Wednesday 26 June 2013

Wordless Wednesday ~ Birthday Surprises

or Surpr'eyes' 
Yes, I am as Lego obsessed as my boys - I couldn't resist the angry eyes and tongue. My boys will be seven in six days.
These will make great Party Centre Pieces and we move into our new rooms next week.

PS : Have you Entered to win $50 Target Gift Card or Lego Batman Game 

Tuesday 25 June 2013

Who needs instructions anyway ? ~ Giveaway Lego Batman Game


You might ... 
How would you like to win one of 3 LEGO Games Batman 50003 ($49.99 RRP each) ?

 
As we set out to review , build and giveaway 'Lego DC Super Heros Batman game', I discovered that a little villain had misplaced the instructions. 



Losing the instructions turned out to be a blessing, because when I checked online , it was much easier and with less argument over who had control of the instruction book.

We are very close to finishing our little house and everything has been chaotic for months. It was good to chill with the villains boys. They were so excited ! I told them it was an early birthday present when it arrived last week.

We recently purchased some Lego Super Heroes, with prize vouchers from a colouring-in competition [they both won] .The mini - figures have fought a lot of battles...with Mum & Dad refereeing !

This set Includes 8 microfigures: Batman, Batgirl, Nightwing, Robin, The Joker, The Riddler, Mr. Freeze and Two-Face 

More to fight over ? or less fights because more micro-figures to play with ?
 


Constructing the build-able game board which features the Bat Cave, The Joker's hideout, Gotham City Museum, streets, high-rise buildings, a river and the Bat-Signal


(& dice) is all part of the fun. 

Kids can vary the game & rules anytime they like.

My boys enjoyed the game and playing with the micro-figures. I think they just love the micro-figures and vehicles . They play with their Lego everyday and sleep with it.

Race through Gotham City to catch The Joker and his villain friends! The Joker and his band of villains are loose in Gotham City and it’s up to Batman™ and his super hero friends to catch them. Roll the buildable LEGO® dice, race across the city and be the first to catch your villain to win the game.


To win one of 3 LEGO Games Batman 50003 ($49.99 RRP each)

Tell me your favourite DC Super Hero or Villain Character and why ?


Terms and Conditions.
1. Only Australian Residents are eligible to enter.
2. Entries not answering the question will be deemed invalid. The winner will be chosen by originality and creative merit, not by chance. Judges decisions are final and no correspondence will be entered into.
3.There are three 
LEGO Games Batman 50003 ($49.99 RRP each)as above.  
4. Entries - Open 25/6/2013 - Close 11.59pm 8/7/2013 AEST. The winner will be notified by email, and posted to mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au after they reply - Winners have 7 days to respond or a new winner will be drawn.
5. The Prize is not transferable, changeable or redeemable for cash.
6. Prizes sent out by PR firm directly will not be replaced in the event that they are stolen, lost or damaged or delayed in transit.
 
7. Subscribe to my blog  to receive MLDB updates.
8. Follow via Facebook or Bloglovin on the sidebar .

Disclaimer:  I was provided with a
LEGO Games Batman [50003] to review and for the purpose of hosting this giveaway. No financial payment was received.All opinions are my own and my childrens.

Linking up with Essentially Jess #IBOT

 

Monday 24 June 2013

Target Toy Sale ~ Gift Card Giveaway

 Giveaway
Target's Toy Sale starts Wednesday and I have a $50 giftcard to giveaway.


 
 

One of the many 'tricky' decisions I've had to make as a parent is letting my kids write wish lists if I know that it might create disappointment because the wants wishes are unrealistic, out of the budget or on the NO guns & noisy toys list.

It feels mean to build up false hopes, so I do try to steer them in the right direction.

I later realised - there were too many pleases , whatever ;)

We don't get any store or toy catalogues at the farm, much to the disappointment of my boys.
Is that a good or bad thing ?

Last week the boys thought it was Christmas , not to mention their birthday, when I asked if they wanted to see Target Toy Sale catalogue online.

The Target Toy Sale starts this Wednesday 26th June to Wednesday 17 July, 2013
 
The Little Drummers also have a big 7th birthday in one week - so exciting is building. Lego is top of the list.

(How did that happen so quickly ...seven !)

Joel was home from school sick, so he and I got one on one time, to look peacefully. I printed off a Santa wish-list with 4 choices only  (and told him they might not get any or all of them because Christmas was still 6 months away). [But giving parents lots of time for lay-by and Target will hide toys till 22/12 !].

