was the all time party favourite, the Watermelon Smash. I said "no worries, I have it." I had obviously spent a lot of time at their place! And what a funny conversation it was when I was able to say "I have it" to each of the recipes my girlfriend wished she still had. Her ex was a fabulous cook. Gotta give credit where it is due!</div>
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So back to the scrapbook. I actually bought two A4 lined ring bound books. I thought it would be easier for writing the recipes in there in a straight line! As for the covers of them, I thought it would be a neat idea for the boys to cover the books so that they could always look back on them as adults and see it was something they did when they were 5. Which brings me to my next point. My youngest turned 5 earlier this week so now I have two 5 year olds for the next two months. I specifically waited until they were both 5 as they get such a thrill out of being the same age. </div>
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True to form, Jai's is very ordered. Cruz's is more abstract. </div>
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The boys had the best time doing this activity and I had the best time watching and helping them. I was chief glue bottle squeezer! Now I just need to cover them in contact so that their artwork stays in tact.</div>
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Thanks Lisa for the idea. I love it and the boys love it. They are totally on board and suggesting which recipes I should add to their books already. Caesar salad being one of them!</div>
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-86293964677214445572015-07-20T06:12:00.000+10:002015-07-26T05:47:23.961+10:00Struggling to Fall Pregnant?<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I wanted to write this post because when I was trying unsuccessfully to fall pregnant, I ended up scouring the internet for <i>ANYTHING</i> that may have given me a clue, a glimmer of hope. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Skip to the bottom line, end result, whatever you wish to call it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The sum total of my pregnancies sound like a dream: </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">pregnant after our first attempt with IVF </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">fell pregnant naturally with my second </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">both pregnancies I wasn't sick </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">both pregnancies I craved chocolate</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">True Story. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Does it get much better?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The truth of the matter is, in the grand scheme of things, I was VERY lucky. And I know that. There were however a lot of other lines that could have been written in between those ones above.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When I decided to begin this blog, one of the things I dearly wanted to impart were positive 'secrets' if you will. Exactly as I say - things that shouldn't be kept to ourselves. If there is one woman out there struggling with her own pregnancy journey and this post can help, then it has served its purpose.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Every woman has her own pregnancy story. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The reality is, whatever it took, however long it took, pregnancy and childbirth truly is a miracle. To this day, the whole concept still amazes me to the point where I feel there needs to be a bigger word than 'miracle' to describe it. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Va6nzOzzfU0/VawBOsgvTkI/AAAAAAAABTE/TQEgRYxWO7I/s1600/20150719_063030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Va6nzOzzfU0/VawBOsgvTkI/AAAAAAAABTE/TQEgRYxWO7I/s320/20150719_063030.jpg" width="180" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My husband and I were in our late 30's and tried for 14 months to fall pregnant ourselves with our first child. I realise that this is not a long time at all. My heart breaks when I hear of couples who try for years, or who go through so many cycles of IVF, and I am in awe at their tenacity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I honestly don't know that I could have done the same.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The 14 months we tried for felt like 14 years. If you are trying now and struggling, you will understand what I mean. The whole thing became like a scientific experiment rather than an exciting adventure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Six months prior to us ever starting to try for a family, I was involved in a head on car accident. My car was a write-off. And apparently I was a broken toy as well! I had various injuries and a few interesting breaks. The physical and mental toll was bigger than I had thought. You know you have that mentality of 'getting straight back on the horse'? That was how I felt. My body had other ideas. It still amazes me just how the body can respond both positively and negatively, in situations like that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For those who like alternative therapies, as I do, you will be interested in the following. I was recommended to a <a href="http://www.reflex2health.com.au/">reflexologist</a> who was incredible. He does a lot of work with the labour ward at St George Hospital in Sydney, helping women in labour. He helps their babies to turn if they are breech or could be better positioned for birth, can bring on labour if required, his stories are amazing! I figured if he could help at that end of a pregnancy, then maybe he could help me at the starting blocks! I saw him for 10 sessions. Wow! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In relation to my body, I learned:-</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">if your spleen is damaged in anyway, you will find it difficult to conceive</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">pressure points coinciding with the reproductive system are found in your ankle region</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">nerves attached to the uterus are found in your lumbar spine. Any damage to these will also make conception difficult</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">if your pelvis is out, your body will find it difficult to carry a pregnancy so may well prevent one!</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Who knew?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As I said, I had sustained various injuries and a few interesting breaks making all of the above applicable to me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So how did we end up doing IVF? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Unfortunately, I still wasn't falling pregnant. My GP referred me on to a gynecologist/obstetrician who also happened to be an <a href="http://www.genea.com.au/" target="_blank">IVF</a> doctor. I recorded my temperature on a flow chart for three months. It then took him the time it takes to flick 3 pieces of paper to say "have sex on days 10 and 12". Really. You got that in 4 seconds? I was 38. I knew my body (I thought quite well) and even I couldn't figure that out! I had tried <i>everything</i> under the sun. <i style="background-color: white;">Ev-ery-thing!