Spirited Mama

Living a SPIRITED life filled with wanderlust, emotions and everything in between

Category: Reviews (Page 1 of 2)

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Expanding imaginative play with Thomas the Train and Cassia the Crane Cargo Set

By

On October 23, 2020

In Kids, Reviews

Imaginative play with Thomas the Train and Cassia the Crane Cargo Set

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Hint: Early Christmas shopping.. 🙂 Go look at your calendar, it’s not that long before it’s Christmas 🙂

At some point, you would have heard the phrase, “Children learn through playing”. Now, as much I like a formal structure, I prefer that a child learns through playing. In my opinion, not only do they learn faster but retain most of the information and/or skill that is being transferred to them. Thomas and Friends are teaching young minds to be good friends and modelling appropriate behaviour about being useful and helpful. Can you see how helpful and useful an older brother is below…

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Thomas the Train is ever so helpful and this time has teamed up with his good friend Cassia the Crane to the job done. Noah happily reminds Joshua that friends help each other, of course this is his way of getting his brother to build his track for him…

 

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Expanding your child’s imagination through play

Noah is extending his imagination through play and boy oh boy, the stories that this 3 year old can come up with just blows my mind. These TrackMaster sets also allow kids to relive their favourite moments from the Thomas & Friends™ TV show. The possibilities are endless. You just have to use your imagination. Imaginative play encourages kids to immerse themselves in a whole new world filled with endless fun.

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Noah added another Thomas Train so that they could race each other

• Cassia the crane helps Thomas load up and deliver his cargo with this Thomas & Friends™ playset. Cassia grabs and loads the barrel onto Thomas’ cargo car. It’s a barrel but Noah insists that it is a NUT 🙂

 

• Cassia the Crane spins 360 degrees with a real-working claw for grabbing, lifting, and loading cargo. Although there is a designated spot on the track for Cassia, Noah seems more interested in moving the crane around to various positions.
• Thomas is a motorized engine, takes two AA batteries, compatible with all TrackMaster™ and Wood tracks; additional tracks sold separately)
• This set includes Cassia, Thomas motorized engine with cargo car, dock pieces, barrel, and 7 track pieces (Compatible with all TrackMaster™ tracks; additional tracks sold separately.)
• The track set is aimed at children ages 3 years and older.
They are available in SA already at all leading retailers: https://www.toysrus.co.za/cassia-crane-thomas-cargo-motorised-train-set
The tracks and train set is quite durable as very often you will find Noah rebuilding the track or Thomas the train racing through the passage in search of his “nut”. There is no guarantee that Thomas the Train will be on his track…

Do your kid(s) know Thomas and Friends? Have you seen any changes in your kid(s) imagination?  

Spirited Mama

x

 

**Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Mattel.  

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Luxury & Magic at Cine Prestige – revamped at The Grove Mall Ster Kinekor

By

On May 24, 2019

In Entertainment, Reviews

Flash back to last week Friday:

Friday 17 May 2019, The Grove Ster-Kinekor launched its newly revamped Cine Prestige theatre, treating guests to a pre-screening of action thriller John Wick Chapter 3: Parabellum – and all of Cine Prestige’s signature comfort. Dude and I reveled at the opportunity of an afternoon “date” without the kids 🙂 And bonus we got to watch an adult movie. We were hosted by Cine Prestige.

Luxury meets the magic of the big screen

Guests to The Grove Ster-Kinekor can now savour Cine Prestige’s premium experience, where luxury meets the magic of the big screen. Featuring a cosy, private lounge, and a full bar offering with a range of drinks from wine, beer, cocktails, and hot drinks, they can expect greater moments and at their greatest. Guests can also enjoy gourmet snack platters, and a selection of the finest desserts all served in the comfort of a fully reclining leather seat – making Cine Prestige a must for all those who enjoy movies with a touch of luxury.

As a family of four, a cinema experience is an expensive experience. I would like more than just an average popcorn and soda. Cine Prestige caters for everyone. Whether you want a regular popcorn and soda or like me, I had a mini blackforest cake and steaming coffee whilst watching the movie, they have it on the menu. This is definitely a step up experience for the average movie goer. And so WORTH it! It’s like sitting at home but having someone bring along snacks and drinks so that YOU can enjoy your movie.

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Experience the exceptional in the coming months, while indulging in the following blockbusters;

  • Longshot

Enjoy Longshot; a love story that follows the life of a free-spirited journalist with an attraction for trouble. Played by Seth Rogen, Fred unexpectedly charms Charlotte a character played by our beloved Charlize Theron, who is the most influential women that is smart sophisticated and accomplished. Discover how Fred sweeps Charlotte off her seat with his self- deprecating humour despite the dismay of her trusted advisors. Click here to see trailer Runtime: 2 hours Age Restriction: 18

  • Godzilla: King of the Monsters

End the month of May on high with Godzilla: King of the Monsters on 29 May, witness as   members of the crypto-zoological agency Monarch face off against a battery of god-sized monsters, including the mighty Godzilla, who collides with Mothra, Rodan, and his ultimate nemesis, the three-headed King Ghidorah with this exciting sequel. Click here to view trailer Runtime: 2h 12m Age Restriction: 13

  • Rocket Man

Experience an epic musical fantasy based on an unfiltered human story of Sir Elton John’s breakthrough years. Having been halted for years, this epic story comes to the Ster-Kinekor screens on 07 June for a chance for all music fans to know more about this colourful and widely loved star. Click here to view trailer Runtime: 2h 6 m Age Restriction: 16

Book your tickets by visiting www.sterkinekor.com or download the SK App on your smartphone. You can also book at the box office.  For news and updates, go to Facebook: Ster-Kinekor Theatres | follow Ster-Kinekor on Twitter: @Ster-Kinekor. For all queries, call Ticketline on 0861-Movies (668 437).