We quickly discovered that each toy image on the page was click-able and I didn't need my magnifying glass to get more information.

Look 20% off Lego, Mum and new Super-heroes, and Skylanders are buy one get one free !
When Sam arrived home, Joel was quick to point out the things he liked and those that Sam should add to his list.

Decisions , Decisions !

Both felt they had been good all the time LOL !
Target has provided one $50 gift card  to spend during the three weeks of Australia’s BIGGEST TOY Sale?


Just tell me, in 25 words or less, what is going on your wish-list  ?


There is even a Target toy sale app , kids can bring toys to life with augmented reality and more - Find out details on how to enter more fun competitions with prizes here

Terms and Conditions.
1. Only Australian Residents are eligible to enter.
2. Entries not answering the question will be deemed invalid. The winner will be chosen by originality and creative merit, not by chance. Judges decisions are final and no correspondence will be entered into.
3.There is one $50 gift card prize as above.
4. Entries - Open 24/6/2013 - Close 11.59pm 30/6/2013 AEST. The winner will be notified by email, and posted to mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au after they reply - Winner has 3 days to respond or a new winner will be drawn.
5. The Prize is not transferable, changeable or redeemable for cash.
6. Prizes sent out by PR firm directly will not be replaced in the event that they are stolen, lost or damaged in transit.
 
7. Subscribe to my blog  to receive MLDB updates.
8. Follow via Facebook or Bloglovin on the sidebar .


Disclaimer: For hosting this giveaway and telling you my opinions on the Target Toy sale , I was provided with a gift card as well as a $50 gift card for one of my readers.


Friday 21 June 2013

You are how old ?

Things I know 

I'm a milestone kind of girl, last week was my 'cancerversary' - I didn't know what to call it till yesterday.


A year ago I had zero awareness of what breast cancer involved. A year ago, yesterday, I said goodbye to my breasts and was the lucky recipient of a flat–but cancer-free–chest. I'm ok with that.

Our lives were shaken up but overall I know I've had a good year . Not to say it wasn't a horrendous experience but we still got on with our life.


I'm grateful for all the good things and good people in my life. I know some people struggle to get anyone to care.

Before my diagnosis I didn't know about the emotional effects, about the process, about the pain, about survivorship, the required support and where donations went - I knew none of it.

I know I'd be very appreciative if anyone wants to sponsor me for City to Surf so I can help raise $1000 for Breast Cancer Network Australia to help other women faced with a breast cancer diagnosis

receive the very best information, treatment, care and support possible.

I know that Cinnamon Roll pancakes with cream cheese glaze make a lot of mess but it's worth 30mins of prep and even washing up.



Real cooks make a mess !

I can't wait till the power is connected (and water) , another day closer to using my new dishwasher - it's been 18 months since we said goodbye to our dishwasher.

There were so many rocks. It is much deeper than it looks.
Facebook Hackers deserve nothing less than being buried in a deep hole....do you hear me BIL.

I'm a terrible 'judge' of age, a lady I met recently told me she was 47 yesterday ...oops I thought she was way older than I was. Of course I never mentioned it. Maybe breast cancer aged her but sheesh I hope I don't look that old.

I know that some women have zero knowledge of idevices, Facebook, Instagram , Twitter and dare I say blogging!

I didn't dare tell them how much time I spent online. Of course I am reading (your blog) , yes filling my brain with more knowledge, laughing, looking for healthy recipes (see above) and READING ...I'm never playing CANDY CRUSH. Ever !

What do you know ?

Wednesday 19 June 2013

Wordless Wednesday ~ Brothers in Arms


CAKE - Rawr !

Though we never met his Birth Mother and I don't know if we ever will ... 'thank you for 'our' special son'
DS is a great 'dude', though he drives me wild at times ... loved by all our family and many others.
S & J adore him, the original Drummer boy. He came for his birthday visit last weekend.
I hope his BM knows in her heart what a blessing he has been to our family.



While you are here why not enter my current giveaways !
 

Tuesday 18 June 2013

Family Movie Night ~ {Peter Pan Giveaway}

Peter Pan is one of my favorite Disney movies, with beautiful animation that carries you off into a totally different world! The animation is just so clever, imagine - pre-digital and all - how talented were artists of old.

Last Saturday night we had a family movie night. It is a great way to snuggle and connect with your kids, if they can keep still and not hog the blanket or the recliner chair.



