LOWVELD

Kids rock! Face fuzz A supplement filled how to choose with fashion, fun, advice and the perfect beard ideas BORN TO PERFORM Meet the fabulous Fisher sisters #travelblogger Take a sho’t left with Maryke Wasserman shoPPinG, PeoPLe And LifesTyLe in your neiGhBourhood AUGUST 2015 SM164332R GET IT Regional manager CONTENTS Buks Esterhuizen Managing group editor Irma Green OUT & ABOUT Editor 2 Take part in a bed race, go to a rock show or Ciska Kay tantalise your taste buds this month 072-125-0336 / [email protected] Features writers REVIEW Dina Venter 3 What’s new on the book, movie and music 072-345-8364 / [email protected] 4 Lia van Zyl scenes 079-305-5605 / [email protected] Photography WISH LIST Nicolene Olckers 4 Your shopping hotlist for August 013-754-1630 / 072-129-0792 Stylist Sandile Maluleke SOCIAL Layout 6 C’est la vie at Casterbridge Sandile Maluleke / Janine Cronje 8 Moms and bumps line up for Baby City’s opening Advertising sales consultant 10 Big smiles (and heart) at this year’s Innibos Jenni Semmens 082-342-8208 / [email protected] PEOPLE Subeditors Jess Steyn / May Nel 12 #Lovethelowveld Distribution Travel blogger, Maryke Wasserman shares her Monya Burger 013-754-1661 philosophy Get it Lowveld is distributed at selected 16 Soul sisters outlets in the Lowveld Meet performers Danielle Fisher and Joanne Fisher HOME & GARDEN Printers Steyn 68 Pallet powwow CTP Printers, Cape Town, 021-929-6200 18 Working girl What to know before you get started Get it head offi ce Mikateko Holeni-Mdhuli shines in a man’s world 72 Lovely lavender National group editor Get your summer garden going Kym Argo FASHION & BEAUTY 082-785-9230 / [email protected] 20 Something old, something new SHOPPING National group journalist Learn to shop like a pro 70 Shades of blue Zara Briner 082-341-1727 / [email protected] 24 Au naturel Gorgeous goodies for your home National sales manager Products made only with goodness Gregg Dunn 28 The rebirth of beards TRAVEL 082-959-9701 / [email protected] How to choose and maintain yours 74 Tour des art Maryke wears a blue jacket, A group of friends share a fabulous trip to Urban Rose, 013-742-2200, France scarf, Poetry 013-742-2282. HEALTH & WELL-BEING Jewellery: Violet & Rose 30 To Bant or not... Jewellery Co, 013-742-2267. The pros and cons of this popular diet OUTDOOR & ADVENTURE Hair: Annie Visagie of Hair@ ilanga, I’langa Mall, 78 Beauty and brains 013-742-2382. Make-up: FOOD Meet Mbombela’s unlikely aircraft engineer Tanya Koekemoer and Alecia van Graan of MUD 61 High tea at Kilinda’s 80 Bushveld bliss Mpumalanga, 071-869-4256. Find out how to whip up a stylish party Win a breakaway to Mjejane Lodge Shot on location: Communio Church, 013-741-1077 64 Spice route Indulge your senses at Riverside Spice Emporium BACK PAGE Visit lowveld.getitonline.co.za 92 Spoil ARTS & CRAFTS A luxury treat up for grabs 66 An out-of-control hobby Riana van Schalkwyk’s everything-you-need KIDS’ SUPPLEMENT @getitlowveld Get it Lowveld craft shop 33 Fashion, fun, advice and ideas

Issue 115 August 2015 Out & About Pencil these events into your August diary right now!

Help make a dream come true by wearing your slippers. All you need to do is buy a R10 The Lomac Model Air Show is back 7 sticker and wear your slippers to work, school, the shops - or wherever you choose to 1 after a very successful show in 2014. The and show your support for Reach For A Dream. If you are unable to wear your slippers, then organisers are planning a bigger and better wear your sticker with pride. By doing this, you are helping to fulfil dreams for children in event this year. There will be delicious food hospitals and homes across South Africa. Buy your sticker at www.slipperday.co.za. Enquiries: and drinks on sale. The event will be held at Monique on 012-346-0373. the Lomac Club in Rocky Drift from 08:00. Adults - R50 and kids - R30. Enquiries: 082-727-8425.

Enjoy some time in the winter sun 8 while browsing through handmade jewellery, art, soap, shoes and much more at The Bagdad Farmers' Market on the R40. Have a hot chocolate or craft beer to quench your thirst and sample a wide selection of delicious food. Great entertainment for the whole family, the market takes place at Bagdad Centre near White River from 08:00 to 12:00. The talented Dan Patlansky will perform at Stoep in Mbombela on Enquiries: 013-750-0469. August 15. As always, it promises to be a memorable show. Get all your friends and family together at 19:00 for some great music and good The Hi-Q Lions Charity Bed Race company. Tickets cost R120. Enquiries: 013-741-2551. 15 will take place at I'langa Mall in Mbombela and promises to be lots of fun for both spectators and participants. Rock of the Bushveld will take Tantalise your taste buds at the This year the proceeds will go to Hospice 15 place at Kwanyoni Lodge outside 28 Bubbles & Barrels Festival at Nelspruit as well as to other local charity Mbombela and Lowvelders can look forward Bee-Eaters Guest Farm outside Mbombela. organisations. On the day of the race, to Black Cat Bones, aKing, 1an Man Show, You can look forward to tasting some of participants need to register at the Lions's Jonathan Peyper, Saarkie, Gibraltar and South Africa's finest wines. There will also be registration table outside Mugg & Bean by more. A cash bar and yummy food stalls delicious canapés, food pairings, live music, 08:00. Judging of the best-dressed beds will be available. Tickets cost R100 and are a wine auction and more. Tickets cost R150. will start at 08:00. The first heat will start available at Rooikat liquor stores, Kwanyoni Dress code: semi-formal. The event starts at at 09:00. Cost: R2 500 per bed or R1 500 if Lodge, The Pub, Cicada Restaurant and 18:00. Proceeds will go toward Pro-Life Pet you still have one from last year. Enquiries: Harley-Davidson. The show will start at Rescue. Enquiries: Toiné Schoeman on 083-204-5183. 11:00. Enquiries: 079-521-3789. 013-101-1241 or [email protected]

2 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Review reAd seLP-heLf Only one good thing can come from reading this extremely unhelpful self-help guide - it’ll have you in stitches. YouTube sensation, Miranda Sings, decided to pen down her popular how-to lessons that she regularly shared with her over six-million social-media fans. You’ll learn everything from dressing for a date, to catching a boyfriend (wear black and carry a fi shing net) via Miranda’s easy-to-follow guide, illustrated by herself. The back page boldly proclaims, “This is the best book of all time” - Me, and “Miranda Sings is a EMNOTWENI genius” - My mom. It won’t change your life, but it will make you smile! Published by Gallery Books.