Did you know?

Ster-Kinekor Theatres is the largest movie exhibitor on the African continent. To most South Africans, the word ‘movies’ is synonymous with the name ‘Ster-Kinekor’. The company operates 55 commercial cinema complexes in South Africa, with seven international sites based in Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The cinema chain’s sites house more than 424 large-scale screens, over 60 994 seats and the largest 3D footprint featuring more than 154 state-of-the-art 3D screens across the country (Commercial, 3D, IMAX and Cine Prestige) with 137 in South Africa. In Africa, the company operates in 5 cinema complexes with 26 screens and 3607 seats.

The SK Club loyalty programme rewards members with redeemable points when they swipe their card when buying movie tickets or catering, as well as half price tickets on Tuesdays. Combined with industry leading loyalty programmes from Edgars Club, Discovery Vitality and Standard Bank, these give Ster-Kinekor a strong consumer value proposition and competitive advantage.

Do you still go to the cinema?

What will you be watching at Cine Prestige?

Spirited Mama

x

**Disclaimer: We were hosted by Cine Prestige. However, the views and opinions expressed are my own. Some information was supplied by the client to give the reader an better understanding of what to expect.  Some images supplied by the client**

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Bottoms up with Pampers Baby Dry, Air Magic

By

On January 31, 2019

In Parenting, Reviews

**Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. The new Pampers Baby Dry nappies were sent to us to review. However, the views and opinions expressed are my own. **

We’ve always used Pampers nappies. My eldest son, now 9 years old, was raised on Pampers nappies. When we were preparing for our youngest son, he just turned 2 years, we knew that with juggling two kids there was no time for trial runs. We would stick to what we knew worked best when Joshua was a baby. There was no time for trial and error. We stocked up on Pampers nappies and I am happy to report that we still only use Pampers nappies.

Bottoms up with Pampers

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Noah sampling the new Pampers Baby Dry nappy

Featured here is my “bum model” or as he refers to himself “bum mondel” 🙂 First impression was that the nappy stayed put on a wriggly toddler, thanks to a new improved design for Anti-leakage barriers. A big plus is that the size we are currently using is the size we still use in the new nappy. It just fits the “bottom” better. My model couldn’t be phased as he is way to enticed with the new exterior finishes and points out which animals are displayed. Technically, you could be teaching your child whilst simply doing a nappy / diaper change. #parentingwin

Pampers introduces new ‘Baby Dry’ – the first and only nappy with 2 Air channels

Pampers is constantly developing new ways to bring the best possible nappies to parents and baby, which is why they are launching the new Pampers Baby-Dry #PampersAirMagic with “2 Air channels” to allow air flow directly to your baby’s bum, for breathable dryness. #PampersBabyDry has been specially designed to distribute wetness evenly from front the back across nappy and lock it away even better allowing your baby to enjoy up to 12 hours of dryness. Pampers nappies are thus less bulky and don’t sag, providing great fit and more freedom of movement for your baby.

In all our years of using Pampers, I’ve never had to worry about nappy rash, leaks or night changing caused by the nappy. I would literally put a nappy on after bath time, normally around 7pm. First nappy change is anywhere between 6am to sometimes 10 am.

As we all know these days as soon as a product is changed it no longer works as well as it used to. In fact, it very seldom performs better than it’s predecessor.

Pampers has established a new standard of excellence with the launch of #PampersAirMagic #PampersAirMagicMoment Air Channel in their Pampers Baby-Dry range.

I am here to tell you it works better than it’s previous version. No funny smell, no heavy nappy that my child is tripping over the weight of a full nappy; and a major bonus – even when there were soft poo’s the nappy worked better than I expected. This has been tried an tested with my bum model for round two of parenting.

No parent needs to be sleep deprived unnecessarily because of a “wet” nappy

Imagine you had to sleep with a wet bottom. I bet you’ll wake up too… The Air channels are designed for air to flow freely inside the nappy.  The Air channels provide your baby with breathable dryness. And parents like you understand the importance of airflow directly to baby’s skin as hot and moist skin can cause rashes.

The innovation provides air channels directly to your baby’s bottom for breathable dryness which allows for an undisturbed night of sleep.

Premium Care vs Baby Dry Air Magic

Compared to the Pampers Premium Care we normally use, the new Baby Dry nappy is also soft and has the stretchy sides. I would like the sides to be a little longer though, to give the sticky part something extra to grip on. But after testing the Baby Dry, it seems to hold in place throughout wearing either way. Another plus is the Baby Dry comes up way more in the baby’s back than the Premium Care does.

PSA: New parents – You are going to need this extra coverage for those monster poops that run all the way up the baby’s back…TMI, but parents out there can back me on this!

At this stage, only the smaller sizes on the Baby Dry have the wetness indicator, whereas the Premium Care has the indicator on all sizes.

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Are you excited to try the new Pampers Baby Dry nappy?

Here’s what to look forward to with the new Pampers Baby Dry nappy:

  • Air channels – 2 Air-channels that ensure baby’s bottom is dry and less damp
  • Anti-Leakage Barriers – Provides great fit to help prevent leaks
  • Absorbent Micro Pearls – An inner layer with Micropearls that are able to absorb up to 30x of its own weight and help lock away wetness for up to 12 hours
  • Dry layer – Absorbs wetness and keeping it away from baby’s skin
  • Baby Lotion – Helps protect babies skin from rashes
  • New design – Our nappies also have new interior & exterior designs.
  • Wetness indicator on small sizes – Turns blue when the baby wets his nappy

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The Pampers Baby Dry product name replaces the previous Active Baby Dry name.  The new packing is clearly marked with the “Air Channels” symbol. There is a slight difference in the weight ranges so be sure to check that you purchase the correct size according to your baby’s weight. We still use size 5 and like I mentioned previously, the new Baby Dry fits the bottom better.         