With a sprinkle of pixie dust, the Darling children are flying toward the second star on the right , straight on till morning and Never Never Land.

Home to Peter, Tink, the Lost Boys, Tiger Lily , and the evil Captain Hook and his pirates - this enchanted island is a magical place.




Once again, trouble is brewing in Never Land.

Captain Hook is a typical Disney, goofy and bumbling villain,  intent on defeating Peter Pan as much as he is from escaping the tick-¬‐tocking crocodile that once ate his hand.

Peter Pan, a boy with a broken shadow, is filled with adventure and spunk.  Wendy John, and Michael all dream of adventure, and want to find some magic in life, as childhood slips away  because they are all growing up.

Tinkerbell is the lovable cheeky pixie/fairy. Tink is independent, sassy, smart, and  some say she was the first empowered girl that Disney created. Though she gets jealous and is a bit naughty , Tinker Bell’s special feature story is truly magical. I loved the old silent film version with real children on DVD. [The Blu has different special features.]

What I enjoyed the most was watching older versions of this classic movie, like going back in time and I didn’t know it began as a stage play.

Overall, I think this is a wonderful, magical film. It is a classic that you’ll love introducing to your children and always carry it in your heart! My boys have watched it a few times now.

Peter Pan is available in high definition picture and sound for the first time on Blu-­‐ray from 5 June
2013.

Win your own copy here - I have three copies of the Blu-Ray rrp $49.95 to give away to my readers.

Tell who your favourite Disney character is and why  ?

1. Only Australian Residents are eligible to enter.
 2. Entries not answering the question will be deemed invalid. The winner will be chosen by originality and creative merit, not by chance. Judges decisions are final and no correspondence will be entered into.
3.There are 3 prizes as above.
4. Entries - Open 18/6/2013 - Close 11.59pm 30/6/2013 AEST. The winners will be notified by email, and posted to mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au after they reply - Winners have 7 days to respond or a new winner will be drawn.
5. Prizes are not transferable, changeable or redeemable for cash.
6. Prizes sent out by PR firm directly will not be replaced in the event that they are stolen, lost or damaged in transit.
 
7. Subscribe to my blog  to receive MLDB updates.
8. Follow via Facebook or Bloglovin on the sidebar .


Disclaimer: was invited to the preview screening but I couldn’t attend, I was happy to review the movie because I love it. box or no box No financial payment was received.
.
 Facebook
• Follow on Twitter @DisneyStudiosAU
• View videos at www.YouTube.com/WaltDisneyStudiosAU
• www.disney.com.au/peterpan

 

Monday 17 June 2013

AntiOx Snack Bars and Chocolate {Giveaway}

Imagine a chocolate that is good for you and that can boost your immunity*! I know my immunity has taken a beating with chemo. My immune system is still recovering 4-5 months after finishing chemo, 3 weeks ago my lymphocytes were still below normal range. I’ve had a cold/cough for 3 weeks.

Well honestly, they had me at FREE chocolate , who wouldn’t say yes. I've been spending more time in the health food aisle. Only after I was sent some to review, did I really notice the AntiOx snack bars.



Now that winter is setting in Vitality Brands has made getting your antioxidants easier, by creating delicious sugar free AntiOx Snack Bars and Chocolate, which are high in natural antioxidants.

I wasn’t sure about the sugar free but I was willing to give it a try. I like Dark chocolate, just not as much as I like Milk. Dark chocolate with 70% cocoa can be an acquired taste I find I don’t want to eat as much Dark chocolate. I am not sure if that is a good thing or not ?

My husband is not normally a fan of dark chocolate (unless it is in shape of a ball) but tried a bit of the AntiOx bar and wanted more.
"No, I have to review it ", I said.

Given that I’m earnest about enhancing my overall well-being, I’m being more careful about what I eat. It’s hard to find products that taste good and are good for you too. Plus , to eat the quantity required to completely fight free radicals.

Why are antioxidants important ?- they help our bodies fight the free radicals that contribute to ill health. Natural antioxidants are found in fruits, grains and seeds, not everyone can get enough from their diet.

I currently drink about 4-5 cups of unsweetened ‘warm’ green tea, I force it down because it’s supposed to be good for me and when the temperature drops I like to drink hot tea all day. I was advised to drink 10 cups of green tea a day....AntiOx chocolate saves the day.

