Monday 30 November 2015

10 Target finds for under $30!

Good Morning Everyone! 

I hope your week is off to a great start. Today we are talking Target! I know many of you are just as mad about Target as I am but if you are apprehensive stay with me.

 Like any large discount store, not all products are going to blow you away. But trust me if you look hard enough there is some great stuff for kids, the house and yourself! I hope you are still with me because you do not want to miss out on my latest Target finds. PS they are all $30 or less #bargain!


How cute are these pull-on Peacoat shorts. They come in tones of different colours and patterns. At only $15 they are a total bargain! Check them out in store or here. 

This mug is such a cute stocking stuffer! The set of two can be found at Target for only $20. You can find them here. 
I love this Tiana Panama Hat. Lightweight and stylish this hat is a summer must have, at only $20! Find it here. 
Love this Summer stripe Velour beach towel. Machine washable and only $30, I think yes! Pick one up for yourself here. 

How sweet is this 'Made with love' canister?!? At only $20 this is such a great hostess gift. I recommend filling it with home made cookies for an extra gift! You can grab one here. 


I love this racer back tank! A basic summer essential that is only $15 #win. Find it here. 

This kids frill hem dress is so adorable and affordable, at just $25! *available in sizes 1 -7. Find it in stores or here. 


I love these stipe board shorts for the little man in your life! They are only $10 and available in sizes 1 -7. Check them out here. 

How cool is this rose gold paper bag. Perfect for organising toys, clothes and other bits and bobs. At only $12 I will be purchasing a few! Grab one for yourself here! 



Last up Target has some super cute cushions at the moment. All designs have reversible sides and 45 x 40cm in size. Check your closets store for stock. These three designs just happen to be my favourite! 

Yay for Target! So many fun and adorable products that will brighten up your life. 

*Remember I will be back on the 7th of December. 

Lou xxx





Thursday 26 November 2015

Roasted Vegetable Enchiladas

Happy Thursday! 

I saw his recipe the other day and I am sooooo excited to try it! It looks delicious and has tones of veggies #win. Recipe thanks to Joanne from Eats well with others. 


You Will Need 
1 poblano chile, cut into matchsticks
2 red bell peppers, cut into matchsticks
1/2 head cauliflower, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
1 sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 medium onion, halved and slivered
2 tbsp coconut oil (or other heat-safe oil)
1 1/2 tsp cumin
2 garlic cloves, minced
salt and black pepper
1/2 cup minced fresh cilantro
2 cups salsa
2 oz chopped kale (2 big handfuls)
2-10 corn tortillas, halved
4 oz shredded cheese


Method 
Preheat the oven to 425. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 

Place the poblanos, red bell peppers, cauliflower, sweet potato, and onion in a large bowl.  Drizzle the oil over the top along with the cumin, garlic, salt and black pepper.  Toss together until well-mixed.  


Spread onto the baking sheet in as even a layer as possible.  Roast for 30-40 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and begin to brown in spots.  Shake the pan every 10 minutes or so to get an even roasting.  Remove the pan from the oven and lower the temperature to 350.
Prepare an 8×8 or 9×9 inch casserole dish/baking pan with nonstick spray.  In a small bowl, stir the cilantro into the salsa.  Spread about 1/4 cup salsa onto the bottom of the pan.  Add a layer of tortillas so that the salsa is completely covered.  Top with 1/3 of the veggie mix, a handful of kale, and 1/3 of the cheese.  Make a second layer of tortilla, salsa, kale, veggies, and cheese.  


Top with a layer of tortilla, salsa, veggies, and cheese.  Cover with aluminum foil (or, um, parchment paper if you’re out).  

Bake for 20 minutes.  Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.

Let sit for 5 minutes.  Cut into squares.  Garnish with sour cream and scallions, if so desired.



* Remember I will be back on the 7th of December! 
Lou xxx

Tuesday 24 November 2015

My Favourite Christmas Finds - 2015 Edition

Morning Ladies!

It is officially mid November which means my hunt for holiday decorations is in full swing. I love decorating the house, cooking great food and most of all spending time with my favourite people, my family and friends! Here are a few christmas must haves that I have found lately and love. 


First up this amazing bubble wreath from Anthropologie. We usually buy a new wreath every year. I know that may sound excessive but it is the one decoration we always replace and we always find our old ones good homes :) This one is simply gorgeous and can be found here. 


Speaking of Anthropologie, this store has to have the most beautiful collection of christmas ornaments ever! I love these ceramic cheer ornaments and at only $18 they make a great hostess gift for all those christmas parties you attend. Check them out here. 


Some people do homemade advent calendars however we are just not that organised. As a kid we always had Lindt advent calendars and I still do #noshametheyaredelicious. Treat your little ones or yourself ;) this christmas with one. You can find them in major department stores or here. 

I love love love Kate Spade anything! But here stationary has to be one of my all time favourite gifts. These gold dot holiday cards are beautiful. I will be using these beauties to write to my family and friends this holiday season. You can check them out here. 

How sweet are these felt, robin decorations? They are only $9 for the pack of four (what a bargain) and are the perfect size for either tree decoration or a centre piece arrangement. IKEA you have done it again. You can find these ornaments here. 

