tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25355868518230061452012-02-13T21:23:51.626+11:00emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.comBlogger3281100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-18349269784577040992011-12-25T09:00:00.004+11:002011-12-25T09:00:04.185+11:00

In the words of my gorgeous eldest daughter..."Merry Christmas Everyone!  And a Happy New Year!" I thought I'd leave you on this lovely Christmas morning with some images of some Christmas creativity... This gorgeous gingerbread house was constructed by my children and their Granny while Mr FGB and I had our weekend away.  Mum has been making a gingerbread houses every year since I was a child

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-20215619947092893582011-12-24T16:00:00.000+11:002011-12-24T16:00:11.325+11:00

Goose decided yesterday that she would like to give some gifts on Christmas day.  In the past we have always done a kriskringle amongst the adults and all adults give gifts to the children.  So we had a little look in the kitchen cupboard to see what we could do.  We thought of Christmas cookies in a jar, which are easy, perfect for last minute gifts and always popular, but Granny no longer eats

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-23521907305651641252011-12-23T23:12:00.005+11:002011-12-27T12:28:25.418+11:00

As Goose and I snuck down the street to pinch some pine leaves* to embelish our pressies, she asked if we could make a wreath for our door. I had been secretly wanting one myself, and had never made one before, so we set to work and in about 5 mins we had ourselves a wreath.   We grabbed a wire coat hanger from the cupboard and pulled it out to make a circle shape.  You can probably just make

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-53402594701252779732011-12-23T08:36:00.001+11:002011-12-23T22:08:01.408+11:00

Homemade bon bons, or Christmas Crackers as they are known in other parts of the world, have been a tradition in our family for as long as I can remember.  I have enjoyed taking on the role of bon bon making for quite a few years now.  You can see last year's bon bons here. These bon bons were for a Christmas party that I attended last weekend.  Such a beautiful setting.  19 of us gathered

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-18116163179402718792011-12-20T10:36:00.002+11:002011-12-21T18:08:12.759+11:00

Now that the gifts for teachers, classmates & neighbours, kriskringles & 'plates' for 1001 Christmas parties, breakups & end of year celebrations are (almost) done and dusted and kinder, playgroup, swimming lessons, etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. are all over for the year, I can finally start doing the Christmas shopping...we've still got another 5 days haven't we?! I love all of the craft at

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-78741410719241686252011-12-19T11:26:00.001+11:002011-12-19T11:31:43.802+11:00

There are so many fabulous and simple handmade gifts for girls out there that I thought I'd ask a few of my clever & creative blogging friends to share with you some of their ideas... Amy from Giggleberry has a very successful business making gorgeous, gorgeous bunting and is a party Mumma after my own heart! Just like me, she just can't help herself when it comes to adding those extra touches

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-87762819447456102882011-12-18T08:48:00.000+11:002011-12-18T08:48:06.343+11:00

Sometimes I find it easy to loose sight of why we celebrate Christmas in the first place. Here is a list of printables that I have come across that highlight the very first Christmas.  I think it's great for the kids to know the history and significance of why we do things and how traditions come about.   Cute little printable nativity dolls (above) you can print on magnetic paper and use on

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-2664666830384082872011-12-17T10:37:00.003+11:002011-12-17T20:52:39.409+11:00

I seem to have melted lots of chocolate lately.  I have melted it to make fairy wands & marshmallow teacups for birthday parties, chocolate christmas puddings, christmas bark and the odd bowl of chocolate fondue.... To make simple & basic chocolate fondue you just melt 250g of milk chocolate (using the method below)and then stir in 1/3 cup of cream.   You don't need a special fondue set, any old

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-54476709212440701522011-12-16T08:47:00.001+11:002011-12-17T09:43:14.348+11:00

Christmas cards finally written & sent.   This year, I used the same card making method as last year.  Ironing fabric onto card.  Simple, yet stylish I think.  Do you do Christmas cards?   This year I did a big run and made 50.  I sold most of them at a fundraising market at my friends kids school, which left just enough for me to use myself.  I tend to only send to those who I don't see

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-47929424357582877092011-12-15T10:29:00.003+11:002011-12-16T00:16:23.232+11:00

In unpacking the Christmas decos last week, (or was that the week before?!  Life is flying along at a rapid rate at the moment!) I discovered these cute pasta angels that Goose made last year with her Grandma.  My mother-in-law makes these every year and she is quite the expert, but she tells me it is very easy.  All you need is some pasta, a wooden bead and a hot glue gun!   Goose spray painted

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-64604990319955131772011-12-14T21:14:00.001+11:002011-12-14T21:23:22.022+11:00

A very clever friend of mine is running a truckdrive for Christmas!  You can purchase a part of a truck to help alleviate poverty in the highlands of PNG.  Well, it's not just for Christmas, but a windscreen wiper would make a great Christmas present if you are looking for something a little different this year.  Head over to their website for details! I'm not a big fan of shopping centres at

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-27901711453382056122011-12-13T22:17:00.003+11:002011-12-14T20:27:49.999+11:00

While making some paper garlands for last week's fundraising Christmas market, I experimented a little using the same concept and came up with a fun & simple way to make this paper bauble Christmas decoration. To make these cute garlands you need a large circle hole punch* (or some scissors & a shot glass), some old sheet music and a sewing machine.  Place 2 paper circles on top of each other