One 80gm AntiOx block provides an antioxidant hit that is equivalent to twelve cups of green tea! I can handle that.The stevia – eliminates excess calories too. Not that I would eat a block a day but a few squares after running has to be good for me. Heed the warning on the packet though - excess consumption could have you running to the bathroom ;) ...I did not test this out.

My real favourites were the Anti Ox snack bars in Acai and Goji berry.They taste soft and slightly chewy, a bit like a Cherry ripe to me. I love that they are sugar free (sweetened naturally by Stevia ), as well as free from artificial colours and flavours. They are made with super fruits, super grains, wholegrains and delicious forest fruits, and covered in rich, 70% cocoa dark chocolate.

Every bite was delicious and I had to limit myself to just one bar. I’ll be keeping these tucked in my handbag when I’m out and about. The rich, smooth chocolate coating provides an additional source of antioxidants and isn’t too sweet. The Chia & Quinoa Bar I enjoyed too.

AntiOx Chocolate {Block} also combines the antioxidant super-power of sugar-free, 70% cocoa dark chocolate and super fruits- sun dried goji and acai. I would have liked more berries because I like it fruitier. It’s a good thing the kids won’t eat my AntiOx chocolate.


GIVEAWAY
Why do you want to try the new AntiOx snack bars and chocolate?

The prize is as follows: 2 prize winners each will each receive - 1 x AntiOx prize pack (valued at over $30), which includes:
  • 6 x AntiOx snack bars
  • 4 x AntiOx chocolates
The winners will be the entries deemed most creative by the Nuffnang judges. Chance plays no part in determining the winners.

Full terms and conditions can be found here on Nuffnang site.
Australian Residents Only.
Closes Friday 28 June 5.00pm AEST

*Just so we're clear  - Chocolate is not intended to treat, cure or prevent disease ...but it makes for a delicious way to boost immunity and make you happy.


Like AntiOx on Facebook and get a FREE bar too.
AntiOx snack bars and chocolates nutritional information here.
The AntiOx range is available in the health food aisle of supermarkets, health food stores, pharmacies and convenience stores.

Disclaimer: I received 3 x AntiOx Snack bars and 2 x AntiOx Chocolate blocks. No financial payment was received .All opinions are my own.

Friday 14 June 2013

Tour De Crawf ~ 3600km Challenge.

Today alone, 40 Australian women will hear the words ‘You have breast cancer’.
Life will never be the same again. I was one of those women exactly 12 months ago today.

I posted yesterday, the raw edges are blurred, because yesterday 12 months ago I knew it was bad news (can't miss a teary technician and a quick phone call to tell me you need to go for an urgent biospy), but 'today' (a yr ago) was when the GP confirmed my worst fears.

I love sharing stories about people who undertake incredible challenges* to raise money for my favourite charities like BCNA.

Every extra dollar raised goes towards Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) works to ensure that women diagnosed with breast cancer, and their families, receive the very best information, treatment, care and support possible, no matter who they are or where they live.

Shane Crawford, legendary Brownlow medallist, BCNA Ambassador and The AFL Footy Show personality, will embark on his biggest challenge yet when he rides his bike 3,600km across Australia to raise funds and awareness for Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA).

Did you know I rode my bicycle 1100km from Melbourne to Sydney as a 22 yr old ...hardly ridden my bike since.
 Tour de Crawf – Ride to the other side is a gruelling 22-day marathon in which Shane will average 170 kilometres a day and will see him pass through towns such as Bendigo, Swan Hill, Mildura, Berri, Port Augusta, Kimba, Penong, Eucla, Madura, Norseman, Kalgoorlie, Yellowdine and Kellerberrin.
We drove across the Nullabor (twice from Sydney to Perth) in 2011 and that was fun ...we saw a bike rider or two and a StormTrooper who walked across. It's a LOOOOOOOOOOOONNNNNNG way and a lot of  

"Are we there yet Mum? " 
Crawf will be leaving Melbourne on Thursday 20 June and will ride across the Nullarbor to arrive in Perth on Thursday 11 July to meet the boys and appear on The AFL Footy Show live from Crown Perth.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to send off Crawf! at a special Bon Voyage in Melbourne Crawf will get on his bike and start his 3,600km journey at 8:30am.