LisTen WATer for your souL Water for Your Soul is British R&B and soul diva, Joss Stone’s seventh official full- WATCh fAnTAsTiC four length album since 2011. As usual, this If you’re in the mood for some action- talented artist isn’t afraid to experiment, packed escapism, don’t miss Marvel’s and you can expect completely fresh Fantastic Four. Grab some popcorn and sounds, with some reggae, Latin, watch Mister Fantastic, The Thing, Human world music, and even Indian and Irish Torch and Invisible Woman save the earth influences. Stone’s new obsession with from their friend-turned-enemy, Doom. reggae comes from her friendship with In true Marvel style, you can expect Damian Marley, who also co-wrote the outstanding graphics combined with a track, “Wake Up”. Each track is unique bit of drama and some tongue-in-cheek and unexpected, and Stone has to be humour. It’s no Oscar winner, but it will commended for fearlessly venturing into a be an exhilarating watch on a fun night new musical sphere. out. Gorgeous undies, funky nails and rejuvenated skin Clash of the colours Called Mermaid My Day, Catrice’s teal nail lacquer is sure to attract attention! With rich colours, a high- shine fi nish, perfect coverage and ultra-long durability, it’s perfect for girls on the go. Find it at Dischem or online at www.spree.co.za and www.redsquare.co.za Stay a bit longer Catrice Longlasting Waterproof Eye Pencil does what it says: it’s long lasting, waterproof, highly pigmented and intense. Its smooth texture is particularly simple and accurate to apply and with a sharpener at the end, pretty nifty too. Find Catrice products at Dischem or online Graphic palms at www.spree.co.za and Inject some sizzling style with Pandora’s latest collection, a www.redsquare.co.za sophisticated interpretation of oversized, graphic fl orals. Represented as cut-out silhouttes in hand-fi nished sterling silver, the range is intricate, abstract and gorgeous. Find it at Pandora in Riverside Mall or go to www.pandora.net to see more. Cuppa chai, dear? Drinking black tea has long been associated with health advantages, including a reduced risk of stomach and colon cancer. Like westerners with their addiction to coff ee, many Indians cannot get through a day without a few cups of this hot, spicy drink. Infused with citrus, cloves, rose petals, almonds, vanilla beans and cardamom, it makes for a refreshing, yet exotic, tea break. Available at Oepsiedaisies at Sonpark, Mbombela and the The Bagdad Farmers’ Market. Enquiries: Monica on 072-247-3275.

4 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Gorgeous undies, funky nails and rejuvenated skin

Since 2002 the Colombian company Maaji has been enthralling fashionistas with its exquisite avant-garde swimsuits and to-die-for undies. Its latest, the Greenscape Lingerie & Studio Collection, is no exception. With its unusual fabric combinations, innovative cuts and gorgeous colours, it looks and feels like no other brand, enhancing its global must-have status. You too can discover what the fuss is all about: fi nd the collection at A Brief Affair at Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre or contact Karika on 013-750-1635 for more. Peel away the years The NeoStrata range takes anti- ageing skincare to the next level with its range of clinically proven Win! rejuvenating products. Developed by two dermatologists, Drs Van Scott and Yu, the products are formulated using alpha-hydroxy, poly-hydroxy and/ or bionic acids to improve the visible signs of ageing. Formulated to address specifi c needs, targeted peels and treatments are available for problem areas, including pigmentation, acne scarring and dull, dehydrated skin. Face & Body Synergy is off ering one reader a Visia complexion analysis and a glycolic acid peel from the NeoStrata range. For more info, contact 013-750-1406, or see www.faceandbodysynergy.co.za. For competition details, logon to lowwveld.getitonine.co.za RI157132ND GET Social networking

Steph, Wayne and Erika Weiss Vive la France! The Lowveld’s Francophiles gathered at Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre in White River Hendrik and Marinda Toerien to enjoy wine, cheese, music, and all things French at The Courtyard Cafe & Bistro’s celebration of Bastille Day. Clad in blue and red and donning berets, young and old enjoyed the day with true French air.

Werner and Ianthé Oosthuizen Kacy Chaffi n and Candice Jones

Erin and Lynne Durek of Funky Faces Amy Conyers and Mike Cohen Millicent and Maureen Malumane

CO310432aR People enjoy the good food and good company at The Courtyard Café

Baguettes galore

Hayley Stylianou and Gavin Geddes Kiara and Alex De Souza Melinda and Trevor Lewis

Alex and Nicole Field Without wine, the day wouldn’t be French CO310432bR GET Social networking

Pauline Day, Mercia Zeman and Elritha van Fransie Kruger, Rasanna Duke, Arlene Jaff ar and Niekerk Sharon Freeman

Pam Salzwedel with Abigail and Carolyn Boyd Pink feet in town The new Baby City recently opened opened its doors in Mbombela. Moms, dads and even grandparents took their little ones there to spoil them with toys, gadgets, and handy baby equipment. Solani Mathebula and Simone De Almeida

Mduduzi and Khanyisile Maseko Marige and Richard Cooper Talitha Cornelius and Charl van der Walt

8 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Thobai Lubisi and Kele Matsane

Sonto Mabuyane and Zama Maseko DR309832R Yolandi de Clerck and Rozanne de Jager

Miranda Zitha Owners Albert and Michel Aronoff GET Social networking

Vida, Josslyn and Kayla Laubscher

Maaida Miljo and Sunette Barnard teach Jak de Priester to make koeksisters

Gerald Clarke Festival with heart The 12th Innibos National Arts Festival recently drew huge crowds to Mbombela from all over the country. From outstanding theatre productions to food, shopping, and music performances, the event did not disappoint in any department.

André Schwartz Milla, Theriza and Rohann Schultz with Joubert, Tiaan and Jonél Krige

10 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Anton Goosen and band at the Legends concert CL309932R

Jack Parow

Tessa and Marli Grobbelaar

A sign-language interpreter on the main stage Velile Lupahla GET To know

‘Taking photographs started out as a hobby, but I realised that it was also a way to share my discoveries with the world’

12 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 #Lovethelowveld Blogger, socialmedialite and local travel enthusiast, Maryke Wasserman has learnt the value of taking a sho’t left. She shares her tourism philosophy with us, and uncovers all of the region’s hidden gems.