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-36929780604548558832011-12-12T23:12:00.002+11:002011-12-13T00:57:52.016+11:00

Last Monday night a few friends and I had a little stall at a fundraising market at their children's school.  So much fun! I sold all of my little birdies, along with some Christmas cards, chai tea sachets, reindeer food, reindeer noses & paper garlands.  The other ladies had some gorgeous stuff, along with these super cute and super simple hair clips that I just had to share with you this week

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-80928896678740813152011-12-11T22:41:00.000+11:002011-12-12T15:48:34.015+11:00

Thanks to my amazing Mum and to my equally amazing husband, Mr FGB & I have just returned from a kid-free weekend!  Two whole days and two whole nights in Daylesford to celebrate our twelfth wedding anniversary.  To say that I am grateful may just be the understatement of the century! What are you grateful for this weekend?

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-15890692404022895982011-12-08T07:40:00.001+11:002011-12-08T14:06:57.720+11:00

It is a little Christmas tradition in our house, starting from my childhood, to make little Christmas puddings.  Before you go getting all impressed at my skills in the kitchen, it is simply an Arnott's Chocolate Royal biscuit with some white chocolate, a jaffa and some sliced mint leaf lollies.  I love an cheat's easy peasy recipe.  You might remember these from last year. This will be our MOPS

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-70045228306009697692011-12-07T13:09:00.000+11:002011-12-07T13:09:59.514+11:00

Couldn't resist sharing some photos from playgroup yesterday.   All of this term we have been creating a rainbow.  Each week the kids* dressed in a different color of the rainbow and each week they brought along bits & pieces from home (eg. paper, feathers, fabric, buttons, etc) of the same color to stick on our large rainbow on the wall.  We completed a band each week.Last week we celebrated the

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-85060651119065469172011-12-05T10:38:00.002+11:002011-12-05T10:41:14.236+11:00

There are so many fabulous and simple handmade gifts for girls out there that I thought I'd ask a few of my clever & creative blogging friends to share with you some of their ideas... This week one of my favourite bloggers, the beautiful Sarah from Oesch & Doots, is sharing with us a gorgeous & simple handmade gift for a girl.  I love a gift that involves a bit of upcycling too!  If you do not

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-64445404121943666472011-12-01T08:00:00.001+11:002011-12-01T08:44:14.531+11:00

Completely inspired by clay christmas decorations that I have come across online via pinterest - here, here & here & here, just to name a few. Goose and I tried our hand at making clay Christmas decorations on the weekend. Using cookie cutters, some rubber stamps, some pine leaves & some doilies. I was really happy with how they turned out! We used oven bake clay and it was so beautiful to

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-55983045244475343472011-11-30T21:26:00.002+11:002011-11-30T21:30:47.898+11:00

And finally the last photos of a very pink Supergirl Party!  In this post you'll find the decos...  This is what happens when one of your clever and creative sisters stays over the night before a party and adds her 'extra touches' to the props for the party activities.  Brilliant - thanks Clare! Lots of bunches of roses collected from multiple gardens along with some of Clare's artwork in

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-55351816974746008802011-11-30T10:59:00.000+11:002011-11-30T10:59:33.664+11:00

More Worldess Wednesdays over here.

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-18883053904748427802011-11-28T09:30:00.000+11:002011-11-28T09:30:00.339+11:00

There are so many fabulous and simple handmade gifts for girls out there that I thought I'd ask a few of my clever & creative blogging friends to share with you some of their ideas... If you haven't met Jane from Life on Planet Baby, then you really, really must!  She is one of the loveliest ladies in blogland.  She is kind, creative, passionate and brave and I love reading her blog for her

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-3395947841142623552011-11-27T08:27:00.003+11:002011-11-29T18:34:26.218+11:00

I wasn't sure if I'd ever get around to posting the rest of the Supergirl party posts if I didn't just post the photos without words.  So, if you have any questions, just ask me in the comments section.  Here are the photos of the food...                                             Supergirl party activities here.  Supergirl party 'decos' coming very soon.For more DIY party ideas, head over to

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-37490428456732725632011-11-23T06:30:00.003+11:002011-11-29T18:37:19.804+11:00

Sorry it has taken me so long to post photos of the super fun and super pink supergirl party for the occasion of Frog's 3rd birthday. As per usual, as I have far too many photos, I will need to break the party up into a few posts.  I am going to over indulge with photos.  Hope you don't mind!  Let us begin with the activities... On arrival guests could busy themselves with... superhero coloring

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-7954225037934033952011-11-21T18:00:00.005+11:002011-11-21T18:41:22.402+11:00

There are so many fabulous and simple handmade gifts for girls out there that I thought I'd ask a few of my clever & creative blogging friends to share with you some of their ideas... This week my friend Susannah is sharing with us a very simple & clever gift idea that I'm sure you'll love.  I am lucky enough to count Susannah as one of my real life friends.  I first met her earlier this year

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-87090427028658652982011-11-14T11:25:00.001+11:002011-11-14T13:53:06.774+11:00

There are so many fabulous and simple handmade gifts for girls out there that I thought I'd ask a few of my clever & creative blogging friends to share with you some of their ideas...  This week the beautiful Brenda from Mira Narnie is sharing with us a gorgeously simple and very versatile gift for a girl of any age!  Brenda is a beautiful, stylish & talented soul and was one of the very first