I'm taking part in the City to Surf 14km run  as Gold Charity Runner , raising funds for Breast Cancer Network Australia too. You can help me too I've pledged to raise $1000 - sponsor me here

(Samuel Johnson's Love Your Sister) 

Thursday 13 June 2013

How do you measure a year ~ Breast Cancer

It's been a year today since my breast cancer diagnosis.  ... Five Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand Six Hundred Minutes.


Give or take a few.

Do you even celebrate something like that !
Or merely celebrate living through it all and still thriving.

The Invasive Ductal carcinoma /cancer I was diagnosed with (after surgery and pathology results) was ER & P Postive (Oestrogen / Progesterone ) and HER positive (HER2 receptor positive). An aggressive kind in just 20% of women. Stage II because it had spread 3.5 mm into one Sentinel lymph node.

Right here, I would also like to point out I had very few complications. Apart from one overnight hospitalisation, for vomiting/dehydration and fever, my treatment has been relatively straightforward. Some of my friends spent weeks in hospital with 'critically' low white cells, in isolation, away from their kids.

It was none the less horrendous, they mostly leave you to suffer the side effects at home. A crap experience but you do get through it.

Having cancer ; surgery and chemotherapy, it's been a full time job. I didn't have radiation because I choose to have a mastectomy. If not it would have meant leaving home for 6wks or 4-6hrs round-trip each day to the nearest regional hospital with a Linear Accelerator (Radiation machine) ; at the time they only had one machine for all of Central West NSW .

Who's counting ...
  • Double mastectomy
  • Insertion of Port-a-Cath (minor operation)
  • Overnight stay due to dehydration / fever
  • Two breast 'core' biopsies
  • Nuclear medicine scan called Lymphoscintigraphy for Sentinel Node Biospy (injections of blue dye directly into breast to map spread of cancer)
  • 1 Bone scan
  • 1 chest xray
  • 1 chest lump ultrasound.
  • 1 mammogram
  • 1 breast ultrasound
  • one dozen+ dressing changes -including community nurse home visits and  going to local hospital community nurse - because I had my axillary/breast drain for a month)
  • 4 x three weekly AC chemotherapy (July to Sept -2 different chemos - so 8 treatments and extra anti-nausea and steroid meds - 4 to 5 hours)
  • 12 x weekly Taxol Chemo October to Jan (approx -length 3 hours)
  • 11 x 3 weekly Herceptin infusion (average 2 hours)...SIX more to go till October
  • 4 Heart scans (3 x MUGA and Echo) ...#5 MUGA heart scan next week
  • 4 Surgical consultations
  • 10 Oncology consultations
  • Hundreds of anti-nausea meds (I had paid $36.10 a week x 8wks for 2 pills, plus I was chomping down Maxolon by the handful)
  • 20+ blood tests (guessing here - 3 weekly, then weekly for 3 months, now I have them 6wkly, my blood levels are still out of whack).
  • 4 months of daily Tamoxifen tablets ...balance of 5-10 years to go.
  • Hundreds of vitamins swallowed - Calcium, Vit D, Flaxseed, CQ10 and other.
  • Look Good, Feel Better Program
  • Encore After Breast Cancer exercise program 6 of 8 (2hrs per week -2 more weeks to go)
  • 9,000kms+ traveled for surgery x 2 , surgical and oncology appointments and first 3 months of 3 weekly chemo.
  • Lymphodema  Consultation and education.
  • One Naturopathy consultation.
  • (Another knee x-ray, thigh 'neurofibroma' ultrasound, another surgical consult).
  • 2 Hair colours after my hair grew back (a first and second for me)
  • Infinite hours lying awake 'sucking up' my fears and holding back tears.The fear of cancer returning is a constant worry (at times very emotionally exhausting).
  • Immeasurable words of encouragement, support, prayers and friendship. I do not know how I would have done it without my HUSBAND, my family and friends and my interwebz community.
  • Countless reasons to smile, find a silver lining and count my blessings.
  • Hours upon hours walking, even when fatigue and nausea was knocking the stuffing out of me ,(and now with running) because exercise has proven to reduce risk of cancer returning.
  • 14km City to surf, 5km Color run and 4km Mothers day Classic
  • $10,000 + in medical costs, $7k-$8k out of pocket, (not including keeping our Private health Insurance going).
  • Plus PUBLIC Chemotherapy patients in NSW rural and regional areas are still forced to pay* for their chemo and anti nausea medications $500 plus at the moment.
*just saying it is still subsidised on PBS - just not free like it was for my first 3 months chemo in a Sydney Public Hospital.