born-and-bred Lowvelder, that makes it settle deep within your soul. realisation has enriched my life, so that Maryke spent most of her Only then will you have that urge to share others can also come to understand how life blissfully unaware of the its beauty with the world.” privileged we are to live in the Lowveld. amazing sights and sounds Exploring has become a way of life, and “At the end of the day, it’s all about taking withinA a few kilometres of her doorstep in she believes that she is blessed to live in an the road less travelled. Your life will change Mbombela. area that off ers unparalleled natural beauty. if you know where you want to go, but not This was not due to the fact that she was “I sincerely hope that I can share how this necessarily how you will get there.” ignorant - like most locals, she’d visited all the top spots along the Panorama Route and explored the popular parts of the Kruger. In fact, until recently she was under the impression that she “knew” the area. Maryke recommends: “When I was younger, we used to do what I call ‘speed tourism’, quickly driving from one Art commercial spot to another, just so you can tick it off on your to-do list.” MBOMBELA GALLERY Her approach to travelling underwent A display of the expansive a gradual change, starting with a slow local government art Saturday visit to Kaapsehoop. “We decided collection at the old Van to make an outing there, but I felt like Riebeeck Sports Hall. I’d seen the village and I’d walked to Phone Marietjie Henning the escarpment, so we were looking for on 083-560-6057. something diff erent to do. I found out about the hike to Battery Creek Waterfall, and was INYOKA ART GALLERY astounded when I arrived at this beautiful Situated in Hoedspruit, natural site that had been right under my this gallery is unique in nose, all this time.” the sense that it is run as a The travel bug bit, and she started to cooperative. This structure record her experiences on Instagram. creates a more involved Much like her rediscovery of the Lowveld, exhibition space for local Instagram opened new possibilities to her, artists. and soon she got into the habit of blogging www.inyokagallery.com her experiences and also sharing it via Twitter. Her husband is a keen mountain AFRIKANIA biker, and this led her to exploring even It doesn’t look like much more unknown spots - she was never short from the road, but this of content to share with her followers. pottery showroom is “Taking photographs started out as a hobby. an amazing fi nd run by It was just a diff erent way to experience architect Tom Joubert. It is things, but I realised that it was also a way to a local investment project, share my discoveries with the world.” and work produced is a Maryke has realised that social media and contemporary take on the travelling are two worlds that complement heritage of African design each other in an astounding way - the one and crafts. Great stop a means to record the wonders of the other. for a light lunch on the “Exploring doesn’t have to take you far away Panorama Route. or last long - it’s about looking at what’s www.afrikania.co.za

Text: Dina Venter. Dress: Poetry. Jewellery: Violet & Rose Jewellery Jewellery:Violet Co Poetry. Dress: Venter. Dina Text: around you and experiencing it in a way

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 13 GET To know

4x4 routes THE DUNBAR ROUTE IN SONGIMVELO NATURE RESERVE The reserve is on the way to the Oshoek Border Post. It’s one of the lesser- known nature reserves, and excluding lion, the rest of the Big 5 and predators, such as the brown hyena, roam this tucked-away corner of the Barberton Mountains. Dunbar is an eight-kilometre dead-end route that can be done during a day trip.

EBUTSINI ROUTE ON THE OSHOEK/ BADPLAAS ROAD Explore this well-marked, 30-kilometre scenic route and the fauna and fl ora along the way. Pack a picnic basket and set a day aside - there are lots of viewpoints and spots along the way to be enjoyed.

TIP: Extend your stay and sleep over at Kromdraai DO238032R Chalets. You’ll have time pay a visit to Msauli - an abandoned asbestos mining town complete with houses, shop and a Ferris wheel.

Hiking trails BELVEDERE DAY TRAIL AT BOURKE’S LUCK POTHOLES Most Lowvelders have seen the potholes. But what about the beautiful surrounds? This eight-kilometre circular trail can be done in autumn and winter and is the perfect way to explore the area. It’s designed for fi t hikers and it will set you back quite a few hours, so plan the day accordingly.

LOERIE HIKING TRAIL STARTING AT MERRY PEBBLES IN SABIE This is a diffi cult 14-kilometre day hike, but the rewards of your labour will include three hidden waterfalls, plus a look at the spectacular Bridal Veil Falls.

HIKE TO BARBERTON BEACH IN THE BARBERTON NATURE RESERVE 013-753-2948 | [email protected] www.dougshiring.com This lesser-known nature reserve off ers braai and picnic spots and 2x4 and 4x4 routes. You can drive to the Barberton Beach, but it is lovely to explore this fi nd by foot. It’ll take you about 40 minutes from the car park to arrive at a river that forms a natural, inland beach. What a fi nd! 14 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 KRUGER’S GOLD JUST OUTSIDE GRASKOP behind trinkets such as toys, coins, or More exploring This is one of Maryke’s favourite spots sentimental items. to replenish energy when exploring There are currently 2 665 859 the Panorama Route. Think gourmet geocaches hidden around the world, dining on a wildlife estate, hidden and it’s a fun way of exploring an area away from the rest of the world. The you would’ve probably overlooked decor creates an art gallery feel to otherwise. the place. 2. Birding OTHER WAYS TO EXPLORE YOUR SURROUNDS The Kruger to Canyon Birding Route 1. Geocaching starts at Graskop and meanders Geochaching is a “global treasure along the panoramic Blyde River hunt”, and an activity that will Canyon to include a total of 10 nature open an entire new world to you. reserves (including the Kruger) Download the geocaching app on Rare sightings you may come across your phone, and it will point you to include the Taita falcon (it’s only geocaches hidden in your area via known breeding site in South Africa GPS. can be found along Abel Erasmus A typical geocache is a container Pass); some regular bushveld birds with a logbook, and once you fi nd such as the African fi nfoot, white- this container, you can enter your backed night heron and green geocaching code name and the twinspot; and if you’re extremely day you found it, and hide it again. lucky, Pel’s fi shing owl among the Larger cache boxes allow you to leave wetlands around Phalaborwa. Get in touch Follow @Papierazzi on Twitter, papierazzi.stationery on Instagram or visit Maryke’s blog at papierazzi.me

DO238032R

013-753-2948 | [email protected] www.dougshiring.com GET To know

SOUL SISTERS Entertainment has always been in their blood - Danielle Fisher and Joanne Fisher Steyn have managed to pave their way to the top by performing all over the country. And with their musical background, you can’t imagine them doing anything else.

anielle and Joanne (the oldest 35 times and travelled all over the world, daughters. "We always got up on stage and living in Mbombela), have but they call Port Edward home. with him when he performed," she recalls. been performing since they can An unconventional family, they followed And like their dad before them, the Fisher remember - and the two are thick dad around while his career developed. sisters take their audience on a trip down asD thieves. Dad Danny, lead singer of the Joanne remembers how they lived on cruise memory lane. Blarney Brothers, exposed them to the ships when they were still very young and They’ve inherited dad’s talent for doing entertainment industry and showbiz from a her mom used to home school them. spot-on impersonations of legends in the young age. Danny is not only known for his great music industry. It’s a feel-good experience Mister Entertainment himself, he too, has voice, but his stage personality as well. everybody loves. Watch out for their Stars in been at home on the stage since the age of A rocker at heart, he does excellent Your Eyes Tribute, a Lowveld favourite. 15. impersonations of famous bands and stars. Originally from Scotland, the Fisher family In one evening, he could transform came out to South Africa when Joanne was himself into Ozzy Osbourne, Mick Jagger Get in touch two. Subsequently, they have moved about and Rod Stewart, to the delight of Joanne Fisher on 072-506-1520 Text: Lia van Zyl Lia van Text:

16 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 The deeP one Joanne is an introvert, but when she gets on stage all of her shyness fades away and magic happens. She and her husband moved from Johannesburg to the Lowveld two years ago and it has been her mission ever since to bring more theatre shows to the Lowveld, her absolute passion. Her own production company, Steyn Alive Productions, is dedicated to encouraging young people to become more involved in shows. DID YOU KNOW? She recently started teaching arts and • Joanne would like to write an culture at Penryn College and is absolutely Afrikaans show in future loving it. Joanne has been everywhere and • She loves Indian cuisine and sushi she's seen the world, but nowadays she tries • She would like to travel to New York to travel a little less and spend more time and Paris at home with her husband and their furry • Joanne’s dream is to perform in the children, as she likes to refer to her dogs. Bluebird Cafe in Nashville Although she misses travelling and the • She wants to learn how to play guitar. shows, you can see she's in her happy place now. "I really try not to travel as much as before, dad, she has also learnt over the years but sometimes you just can't say no to a that she's strong on her own. But there is great opportunity,” Joanne says. She wrote just nothing like performing with family. Diva Feva in 2011, which showcases strong, "When people say families can't work independent women who have stopped together, I beg to diff er. We are the perfect at nothing to get to the top. Although she example of a happy, working one," Joanne loves performing with Danielle and her says. The ouTGoinG one "My passion is being on stage and performing with my family, they are my favourite people and I am blessed beyond words with the best," says Danielle. She is now a radio presenter and studio manager at Radio Life & Style 88.0FM based in Ballito. Being a performer from a young age, she can't see herself doing anything else, even her radio show is about entertainment. Danielle has a very special bond with Joanne and they know exactly what the other one is thinking just by DID YOU KNOW? looking at each other on stage. Living so far • Danielle would love to perform with away from her sister gets to her sometimes, Ed Sheeran and Shania Twain in future but there's nothing like a good old Skype • Experiencing Greece and Paris are at session to catch up. She also regularly visits the top her bucket list the Lowveld and has performed here many • Her favourite food is Italian times. • Danielle gets freaked out by cotton "The feeling that I get when I look next wool to me and see either my sister or dad and • She is absolutely petrifi ed of snakes. knowing that we are able to bring a little bit

of joy to someone’s life with the power of performing and special appearances she VI184732ND music and performing is what I love most still makes time to go for leisurely walks about what I do." along the beach with the special guy in Danielle is most at home in the company her life. "I also love night markets, going to of her family and close friends, although as many shows and live gigs as possible. she's the outgoing one, she also loves Oh, I also love a braai with friends and spending alone time at home with the ones family," she says. Five-year plan? Being an who matter most in her life. entertainer. Because there’s only one place Between a busy schedule at work, this girl belongs: on stage. GET To know WORKING GIRL Mikateko Holeni-Mdhluli is a highly successful quantity surveyor, entrepreneur and agro-processing expert who makes it her business to empower women in her daily line of work. She shares her life philosophy with Get it.

ikateko has a list of and via my MBA I became interested in if I could, I would do it full-time. The qualifi cations as long as her the collaboration of large businesses and thing about studying though, is that it’s arm, an indication of her thirst small-scale farmers - a curiosity that put not about passing exams and earning for learning and broadening me on the agro-processing path. degrees, but rather about interacting with herM horizons. But, this dynamic female I own a company called Aggy-M that other great minds, pooling knowledge isn’t only focused on improving herself - specialises in the processing of reground and learning valuable skills that you can her investment in women and specifi cally nuts into peanut butter. We produce apply in literally every aspect of your life. the empowerment of young black ones Nutty-P peanut butter that is distributed The world is forever evolving, and you has earned her recognition and numerous by females as an opportunity to uplift have to be pliable and do so with it - that awards, including the Mpumalanga themselves. means learning new things (academically) Govan Mbeki Best Youth Contractor for and applying your knowledge in practice. 2013. You’ve made successes in more than She believes the imparting of skills onto one male-dominated industry. How? How do you balance your studies, work another can changes lives for the better, I want to believe that I go out there and and being a mother? and is confi dent in the collective power do what needs to be done without paying You have to teach yourself discipline. of women. In-between raising her two too much attention to power games. I People may judge me and say I am not boys, spending time with her husband, love the challenge of convincing people enjoying my life, but my enjoyment studying part-time and running her of what needs to happen if they believe comes from learning and my work. It’s multiple businesses, she fi nds the time otherwise. I don’t allow myself to be not easy balancing it all, but your family to teach others valuable skills and life intimidated by anyone, and being at the is so precious that it’s non-negotiable lessons that have stood her in good stead. age that I am now, I’ve also learnt the that you make time for them. valuable lesson of knowing when to leave Whenever the going gets tough and What is your business background and a fi ght. I’m tired of studying or working, I how did you end up in the Lowveld? motivate myself by thinking of the It’s been a long journey. I grew up and Do you often come across women who time I will save by fi nishing what I matriculated in Giyani and then made my don’t realise their potential? can now, and being able to spend it way to Port Elizabeth to study accounting A lot. I am guilty of one thing though with my family later. - mainly because it was the “in thing” - I will push you to your limit if I see to do back then. After a year of failing potential in you, and I believe that What advice do you want to give dismally, I realised it wasn’t for me. A everyone has some form of it. women out there, wanting to friend of mine studied quantity surveying In our country, a lot of females are make a success of their lives and (QS) and I was quite interested in this pushed into being mothers and only that. careers? fi eld. It took some convincing for my There’s nothing wrong with it, but I want Don’t doubt yourself because all of parents to agree, but I switched over and women to realise that they can go beyond us have some special talent or ability. passed my degree with fl ying colours. what is expected of them, if that is what Let go of negative stereotypes, and After working in Polokwane for a while, they want. They must learn, further realise that we’re not all the same. I had to visit Mbombela for business in themselves, and contribute to their Have comfort in yourself and shine in 2002. We were driving into town at night, communities. We need to make more your own way without comparing what and I promise, the minute we drove in, I noise than men in order to be noticed. you achieve to others. If, at any stage you said aloud, “This place is going to be my That doesn’t have to mean doing things feel that you’re trying too hard, then let home one day”. It’s strange, I don’t know that you’re not comfortable with - it’s go. If things are meant to be, it’ll work what it was, because it was dark and I enough to simply have pride in your work out, if not, there’s no shame in giving up couldn’t see a thing, but a few months and what you stand for. and moving on. later I packed my bags and moved here. Following that, I built up a quantity- You’re a serial learner. How important surveying business, from which I took a is it to obtain a qualifi cation, or should Get in touch break for a while to complete my MBA. you rather learn in practice? Mikateko Holeni-Mdhluli via The Little At the moment, I run my QS business, Strike a balance. I enjoy studying, and Marketing Company on 013-744-0714 Text: Dina Venter Text:

18 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 SA142932NL

I will push you to your limit if I see potential in you, and I believe that everyone has some form of it Get Shopping Smart shopping Dressing well doesn’t mean that you should own heaps of clothes. There’s a fashion formula that anyone can follow to stay stylish and solvent - no matter how much trends change. Ready to change your spending habits for the better? Read on!

ow often do you open your closet and feel that you have nothing to wear? Come payday, most of us rush to the mall to buyH even more clothes that we only wear a few times before it becomes part of that not-so-trendy pile. There’s an easy way to end the pattern, save money, and find your true, personal style. It’s as simple as making up each outfit of a bargain, high-end and vintage item. It’s a balanced way to shop, and a principle followed by stylists worldwide. If you use it as a shopping guideline, you can restyle the same items, each time with a different twist. Here’s how. Compiled by: Dina Venter and Lia van Zyl. Photographer: Nicolene Olckers. Model: Chanell Swart. Nicolene Olckers. Make-up: Photographer: of MUD Mpumalanga, Zyl. Oberholzer and Lia van Liezel 071-869-4256. Venter by:Compiled Dina Shot on location R850, Fleur. satchel, and Jinger Jack leather own stylist’s coat, vintage R129,99, Mr R2 599, Old Khaki, boots, Price, R59,99, dress, Caterpillar leggings Chanell wears: River White in downtown

20 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Bargain hunt Bargain stores and sales are fantastic, but buying cheap can turn into an expensive exercise if you don’t do it right. Never think “I’ll buy fi ve of these, it’s Vintage just so cheap!” Stay focused on what you really want and need, and bargain buying will work for you.