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-29283022613244727592011-11-10T10:12:00.001+11:002011-11-10T10:17:54.037+11:00

At our house this week we've been 'super' busy making lots of 'super' props for the 'super' fun activities for Saturday's 'supergirl' party.   Pretty pink printable paper came from a mix of previous party printables and from these free printables! We're getting pretty excited! Pinata made from a recycled pizza box, a recycled cereal box and some crepe paper!  Tutorial here. Super lollypops

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-69928531553939797172011-11-07T20:43:00.004+11:002011-12-12T23:35:15.117+11:00

This week Goose made a fun and simple ribbon wand as a gift for her sister's birthday on the weekend.   Ribbon Wands There are a few different ways of making them, but we simply cut some ribbon into the same length and then shoved a drawing pin (push pin) through the ribbons and then through the top of a piece of dowel.  I have also seen them made with wooden chopsticks instead of dowel. You may

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-85018699450580719132011-11-04T06:53:00.003+11:002011-11-21T22:27:53.482+11:00

Marie Biscuits & Sweetened Condensed Milk are two ingredients that I always, always have in my cupboard. When one is required, last minute, to 'bring a plate', some people find it much easier to just pop down to the shop and grab a packet of biscuits, but for me it's not always convenient to do that, and I find it easier to just make a quick slice late the night before than go to the shop at

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-28768385245661380792011-11-03T07:22:00.001+11:002011-11-03T07:36:38.365+11:00

Last week at MOPS* we made brooches. Here's my attempt.  Still not sure if I like mine or not.Very simple though when made with a hot glue gun (my new favourite crafting tool!) Being fun and easy made it the perfect activity for MOPS.  Roughly cut felt and fabric circles, add a button and a brooch pin and stick them all together with a hot glue gun.  You could also add them to a headband

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-25105903375455311492011-11-02T13:33:00.000+11:002011-11-02T13:33:36.004+11:00

Joining in today with Wordless Wednesday over at Faith Hope & a Whole Lotta Love.

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-1235640818068414682011-10-31T10:06:00.008+11:002011-10-31T10:45:30.290+11:00

There are so many fabulous and simple handmade gifts for girls out there that I thought I'd ask a few of my clever & creative blogging friends to share with you some of their ideas... This week we're lucky enough to hear from the clever MultipleMum who blogs about frugality, green living, parenting, and other musings at And then there were Four. There is never a dull moment in her busy and

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-61595210678605651582011-10-27T14:53:00.001+11:002011-10-29T11:27:16.507+11:00

Snail races!   Yes, I need to do something about the snails in our garden, but in the meantime... "Frogs & snails and puppy dog tails, that's what little boys are made of..." Someone just forgot to tell that to the girls in my house! Linking in with Outdoor Play over here.

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-801230189984282702011-10-24T15:12:00.003+11:002011-10-24T15:19:13.426+11:00

There are so many fabulous and simple handmade gifts for girls out there that I thought I'd ask a few of my clever & creative blogging friends to share with you some of their ideas...  Last week the clever Lioness Lady showed us how to make a very simple skirt and this week the gorgeous Cat from Raspberry Rainbow is sharing another simple handmade gift for girls.  I came across Cat's blog very

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-29159778922235330032011-10-22T07:00:00.003+11:002011-10-22T16:12:23.766+11:00

For all you lovers of a good farmers market or art/craft market, I just thought I'd quickly let you know about a handy little iphone/ipod app. designed by a lovely friend of ours... This app helps you find out where the markets are on any given day, in any area of Victoria.   Markets are the perfect indulgent activity now that the weather is warming up!  For those of you down south, there is now

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-21372367210493961272011-10-20T06:30:00.012+11:002011-10-20T08:15:52.917+11:00

This week 'Super Frog' and I have been creating an especially Froggy* superhero outfit for her upcoming 3rd birthday party.  The outfit was completely inspired by this vintage supergirl party and the photoshoot idea from this vintage pink party. - I used this pattern for the mask and used felt with fabric sewn over the top.- For the armbands, I cut the toes off a pair of Frog's socks with an

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-77800069458426648452011-10-19T08:59:00.004+11:002011-10-19T11:29:23.471+11:00

This little one loves her friends Scratchy & Flappy. Joining in with Worldess Wednesday over at Faith Hope & a Whole Lotta Love.

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-54050415921760539262011-10-17T20:55:00.003+11:002011-10-17T21:20:19.226+11:00

There are so many fabulous and simple handmade gifts for girls out there that I thought I'd ask a few of my clever & creative blogging friends to share with you some of their ideas.... The first cab off the rank is the fabulous Lioness Lady!  Sonia and I have much in common and I always feel right at home when visiting.  I was lucky enough to win some of her gorgeous crochet bunting and it

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-205136747887535242011-10-15T11:13:00.003+11:002011-10-17T21:32:32.582+11:00

- for wonderful playgroup friends (they really are the best group of Mums!) who put together a fantastic birthday gift that was so 'me'!  Homegrown roses & vege seedlings and a handmade felt pouch containing a collection of tried & true recipes from each of them.   - for Mr FGB being home on a Saturday and making the best pancakes ever!* for breakfast. - for regular craft nights with friends,