The nappies retail for around R230, across all major SA retailers. For now it’s only the sizes 4 – 6, but sizes 1-3 will also be introduced into the market in the coming months.

Bottoms up!

Spirited Mama

x

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#PampersAirMagic

#PampersAirMagicMoment

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Last call to see Caroline Borole starring as Tina Turner!

By

On September 14, 2018

In Entertainment, Reviews

Caroline Borole starring as Tina Turner

Showtime Australia has outdone themselves once again. The Official Opening Night performance of Tina: Simply The Best (starring South African-born songstress, Caroline Borole), took place on Friday 31 August 2018, at the Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace Casino in Johannesburg.

Fresh from well-received stint at Sibaya Casino and Entertainment Kingdom in Durban last December, Tina: Simply The Best is set to make its debut at Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace for a three-week run of spectacular shows this August and September.

Johannesburg-born actress and singer Caroline Borole was cast as Tina after Showtime Australia scoured the globe – sifting through hundreds of auditions over a period of one year – before finding “the perfect Tina fit” right here in Msanzi.

Crowds were entertained with familiar favourites like Proud Mary, River Deep-Mountain High, What’s love got to do with it and Private Dancer just to name a few. Of course the finale, that everyone was waiting for… The Best!

The show is energetic, vibey and highly entertaining for both young and old.

Last call to see Caroline Borole perform her tribute to Tina Turner

Caroline Borole delivers an astounding performance of not only Tina Turner’s music but also her mannerisms and definitely some sultry moves. Watching Caroline perform amidst the audience left the crowd roaring and bewildered! She is nothing short of being sensational. And not forgetting the spectacular dancers, band as well as backing vocalists…

Interesting facts about Caroline Borole:
– Caroline grew up with Tina’s music and is now singing her idols’ music in this international tribute show.
– Tina’s music was introduced to her by her father, and she grew up in a musical household.
– Caroline embodies Tina and brings her to life every night on stage.
– There’s a lot that goes into this show – costumes, hair, make-up, nine piece live band.(it’s a full scale production)
– Caroline is an actress on stage and TV and a singer

The show is on until 16 September. Tickets prices range from R180 – R250, available through computicket

Take yourself down memory lane and enjoy the nostalgia associated with Tina Turner. You don’t want to miss this one 🙂

Spirited Mama

x

If you need more information, check below:

Hashtag: #tinaturnerstb

Twitter:  @tinaturnerstb

Instagram: @tinaturnerstb
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Easy dinner recipes with Daily Dish and how we survived the week that was

By

On August 28, 2018

In Food, Reviews

The week that we survived

This delivery of four family dinners which was delivered at my office was what saved us from eating really badly this past week. The week that was but we survived! Yes, survived. Dude was unexpectedly called for shift duty for the entire week. Dudie had a project, oral and autobiography that needed to be completed. This is besides the normal daily homework. And I felt like I was drowning at work.  Now add a sick baby, aka Troll, to this and somewhere something was bound to be neglected.

Daily Dish ensured that we were had healthy dinners

How resourceful –  they minimise waste and send you only what is required for your meal. Every spice/sauce is accurately measured according to the recipe.

Our aim is to provide our customers with ingredients that are highest quality, fresh, seasonal, local, and sustainably produced. We get our food directly from the Fairview farm and other local fresh produce and free range farms to ensure that we deliver only the very best produce… Daily Dish

Fresh produce straight from the farm. I tried as best as I could to get Dudie to help prepare the vegetables but my attempts fell on deaf ears. Granted, I could’ve tried harder but I decided to let him be and just allow the control freak in me to do it the way I wanted to. Here is what we ate this past week:

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I did manage to post on my instagram feed on  despite all the madness during the week

 

 

Troll is still on the mend. However, Dudie has now also caught whatever is currently doing the rounds in our house. Both kids are SICK!

Daily dish is convenient and saves YOU time

You don’t have to set foot in a store to buy ingredients. They do the shopping for you 🙂 Convenient much? Talk about time management.

Each dinner comes with a beautifully printed recipe card, outlining the method and preparation time required. I find it difficult to follow a recipe as the rebel in me doesn’t want to play by those rules. I cook with emotion so you can be sure that you will taste my emotion in my food. Even on the days that my emotions were drained out of me, dinner still tasted good 🙂  Let’s just say that the recipes are fool proof!

What you get when you order a box from Daily Dish

Your 4 dinners will be delivered to you at home or work – you decide. The ingredients are kept in a refrigerated box to ensure that it stays fresh. You just need to refrigerate it at home, within 12 hours of delivery. Each ingredient is labelled for the meal it is intended to be used for and it boasts a best before date.

Familiar BUT healthy and innovative meals

Looking for healthy dinner recipes? Menus change weekly to ensure that you don’t eat the same boring mundane meal at dinner time every.single.week. The meals are innovative in using ingredients that you normally might not use in your daily cooking routine. Daily dish offers a variety of dinner boxes to suit YOUR dietary requirements. You can choose a box for 2-4 people or a solo box for 1 person. Dinner boxes range from a family box/classic box/ banting box/vegan box/goodie box or a pork free box.

As a family, or rather I made the decision on behalf of them, to make healthy food choices so these easy to cook dinners rings true to my strategy. 

As a side note – they also have a WINE box option, if you’re interested 🙂 

My Dude, aka the husband, was skeptical about these dinners as he feels our or rather his portion size compared to someone else’s portion size might not correspond. The proof was in the pudding when even Dude agreed that the portion sizes were very generous indeed.

So here’s something for YOU from Daily Dish & Spirited Mama!

For every NEW subscriber to Daily Dish, you will get R250 off your first box AND a Fairview Farmstead cheese box, valued at R350. Just click on the link below. It takes you directly to the order page and will automatically apply my code at checkout. This offer is valid until 30 October 2018.

https://www.dailydish.co.za/promo/SPIRITEDFCB

It’s pay week. Go on treat yourself and your family to Daily Dish’s convenient healthy dinner boxes.