High-end

1 Bargain

GOOD BARGAIN- HUNTING STORES 2 Mr Price Clothing, The Hub, Cotton High-end On, Fashion Express, Woolworths (especially during sales), Pick n Pay Clothing.

WHAT BARGAINS SHOULD I BUY? 3 This type of shopping should be twofold - either buy staples or seasonal trends. By staples, we mean plain shirts, leggings, stockings, plain dresses and pants. Don’t pay thousands for a white shirt at a high-end store if you can get it for a quarter of the price elsewhere. By trends, we mean whatever is trending now that will most probably not be doing the rounds next season. If you can’t wear your poncho with crazy geometric patterns next winter, so be it - at least it didn’t cost a fortune. Stores like Mr Price and Cotton On are fantastically on trend, and you can’t go wrong shopping for fashionable items here.

BARGAIN SHOPPING TIPS • Do your homework. Search the Internet, follow a fashion blogger, or browse Instagram and Pinterest for the latest trends before you just embark on a spending spree. • When you visit a bargain store or rush to a sale, go there with the item you need in mind, buy it, then avert your eyes and leave the store! • Have a clear picture of how you intend to wear either your staple or trend item, and how you can match it with what you own. • Don’t rule out accessories - these also count as trends. You can easily incorporate the season’s colours into your outfi t with a pair of earrings, a statement necklace or an inexpensive Smart bargain buys: 1 Blue shirt dress, R99,99, Mr Price. 2 Grey shirt bag. dress (available in marsala, navy stripes and blue), R249 or R400 for two, • Shop black, white, navy, grey and brown staples. These Cotton On. 3 Selection of leggings, from R59,99, Mr Price and Cotton On colours are essential to any wardrobe.

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 21 GET Shopping

WHAT HIGH-END ITEMS SHOULD I BUY? Splash out When you go high-end, build up your wardrobe over time to include It’s not easy to part with your hard-earned cash, but a pair of leather boots, a leather handbag, one or two tailored the pros of shopping quality rather than quantity far jackets or coats and a few pairs of high-quality jeans. outweigh the cons. Ask anyone with a pair of leather If jewellery is your thing, invest in gems and pieces that you’ll want boots how long they’ve owned them for and how to take out for any occasion, and then do exactly that. A gorgeous often they wear them to get your proof. We’re not string of pearls is useless if it sits in your jewellery box at home. saying go all out on that overdraft, but you will get more bang for your buck in the long run if you buy HIGH-END SHOPPING TIPS smart. • Think classic when you buy expensive. If something in a neutral colour is well tailored, double lined, has beautiful fi nishes, and you can see yourself wearing it in 10 years’ time - invest in it without a doubt. • Look out for genuine leather, rather than knock-off s. • Take care of your high-end items - dry-clean your clothing, and if you have leather items, regularly treat it with leather food. Shoes can be maintained with regular resoling.

High-end

1 2

Bargain

Vintage 3 4

GOOD HIGH-END STORES Chanell wears: Leather jacket, R2 999, Old Khaki, scarf, R50 with Poetry, Old Khaki and any purchase, Cotton On, vintage Cape Union Mart are dress, R160, Trams Antiques, great for leather items. boots, R499, bucket bag, R199, 5 6 Also pop into Boutique Cotton On, gold vintage earrings, La Pearl, Nevills, Aldo, R60, Gold Dust Trading 1 Bag, R949, Aldo. 2 Jacket, R799, Truworths. 3 Anna Scott jacket, R2 599, Nevills. 4 Suede boots, R1 099, Old Khaki. 5 Goonen boots, Charles & Keith and R2 699, Aldo. 6 Polo Jacket, R1 799, Nevills Forever New.

22 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 WHAT VINTAGE ITEMS SHOULD I BUY? Vintage fi nds If your style is quirky, hunt for dresses, coats and retro skirts. If you don’t really like the idea of old clothing, then go for jewellery, bags, Think of vintage as a fun way of adding personality sunglasses and scarves. These items are versatile, relatively easy to to your outfi t. Even if head-to-toe vintage isn’t fi nd and inexpensive. your style, there are ways to incorporate it into an ensemble that will look downright fabulous. VINTAGE SHOPPING TIPS • Most second-hand shops try to evaluate the quality and will price items accordingly, but beware of overpricing. Unless those cat-eye sunglasses belonged to Marilyn Monroe, it shouldn’t be too expensive. Vintage • Check items for damage, and don’t buy something that you will end up spending money on to repair or alter. • Shopping vintage is a full-time commitment, because the clothes come and go. Make a habit of regularly popping into your local charity shop and keeping an eye on sites like Gumtree (remember to factor in delivery costs).

1 2 High-end

GOOD VINTAGE SHOPS Hospice or SPCA charity 3 4 shops. Antique stores also often stock old clothing Bargain and jewellery. For online shopping, Gumtree and Vintage Goddess Clothing Chanell wears: Dress, on Facebook is a good R119,99, Mr Price, vintage head scarf, stylist’s own, start. navy Jinger Jack leather bag, R1 300, Fleur stockists Cotton On, Riverside Mall: 013-757-1203. Mr Price, Riverside Mall: 013-757-1424. Aldo: 013-742-2290. Nevills, Riverside Mall: 5 6 013-757-1203. Truworths, I’langa Mall: 013-742-2236. Fleur Clothing & Design on Facebook or 082-601-9631. Gold Dust 1 Gold clip-ons, R60, Gold Dust Trading. 2 Retro leather bag, stylist’s own. 3 Sixties-style scarf, stylist’s own. 4 Suede clutch bag, R160, Gold Dust Trading: 082-835-2314. Old Khaki, I’langa Mall: 013-742-2280. Trading. 5 Faux pearl clip-ons, stylist’s own. 6 Chanel scarf, R65, Gold Dust Trams Antiques, Dullstroom: 082-093-9983 Trading