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-66330205738872403612011-10-13T06:53:00.004+11:002011-10-13T06:53:00.204+11:00

For the last couple of weeks, I have been making sock monkeys! We were invited to a first birthday party with a cheeky monkey theme and so I thought I'd give a sock monkey a try!  Amazing what you can make out of only a pair of socks!  Of course, as soon as I started the kids all wanted one, so they ran to their sock drawers and came back with a pair each!  I'm still working on theirs... I

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-61202724877852318062011-10-12T07:40:00.004+11:002011-10-12T00:09:41.855+11:00

You might remember the rainbow party that we went to earlier in the year for 2 year old Eliza.  Last weekend, Eliza's little brother Patrick turned one with a monkey themed party!  A beautiful sunny day with toys and picnic blankets covering the backyard and lots of delicious yellow, green & brown party food... and some chocolate wands of course... Free monkey party printables from here. Such

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-90812082642008334782011-10-11T07:59:00.001+11:002011-10-11T08:02:55.904+11:00

Thanks to my friend Josie, who first made these for Bear's Rocket Party these have become my new favourite party food!  After enjoying these at his friend Johnny's birthday party, Bear loved them so much that he specifically requested them for his own party. Grissini bread sticks dipped in chocolate and covered in sprinkles!  So yummy and very popular! With my party glasses on, I can see

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-15532776887348106282011-10-08T23:56:00.002+11:002011-10-09T23:49:33.915+11:00

This Saturday I'm grateful for... - Birthdays.  I love feeling special for a day and being allowed to make it all about you!  Can't believe it's been a year already! - New cameras!  Best birthday present ever from Mr FGB & the kids!  Although maybe the squashed toilet roll covered in sequins made especially for me by 2 year old Frog, all on her own, might just rival the camera in the present

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-77496055568827045072011-10-06T23:53:00.005+11:002011-10-09T22:48:56.269+11:00

Some more quick and simple handmade gifts for girls for you... Paper has always been a favourite craft medium of mine.  Japanese paper* is something that we have a soft spot for at our house and due to Goose's love of all things Japanese, we have it in abundance.  As well as a cute gift, these ideas would make great party favours also! I made this fabric covered notepad using the same method

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-1510083056196095902011-10-05T23:27:00.000+11:002011-10-06T23:29:14.976+11:00

Just to keep with the sugar theme that we seem to have going on this week... we made something that I've been meaning to try for a very long time. Our own chocolate bowls!  For a more elaborate tutorial and where I got the idea from in the first place head over to the very clever Bakerella. These were made by children, so were not the neatest of bowls, but it did not affect the taste!  One of

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-28738618906902142112011-10-04T23:42:00.001+11:002011-10-04T23:51:36.661+11:00

 As it is school holidays at the moment here in Victoria, you'll find this blog a little heavy on the side of kids activities.  Just in case my children hadn't done enough experimenting with sugar, we tried this activity last week when one of Goose's friends came over for a play. We used this recipe which is made by simply mixing cream, sugar and vanilla essence in a ziplock bag, surrounding

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-26895499648673781102011-10-03T23:48:00.001+11:002011-10-06T21:40:56.272+11:00

I wasn't really focusing at the time Goose asked if she could make something out of her science experiment book.  She said she could do it herself and she'd checked and we had all of the ingredients. It may not be the healthiest of foods (!?!) but the kids LOVED it* It tasted just like Wizz Fizz in those little paper bags with the dipping candy and brought me right back to my childhood. DIY

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-80855129669048525912011-09-29T22:26:00.005+10:002011-09-30T20:33:59.768+10:00

Whilst in quarantine a few weeks ago, and in preparation for the next MOPS activity, the kids and I made our own 'find-it-jars'.  I'd seen these jars all over blogland and thought it would be a great all-ages activity. First, the kids hunted around the house for small items.  Not hard in this house!  Each child then placed their items neatly on a white piece of paper so that we could take a

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-62753310998010535142011-09-27T23:34:00.007+10:002011-09-28T23:23:05.055+10:00

This recipe was given to me by my sister Lou.   Every time I make them I am always asked for the recipe.  Always.  The base is simply a butternut snap biscuit placed in the bottom of the patty pan.  Easy peasy. Mini Baked Cheesecakes 1 packet of butternut snap biscuits1/2 cup castor sugarzest of 1 lemon250g philidelphia cream cheese2 eggstopping - berries, crunchie/choc, etc. Beat cream cheese,

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-75602056522863386992011-09-22T07:08:00.007+10:002011-10-04T22:25:06.587+11:00

Just like the previous posts of simple handmade gifts for girls, this craft is quick and easy and uses up your fabric scraps.  Perfect for a bit of last minute gift making. Fabric yo-yo's I borrowed my sister Lou's yo-yo maker to make them and they were so quick and easy.  A couple of minutes each.  You could purchase one at your local craft store, but they also sell them here or here for around

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-76550671962347511612011-09-21T14:33:00.003+10:002011-09-21T22:53:19.790+10:00

My kids have always liked washing the windows (yes, I like to use child labour). It's all about the spray bottle and spraying as much as you can. So last week, after a little too much fun was being had while washing windows that I actually did want cleaned, I just filled an old spray bottle with water and sent Bear off around the garden spraying to his hearts content. Not a stone, leaf or