Happy cooking!

Spirited Mama

**Disclaimer – We were sent the Daily Dish products to review. However, all views and opinions expressed are my own**

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We EXPLORED the Prima Top Toys for 2018

By

On July 17, 2018

In Kids, Reviews

Let them explore

There are 161 days before it’s Christmas!!! Generally, I try and get most of my shopping done in advance so that I avoid last minute trips to get gifts. This also saves my budget a few pennies as I can make informed decisions about the toys that I would buy the boys.

Last Thursday, I attended the much anticipated Prima Top Toys for 2018 Christmas Launch. What a treat it was or rather it was a CARNIVAL! As an adult, I do look forward to the annual Prima Top Toys launch as it is then that ALL the adults get to behave “child-like” and no one is judging you. In fact, it is expected of you to behave in a child-like manner to ensure that you enjoy the entire experience AND explore the top toys on offer.

From arrival, we, i.e. media/bloggers/vloggers/influencers/etc, were spoilt from Maverick & Jane gourmet popcorn to chilled Prosecco, playing carnival style games to win actual prizes. We knew that we were in for a real carnival.

The theme for 2018 is Let them explore. It’s about letting children enjoy and explore their world through play. It’s about giving them the opportunity to discover new things, new play patterns, new technology and more. With the array of toys that will be available in stores from now until the end of the year, children of all ages will have the opportunity and the excitement of exploring new ranges.

YESSS!!! Influencers and Bloggers, Prima Toys is taking note!

We have also seen the positive impact of influencers and bloggers in our ‘local’ market place, educating parents & children alike and in so doing changing the face of ‘traditional’ marketing for ever.

 

Here’s an overview of the Prima Top Toys for 2018

Nostalgia toys continue to make a serious comeback, together with collectibles and toys that incorporate robotics and technology. This Festive Season there is something for everyone and for all ages from toddler to tween to teenager. There is also a wide range of classic and new games that adults can enjoy.

 

Kids are becoming increasingly tech savvy and they want in on the latest toy craze around the world.

Top Toys for BOYS in 2018

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Ben 10

Ben 10 is still at the top of the list in terms of boy’s toys. Benjamin Tennyson moonlights as Ben 10, a superhero with special powers that he discovered from a young age when his signature Omnitrix device miraculously attached itself to his wrist. The Ben 10 range features all the alien figurines in various sizes ad movement capabilities. There are also exciting playsets including the Ben 10 Alien Creation Chamber and the Transform & Battle playset.

New to the range is Ben 10 Action Projection Omnitrix,  the Omni Launcher which includes 2 figurines, the deluxe Transforming figure and the Alien Creation Chamber.

 

Big Hero 6

The toys in this range are based on the animated superhero series of the same name. Toys in the range include Micro Chibi figures, action figures, feature figures, Armoured Up Baymax and Blast Flying Baymax.

 

Treasure X

Especially for boys who love to hunt for treasure, Treasure X is a new toy that engages the senses as children scratch, dig and unearth the lost bounty. Like any good treasure hunt, Treasure X is about more than just what you find, it’s about the fun of finding it too. Hidden somewhere inside the Treasure X brick are a collectible skeleton figure and a treasure chest which contains a gold treasure.

 

StretchMini Stretch Justice League Figures are just some of the fantastic toys available in the Stretch range.  Each toy can stretch up to 5 times its original size, it then slowly shapes back, ready to be pulled and twisted all over again. Look out for Mini Stretch X-Ray and Mini Stretch VacMan, Stretch Batman and introducing Disney Pixar Mini Stretch Mrs Incredibles.

 

Trixx

Collect the 8 cars and create your own circuit! Trixx360º is much more than a car that turns 360! Everything is usable in Trixx360! Use the packaging box to build your own circuit! Make as many combinations as you can imagine!But not only that. All the accessories of the cars are interchangeable, including the wheels and the bodies! Collect the 8 cars with their ramps and make multiple combinations!

 

Top Toys for Girls in 2018

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Shopkins

Shopkins have become a toy box staple and have crept into the heart of little girls the world over. They are cute, adorable, very colourful and collectible with price ranges that accommodate intermittent purchase and big ticket item buys kept especially for birthdays and special occasions. From the small collectible Shopkins, to the world of Shoppies and now Shoppets, the Shopkins universe features different themes for every season, sparks the imagination and provides endless hours of enjoyment.

This season sees the launch of Shopkins’ Season Nine – Wild Style, which introduces the Shoppets. They are adorable little pets for the Shoppies dolls and are larger than a Shopkin, but smaller than a Shoppie.

2018 also sees the launch of the Shopkins Small Mart Range. 

Something top secret is happening in Shopville. Shopkins Lil Secrets is another range to look out for and will be available in stores in October. Hint: they are little playsets that Shoppies can play with.

 

L.O.L. Surprise have been a phenomenon. The success of the products hinges on the fact that it’s all about unpacking the surprises inside until you have put together a complete toy. The products have won a range of international awards and continue to fascinate girls from the age of four and up.

To add more fun, sparkle and excitement to the range, a variety of new, mystery-filled L.O.L. products have been launched including L.O.L. Pets, L.O.L. Glitter, L.O.L. Confetti, L.O.L. Little Sisters, L.O.L. Surprise Game with Accessory, L.O.L. Water Game and L.O.L. Puzzles.

 

Baby Secrets

Baby Secrets is a retro toy that has made a comeback. Baby Secrets is collectibles range which features a unique element, that of discovering if the character is a boy or a girl by bathing it in water. The nappy changes colour to either blue or pink to reveal the gender.