I don't care that I lost my breasts.Reconstruction is complicated and not on my radar any time soon. It's also very expensive...meh - I have $1000 prostheses and a frilly bra I hardly wear. Running is more fun, with less bounce.

I can't don't work apart from doing bookwork for my husband's business and mothering ...I still had to help cook, clean (maybe less because you don't need high standards living in a converted farm shed), listen to home-reading and empty the laundry basket on occasion. My husband really stepped in to care for us all.

I'm fortunate blogging can be done from the comfort of my pjs and home. Plus it has given my kids a few extras, they would not have had otherwise.

In between there is waiting for Drs, waiting for your turn in the Chemo lounge, and waiting while they access the port-a-cath, take bloods, deliver my bloods to pathology, wait for results , wash their hands, then infuse chemo ; so poisonous they gown, double glove or wear thick purple gloves and mask. Then flush the lines, more hand washing, and then remove the port needle from my chest. Send me on my way...all with a smile.

Still waiting was easy enough to endure with my iPad or a book.

Today, it's reason enough to celebrate I'm here after one year.


Wednesday 12 June 2013

Marvellous Creations {5 x Cadbury Prize Pack Giveaway}


Giveaway
What do you do on a rainy day ?
Eat chocolate is always my answer .

Following on from last year's fantastical Marvellous Creations range, Cadbury has launched two new flavour combinations ~ 'Clinkers, Gummi Bears & Choc Biscuit' and 'Clinkers, Raspberry Chips & Marshmallows' in same purple attention grabbing wrap {in store now}

I was sent some to try.




Imagine mini marshmallows blended with the crispy Clinkers and Raspberry Chips or Gummi Bears and Choc Biscuit pieces all covered in delicious Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate!

Pop a bit in your mouth to find  Gummi bears, hidden in the chocolate, smaller than your average gummi bear , just as delicious. It is going to win fans as the chocolate melts away to reveal other key ingredients. It is very sweet but hard to resist. I love the clinker bits.

I always felt ripped off we never got enough pink and too many yellow and green clinkers.


My only compliant is the unique block is made of different shaped pieces in varying sizes - cries of his bit is bigger than mine are ringing in my ears. So I eat it when they are not around shell out another piece to keep the peace.



I am always happy to share with my chocolate loving readers.
(I also gave a block to a mum from my boys soccer team , she has two chocolate loving rascals).

Five lucky people will each receive a prize of chocolate including the following Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate:
· 2 x 290g blocks of Marvellous Creations Clinkers, Raspberry Chips & Marshmallows (RRP $5.49 each)
· 2 x 290g blocks of Marvellous Creations Clinkers, Gummi Bears & Choc Biscuit (RRP $5.49 each)
· 2 x 50g bars of Marvellous Creations Clinkers, Raspberry Chips & Marshmallows (RRP $1.80 each)


Just tell me why you want to pop some Marvellous Creations in your mouth ?

1. Only Australian Residents are eligible to enter.
 2. Entries not answering the question will be deemed invalid. The winner will be chosen by originality and creative merit, not by chance. Judges decisions are final and no correspondence will be entered into.
3.There are five prizes as above.

4. Entries - Open 12/6/2013 - Close 11.59pm 26/6/2013 AEST. The winners will be notified by email, and posted to mylittledrummerboys.blogspot.com.au after they reply - Winners have 7 days to respond or a new winner will be drawn.
5. Prizes are not transferable, changeable or redeemable for cash.
6. Prizes sent out by PR firm directly will not be replaced in the event that they are stolen, lost or damaged in transit.

 
7. Subscribe to my blog  to receive MLDB updates.
8. Follow via Facebook or Bloglovin on the sidebar .


 

Tuesday 11 June 2013

Wordless Wednesday ~Giant orange spherical orb - Planet: Under Construction (PUC)

I spotted this interesting Sculpture created using 200 traffic / construction cones in a spherical orb at Sydney’s Circular Quay.on 21st May - I snapped it with my iPad .I had no idea till last weekend it was part of Vivid.
 - see it glowing here

 

Saturday 8 June 2013

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

I made a tweaked wheat free (buckwheat flour) version of this moreish Cinnamon Roll Pancakes recipe today.They are delicious, just don't do what I did and taste with haste (in other words shove it in your gob too quick) because you'll burn the roof of your mouth.

