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Showing posts from December, 2018

Love Your Body

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As the time draws near for the season of summer to peak, most of us still don’t have our “summer bodies” we promised ourselves we would have 8 years ago. I have a few questions. What is a summer body? Who decides what it looks like? What are the benefits of having one? And of course, we know what it is, who decides what it looks like and the benefits of having one. If you don’t know, let me fill you in. A summer body is a body suitable for the weather in summer. Sundresses, shorts, vibes, you get the idea. Society decides what it looks like. Benefits? Men want you more than ever, you get more likes and followers on social media and to be honest, you’re just awesome in general. You’re considered the standard. The rest of us, however, beat ourselves up for years about this summer body ritual that we have to go into before summer arrives. We almost never get it done and the years of saying we would just increases. We have felt bad all those years and probably still do, but I am here t...

I’m a mess

Yes you’ve read right and no I’m not talking about the Bebe Rexha song, I’m talking about me… Ney. I’m a mess in every sense of that word. I guess I should elaborate on the title, so here goes: I’m a mess because I use my health as an excuse for pretty much anything. I’m a mess because I let my anxiety get the best of me sometimes. I’m a mess because I’m scared AF to try new things, get out of my comfort zone. I’m a mess because I overanalyse everything. I’m a mess because I still try to make others happy instead of working on myself. I’m a mess because I might be suffering from depression. I’m a mess because I need pills to sleep The list goes on, really, but that’s the few things that have been at the front line, but I guess at the end of the day, I have to accept that I’m only human and take it one step at a time. It has taken me a few months to realise that maybe the problems I have are deeper than what I’d like it to be. Now some of you (probably family) will ask why I’m sharing s...

Better late than never

We are officially in the last month of what can be said to be the world’s most loved season – SPRING. There were many beauty trends this year that took over this season, from yellow eyeshadow looks that were bold and definitely beautiful, to the “no make-up, make-up” looks. If you have not hopped on any of these trends, you have a few weeks left to do the most, GO AHEAD. For the last month of the season, there are certainly some beauty tips to take note of while transitioning into summer next month. Firstly, make sure to have a highlighter kit with you at all times. While ‘sun’s out, guns out’ applies to the boys, ladies, we have to be sure to kill the side look with a highlight so strong, it could blind anyone who dares to look twice. Oh, and please do not be shy. We are done with sticking to a highlighter that goes with our “specific skin tone” – shake things up and go for a violet, pink or even silver highlighter, it looks AMAZING. Next, make sure you switch your foundation from thi...

What I’ve learned from Relationships

Most of you probably read the title and thought “damn, she’s using the R word in 2018” but, someone had to.  It’s crazy looking back to young me and what she wanted in a relationship vs who I am today. I can honestly say, I’ve only had two serious relationships in my entire 24 years of life and both of them taught me things about myself that I never imagined and most importantly it taught me a lot about the type of relationship  and partner I really want. 1st Relationship: My first serious relationship started a few weeks before my 18th birthday and it lasted for over 4 years. I don’t really know how else to describe this relationship, other than intense, looking back now I know that I was way too young and I didn’t figure myself out yet. I thought by dating him, I would somehow found my way to me, in a way where he became my identity and the more I thought I was getting close to who I’m supposed to be, the more I lost myself. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying it was all bad,...

Protect Your Crown

Summer is here! I am a winter fanatic myself, but I know 99% of humans love the summer season – beach days, summer dresses, cocktails, and wind blowing through your hair. Summer is all about fun – you can feel it in the air, however, it comes with some responsibility for your hair. For the natural hair KWEENS, now that winter is over you can finally get rid of your protective winter hairstyles. If you want your hair to breathe, you can but that does not mean you do not have to protect it in the summer time – the sun can damage your hair if you’re outside for long periods of time, it can also discolour your hair and even burn your scalp. Taking this into consideration, it will also be wise to not use heat on your hair during summer time. The sun already dries out your hair, do not amplify it by using hairdryers, straighteners, etc. on your hair as well. The best solution for hair during summer time is to keep your hair moisturised at all times. This means, do not shampoo your hair as of...