 

Pikmi Pops and Cake Pops

Pikmi Pops and Cake Pops are just waiting to be unwrapped! Another range of collectibles that feature the surprise element, the Pikmi Pops and Cake Pops are filled with mini scented plushies and other fun goodies.

 

Baby Love

Baby Love is Prima Toys’ own baby doll range. The success of the dolls hinges on the fact that they were designed with a South African audience in mind and each doll speaks a national language. Baby Bella speaks English, Baba Tasha speaks Afrikaans and the hugely successful Baby Thando speaks English and isiZulu. Parents and little girls can look forward to a new isiXhosa speaking doll. For 2018 the range now includes a Baby Love Buggy.

 

Little Live Pets

Fans of the Little Live Pets will be pleased to know that there are new additions to the toy range. Little Live Pets Pup, Little Live Pets Dragon. There is also a Little Live Pets Bizzy Bubs.

Introducing the Lil’ Cutie Pups, the latest members of the Little Live Pets family! These little dogs are the cutest pups around. Lil’ Cutie Pups are full of life and love to show off their own personalities as they scamper about, beg and play with you!

 

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LITTLE LIVE PETS DRAGON

Hatching toys is a trend that will continue in 2018. The Little Live Pets Surprise Dragon comes in a beautiful egg and you don’t know which one is inside until it hatches. Once hatched, the Dragon can hop and flutter its wings.  The Little Live Pets Surprise Dragon can be hatched again and again.

 

Baby Born

Baby Born is a wonderful product range that has been around for 26  years. The Baby Born dolls feature lifelike functions like tearing, feeding, drinking and wetting. Numerous accessories are included with each doll ensuring that little girls can role play and take care of their doll as if it were a real baby. Accessories include plate and spoon, a potty, a dummy, a diaper and a sachet of baby doll food. Baby Born new soft body

Features of the new Baby Born rage include being soft to the touch (their bodies are soft and seamless), super movable (there is improved motion of arms and legs) and more easily crying real tears.

October will see the launch of our nationwide Baby Born campaign – in which little girls can stand a chance to win their share of R100 000 Baby Born dolls and accessories!

 

Baby Annabell

Baby Annabell® is almost like a real baby with lifelike functions and a cute expression on her face. She responds to touches, can cry real tears and loves her bottle and dummy. When she drinks her bottle or sucks her dummy, she delightfully opens and closes her eyes, while her mouth moves realistically. Patting her on the back helps her burp like a real baby. Rocking her from side to side makes her feel sleepy. When she cries, tear drops start to fall from her eyes. She yawns, closes her eyes and begins to breathe gently.

 

My Fairy Garden is an enchanting range that features fairies and unicorns and introduces children to the changing of the seasons, gardening and how plants grow. The toys are perfect for girls aged 4 years and older. Children love toys that allow them to be creative and to learn about their environment; and with My Fairy Garden playsets they have the opportunity to learn even more about nature.

 

Coming in October are the Disney Doorables! Unlock Moose Toys Latest Surprise with Glitter Eyes when Doors Open in October 2018! Through a collection of figures and connectable playsets, Disney Doorables empowers kids to become storytellers by uniting beloved Disney characters in one land – where surprise and delight await behind each door.

 

Scruff-a-luvs are adorable fur ball, rescued pets. The pets come in pink or blue and untangle in water to reveal your puppy. Find us Scruffy, Make us Fluffy! These unloved and abandoned pets are in need of your help! When buying your Scruff-a-Luv, they arrive as a sad ball of matted pink fur, but once you bathe them, dry them, brush them and love them, you will discover your puppy! Available mid September.

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SCRUFF A LUVS

Top Tech Toys in 2018

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Fingerlings continue to be at the top of the birthday wish list.

This year, the Fingerlings family has grown with the addition of Fingerlings Baby Unicorns and the Glitter Monkey. As the best-selling technology toy for 2017, the Fingerlings have become a phenomenon in the toy world and with good reason because these robotic pets are cute, adorable and very huggable.

Brightly coloured with adorable faces, these palm-sized pets curl around your finger and come to life when you play, responding to sound, motion and touch with over 40 animations. Later in the year and leading up to the festive season, more awesome and exciting Fingerlings will be added to the range.

Introducing exciting new additions to the Fingerlings family: Dino, Pando and Dragon.

 

Teksta
Incredibly lifelike, the classic robotic Teksta puppy is back with more interactive features than ever before. The puppy responds to voice, movements, lights and sounds through a built in artificial intelligence program. It communicates its emotions with barks, whines and changes in eye patterns, just like a real puppy. Teksta 360 will also react to your hand gestures to sit, stop and flip backwards. You can even train it to play and dance with its friends by downloading the app for additional bonus features.

 

Robo Chameleon                         

robo_chameleon_primatoys_toptoys_2018

Robo Chameleon

Move, Aim and Catch! A Robot Chameleon that can Shoot the tongue out and snap up the “food”!

There are 3 steps to catching Robot Chameleon:

  1. Walk your Robot Chameleon to the “food” by remote control
  2. Aim the target!
  3. Press “catch” on the remote

Robot Chameleon has a built-in extendable tongue to “catch” the “food”. It also has a LED Illuminated body, with multiple colour light changes. It also has a motorized tails and eyes that move when it walks.

 

Virtual Reality (VR) Real Feel

vr_virtual_reel_primatoys_toptoys_2018

VR product range

VR Real Feel is the game that makes virtual reality a reality! Experience 3D high definition graphics with your iPhone or Android smartphone using the VR Real feel headsets. Simply download the game to a smartphone, insert the phone into the headset and play. Range includes VR Fishing, VR Alien Blaster, VR Motocross and VR Racing. The headsets have a comfortable foam face, adjustable straps, and an adjustable phone cradle.

 

Show off your skills with the Laser X Two-Player Laser Tag Gaming Set.