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-20443014459234800242011-09-19T13:02:00.002+10:002011-09-19T13:19:48.113+10:00

Last Tuesday at playgroup we revisited this fun spring activity and after reading this post, we also added some toilet rolls into the mix.  Even easier for the kids to spread with peanut butter* and just roll in bird seed and stick on the end of a branch. For more details on how to make this simple pinecone bird feeder, check out this post from last year.   If it's a sunny day tomorrow at

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-83430870253240057362011-09-17T22:59:00.000+10:002011-09-18T08:18:10.068+10:00

There are many moments as a parent where you just need to take big breaths in and out and count to ten. Kids having tantrums, kids squabbling over toys, kids refusing to put their clothes on, kids refusing to take their clothes off, kids refusing to walk any further, kids refusing to drink from any cup that is not pink, kids emptying the contents of their bowl over the table, the floor &

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-28326060062225795302011-09-12T08:59:00.001+10:002011-09-12T08:59:00.588+10:00

While in the middle of making chicken sandwiches recently, Mr FGB discovered that we were out of mayonnaise.  So, I scavenged through to the very back recesses of my recipe folder and after a little searching pulled out my mothers homemade mayonnaise recipe.  We grew up with this mayonnaise, and this page comes from a lovingly written out recipe book that my Mum gave me when I first moved out of

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-48530410124447549362011-09-08T06:46:00.003+10:002011-10-20T02:20:29.459+11:00

My creative space of late has involved the making of tea.Those who know me will know that I'm not much of a tea drinker, but chai - I like.  Inspired by Goose's experiments, I thought I'd have a go at making my own. It worked so well I thought I'd give it a go for our MOPS activity last month. Chai actually means 'tea' and Masala means 'spices'.   Masala chai can be made with any spices/flavours

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-7186133090577230262011-09-07T07:58:00.002+10:002011-09-07T08:00:33.006+10:00

Joining in today with Wordless Wednesday over at Faith Hope & a Whole Lotta Love.                              

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-69657731986806710842011-09-05T11:21:00.004+10:002011-10-06T22:31:48.252+11:00

At MOPS last week we had a lovely guest speaker from our local community health centre on the topic of 'active play'.  I came away with many ideas to add to the arsenal, but the following was my favourite. We walk home from school when I can be bothered  most days.  It's only about 700m from our house to the school but it is uphill all the way there and although the kids are normally full of

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-90008769920747174922011-09-04T22:41:00.001+10:002011-09-04T22:56:54.542+10:00

Our kids are more than a little obsessed with superheros at the moment and when I saw these free printables (as well as these & these) I just couldn't let it pass! Goose and I created a superDad costume with cape, armbands, mask, boxers (to be worn on the outside of course) and a Superdad shirt (using an old tshirt of Mr FGBs).  It was certainly received with the humour in which it was given

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-69782375042835523052011-09-03T07:00:00.005+10:002011-09-22T00:15:25.187+10:00

Got a bit distracted with birthday parties and the like over the last couple of weeks, but I'm back on board continuing with a little series of posts on quick and simple handmade gifts for girls.  Click here to see parts one and two.  There will be more to follow.  There are just so many ideas out there! Part three - Fabric Covered Buttons Once again, a fantastic way to use up scraps of fabric

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-41118239586556128012011-09-01T12:33:00.004+10:002011-09-03T10:07:30.648+10:00

image In Australia, we celebrate Father's Day on the first Sunday in September - that's this Sunday. For those of you who, like me, are not quite so on the ball this year with Fathers Day - you might like these free printable ideas to make Fathers Day a little fun (or stylish) this year. - stylish Father's Day cards (as pictured above) here. - stylish printable Father's Day gift card envelope

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-64612216611237540402011-08-31T23:17:00.005+10:002011-10-03T23:19:25.388+11:00

Here is a quick and final post on Bear's rocket party.  See these previous posts for food, activities & invitations. Rocket party favours - idea from herewere filled with a mars bar, a milky way, an astronaut cheese stick (ALDI), she glow in the dark stars, a rocket balloon and some UFO lollies (strawberries & cream lollies). We decorated the shed (mainly because we needed to hide the junk

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-65309422534771269732011-08-27T10:48:00.000+10:002011-08-27T10:48:15.386+10:00

I'm rewinding today with Multiple Mum at And then there were Four.  Each week there is a different theme and it is a chance to link up your old posts to see the light of day again.  This week we are looking back to what we were up to a year ago...   This time last year, we were experimenting with food dye* and spring bulbs!   For details re the experiment, see last years post here.  Since then,

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-90906132910860316832011-08-25T13:36:00.003+10:002011-08-26T08:41:21.765+10:00

DRINKS water bottles & 'rocket fuel' (punch) for drinks SAVOURY popcorn cones (retro rocket paper purchased here & idea from here) pringle rockets (idea from here)  hot dogs in rolls (& my beautiful sister Lou) rocket fruit sticks (they are meant to look like rockets...original idea from here)cheese sandwiches in star shapes individual dip cups (idea found here) Plus our favourite party

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-77291584584878584252011-08-22T17:14:00.009+10:002011-10-03T23:32:14.651+11:00