I used my own pancake recipe but followed the tips found on Pinterest.
I had my idea for it but checked google for 'how to make' and Pinterest showed me dozens of recipes.

Unfortunately, I did not have cream cheese drizzle but I will next time.
Plus, I will stack them 3 high...two is not enough.

I am also going to try her other suggestions and a few of my own.

TIP - Recipe Girl's tips are valuable to success.

 
PS did you know you can now pin directly from the image, come back tomorrow and I show you mine.

Edited - to change image.
Be careful when you are pinning because there are a lot of spam links with popular recipes like this, and images that don't lead direct to the website. 



Friday 7 June 2013

Pouring

I'm sitting at Cancer Care Centre, waiting my turn. After today I will be almost 2/3 (#11) of the way through the seventeen Herceptin infusions.
Six more treatments to go, through to October.
Three more blood tests.
Two more heart scans.
One thousand seven hundred and sixty odd , anti-hormone tablets (and maybe an extra 1865).
Not that I am counting.
I am going well, all things considered.

As always, it is a stark reminder that so many people are 'coping' with cancer. Fridays are a quiet day apparently.It's still busy.

It is pouring today .
I'm not complaining, we really need this followup rain.
To fill our tanks and dams.
To grow oats and grass for the cattle.
It's been so dusty for so long.
It's been foggy lately too. My brain not the weather.

I saw a new surgeon Wednesday for the Neurofibroma in my thigh (left leg) , it's the biggest he's seen , so he told me. It's been getting slowly, progressively bigger over the last 10yrs, or so. It's the size of a large orange, 7cms. My breast cancer was 6mm and 25mm in comparison.




He wasn't interested in my little lump in muscle where my right breast used to be. He was ranting about my GP not putting the correct breast cancer diagnosis - she had written - DCIS - [Ductal Carcinoma inSitu] , I also had was IDC [Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (malignancy)]. He said it was very important and a big difference. My thigh tumour wasn't related but I get it. He said he would write it in the letter back to her. She is a lovely , caring GP -why hassle her.

He asked me had anyone talked about prognosis , cancer returning and why I had a double mastectomy ? my surgeon ? He knew my Surgical oncologist well, he said. New surgeon is a breast cancer surgeon too. WTF? The HER2+ is a mark against me , he said, as  I squirmed uncomfortably. He said 5% risk.

Then we moved onto Neurofibromatosis, had my tumour been biopsied ? , then the risks of it being so close to femoral and other nerves. Most likely he won't touch it, after I have an MRI, he will decide. To see if the tumour is close to the nerve matters.

I risk permanent numbness and losing sensation down my entire leg. I already have progressive, distal numbness in places, down to my ankle, odd sensations when I run or twist my leg a certain way. Nothing too bad.

He said I'll probably have to see a Neurosurgeon; they fly in/ fly out to Base Hospital or I can be referred back to Sydney. At the moment it is still ok. It doesn't bother me too much.

Lots of small grievances in one day.When I went to book in for the MRI, he hadn't signed the form. Oh well, we all make mistakes ;), like my GP. I have to go back and get it signed. A small bother but they won't do the scan unless I do. I have a 3 wk wait. Enough time.

The MRI receptionist wouldn't believe me about the titanium screw in my head for my BAHA hearing aid. I told her I'd had a previous brain MRI. Fortunately, I knew where I'd had the brain MRI a few years ago, in Sydney, she called them to make sure and to fax the report.

The new surgeon's receptionists were 'agitated' because my abbreviated name is on my Medicare card and my full name on Health fund care . They said I had to fix it, despite it not being an issue for 20 yrs ...did I tell you my MIL & I share the same name. Small annoying things. It stuffs their computer matching apparently.

It was FUN having my MIL open my confidential mail when she lived with us with for six years [mostly good times people] and especially medical stuff. So I changed it with Medicare. [I now get my medical records confused with another local woman with the same name.]

I feel like six million dollar woman with all my spare parts and accessories.Thankfully , I was not frisked when I got selected for an explosive check at the airport a few weeks back. It was just a scanner thingy waved over my body, shoes and bags. For a moment I had visions of being strip searched ; with lumps where I shouldn't have lumps and I was wearing my breast protheses that day too.

Time's up - my 280ml infusion is almost done. I'm going home to sit in front of the fire and catch up on blog reading and make cauliflower pizza crusts. I might have a nap too.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Wednesday 5 June 2013

Wordless Wednesday ~ House Rules - Work in progress

Before April 2012 ... "I’m just thrilled to see somebody actually working!”