Laserx_primatoys_toptoys_2018

Laser X

With two blasters and two receiving vests, players are ready for one-on-one competitions, but can also join in on team play since the sets are all compatible with each other. Check the blast power indicator to know how many blasts you have left, so that if you’re low on blasts you can find a good hiding place.  Available September.

 

ARIA

A.R.I.A’s Adventures is an educational interactive set with 3 different games in 1 box. It includes 100 interactive flash cards, a Virtual Reality animal park and 3D colouring pages. Use your smart device or the included VR head set and allow A.R.I.A to take you on an incredible virtual journey.

 

Top Science Toys in 2018

National geographic has launched a new range of S.T.E.M. toys that stimulate the imagination and help children develop an aptitude for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. We all want to give our kids the world, and now, with National Geographic, parents can do just that. The range has fun, educational, stimulating and inspiring toys for kids.

With the National Geographic science kits, children become thoroughly absorbed in play and learning. The range includes a variety of digging kits such as the Shark Teeth Dig Kit, Dinosaur Dig Kit, Bug Dig Kit and the Gemstone Dig Kit. There is also a Volcano Science Kit and a Glow in the dark crystal it where kids can create their very own crystals. There is a new range of soft play including Dinosaur, safari and Ocean animal figures to collect, play with and display.

 

Nat Geo figurines

Wildlife Wow is a revolutionary NEW wildlife series! Soft and squeezable with the same level of detail as hard figures. Each figure is hand-painted with non-toxic paint. These animals come to life with a free virtual and augmented reality experience and the app’s X-ray vision lets you see the skeletal structure inside each animal. Watch videos, learn facts, and explore each animal with the educational interface.

 

Prima Top Toys Games in 2018

This year the Prima Toys’ collection of games is bigger and better. From the classics to brand new games that will have your skills tested to the limit, all in the name of fun! Our brand new games include:

Flipslide is a fast-paced electronic game that tests your speed and reflexes.

Boom Blast Stix – this game will keep everyone on the edge of their seats!

Game Box – Games Box is small enough to be taken but big enough to provide lots of fun gaming times!

Rubik’s Cube – For all Rubik’s Cube fans both veteran and amateur, the brand has created new versions of the famous cube that are more challenging, more fun and more exciting to solve. 

 

Top Toys for Toddlers in 2018

A range of new LeapFrog products are available to help your child develop a love of learning during the early childhood year.

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LeapFrog prepares your child for a lifetime of learning. The brand is the leader in innovative solutions that encourage a child’s curiosity and love of learning throughout their early developmental years. For more than 20 years, LeapFrog has helped children expand their knowledge and imagination through products that combine state-of-the-art educational expertise, innovative technology and engaging play.  LeapFrog’s learning tablets, developmental games, learn to read and write systems, interactive learning toys and more are designed to create personalized experiences that encourage, excite and build confidence in children. 

 

V Tech

VTech creates age appropriate and developmental stage-based electronic learning products for children of various ages. The products enrich children’s development and make learning fun. VTech consults a panel of experts, specialised in reading, language arts, science, math and child development, during the process of creating new products to ensure that they are beneficial to children.

Some of the new products for toddlers that parents can look forward to from VTech are:

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Little Tikes

Little Tikes is a range of toys for indoor and outdoor play that will entertain your child while helping them to develop their mind and imagination. The toys encourage discovery and learning through active, creative and social play and provide hours of fun.

The products are created for babies and toddlers, as well as older children, with a focus on interaction, movement and learning.

Below are some of the latest toys from Little Tikes:

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Mickey turns 90 years old!

Mickey_disney_plushtoy_primatoys_toptoys_2018

90cm Mickey Plush toy

 

 

Mickey is turning 90 on 18 November. Disney will be running a nationwide campaign to celebrate all things Mickey over the festive period and capitalising on the hype around his birthday (18 November).

Prima Toys will focus on key product categories such as: Plush toys, games, puzzles, metals and outdoor play.

Disney and dress up

Playing dress up is a fun way for kids to express themselves. The Disney rage includes costume party packs available in the following brands: Marvel Avengers, DC Heroes Boys, DC Girls and Disney Princess.

 

This season there really is something for everyone! For more information, go to www.primatoys.co.za or www.Facebook.com/primatoys and follow @PrimaToys

The toys and games are available at toy stores and retailers countrywide. 

Go on, “Let them explore”…

Spirited Mama

x

Moyo Zoo Lake Winter set menu feast

Comfort food with Moyo Zoo Lake… A family affair

By

On July 5, 2018

In Restaurants, Reviews

Comfort food this Winter

Winter is here in full swing and with this cold weather ALL I want to do is eat. But specifically heart warming, comfort, soul food. It’s NO secret that I love good food AND so does my family, specifically my kids… I mean they are MY offspring so it’s just fitting that they have a palate for good food 🙂 You can find YOUR Winter comforts at Moyo Zoo Lake, Johannesburg!

Moyo means heart. It is a translation from the Sanskrit language, Swahili

A family affair at Moyo Zoo Lake

As only the Spirited family can, we turned this opportunity into a family affair. For me it’s not about going out sans kids. I’m more of a “is the venue kid friendly” person as the kids tag along to most things we do. We choose to include our kids in our daily existence AND in turn expose them to life’s little pleasures.

A fine dining establishment that is family friendly. So friendly, they make you feel at home, and they entertain your kids when they are being somewhat uncooperative… wink at Troll who refused to sit at the table and walked around the restaurant. Our lovely waitron, Steven, even gave Troll a rosewater hand wash on his walk about 🙂

The comfort food we ate or rather devoured

A picture speaks volumes so let me show you what we devoured… By the time we reached dessert we were stuffed BUT I always save a space for dessert. *sometimes I eat dessert first 🙂 * And as Dudie would say, “Mom I have space in my dessert tummy”. Apparently he has multiple tummies for different courses 🙂 *my smart egg this one

Moyo Zoo lake winter set menu feast

Our Winter set menu feast we chose

For starters: I had the Camarao Croquettes, Dude had Angolan Beef Bone Marrow Trinchado. I actually shared my starter with Dude and Troll, who in turn responded, Mama mmm mmm 🙂

For mains: I had 4 Africa Lamb Chops, Dude had Seafood Samp Paella Potjie. Ladies and gentlemen if you go to Moyo Zoo Lake – GO HUNGRY! None of us could finish our food. The servings are very generous.