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 23 GET Organic VA175532ND

24 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 100% natural products, plus the healing properties to be found in herbs and aromatic oils. They are currently marketing 13 products, ranging from a skin-fi rming lotion to an insect repellent, popular with horse owners nogal, he laughs. Jotham also had excellent feedback on their insomnia remedy, a macadamia-based oil combined with valerian, marjoram, sandalwood, clary sage and Roman AuIn collaboration naturelwith his mom, Jotham van Tonder has chamomile. His largest client base is older women, developed a range of all-natural, health and beauty products. but he confi rms that a growing number he instant popularity of The Bagdad medicine”, but neither him, nor any of his of people from across the spectrum are Farmers’ Market in White River siblings, spent a signifi cant amount of interested in natural alternatives. “Our mirrors a global shift in the mindset time in the doctor’s offi ces. His mom had products smell incredibly nice and don’t of consumers, signalling a return to long been experimenting with making make your skin feel oily,” he says. what’sT home-grown and true to nature. At her well-being remedies and beauty “And we have those to suit diff erent the market, surrounded by other home- products, using The Fragrant Pharmacy, age groups. I believe in it. It’s our mission made, natural and organic fare, his range of Valerie Ann Worwood’s defi nitive guide to encourage everyone to use natural beauty products, Essential Africa, is doing to aromatherapy and essential oils, as her products, with no synthetic ingredients - well. bible. the way it was meant to be made.” Jotham’s interest in alternative, healing When she hit on the idea of selling the and sensible lifestyle choices comes with products she’d been making for herself, the territory. His mom, he says, is a health Jotham became involved. A graphic-design Get in touch fanatic, dedicated to fi nding well-being and fi lm-school graduate, he spends Join the Essential Africa page for solutions in the natural world rather than a his time between Bloemfontein and the developments and information on products pharmacy shelf. Lowveld, selling the products in both areas. or contact Jotham on 079-887-8004, 082-385-6112 or [email protected]

Text: Ciska Kay Text: He smiles about growing up on “hippie He keeps pushing the benefi ts of using VA175532ND GET IT PROMOTION Beauty retreat The dream to open up her own business that would one day become a family legacy had always been part of Adéle du Plessis’ thinking. After many years with a premium brand, she fi nally took a leap of faith and started building a concept around the high standards she’s had instilled in her over time.

As a businesswoman she had to steal time to within a premium environment to which incredible studio. The fi ner touches and go for a pamper every once in a while. Adéle you would always want to return - hence its decor were up to Adéle and this was also the also enjoyed a quiet, tranquil experience and representation in the infi nity logo. part that she enjoyed the most out of the for this she had to drive out of Mbombela, whole process. They went for a minimalistic, which meant more time out of the offi ce and warm and white look adding elements like then she always had to postpone treatments. The design wood, glass and stone. This was where the concept of starting Her husband, Barry du Plessis patiently Bodycure became a reality. She wanted listened to the vision she had in mind for the to create a place nearby with convenient brand and they brainstormed every single The Bodycure brand business hours, but also off er tranquillity detail together. He then designed the most Building the brand made her curious about developing a body skincare range. which means they will soon explore options After months of choosing fragrances, to branch out and maybe later on franchise. services Their menu caters for skin, body, hand ingredients and testing samples, their own Now it’s all about the customer and fi nding and feet care. Hair removal with sugaring, professional and homecare range is now their feet in the local market. waxing, lash extensions and nail care which available for retail and she can proudly say includes gel overlays, acrylic and sculpture their own Re-Vive hand cream is one of the with amazing nail art. Bodycure has also best-sellers at the moment. skincare brands introduced a dry bar, which adds value to Bodycure is now a registered trademark After intense market research she decided the business. It is a express hairbooth only on stocking Pevonia and Comfort Zone as for deep treatments. No colouring or cutting. they fi tted in with their brand values. With Their prices are competitive and the their world-renowned clinical results and customer gets added value with a sound their 100% natural, paraben-free and with therapy ritual at the start of every treatment cutting-edge technologies, they deliver that relaxes you completely. results with immediate visible and lasting Bodycure is open weekdays from 09:00 to anti-ageing results with an instant glow. 19:00 and will also accommodate special Both off er complete care for the skin, body events where clients can book the studio. and soul. This will add a niche to the business - something that she is very excited about. On Saturdays they are open from 09:00 to 14:00 The team and Sundays until 13:00. Bodycure’s team currently consists of three Bodycure has a holistic approach regarding qualifi ed therapists, two nail technicians and their product off ering. one lash technician. They are unique in their service delivery, skill They are young and energetic and their and customer centricity. It will be a journey passion is contagious. They are certainly you must to experience. individuals who will go far in life and Adéle is honoured to have them on-board.

Adéle du Plessis/013-752-3739/www.bodycure.co.za/[email protected] Get On trend The rebirth of BEARDS They’re back and love it or hate it, face fuzz is sprouting everywhere we look. If you’re considering growing one, here’s what you need to know.

he first rule about beards is that to do it, you’ll have to man up and let the they’re not all created equally. facial fuzz go wild for a month or two. You What separates a caveman from can’t have it both ways: shaving occasionally Jake Gyllenhaal or Hugh Jackman only makes you look like you’re constantly willT depend partly on genetics, but also coming off a bender and won’t get you on grooming. You can’t do anything anywhere. Bite the bullet and wait it out! about the lushness of your mug rug, but you can choose a style that suits your GROOMING face and then look after it properly. The difference between bearded hero and bearded weirdo comes down to care. You CHOOSE YOUR STYLE shampoo your hair, right? Get into the habit Simply letting nature take its course is of doing your beard, too! If you don’t keep where many guys go wrong. One way of it up, you’ll simply end up looking like the going about it is to grow out a full beard frontman for a ZZ Top cover band - surely not and then follow a process of elimination the look you’re aiming for. by trimming off bits here and there and Scrub well enough with your daily face examining the results. wash to clean out all the junk (dirt, bacteria, First clean up your cheeks and neckline. lunch) hiding inside your beard. See if you like the look and if not, take off a bit more for a thinner, more defined BEARDS THROUGH THE DECADES look. Now is the time to experiment with In the ‘60s beards were a symbol of anti- goatees, long and short sideburns and establishment and freedom from authority, finally, should you be that way inclined replaced by hipster handlebars in the ‘70s. In (heaven forbid, although it is due for a the ‘80s Magnum PI dictated macho facial- comeback), a ‘stache. hair trends followed by a relatively beard-free Remember the golden rule: a long, thin two decades. face will look fuller and more masculine with a full beard, whereas a wider face FUN FACT with a weak chin, for example, can They have variously been held to signal be made to look longer and trimmer sexual potency, instil fear in enemies and with more hair on the chin versus the ward off germs (yes, really). sideburns and cheeks. Test until you find the perfect shape. SEVEN STEPS TO THE PERFECT BEARD BREAK THE STUBBLE CYCLE • Find your style Shaving one day and letting your beard • Pick the right length grow in for a week or two will never yield • Get a beard trimmer • Have a manageable routine

Text: Ciska Kay Text: the lushness you’re after. If you’re going

28 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Local hottie, Stephen Koster first Tip! started sporting a beard about five years ago, albeit a much shorter Look at photos of one. Then in his early 20s, he held celebrities with beards a managerial position in a family and choose a few with business and believed it gave him a similar face shape as a bit of authority in the workplace. He hasn’t trimmed his beard for at yours. Seeing what’s least a year and a half and says the working in the world of girls like it. “Manliness seems to be hotness can help you lacking a bit these days,” he jokes. make up your mind. Grooming-wise, he washes it “every now and again” and keeps the top of his face clean by getting rid of Word of the day straggly bits. “I enjoy it - it makes Pogonophobia - The you stand out.” fear of beards.