  

Tuesday 4 June 2013

Stepping out of my comfort zone, Naturally - RedBalloon review

 RedBalloon review

I was stepping out of my comfort zone when I decided to choose a Scientific Naturopathic consultation for my next RedBalloon experience ...I possibly needed a detox after eating all that chocolate and fudge.

What ?

Hands up who wouldn’t want more Sleep Abundant Health, Energy and Vitality!

I‘ve always had the understanding that  Naturopathy focuses on naturally occurring substances, minimally invasive methods, and encouragement of natural healing. I wanted to know more as I travel the path to recovery .

I trusted the fact that because they were a Redballoon experience they must be reputable. In the past I may have been sceptical about some alternative medicines with my nursing background / career. I know diet and natural therapies play a big role in healing in many cultures.

I had already booked this experience when I discovered my son’s new girlfriend, was ‘training’ to be a Naturopath. [A four-year Bachelor of Health Science in Naturopathy degree. She was telling me how much she loves microbiology one day...not my favourite health subject ]

Interesting, hmmm, I hope she curbs his junk food addiction.


I arrived early and was given a lovely cup of green tea (Of course)

My consultation with the scientific naturopathic practitioner began with a detailed questionnaire, then a patient interview focusing on my diet and lifestyle, health concerns , medical history, emotional journey {right now especially with cancer } and physical features like height and weight, skin , BMI and muscle mass. All information basically to give her a full picture of how I manage my health. She put me at ease and listened...not like some Drs who care less about the whole person.

The information I gave , used in conjunction with my results from the testing, helped determine my health priorities. The testing package includes a zinc mineral test, (zinc is one of the most important minerals for long term health and longevity) and the highly regarded cellular health test.

I was deficient in zinc and I had a few areas to work on with my nutrition.

I’m still under the Oncology team and having Herceptin treatment every 3 weeks so I'm always going to be cautious. All the advice I received was sensible . She actually asked more questions about my health and diet then they ever have. A lot of the advice was similar to what a renown nutritionist recommended a few weeks ago.

I got feedback on the health and energy of my cells, my body composition and the biological age of my body (I have the body of a 42yr old – hurrah). My body weight was spot on, but I’m lacking muscle mass. I’ve lost muscle mass since my breast cancer diagnosis.

After my Naturopath practitioner collated the results, she gave me a tailor made program including a few nutritional/dietary changes and supplement recommendations to target my specific health concerns and assist my body in returning to full health and vitality.

When I told my husband I needed more sleep ...he agreed 110% !
He said "Turn off the computer. Go to bed earlier  – you are not sleeping in".

I've really been trying to give a go but being sick the last week with a respiratory infection has not been easy.

I would highly recommend this experience. I trusted my practitioner's advice and I purchased a few recommended supplements, though there was no pressure to do so.

Personally, I wouldn’t advise anyone ever to rely on this type of treatment alone for cancer. Serious consequences may result avoiding or delaying conventional medical care. Also, if you are visiting a Naturopath, be sure you know what kind of training and education the person has. 

Thanks to RedBalloon and Radiance Healthcare  It was so easy to book a suitable time. A day later, when I wanted to move my appointment from 3pm to 4pm  , it was no problem to change with Radiance.

RedBalloon have the ultimate in 2500 + different experiences across Australia. The variety of experiences that cater to all ages ,and lifestyles means there is something for everyone to choose.

If you can't decide on an experience buy a gift voucher. RedBalloon vouchers are perfect for any occasions ...I really don't need 217 reasons to take a mini break this winter ! One would suit me perfectly.

There is a special deal for My Little Drummer Boy readers!

  • Offer: Spend $129 or more on any RedBalloon experience, and receive $30 off.
  • To redeem:  Visit www.redballoon.com.au and enter the promotional code REDMUM12 at the checkout to receive your discount.
  • Terms and Conditions: Offer valid until 31/12/13. Promotional Code can only be used once per person. All purchases are subject to Red Balloon T&Cs, for full details see www.redballoon.com.au/help/terms-conditions


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Disclosure: Thanks to the team at Digital Parents Collective for inviting me to be a part of the Red Balloon Experience Program. I will be sharing more awesome experiences with you over the coming months. Stay tuned!  As always, all opinions are my own however the experiences are complimentary.
I paid for my own supplements.



Linking with Essentially Jess #IBOT