</i> I thought I should have been able to get this. When I asked how he knew that so quickly, it was the same answer as the one he gave me when I asked how he could tell what were legs and shoulders in my pregnant belly - "because I've been doing this for 35 years and that's why you pay me the big bucks!" Well, I'd been doing my body for 38 years and seemingly still didn't know it! Sometimes it just takes another perspective. And clearly an educated one!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I've heard women say over the years that there is one other man that a woman will fall in love with besides her partner, and that is her obstetrician. It's true. He walked me through such a personal journey and treated me like I was the only patient on his books. He was witty, laid back, loved yoga and wore animal print frames on his glasses. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I asked once if he ever panicked in a situation. He said he didn't because it doesn't serve anyone. I believed him. I liked his sarcasm (refer "big bucks" comment above). But nothing outweighed his expertise. He knew his stuff completely and I felt completely safe in his hands. I cried the day I found out he retired. We weren't planning more children. But the journey shared with him was personal and for a female, quite intimate. I wasn't in the habit of showing and revealing 'those parts' to just anyone! He was so instrumental in making our dream come true. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I digress. Back to the story.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After 3 months of sex on days 10 and 12, (and a few others thrown in for good measure!) we still weren't pregnant. I would cry when I got my period. On one occasion I sat on the stairs and just sobbed. I caught my reflection in a mirror and instantly just felt like I had failed. My body had failed us in our quest to become a family. It was gut wrenching. I will <i>never</i> forget that feeling. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My doctor was about to prescribe fertility tablets for me to take, when he stopped, looked at me and asked if I thought I was still traumatised by the accident. Absolutely I was. It was all he could put my 'not falling pregnant' down to. He said he could do investigative surgery, put me on fertility drugs etc but in his experience there was no physical reason as to why I would be infertile and why I was therefore not pregnant. He believed my body was still traumatised and, based on the fight or flight response, </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">was protecting itself whilst ever it still felt vulnerable and in need of further repair. He suggested that subconsciously my body was deciding every month that it was better for me to just look after myself rather than add another factor into the equation by way of a pregnancy. He further suggested </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">we skip past fertility drugs and move straight to IVF. When I asked how he thought it would work if my body was deciding not to allow a pregnancy, he simply stated that by doing IVF we would be by-passing the decision making process of my body and making the decision for it. The idea being that once my body had an embryo inside it, it would know what to do and we would capitalise on it being in 'protection' mode. The plan worked. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The next piece of important advice I received, and acted upon, was the suggestion from my doctor to commence acupuncture.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The results of acupuncture combined with IVF treatment speak for themselves. It is the reason why now most, if not all, IVF clinics will request that you have acupuncture treatment prior to an embryo transfer and follow up treatment afterwards.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I had been given the details of an acupuncturist at Miranda (in the Sutherland Shire) - <a href="http://www.balancedhealing.net.au/" target="_blank">Michelle Craven</a> at Living Health Care. We lived at Alexandria at the time so it could have been considered quite a journey to take once to twice per week, but I would have travelled to Darwin once a week at this point if it was going to bring us our much desired baby. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Michelle ran the statistics:-</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">you have 22% chance of falling pregnant naturally every month</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">+40% chance of falling pregnant on IVF</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">67% chance of falling pregnant on IVF whilst doing acupuncture treatment</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I asked Michelle in my ever most delicate way what her 'hit rate' was! Modestly, she answered that if clients had an embryo transfer when she believed their body was balanced enough, she had a 100% hit rate. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My body began responding to acupuncture after my first treatment. I was amazed. My husband thought it was a whole lot of rubbish at the time. He thought we would be the ones to screw up Michelle's 100% hit rate! He is of a VERY different opinion now. I was seeing Michelle as regularly as she could fit me in, which was once every one to two weeks. Michelle put me on to the worst tasting herbs ever but again, I would have eaten dirt to make this work! I was willing to do whatever it took to get pregnant. See? It becomes an obsession of sorts doesn't it? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I did the necessary needles, had all the scans and blood tests associated with IVF treatment. When the time came for egg retrieval, we</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> had 11 eggs retrieved, and 3 healthy eggs fertilised to the standard that the embryologist was happy with. I cannot speak for all IVF clinics, only the one we were with, but their standards were high! In speaking with the embryologist (gosh they are passionate about what they do - they are INCREDIBLE!) she said they are in the business of making babies, not disappointing couples with a failed pregnancy attempt. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Hence the standards.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> I liked their way of thinking. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My doctor was pleasantly surprised at the amount of eggs retrieved (for my age) - that was the herbs working. But wait, there's more....