For dessert: I had moyo Mess, Dude had Red Velvet Beetroot Cheesecake. Now let me just say that Dude DID NOT even want me to taste his dessert!!! How even, this man would not even give me his spoon to lick. He can’t stop praising this dessert.

Dudie ate from the kids menu. Meatballs with linguine. The portion size was enough for an adult. Troll ate the complimentary bread 🙂 and a little bit of everything that was on everyone’s plate.

We were entertained numerous times whilst we dined in style

 

As in my video, this was about the 3rd or 4th performance of the night, and clearly Dudie is enjoying the melody BUT notice how focused he is on eating his dinner? In his own words, “Mom, these meatballs are huge BUT so delicious!” I was hoping to take a picture of his bowl for you but alas this child was halfway done eating by the time I got back to the table.

Moyo Zoo Lake has a Winter Set Menu Feast for you

You have the option of either a 2/3 course meal from the Winter Set Menu Feast.

Did I mention that Moyo Zoo Lake stocks Brampton wines?

Brampton wine at Moyo Zoo Lake

Brampton wine at Moyo Zoo Lake

Included in the cost is a R5 donation to StreetSmart. So Moyo Zoo Lake is covering YOUR donation, so to speak! Here’s the Winter Set Menu Feast currently available at Moyo Zoo Lake until 31 August 2018.

Winter seat menu feast at Moyo Zoo Lake

Winter set Menu at Moyo Zoo Lake

Call ahead and make a booking. Be sure to ask for a cosy spot next to the fireplace. This was perfect for the Spirited family!

From the mouth of my Dudie, “Mom, we need to come back soon AND I think I need to celebrate my birthday here too!”

Here’s to comfort food and a Moyo experience to warm you during this chilly Winter!!! Spirited Mama

This picture sums up the evening perfectly!

Moyo Zoo lake restaurant kids menu

Dudie enjoying Moyo’s food from the kids menu

Moyo Zoo Lake you have outdone yourselves! You get a perfect score from the entire Spirited family. Click here for Moyo Zoo Lake details.

Spirited Mama

x

**Disclaimer: We were invited to dine at Moyo Zoo Lake but the views an opinions expressed are my own**

 

 

Cartoon Network Live characters

Cartoon Network Live is ALIVE!

By

On July 4, 2018

In Kids, Reviews

Opening day of Cartoon Network Live

Yesterday, we attended the opening of Cartoon Network Live at the Teatro, Montecasino, Johannesburg. Man alive, am I happy that this day had finally arrived as Dudie was driving me crazy with the constant “when are we going to the show” or “Mom, come see the ad is on TV”. As a parent I take precaution in what and how much details I divulge to my 8 year old. BUT, he saw the Cartoon Network Live invite on my laptop, stupid me left it on the table and forgot that this child CAN read!

This child called me at work to ask when I’m leaving because we can’t be late for the show. Then he called again, whilst I was en route, to check how far I am from home. Alas, we made it to the show on time.

Cartoon Network Live!, features Cartoon Network’s most popular heroes from Ben 10, The Amazing World of Gumball, Adventure Time and The Powerpuff Girls, in an interactive and spectacular stage production for kids aged 5+.

We were seated and waited in anticipation! It was incredible to see all the wonderment and excitement as the Teatro was filled with gleeful children waiting to see their favourite characters LIVE on stage.

Cartoon Network Characters come ALIVE on stage

Adventure Time, Finn the dog and Jake the human - Cartoon Network characters on stage

Finn the dog and Jake the human, Cartoon Network Characters

The audience erupted as familiar Cartoon Network characters stepped out on stage. The kids were in their zone, screaming gleefully as they recognized their favourite characters. What stood out for me was the story line that these beloved characters brought to life. From inspirational songs to interacting with the audience. To instill a value that “GOOD TRIUMPHS OVER EVIL”. To be the best friend you can be and to just believe in yourself.

Kids tend to “listen” to their peers and in this instance I think they were more zoned in to the message from their beloved characters. This live production is filled with song and dance but also very important messages for our kids. We just need to listen to the message. After the show, Dudie aptly told me how this was the best show ever and that the characters have some important messages for the kids. *this is my smart egg this one 🙂 *

I prefer live productions, especially for kids. It ignites their imaginations and allows for human interaction as opposed to staring at a screen!

The production brings together an international, award-winning creative team to ensure a quality family entertainment stage show for audiences of all ages. The show is directed by award-winning director and choreographer Bart Doerfler, known for his work on The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood, The Walt Disney Company, The Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus, Holiday On Ice and Dreamworks. Besides Bart Doerfler, the creative team consists of Stephen Emmer (Musical Director), Cynthia Nordstrom (Costume Designer), David Smeets (Lighting Designer), Michael Al-far (Video designer) and Marinus de Graaf (Set designer).

Cartoon Network Shows and Dudie’s schedule

We are fortunate to have multiple channels in our home and that everyone, EXCEPT me, can watch what they feel like. Dudie is constantly tuned in to Cartoon Network. His favourites Cartoon Network shows include the likes of Ben 10,  The Regular show (aka Mordecai & Rigby), The Amazing World of Gumball, Adventure Time AND Teen Titans!