Possibly my all time favourite holiday candle. Glasshouse - Night Before Christmas candle is back. This candle combines blackcurrant, plum, lemon and lavender creating an aroma that is award worthy. I definitely bought upwards of three last year and none of them where given away as gifts! Buy your own here!

This holiday seasons mandatory cheesy pillow award goes to this baby! I actually really like this one haha it just makes me smile. You can find this one and more cheesy holiday cushions here.


*Remember I will be back on the 7th of December! 

Lou xxx

Thursday 19 November 2015

Never Fail Blondies!

Morning Everyone! 

I want y'all to listen up because I am about to share with you the BEST blondie recipe ever! Seriously I made these on the weekend for a family brunch treat and they flew off the plate. So scrumptious! I have included Walnuts in the recipe but they are obviously optional! 


You Will Need 
8 tablespoons (115 grams or 1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup (230 grams) lightly packed dark brown sugar
1 large egg

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup (140 grams) all-purpose flour 
Half a bag of choc- chips 

Method 
Heat oven to 350º F. Line an 8-inch by 8-inch metal baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, stir melted butter and brown sugar until blended. Add the egg, vanilla, almond extract (optional) and salt then stir vigorously until smooth. 

When the batter is well blended, add flour and stir. Stir in chocolate chips and Walnuts. 

Spread the batter evenly in lined pan and bake 20 to 25 minutes or until cooked throughout. Cool then cut into 16 squares.


Enjoy! 

* Remember I will be back on the 7th of December! 
Lou xxx


Monday 16 November 2015

Scarf Season!

Morning Everyone! 

Although I am currently in the Southern Hemisphere sweating off my little butt and complaining about the heat. Many of you beautiful readers are enjoying fall! So in celebration of my love of fall and all you fashionable ladies heading into scarf season. I thought I would share some of my favourite recent finds! Note scarfs make a great christmas present no matter the season ;) #justsaying 

First up - This gorgeous Scotch and Soda oversized scarf. 100% cotton and light weight this scarf is the perfect travel companion and super duper soft. You can purchase it here. 

 I love this Cut Out Cotton scarf also found at Scotch and Soda. This is a beautiful gift for friends and sisters. 

It's all in the details! You can find this scarf here. 

I have about ten of these Seed Heritage Woven Tassel scarfs! Ridiculous I know, but when they are this sweet can you blame me? You can have one of your own for only $50 and trust me they are worth every penny! Check them out here.


For all the girls preparing to rug up, this scarf is for you! This Snow Day scarf from Anthropologie is AMAZING. An oversized knit scarf is a winter essential and this scarf ticks all the boxes. You can find it in stores or online here. 


Speaking of Anthropologie I couldn't resist including this one in my post. This Chinchero Scarf also doubles as a wrap and is insanely soft!  The perfect accessory for a casual night out. Pair with jean and boots! Check it out in store or here. 

Last up this H&M plaid beauty is a total bargain at only $13. Super cute and definitely won't break the bank! This scarf is a great stocking stuffer and inexpensive christmas preset. You can find it here. 

Happy scarf season! 

* Remember I will be back on the 7th of December! 
Lou xxx

Friday 13 November 2015

Weekly Wrap-up!

Happy Friday Everyone! 

It is beginning to look a lot like christmas and I couldn't be more excited! I know it only November has just started but seriously I am seeing christmas everywhere I look. Now, before we jump into this weeks wrap-up some housekeeping. As I have mentioned we will be leaving for Vietnam this weekend and thus I won't be posting everyday :( However there will be a few posts and some of my favourite recipes headed your way so please check in every few days ;) I'll be back and posting on the   7th of December! 

So now that is sorted, here is what has been happening lately. 


Just look at that face! Little Louis is growing up so quickly but is as handsome as ever. #puppyspam 


 We have been experiencing storms almost every afternoon this week - thus the very green garden and full pool pictured. Is there anything better than spending the afternoon inside, reading, cooking and catching up on your recorded TV while it rains outside?? Nope! I heart rainy afternoons!


Speaking of our beautiful weather at the moment. Just look at the sunset last night! I caught up with friends last night for a glass of wine and catchup. I caught this sunset while we where walking to dinner. What a way to spend a warm Wednesday night, wine, friends and amazing sunsets. 


On Tuesday and Wednesday I shared some of my favourite finds for kids christmas gifts. So much cute stuff for the little people in your life! Check my posts out here and here. 



And speaking of christmas you know the holiday season is officially in full swing when the Starbucks menu changes over! Hello Starbucks christmas cups and gingerbread lattes. 


Have a wonderful few weeks ladies, I will be back on the 7th of December. Until then be sure to check in now and then for some great recipes and special posts! 

Lots of Love 

Lou xxx

Thursday 12 November 2015

Moist Coconut Cake with Frosting

Morning Ladies! 

This recipe is an absolute classic and an all round crowd pleaser. This cake always reminds me of hot summer days in primary school, birthday parties and tuckshop! With the help of the trust Woman's Weekly I am sharing this fantastic recipe with you. 