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So as you know by now, the one embryo we had transferred, took. Michelle, the acupuncturist, had me place an acupuncture needle in the crown of my head (do not try this at home - you need the exact spot!) in order to make my uterus hold the pregnancy. I did this daily for the first 12 weeks. I literally looked like a martian, but by now you know the deal about me willing to do anything. I was finally pregnant. I was not about to stuff it all by worrying about what people thought of a needle in my head! My confirmed pregnancy test came back so strong that both the IVF clinic and my doctor suggested it could be that my one embryo had split to identical twins. It was 4 times the required levels! When I spoke with Michelle about this, she laughed and said it was the herbs. That is how powerful they are and hence why she was intent on me taking them. My embryo was one healthy little tacker. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Roll on 9 months. As I said, I had the best pregnancy ever. I was not sick because my body was balanced from the acupuncture. Seriously, you have GOT to try this! After 12 weeks, my treatments moved to monthly. I had a treatment with Michelle at 38.5 weeks to help prepare me and our baby for the birth. He was prepared alright. I went into labour very early the following morning delivering a very healthy baby boy. Apgar scores reading like his current school report!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Our son was two days old when I made mention to my husband that I could not wait to be pregnant again. Be careful what you wish for!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I visited Michelle again about a month after having our son just to re-balance my hormones and my body. I fell pregnant again naturally with our second son just two weeks after that. We did not plan to fall pregnant. Even my doctor had said at my 6 week check up that we would commence IVF again in 12 - 18 months. I had asked about contraception but he laughed and said I had needed help with my first pregnancy, what made me think I wasn't going to need help with subsequent pregnancies! Neither of us knew at the time I was indeed already pregnant. But when I re-appeared in his rooms 4 weeks after that, he just looked at me and said "so....you're back."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">By no stretch am I endorsing pregnancies so close together. My body had clearly gotten over its trauma, for falling pregnant anyway. Sometimes I think the body just needs a helping hand to realise it <i>is</i> capable of doing what it has been designed to do.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In sharing my story I hope that it might help a woman currently struggling to fall pregnant and looking <i>everywhere</i> for answers. I was there. And it hurts in countless ways. I'm not saying these are the answers, just that I found mine in reflexology, acupuncture and a damn good IVF doctor and clinic. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It can be a tough road. Tougher than anyone can imagine because each of our stories and journeys are different. I personally wish you well on your journey towards parenthood. I hope you find your answers, but more importantly, hope you get the little bundle you are dreaming for.</span><br />
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-13507077928677483572015-06-14T05:39:00.001+10:002015-06-23T06:21:32.365+10:00Home-made Hershey's Style Chocolate Sauce<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have GOT to share this secret. It's not really a secret if, like me, you already follow the blog of <a href="http://www.theslowroasteditalian.com/" target="_blank">The Slow Roasted Italian</a>. They have some fabulous recipes on there but I am not sure if there is one better than this for all you chocoholics out there! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Because this recipe uses ingredients I already have at home, when I came across it, I couldn't help but want to try it out immediately. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kudos to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SlowRoasted" target="_blank">The Slow Roasted Italian</a> as this is the yummiest chocolate sauce I think I have ever tasted! I don't usually do dessert every night, but I have this week. Divine!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I won't hold you up with a longer post today. I'll link you through and let you get on your way so you can start making this ahhhh-mazing <a href="http://www.theslowroasteditalian.com/2012/07/super-simple-homemade-chocolate-syrup.html" target="_blank">recipe</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happy Sunday folks!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Delicious used simply <br />as a topping on icecream</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">N.B. This is not a paid post at all. I just came across this amazing recipe, tried it, loved it, and wanted to share it with you whilst giving credit where credit is due to The Slow Roasted Italian.</span>Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6351816461999021155.post-74096000986598328102015-06-08T06:29:00.002+10:002015-06-23T06:11:11.678+10:00Turkey & Cranberry Patties<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The deliciousness of this recipe is all in the Cranberry and Caramelised Red Onion Chutney. One word. Yum!</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>TURKEY & CRANBERRY PATTIES</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">500g turkey mince</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 cup dried breadcrumbs (add more if required)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3 tbsp cranberry and caramelised red onion chutney</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 tbsp <a href="https://instagram.com/p/22W-isgdRN/?taken-by=notsosecretwomensbusiness" target="_blank">parsley</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 egg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 clove garlic, crushed</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cuG-YF04XaA/VXSoaleHtkI/AAAAAAAABRs/5_egNmb8SBM/s1600/IMG_20150519_134821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cuG-YF04XaA/VXSoaleHtkI/AAAAAAAABRs/5_egNmb8SBM/s200/IMG_20150519_134821.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Photo Cred: Yours truly!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1 tbsp olive oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mix all ingredients (except oil and flour) in a bowl.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Roll mixture into the size patties you prefer, and toss in the plain flour to give them a slight dusting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a frypan and cook patties to your liking.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Serve with your preferred side of salad or vegies. Or put them on a burger!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bon Appetit!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>NB: </b>I have modified the original recipe because that is what I tend to do in the kitchen a lot...is improvise! If you cannot get your hot little hands on the cranberry and caramelised red onion chutney (I got mine from Aldi), then finely chop 1 small red onion and use 2 tbsp cranberry sauce. I also use minced garlic from a jar instead of crushing a clove. </span></div>
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Not So Secret Women's Businesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10410287936090877165noreply@blogger.com0