Now before you judge how much screen time is allowed in my home, Dudie has very limited TV time during the school week but has free reign Friday – Sunday. That being said, he prefers to spend his weekends outside BUT he has an endless supply of pvr’d episodes, he does this himself, should he decide to catch up on some TV time.

About Cartoon Network EMEA

Turner’s Cartoon Network is a universally appealing boy focused, girl inclusive channel driven by its exciting slate of surprising comedy and adventure. The programming line-up explores the relatable themes of humour, friendship, imagination, action and adventure. Cartoon Network targets boys and girls aged 6-12 and aims to champion kids being themselves through its rich mix of entertaining and globally successful content.

The Powerpuff girls Cartoon Network

Cartoon Network’s -The Powerpuff girls

If you’re stuck for some school holiday fun best you make your way over to Montecasino for the Cartoon Network Live production! Your kids will thank you…

Johannesburg

3rd July 2018 – 15th July 2018

Montecasino

Ticket Price: R175 – R390 – up to 50% off all off-peak shows

Tickets are on sale now through www.bigconcerts.co.za and Computicket.

 

Spirited Mama

x

**Disclaimer: We were invited to attend the opening show but the views and opinions expressed are my own**

 

 

Belinda Davids’ WOWs Whitney Houston fans in Johannesburg

By

On July 3, 2018

In Entertainment, Reviews

Belinda Davids wows her audience

To say that Belinda Davids wowed her audience is an understatement. She was phenomenal! From the moment she walked onto that stage, the crowd was alive with her energy. Belinda had the audience up on their feet, dancing to familiar favourites and those who were sitting down were still tapping their feet. Perhaps they were shy but believe me as the show progressed the entire theatre was dancing and singing along. Belinda also has a live band and dancers to add to a magnificently choreographed show.

Belinda Davids pay homage to her idol, Whitney Houston, live on stage for her only SA performance run for 2018. The Greatest Love Of All: The Whitney Houston Show show runs from 22 June to 8 July 2018 at the Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Palace Casino, Johannesburg.

Belinda does it for ALL the Whitney Houston fans

Belinda takes you on a journey through the magic of Whitney Houston’s greatest hits. And what a journey…I could listen to Belinda over and over and over, and still again 🙂 Audiences will enjoy hits including; I Wanna Dance With Somebody, How Will I Know, One Moment in Time, I Have Nothing, Run to You, Didn’t We Almost Have It All, Greatest Love of All, I’m Every Woman, Queen of the Night, Exhale (Shoop Shoop), My name is not Susan and more. And of course the ONE song the ENTIRE audience wants to hear… I Will Always Love You!

 

Ladies and gentlemen, if you have not seen Belinda Davids’ The Greatest Love Of All: The Whitney Houston Show show yet, then WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR??? The show is quite long compared to other live productions BUT it leaves you still wanting more, definitely value for money! You are guaranteed to leave the show filled with nostalgia and in awe of a phenomenal performer, Belinda Davids.

Belinda Davids represents South Africa across the globe

Showtime Australia chose this spectacular artist among 15 000 hopefuls to bring to the world a sensational tribute to a globally loved singer that is Whitney Houston.  Did I mention that Belinda is South African, born in Port Elizabeth? Belinda is proudly South African and represents her country across the globe. During the show, she mentioned how good it was to be back home!

Follow the hastag #thegreatestshow on social media to see videos and hear what others have to say about it.

Tickets from R160, available through Computicket & Emperors Palace.

This show is a MUST see for all Whitney Houston fans!!! Spirited Mama
You have until Sunday, 8 July 2018 to see Belinda Davids LIVE on stage!
Spirited Mama
x

Something for the boys & Men…featuring Bburago

By

On June 29, 2018

In Reviews, Toys

Something about the boys & Man in my life

Dudie is a bit miff that his Dad, aka Dude, got his own drop from Prima Toys. Dude absolutely loves his gifts. Let it be said that our kids, Dudie (8yrs) and Troll (1yr), are allowed to look at his cars but they are not allowed to take them out of the boxes.

THE PORSCHE 911, in particular is the car that Dude has been wanting to get for himself, in like forever. Nope, not the model version but the actual car. When he decided the timing was right, I was pregnant with Dudie. And with only two seats, it wouldn’t have been a practical purchase. Then we decided oh well, Dudie is big enough, so let’s get that car now…well then Troll came along.

In other words, Dude drools over this car in the hopes that some day he may actually still drive that very car. On the other hand, I’m like high five at least you got a model version of your car in the interim…And it’s a collectors item!

It’s all about detail with Bburago

Bburago creates beautiful metal die cast cars on small scale to mimic the real thing. They are carefully crafted to include details….

Research shows the most popular toy cars are the ones that:

  • Are expertly designed and built to perfect scale
  • Have true to life detail
  • Are fun to play with

Chiquita Patrizi, spokesperson for Prima Toys.

Bburago has a wide range of expertly crafted die cast cars in a variety of scale sizes. From pocket-money affordable single cars, to sets that help a child (or the man in your life) develop their own racing world and specialist collections of famous car brands. You can never go wrong in choosing a single pack die cast car. You can start off with one maybe two cars BUT you’ll soon find that it is affordable to build on this particular collection. And you will want to start building on your collection. In our home, visitors stop to ogle these beauties 🙂

Bburago cars are available at toy stores and retailers countrywide. For more info go to www.primatoys.co.za or www.Facebook.com/primatoys

Die cast singles 1:64 from R49.99

BBURAGO 1:32 from R249.99

BBURAGO 1:24 from R299.99

BBURAGO 1:18 from R699.99

Bburago Lamborghini

Bburago Audi A1

Bburago Street Fire

 

 

 

 

Some wisdom from Dudie, 8yrs, “you will always be a kid in your heart, so just look in your heart and be that kid”

Spirited Mama

x

**Disclaimer: The products were sent to us for review but the views and opinions expressed are my own**

 

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