• Clean it regularly • Keep the neckline and cheeks natural • Style your longer beard.

FUN FACT In 19th and early 20th century military circles, facial hair was a mark of the fighting man. Burly, mustachioed recruits were often placed deliberately at the front of marching columns to instil fear in enemies. In fact, until 1916, British soldiers were required by regulation to wear a moustache, until Sir Nevil Macready, who hated his, repealed the order. Get Health To Bantor not... Love it or hate, the Banting diet is still trending. Get it speaks to people who have adapted to this lifestyle and also gets a dietitian’s take on it.

im Noakes shocked the country and made headlines with his opinion on healthy living and what to eat. Some say Banting causes high cholesterol andT others praise Tim for this revolutionary way of eating. He believes that a low- carbohydrate and high-fat diet is the way to go in order to lose weight and keep it off. Not everyone agrees with Tim, but not everyone disagrees with him. Passionate about Banting Auriol Daley, a Hazyview lodge owner, started Banting two years ago and she's absolutely passionate about this lifestyle. She heard about it through a friend and was fed up with feeling uncomfortable in her own skin. She did all her research and started with the diet. She had maintained a fairly healthy lifestyle before, but felt that she was eating all the wrong food. Her greatest adjustment was cutting out fruit, but she's was quite happy with cutting out the rest. "I sometimes miss pasta and fruit juice, but then I just tell myself to get over it," she says. Within a few months her clothes were fitting better and she could feel the fat fading away. Today Auriol has lost over 20 kilograms and it's the happiest she's been in a long time. "The most important thing was making a mind shift and not thinking about it as a diet, but as a lifestyle change," she says. Her husband, Andrew, also hopped on board and lost seven kilograms and his boepie, as he refers to it, is now gone. "And She got rid of all her ‘fat clothes’, because the best thing is we didn't have to do any extreme exercise," they laugh. They regularly that’s a chapter in her life that she go for walks, but that's about it. She got rid of all her "fat clothes", because that's a chapter in her life that she wants to forget wants to forget and says she will never go back. "Now I'm back in my sexy ones!" She calls herself a Text: Lia van Zyl Lia van Text:

30 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Banting fanatic and says she will follow this lifestyle forever. She does have a "cheat" day here or there with a glass of wine or a piece of chocolate, but she doesn't crave that any longer. The Daleys have inspired almost all of their friends to start Banting and they regularly invite them over for dinner. Auriol loves making crispy pot belly with roasted cauliflower, broccoli and sugar peas. "You can still eat delicious food," she says. She recommends Banting to anyone who wants to lose weight and follow a healthy lifestyle. Banters for life Steven and Gilda Mavromatis of Mbombela also started Banting two years ago, but Gilda grew up with a Mediterranean lifestyle and doesn't find it very different. They are both runners and try to maintain a healthy lifestyle as much as possible. For Steven nothing felt sustainable, but since they started Banting, he feels like a million bucks. Steven came across an article on Tim Noakes and a low-carb, high-fat way of eating made a lot of sense to him. Since then he feels a big change in his body. "I must admit I miss chips, but I don't deny myself that. I will have a fish burger and chips once in a while, but I won't have that for the rest of the week," he says. They also live by changing one’s lifestyle and not trying to stick to a diet. Although they didn't do it for weight loss, Steven still lost a couple of kilograms. Gilda is a natural in the kitchen and cooking is second nature to her. With a 17-year-old son it was quite an adjustment, but now he can't get enough of her butternut lasagna. "The further people stay away from processed food, the better. I make everything from scratch and only use fresh ingredients," she says. People are pressed for time, but they believe that making time or cooking in advance is key. Cauliflower is their best friend and the largest carb replacement. Gilda runs their guest house and makes cauliflower rice and couscous for her guests without them even knowing they are eating a Banting meal. "The other big problem is that people try to replace their carbs with unnecessary food instead of just cutting it out completely." They believe that exercise should go hand in hand with Banting even if it's walking your dog around the block. They run more than four times a week, they've cut out sugar completely, lowered their carb intake and that's what works for ‘The further people stay away from them. They try and convert as many people as possible and they believe people should processed food, the better’ start reading labels and question what they eat more often.

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 31 Get Health The professional's take on Banting Registered dietitian, Natalie Grobler of Mbombela still feels we need to look beyond weight and focus on a balanced healthy-eating pattern that utilises all the core food groups. She strongly feels that we need to control portions sizes. "We need to include a variety of fresh products including fruit and vegetables into our diet and we need to exclude all processed foods - that is what I firmly believe," she says. However, what she agrees on with the Banting diet is to exclude all sugars as it's a major culprit regarding the issue of obesity. Including fresh products in our diet and reducing our carb portion sizes are very important. "I do not agree that we should exclude all carbs completely. This is your main source of fibre to ensure a healthy digestive system and if we exclude all wholegrain from our diet we increase our risk for bowel cancers." The key is to reduce our portion sizes and to choose wholewheat varieties. "I do agree with Tim that we need to increase our intake of protein sources, but I will recommend good quality low- fat protein sources. I will not suggest to my patients to consume high-fat meat products," she says. Changing your lifestyle is the most important thing for any weight loss.

What is Banting? Banting is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet, named after William Banting, the first person to do it. The idea is that this way of eating makes your body switch from burning carbs for energy to burning fat. The focus is on increasing fat and decreasing carb intake in your diet while your protein intake should be moderate. Banters only eat animal fats. There are 10 golden rules Banters live by: It's a high-fat, medium-protein, low- carb way of eating. Choose real foods and cook them from scratch. Fat is not the enemy. Eat only when you are hungry. Stop snacking. No sugar. No grains of any kind. No or very little fruit. Embrace eggs.

Is Banting the way to go? We still don't know. It's clear that it works for some, but ‘We need to include a variety of fresh products not everyone is keen on following this type of lifestyle. You decide. including fruit and vegetables into our diet Get in touch and we need to exclude all processed foods’ Auriol Daley on 082-577-2130 Gilda Mavromatis on 074-357-1213 Natalie Grobler on 071-246-0357

32 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 LOWVELD

Adorable buys for little fashionistas

Lunch-box ideas for on-the-go 4moms Audiology dOES YOUR CHILD NEED IT? kids rock! Gadgets, gear, tips and info for the young ones AUGUST 2015 ME311632ND ME311632ND CONTENTS

DEAR PARENTS

We’ve compiled this supplement, jam-packed with tips, ideas and important information that will hopefully make your life a little easier. When you’ve read through our informative articles and swooned over the gorgeous shopping items, page to the Kids Directory at the back. It is fi lled with information regarding the best service and goods suppliers, and you’ll fi nd anything you need for your child right there. Enjoy!