I'm a big fan of having activities to walk straight into at a party. No awkwardness, just straight into the fun. Sets the tone for a fun party to come. Kids can go at their own pace and only participate in activities that they want to. Having activities all set up before hand also makes it easier on the party host so that she's not running around like a headless chook* I also don't enjoy

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-89194341408138944412011-08-21T23:37:00.005+10:002011-08-22T13:36:18.420+10:00

Well that was certainly a longer than expected bloggy break, friends!  So much to share! In between the usual madness at our house over the last couple of weeks... There's been some glittering of stars some rocket construction some cupcake baking and some moon sand making ...all in anticipation of a rocket themed birthday party to celebrate a little Bear turning 4. Come back tomorrow for the

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-55820425819077110402011-08-20T21:58:00.003+10:002011-08-20T23:07:08.669+10:00

...for the first signs that spring is finally on its way. It's amazing what a beautiful sunny day and some time to breathe and catch up can do to the soul. I'm also grateful to be back after a longer than usual bloggy break.  Life got just a tad too busy there for a while. For other grateful folks, head on over to Maxabella land.

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-45723700536101904852011-08-03T16:41:00.002+10:002011-08-03T16:53:51.337+10:00

When Goose came home from a school holiday program with green slime, I had to give it a try!  The stuff is seriously cool. DIY GREEN SLIME Ingredients: 3/4 cup PVA glue1/2 cup cold watergreen food colouring5 tablespoons borax1/4 cup hot water Method:1. Combine 1/2 cup of PVA glue with 1/2 cup of cold water and a few drops of green food colouring in a jar*, put the lid on and shake well until

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-71877864564365042182011-08-02T15:16:00.004+10:002011-10-11T08:07:01.556+11:00

This week we have been preparing for an upcoming rocket themed birthday party for Bear who is turning 4.  We made some quick and simple rocket invitations and popped a magnet on the back of each rocket so that the recipients could just pop them straight onto the fridge.*  To add a bit of fun and colour we popped a handful of sequin stars in each envelope.  Hoping there'll be no annoyed parents

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-7781305728768738782011-07-23T11:50:00.003+10:002011-07-23T12:43:34.532+10:00

...for a day of catchup and recuperation at home while Mr FGB and his Mum take the kids to the snow for the day.  Before Mr FGB's change in work situation earlier this year, a few hours on my own, let alone a whole day, was unheard of!  I am not taking this day for granted.  This change has meant a dramatic drop in work hours for a few years, and while this may be difficult financially, the

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-52616608820044572882011-07-21T06:30:00.003+10:002011-09-22T00:16:03.330+10:00

When I was in my late teens/early twenties I went through a stage of giving homemade gifts to everyone.   Tie-dyed underwear and socks, fish printed t-shirts (using real fish) and pickled chillies may not have been everybodies first choice of gift.*  Since then I've made the odd handmade gift here and there to people that I think might appreciate it... mainly to babies (they don't seem to mind).

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-68528339198224482582011-07-20T14:33:00.001+10:002011-07-20T14:34:27.002+10:00

Wordless Wednesday.   Join in here.

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-10915195253942888782011-07-19T14:16:00.006+10:002011-10-12T22:27:09.473+11:00

This is the first installment, as promised, in a little series of posts of quick and simple, yet stylish handmade gifts for girls that even a beginner sewer like me can make.  So quick in fact that you can make most of them in about 5 - 20 minutes, therefore making them the perfect last minute, whipup the night before, gift for those of us who may or may not be 100% organised!   Part one -

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-80931313647416726102011-07-16T10:56:00.001+10:002011-07-16T10:56:00.411+10:00

Inspired by party preparation over here a while back, I thought I'd share a fun idea that was quite the craze at our house last year - magnetic dolls! All you need to do is print some paper dolls onto magnetic paper*. Cut them out** and pop them in a tin for a gift or travel toy, or straight onto the fridge. Paper dolls can be found in many places on the net. Nicole has posted about some

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-46530024179776982532011-07-14T07:12:00.000+10:002011-07-14T07:12:00.088+10:00

I am really excited that I have finally discovered the joy of sewing! Completely inspired by so many of my bloggy friends - it has opened up a whole new world! Admittedly, I purchased the sewing machine (from ALDI, no less) for the purpose of sewing on cards & paper, but recently have started trying out a few quick and simple projects. The kind that can be completed in a night. That way I

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-59414580148081176402011-07-13T18:28:00.001+10:002011-07-13T20:13:32.423+10:00

It's been a while since I've joined in with 'Wordless Wednesday'.