You Will Need 

125g butter, softened
½ teaspoon coconut essence
1 cup caster sugar
2 eggs
½ cup desiccated coconut
1½ cups self-raising flour
250g extra-light sour cream
1/3 cup milk


coconut ice frosting

2 cups icing sugar
1 1/3 cups desiccated coconut
2 egg whites, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon water
pink food colouring

Method 
Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Grease deep 22cm-round cake pan; line base with baking paper. 

Beat butter, essence and sugar in a small bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time.

Transfer mixture to a large bowl. Stir in half the coconut and half the sifted flour, half the sour cream and half the milk, then add remaining coconut, flour, sour cream and milk; stir until smooth.

Spread the mixture into the pan; bake for about 50 minutes or until cooked when tested. Stand cake in pan for 10 minutes before turning onto wire rack, top-side up, to cool. 

Coconut ice frosting

Combine sifted icing sugar in a bowl with coconut, egg whites and water; mix well. Tint with a little pink colouring.

Top cold cake with Coconut Ice Frosting.

Share with Family and Friends! 

Lou xxx

Wednesday 11 November 2015

Children Christmas Gifts - part two

Morning everyone! 

I hope you enjoyed yesterdays post and found some of my picks for girls gifts helpful. I love shopping for kids and especially enjoy spoiling the children in my life at christmas. Her are a few of my favourite gifts for boys this year! 

I mentioned these Country Road children towel ponchos yesterday. They come in a variety of colours and designs, are super soft and a summer must have. I love this stripe pattern! You can find it here. 


This long sleeve mini stripe shirt is perfect for church, parties and holidays (even christmas day!). At only $18 it is a total bargain. #welovetarget You can find it here. 
How sweet are these Seed Heritage chino shorts?! 100% cotton and only $40, these shorts are a wardrobe must for your little guy. See them here.
I spoke about my love of TOMS on Monday and these boys classic slip on's are no exception. TOMS are great quality, comfy and super useful for busy kids. You can find these at Nordstrom or online here. Side note how cute are these three pieces together?! 


This Ralph Lauren Cotton Polo is a classic design which all boys (and men) should have in their wardrobe. They come in a variety of fun colours and can be found here. 


Don't have a clue what the little guy is in to? Buy a Lightsaber! Seriously these toys are no-fail gifts. Whether he is in to Star Wars or not, this toy is a guaranteed success. With sound effects and colour changing capabilities he will be entertained for at least 10 minutes ;) You can find these in practically any toy store or online here. 

I love love love this Red Dual Deck Tricycle! I mean what little boy wouldn't love this? Check it out here.
Looking for a useful stocking stuffer? Try some of these Country Road kids Pj's. Amazing quality, super soft and fun patterns, you really can't go past these pyjamas. You can find them here. 

Finally, I couldn't resist including these kids, Clubmaster Ray-Ban's! I mean come on. Too cute! You can find them in store at Nordstrom or online here. 

Lou xxx

Tuesday 10 November 2015

Children Christmas Gifts - 2015

Happy Tuesday Everyone!

We are now officially approaching Christmas and I am desperately trying to get organised! I have started my christmas shopping and over the next few weeks will share some of my favourite gift recommendations. I though I would share some of my favourite gifts for the little people in your lives - the kiddo's! Today I will post my finds for girls and tomorrow we will talk my picks for boys. I hope these are helpful! 



Seed Heritage always has the cutest accessories for kids and this sequin flap purse is no exception. you can find it here. 
This hair clip is also gorgeous and the perfect stocking stuffer. You can see their hair accessories here.

This pink apron is the perfect gift for your little baker. This Wheel and Barrow apron can be found here. 

I am a big believer that fashion (especially for kids) shouldn't break the bank and these cute Target girls shorts are a perfect example. Adorable and only $18! You can find them in store or here. 

This Country Road 'Wave Poncho' made of towel fabric is seriously fantastic. I have several kiddos in my life that love these and basically live in them all summer long. The perfect christmas gift that you know will be put to use! You can find them in store or online here. 
While we are talking Country Road goodies. How cute is this kids tote?! All Country Road totes are super hard wearing and will last for years to come. Perfect for the beach or sleepovers this bag is a must for busy little people :) You can see it here. 
You all know how obsessed I am with espadrilles! Like seriously I have issues! #noshame. So when I stubbled upon these delightful child espadrilles I just had to pick up a pair for my friends daughter. These Witchery espadrilles are currently on sale! #win You can see them here. 
How sweet are these Sea Folly Peplum togs? Sea Folly togs are great quality and although are a little pricy will last the test of time! You can find these blue beauties here. 

Now this is a bit of a splurge but as a Camilla addict myself I couldn't help myself. Bright prints, sequins and exceptional materials, these clothes and especially dresses are the perfect outfit for a special occasion. Even christmas day! You can find this dress and other Camilla designs here.
Last up is this Stockholm doll's house. I mean there really isn't much to say about it look how sweet it is! Modern architecture, fit with a pool and roof top terrace what more can a girl  doll ask for?? These doll's houses are excellent quality and will be a treasured toy for life. You can find this model here.


Happy Shopping! 

Lou xxx