A blind hen also finds a grain

Does it sometimes seem to you as if you are experiencing more trouble in your life than others? As if others were "getting it easier" than you? And then you start thinking…. Why can't it happen to me. That's exactly where I found myself, less than 7 months back. You see, 7 months ago I and my best half (of course my husband) decided to take the biggest step yet. After a successful 3 years of love sharing in our marriage, we are ready for a miracle. We are ready to be called Mum & Dad for the rest of our lives. It's easy ?! So fast as flash, as long as one does the actions. Then I can show off like a peacock with the news of life growing inside of me. So start the biggest, most difficult journey I still had to take in my life. A journey consists of different fasteners. You see it starting with a decision. Then one plans to travel. These plans can only be put into effect when exercised. But it didn't immediately realize. Because one always wants to get every...

A Dip in the Deep Side

I've been a little overwhelmed for about two weeks. Overwhelmed by work, by the crime and state of affairs in our country, by the sadness and pain that so many children walk in my class, by family and by all the "being" expected of us: be mother, spouse, be a teacher, be a woman, be a friend and be a Christian. It seems like the whole world is a bit dark and heavy as if I accidentally fell into the deep end of the pool when I just wanted to wet my toes. My friends count on me not being nice, my husband feels like I'm curt and hard, my mom says I'm quiet and my colleagues see the frown on my forehead. For someone who walks around with my whole heart and yet a diary full of emotions, it's also difficult to hide if everything in my heart is not honey theory. For days I tried to think exactly what made me so depressed, because it really felt as if I had just got up tired and depressed one morning. And I use the word depressed very carefully here because I have hea...

One day, long ago...

For the rest of my life, I think that pregnancy and babies get something that should happen so naturally and easily ... without any serious complications, without injections, without planning ... just "happening". With my mum trip I realized what an incredible privilege and miracle it is to get pregnant first, secondly, not to lose the baby in the first trimester, third, to put the baby in your stomach for the full 40 weeks wearing and finally having a healthy, living baby. It all started at the end of 2013. My husband and I were ready to start the whole "let's get kids" story. My husband is in the fleet and is pretty much away from home. He returned to sail at the end of November after 2 months of sailing. After so many of my girlfriends took years to get pregnant, I thought we should start and then hopefully we'll see something in about 6 months. But no, we are quickly blessed and on Christmas morning we found out I expected! What an incredible Christmas g...

What 2018 Taught Me

As the year comes to an end, I thought it’s time to dot down 20 things this year taught me. Because 2018 felt like a roller coaster. A wild ride, yet a good time. It made me feel sick and happy all at once, and it was one strange but magical year. Here are 20 (short and sweet) things 2018 taught me. 20 of the BEST and the WORST things: 1. I got engaged! And I personally learned things DOES change once you enter this phase in a relationship. 2. It’s okay to take your time and do things your way. Your pace, your race. 3. Anxiety is a real thing. For the first time in my life, anxiety has become a real-life issue. I’ve also learned, you CAN overcome anything. 4. Hormonal changes at the age of 26: The things you thought can’t happen to you WILL eventually happen. Age is a strange thing. 5. Doors close for a reason. 6. Every season has its reason. 7. Saying NO is fine. Balance and staying authentic is what matters. 8. Be present. Life is SO short. 9. Take care of yourself. Health is wealth....

5 Tips to Beat Sugar Cravings This Festive Season

If you sit down and think about what you’ve put in your mouth lately, you’ll agree that you’re probably high. Yes, high! Those thick, creamy milkshakes, cold cuts and chicken nuggets can have you’re riding a sugar high right now. Well, don’t feel bad – you’re not the only one buzzed with a sugar addiction. In fact, according to research nearly a quarter of one’s daily caloric intakes – 325 calories on averages – comes from foods such as soft drinks, baked goods, desserts and fruit juices. In other words, from sugar. You’ll agree with me that that the end of the year is the worst time of the year to try and take control of your sugar cravings. So, here are six tips to help you take control of your sweet tooth that really work! HOW TO CURB YOUR SUGAR CRAVINGS THIS DECEMBER 1. NEVER CROSS THE 150 CALORIE LINE! It’s not easy to say no to a cupcake or a chocolate especially when you’re at a dinner or Christmas party. Honestly – this happens! However, when it does happen, make sure you stick...