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-13104160431680028792011-07-12T09:15:00.002+10:002011-07-13T22:04:22.850+10:00

Yesterday was a very windy day here in Melbourne. Perfect for kite flying!Perfect for a kite themed birthday party for my gorgeously cheeky 3 year old nephew! Delicious kite cupcakes made by none other than the highly talented Cathie! The hit of the party - cones full of popcorn, or were they clouds? The kite and cloud scrapbooking paper was a great find to easily bring the theme together. I'm

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-18124461208360475172011-07-09T15:04:00.003+10:002011-07-09T15:21:19.179+10:00

School holidays bring with them a more flexible pace of life without the school run and other various regular activities. On the other hand, there is less time to blog and one needs to find more ways to keep kids occupied.Apart from a trip to the zoo, a day at the snow and a weekend away at a friend's beachhouse, these holidays I'm trying for one activity out of the house each day (to save the

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-61298591879286714532011-06-29T21:31:00.009+10:002011-07-25T23:14:54.968+10:00

Looking for a quick and simple school holiday activity?This plastic cup looks and sounds just like a chicken! It really does. In fact, the sound is more genuine than the looks if we're being honest... INSTRUCTIONS:1. Take one disposable plastic or polystyrene cup and poke a small hole in the bottom.2. Tie a large knot in a piece of nylon string and thread it through the hole, leaving the knot

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-42178928651497233822011-06-26T13:00:00.003+10:002011-07-13T12:39:18.067+10:00

This recipe was given to me about 7 years ago by a lovely girl called Adele. She and I attended a 'knitting group' together every Wednesday morning about 7 years ago when Goose was a baby. It was a small group of only around 6 of us who met each week to knit and chat in the back of the church around the corner from my house. It was a time in my life when I was struggling with my new role as a

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-10459814376460307032011-06-25T10:13:00.007+10:002011-06-25T22:01:04.368+10:00

I made a fun discovery at our fruit shop this week when I came upon a yellow watermelon. Have you tried them?They taste the same as the pink ones with the same texture and cost the same also. Although the pink ones are slightly sweeter.I had to get a little creative... I couldn't help myself... the possibilities are endless.

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-78176159096259357912011-06-22T13:16:00.006+10:002011-07-13T12:40:53.304+10:00

When Bear came home from kinder last week with a gorgeous pasta jewellery creation and some annoying bickering ensued (because Frog wanted one too!) we decided that we'd make some more at home.This time I thought I'd attempt a different way to dye the pasta and it was soooooo easy and the colors were much more vibrant than my previous attempts. So easy in fact that this could be a more regular

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-81772838759642462772011-06-20T13:54:00.011+10:002011-06-20T15:02:33.207+10:00

I must apologise for my lack of blogging recently. I have been spending my snippets of spare time preparing for a "Frog, Goose & Bear" stall at a fun little market!A couple of times a year, some friends run a pop-up handmade market in their backyard (and in their house if rain) called the "Friends Who Make Things Market". Advertised by word of mouth, it always has a good turn out and a great

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-11917387897520953062011-06-12T15:30:00.005+10:002011-07-13T12:43:45.426+10:00

Yesterday the girls and I headed off to a 'Princess Party' for a very special 5 year old friend. Extra Special as her Mum and I went to each others' 5th birthday parties too! They now live in the slums of Cambodia doing some amazing work over there within their community and we have really enjoyed having them back for a little while.We took along some crown cookies, made with my all-time

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-21317532010884389272011-06-07T21:00:00.003+10:002011-06-08T11:02:56.340+10:00

PEA & TUNA TARTsource Donna Hay Off the Shelf1 sheet of Shortcrust pastry*I cup frozen peas1&1/2 cups cream3 eggs1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese1/4 cup chopped mint1 tablespoon dijon mustard1 x 185g can tuna1.Preheat oven to 190 oC. Line a tart tin or quiche dish with pastry.2. You can blind bake properly if you know how, or just stab some holes in the bottom with a fork & pop it in the

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-38593812849705701192011-06-03T11:39:00.005+10:002011-06-03T11:55:57.584+10:00

Today I'm joining in with my friend Jane from Mama Pea Pod with her regular Outdoor Play linky. Jane lives in Hungary (how cool is that?!) and the weather is getting warmer there, while it is getting much cooler here. We have, however, had a little bit of sunshine over the last few days which has been glorious.Frog & Bear got the paint brushes out again quite a bit this week for a spot of water

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-21187290455528589652011-06-02T14:42:00.009+10:002011-09-03T10:05:30.096+10:00

To make an 'Egg'bert of your own, simply keep your egg shell from the next time you have a boiled egg for brekky and... 1. Put a moist cotton wool ball inside the empty egg shell. 2. Sprinkle some alfalfa sprout seeds* onto the moist cotton wool ball. 3. Sit the egg in an egg cup on your windowsill or benchtop & wait**. 4. Remoisten each morning & afternoon by dripping some water on to the

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-77013499598664001342011-06-01T09:40:00.003+10:002011-06-01T10:14:05.591+10:00

More 'Wordless Wednesdays' here.

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-68918449599763196912011-05-30T10:00:00.004+10:002011-05-30T10:20:14.564+10:00

I have another winner to share in the lunchbox stakes...A winner all round as everyone loves it but most importantly - it freezes well, just like the last lunchbox winner, which helps enormously with the need for variety and for a time poor Mum.Zucchini & Ricotta Muffinsbased on recipe originally from Muffin Bible1/2 cup grated zucchini2/3 cup ricotta cheese1 & 1/2 cups plain flour3 tsp baking

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-11120822989267085862011-05-28T12:16:00.002+10:002011-05-29T22:47:39.530+10:00

This Saturday I'm grateful for a little bit of family time. Time over a weekend to just stay at home and potter is so ridiculously rare at this house. There always seems to be something going on and somewhere we need to be.I love to savour and breathe in the little 'everyday' moments, particularly in the backyard - spending time outside is just good for the soul.Although these photos were