10 Things I Wish I Had In My 20s

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Hello you, Today I look back to financial mistakes I made and also to lessons I have learned over the years. I would like others in their 20s to know the following: You need to get a payslip (payslip) from your employee Believe me there are people who don't get payslips and it's dangerous! You need to get a payslip because you (and your employer) must give a small amount to the state, for Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF). You (and your employer) can get in trouble if you don't pay UIF. On your payslip, it will also tell if you will get additional deductions, and you will get information like how many leave days you have for the year. The payslip is proof of what you pay each month. You never get your full salary out Apart from paying UIF, PAYE (Pay As You Earn) will also be deducted from your salary and will go to the state. Some employers also deduct an amount for medical aid or retirement annuity fund. Of course, you need to ask in advance about these things (medical aid...

I survived the Retrenchment, So?

First, I want to say that each one's path is different and unique; what worked for me might not work for you. But by telling my story, it may benefit someone's life. I was informed on February 14 this year that I was retrench. No, I never celebrate Valentine's Day, so I wasn't really bloody over it on this particular day. It did happen a day after my girlfriend, Leolynn Smith died in a car accident (on February 13). Before I talk about my retrenchment, allow me to tell how my girlfriend's death also had an impact on the situation ... I was devastated by her death. And when the retrenchment announcement happened, I just wanted the weeks to fly - let's just go! HER ROLE IN MY LIFE Leolynn's death reminded me of my first retrenchment at another employer - in Cape Town in 2011. I was informed at the end of September about a retrenchment and October 2011 happened. In February 2012 I started work at Port Elizabeth. This is where I met Leolynn. For those of you who...

How To Keep Our Children Safe

This is an open letter to my friends and family. I feel like I'm the bad guy. The antogonist in a movie. The strict teacher with the bar. Really, but I do this because I feel it is important. I want you to understand if I ask you the following: Don't ask my child to sit on your lap or kiss you. No! Basta! It makes me feel uncomfortable. WHY THE DRAMA Last week, a six-year-old girl was in a restaurant in Pretoria, South Africa apparently raped by a stranger. It was sad and terribly affected. This week: A ten-year-old girl (I think I heard ten years old) was missing somewhere in Johannesburg after his shop was closed on a Wednesday and Friday her body was found somewhere dead. It's so sad. I think of their families. I think of every family who had to go through something like this. Some of the children who overcome the stuff do not know their offender and then there are some offenders who are relatives or friends. Recently I read on Twitter people's stories on the hashtag...

How To Save Money For Your Child's Future

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I've been thinking about this for some time now; How do I save money for my child's future? First, do I think: should I save for her first school year or for her university fees? Either way, it's quite an intense story - well, anything to do with money is an intense story. That's when you don't plan to spend it. Set a goal Early this year was one of my New Year's intentions to save a certain amount each month for my little one's future. It was quite a challenge when I was retrenched in March. A few months later I could make up for it when I started doing freelance work. When setting a goal, you often remind yourself of what needs to be done. It's so easy to get rid of the road - you can use your money for several things, but if you have a goal, you first pay to achieve your goal. How now when it comes to savings? I started saving money in a tax-free account from my personal bank account. Did you know that you can save R33,000 a year every year until you ...

5 Lessons That I Had To Learn About My Money This Year

It's easier to cling to debt rather than paying it off. This is one of the things I learned about myself this year. For example, I finished paying my Game card and then thought: maybe I shouldn't close it. What if something happens and I need it - what if I need it in the future to buy food there? This is the same for one of my clothing accounts. I think: was I going to need it someday? I started documenting my personal finances on my blog last year because I wanted to get rid of all my debts. I was done because I regularly received calls from call centers, people asking "when do you pay this or that?" It is quite stressful if you get such calls. What makes it stressful is that you live every month from the hand to the mouth and think: how am I going to get out that month? I realized I had to make a plan to change my situation. MY GOAL My goal was to pay off all my credit card debt. I managed it by September this year. I realized in September that it would be a good i...