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-72351638822588691042011-05-26T07:14:00.010+10:002011-08-27T10:40:50.722+10:00

As mentioned previously, I am the 'craft' organiser this year for my MOPS group and the last time we met (just after Mother's Day) we made our own bubblebath & body scrub from ingredients found around the house. DIY BubblebathIngredients:1/2 cup shampoo3/4 cup water1/4 teaspoon table saltMethod:1. Gently mix the shampoo and water in a bowl. 2. Add salt and stir for approximately one minute or

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-49819507888925145882011-05-25T08:04:00.008+10:002011-07-13T13:00:02.286+10:00

I was very, very proud of myself this week because... I made scones. For some reason, I have always been scared of scones. They seemed on a par with sponge cakes and pavlovas. In the realm of the experts at the CWA who had perfected the art over many many years.I actually laughed at myself when I realised how easy they were. This recipe was given to me by my new friend Susannah (who has, by

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-7101387623017556612011-05-23T09:13:00.004+10:002012-02-02T09:48:47.727+11:00

Earlier this month (where on earth has that time gone?!?!) I promised photos of the magnificant pirate themed party that we went to for my gorgeous nephew's 5th birthday. I was very impressed with the superbly stylish simplicity of it all!There were a number of activities set up for the kids to complete during the course of the party. First of all they were invited to decorate their own '

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-21882936527882909572011-05-21T00:31:00.004+10:002011-05-21T23:42:23.628+10:00

I'm grateful for all the help I can get! I'll be putting her to work on the clothes pile next...** Disclaimer - Vacuuming is something my children love to do... as you can see here (do go & check it out for a laugh!) not a lot of vacuuming actually gets done!! Not a lot of clothes folding gets done either..although to their credit they're getting better at putting them away once folded.

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-30344502644198606922011-05-18T09:21:00.001+10:002011-06-22T16:49:13.560+10:00

I'm on a quest for healthy (ish) school lunches for Goose and in particular - sandwich substitutes. So far the stand out favourite has been the 'Mini Egg & Bacon Pies'. This is a recipe that has been in our family for as long as I can remember. These were requested at every single birthday party without fail when we were growing up and my sisters & I have carried on that tradition.* They are

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-75441803471452246352011-05-14T20:12:00.007+10:002011-05-28T20:06:54.832+10:00

- for the fun times had last weekend at 'cousin camp'. Country mountain air is just so good for the soul. I'll never be able to shake my country roots. 5 acres, beautiful views, great company... not to mention a huge bonfire, billy carts, a tree swing, deliciously hearty food prepared by others and best of all - plenty of willing & capable babysitters!- that one of those cousins took some

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-34005502972492430662011-05-09T23:06:00.008+10:002011-07-29T23:14:03.942+10:00

I think often pictures speak louder than words. These photos were quickly snapped on my phone this afternoon. Not a lot of blogging going on here at the moment... Afternoon Addition - this feels so therapuetic to post these pictures - I dare you to do the same and post your house, just the way it is looking right now! Let me know if you've been brave enough to do it in the comments below...

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-57632872825334392262011-05-05T11:33:00.011+10:002011-05-20T21:08:01.441+10:00

Last year I did a rather large round up of free mothers day printables that I had found across blogland. Why not head over there and check them out as well as some new ones that I've found this year...Mothers Day teabag tags, paper & cardsMothers Day couponsMothers Day breakfast printablesCandy Wrappers (for any occasion!)Mothers Day cardsBabushka Mothers Day card (-just for you Lioness Lady!)

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-16823591147787472011-05-03T09:09:00.003+10:002011-10-11T22:42:33.776+11:00

Finally I can share with you some photos of the wonderfully impressive rainbow party that I mentioned we went to a couple of weeks ago! The cake was fantastic and was made up of many different cupcakes underneath a slab of icing. M&M's were used to create the rainbow, marshmallows for the clouds and some chocolate money at the end of the rainbow. The best thing about the cake was that each

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-28717906457176662912011-04-30T17:08:00.007+10:002011-04-30T18:03:47.810+10:00

...for 'big girls' who decide all on their very own that they will absolutely NOT be wearing nappies any more! Even though her mother was not at all sure that she was ready - neither the child or the mother who was feeling quite frankly that she just didn't need this right now! But the child was adamant and to her parents utter surprise, it's worked! A few accidents, but that's OK.I feel like

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-77897025539725924382011-04-29T15:10:00.007+10:002011-04-30T11:32:10.917+10:00

imageA few last minute impromptu royal wedding watching parties have popped up on our agenda this evening. One for Goose & one for me, so this afternoon we've had a little fun with my printer & scissors and these fun last minute and free royal wedding printables! If you are after something to make your royal wedding watching evening a little more fun, then head over here & here & here...How can

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2535586851823006145.post-6427492177734382242011-04-28T07:43:00.011+10:002011-05-28T00:00:36.508+10:00

I know, I know, I just can't help myself...but it was Mr FGB's birthday and we were camping...Party bags contained:- box of sultanas- muesli bar- marshmallows on a bamboo skewer- words to a few 'campfire songs'- camping coloring page- camping themed activity sheet- small box of crayons- coloured bandaidFire on top of chocolate mudcake made from mini chocolate flake bars & cellophane.If you

emma @ frog, goose and bearhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269340897364390032noreply@blogger.com7