We Cook With Daily Dish For You

Wow, you! I've had to write this blog post a long time ago, but life has sung another tune with me. First, my two-year-old girl was ill for three weeks (almost four weeks) long since late September and that's why I published fewer blog posts here. During this time, friends had compassion on us. It was great to hear people wanting to help us - we are very grateful for that. Just about my family living in other provinces - we are in Gauteng - our village is small. You probably know the phrase "it takes a village to raise a child" (it takes a community to raise a child)? That's what I'm referring to when I speak of village. Princess only came to an end at the end of October and yes, that's it. Anyway, I wanted to tell you about Daily Dish For You. It's an online service - you order a box of food of your choice, then send you the recipes and the ingredients. We took the Pork Free (pork-free) option and got four recipes with the ingredients for the week (in...

A Day In Wonderland Together With My Toddler

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If there is one person I always want to make happy, this is my toddler. Weekends are a bit of a challenge because we don't always have play dates with other children. And you know, toddlers always get bored very quickly. So I sometimes try in a way to keep my Princess busy with some activity; It's now she doesn't insist on watching Peppa Pig or dinosaurs on television. When we were invited to the first exhibition of the Fairy Tale Adventures, I was very happy. We went there last Saturday. The event took place in Lyttelton, Centurion, Gauteng. Here is a list of things we enjoyed at the Fairy Tale Adventures: To see fairy tale characters in living bodies is an experience. I think I was more excited than my daughter about this. For example, we met Moana and the Frozen sisters, Anna and Elsa. Children were busy with activities. For example, you have seen children painted with paint and making beads. My little one decorated her own cupcake, with the help of one of the princesses...

5 Lessons I Learned In The Five Years Of Married

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My husband and I celebrate our fifth wedding anniversary on December 14, 2018. How do they say: you (and your partner) should eat seven bags of salt or something. One thing I realized is that almost every day I learn something new about my husband. Really! And nowadays I watch a YouTube video where actor Will Smith says he saw someone when he and his wife, Jada, were married for 17 years. And the man said unto him, Ye know nothing yet. Nevertheless, here are five things I learned from my marriage: Don't assume (Don't make assumptions), especially when it comes to doing homework. Don't think about your partner and don't think he or she can read your mind. Some of his (or mine) decisions may be based on his background / how he grew up / his history. Communication is very important. You will always learn something new about your husband (or wife) - whether it's his past or a new thing in his (or her) life. It's important to look after yourself (to take a break) and...

Money Is Not All But

It is such a nice feeling if you have money when something unexpected emerges. I think today in November when my toddler's teacher told me she needs things for her school concert. I didn't think we'd be at the concert because my toddler was sick at home for almost a month. The week she returned to school, we were told the concert would happen. I then had to buy small things like a white t-shirt and blue pants - all for my toddler. For the first time, I didn't feel overwhelming or sad because there was no concern about "how am I going to pay for it?" The previous year I felt the pain of "how am I going to pay for it" and I wanted to cry. Really, it's just a very sad feeling you get if you only have enough money to pay certain accounts. It is very sad if you find yourself in the question "how will I go through this month?" Money is not everything, but not enough can make you unhappy. Of course, it's also about your financial decisions...

5 Hard Lessons What I Had To Learn In 2018

Usually this time of year you look back and think of all your sins, your failures and things that have worked out for you. One usually feels this time of year that you chewed hard bones and that the year was not yours. Is it so - or is it not me? I have felt many times "this year was not for me". I lost my job, lost one of my best friends at death, lost one of my cousins ​​in an accident, had to go through unemployment for a few months, had to make hard decisions ... But, I'm not going to talk about my year anymore no. GOOD THINGS Through the period of my unemployment, I have seen people who I barely know care about me. For example, people who are blogging friends who have had mercy on me and would like to help in my situation. I am very happy for God about this, that there are people with good hearts. Also during the time I was unemployed, I was invited to a television interview to talk about my blog. It was a highlight of my year. I never thought I'd speak to the ca...