37 WISH LIST A shopping hotlist for savvy parents

38 HEALTH Q&A Common medical concerns for kids of all ages

42 FUNKY KIDS Cute clothing and accessories for the young’uns

44 WHAT’S FOR LUNCH? A dietitian recommends four quick and healthy lunch boxes

48 OVER AND ABOVE Choose the extramural activity that would best suit your child

50 AUDIOLOGY Q&A An expert answers common questions related to kids and hearing

52 ROAD TRIPPING How to keep your family safe on the road

55 KIDS DIRECTORY Your A-Z guide of the best children’s goods and service suppliers in the Lowveld Model: Joleen Brown 36 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Yummy nibbles, pretty beads and pink noise

Counting sheep Ewan the dream sheep is the perfect sleeping companion for restless kids. This cuddly soft toy 1 emits low-frequency sounds combined with a calming pink glow to soothe babies and toddlers to sleep. The sound- recording library has four diff erent “pink noise” soundtracks from which to choose, including actual heartbeats and womb sounds proven to have a comforting eff ect on babies. Ewan retails at R370 at Kids Emporium. Stylish momma You can’t keep fi lthy hands and gooey mouths off your 2clothes, but you can give baby something to pull and chew on - teething beads! Curious hands (and mouths) can grab, pull, and 3 bite away at these washable beads Comfy pouch without damaging it, and mom can still be her fashionable, gorgeous Baby Sense is on everyone’s lips for a good self. The long necklaces are priced at R199 and the reason - this brand produces fantastic bracelets at R99 and are products suited to the Baby Sense lifestyle. available at Kids Emporium. This Babaroo carrier is just another piece of simple, yet smart, technology that will make all the difference in your daily life. A hip band and diagonal back strap ensure even Smart snacking weight distribution so that you can carry Little Nibbles is a range of organic baby naturally on your side. The carrying 4 fi nger foods specially created for babies and toddlers. Hipp Organic movement will calm the little one, and you produces this range using quality can walk around and move freely. Products organic ingredients that are tasty and are available at Baby City, and the Babaroo good for little tummies. The range is available from Baby City. carrier retails at R549.

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 37 GET Parenting Q We rounded& up a fewA common concerns for kids of all ages. Being a parent is a tough job and keeping children healthy and safe a full- time occupation. It’s easy to overreact when things go wrong, but in this case, knowledge is defi nitely power. Make sure you understand common ailments as well as when medical intervention is required. Moms have a wonderful thing called intuition - if you’re uneasy about something, get help!

HOW CAN I TELL IF MY CHILD NEEDS best treatment. It may include behaviour Q STITCHES FOR A CUT? Bed-wetting aff ects modifi cation, the use of a bed-wetting alarm, medicine, counselling and other methods. Sometimes it’s not as bad as it many older kids Most important, knowing that he has the A looks, get medical attention for a support and understanding of his family cut that: canQ help your son to feel less frustrated or • Is still bleeding after you apply pressure for and even teens ashamed about wetting the bed. fi ve minutes • Is gaping or wide As kids enter puberty, a lot of • Appears to be deep A them start to develop body odour. MY DAUGHTER IS 13, AND I’M NOT SURE WHEN • Is on your child’s face or neck Diff erent children start puberty at Q SHE SHOULD START SEEING A GYNAECOLOGIST. • Contains glass or other debris diff erent times, but boys generally WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO TAKE THIS STEP? • Has an object sticking out of it, such as a begin between nine and 14. And it wouldn’t twig hurt to remind your son about some hygiene It is recommended that girls fi rst • Spurts blood. basics. A see a gynaecologist when they’re A child who has not had a tetanus shot Encourage him to get into the habit of between 13 and 15. Most of them within the past fi ve years may need one to showering after activities where he’s worked will not need a pelvic exam during this fi rst protect against infection. A child may also up a sweat and to wear clean clothes, socks visit, though. Many gynaecologists will just need one if the wound was caused by rusty and underwear each day. If he is feeling self- do a regular health exam and talk to a girl metal, is contaminated with dirt or saliva, conscious about sweating and body odour, about her development. This is a great way or is a bite from an animal. The tetanus shot talk to his doctor. for your daughter to develop a relationship must be given within 48 hours after the with her gynaecologist, so that she is wound has happened. But the sooner it is comfortable sharing personal information given, the better, as it will help to lower the MY 12-YEAR-OLD SON STILL FREQUENTLY in future. risk of infection. Q WETS THE BED. HOW CAN I HELP HIM? While all teenage girls should see one, it is especially important to do so if your MY SON HASN’T GONE THROUGH PUBERTY Bed-wetting, or enuresis, aff ects daughter has been sexually active (or plans Q YET, BUT SOMETIMES HE GETS BODY ODOUR. A many older kids and even teens. to be) or has problems with her period. I WONDER IF IT’S TIME FOR HIM TO START Although the chances are good that he will outgrow the condition, USING DEODORANT, BUT I WORRY THAT IT MIGHT BE TOO HOW CAN I TELL WHETHER MY CHILD IS TOO consider talking to your doctor, who can EARLY. Q SICK TO GO TO SCHOOL? help fi nd possible causes and suggest the Source: kidshealth.org Source: 38 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 It boils down to one question: Can (known as malocclusion). Malocclusion is WHAT CAN I DO TO KEEP MY KIDS HEALTHY A your child still participate in school when there’s a diff erence in the sizes of the Q DURING FLU SEASON? activities? After all, having a sore top and bottom jaws. Teach them how to wash their hands, throat, cough, or mild congestion Often, your child’s dentist will be the fi rst cough into their elbow and use a does not necessarily mean a child can’t be to notice problems during a regular visit and A tissue and throw it in the bin. Kids active. If your son has the sniffl es but hasn’t recommend that you see an orthodontist, often get sick from touching surfaces slowed down at home, chances are he’s well who will decide whether he does indeed with germs and then touching their eyes, enough for the classroom. On the other hand, need braces and which devices would nose, mouth which are common entry if he’s been coughing all night and needs to be best. There’s no set age for a kid’s fi rst points for infections. be woken up in the morning (if he typically orthodontist visit - some go when they’re It’s tough to teach children not to touch wakes up on his own), he may need to take it six, some go when they’re 10, and some go their face, but it’s a good idea to start talking easy at home. while they’re teens. Even adults can need to them about it. Never send a child to school who has a orthodontic treatment. Starting the process Encourage them to wash their hands after fever, is nauseated, vomiting or has diarrhoea. early doesn’t mean a child will get braces playing, after using the bathroom, and Kids who lose their appetite, are clingy or right away. before eating meals or snacks. In addition, lethargic, complain of pain, or who just don’t It just means the orthodontist will be able make sure your entire family eats a healthy seem to be acting themselves should also to fi nd problems and decide the best time to diet full of fresh fruit and veggies, drinks take a sick day. begin treatment. plenty of fl uids, gets enough sleep and sees MY CHILD’S TEETH LOOK FINE TO ME. WHY I THINK MY DAUGHTER IS COLOUR BLIND, BUT their doctor for regular check-ups. Q DOES HE NEED BRACES? Q I’VE BEEN TOLD THAT THIS ONLY HAPPENS Also, consider sending everyone for a TO BOYS. yearly fl u vaccine - the best way to protect Kids can need braces for any your family against the fl u. A number of reasons, including It’s a myth that only boys can be crooked, overlapping or A colour blind, although it’s very overcrowded teeth, or a “bad bite” unusual in girls, occurring in less CONTINUED ON PAGE 40 than 1%. GET Parenting

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39 Q WHAT IS RINGWORM? Q MY DAUGHTER IS A COMPLETELY HEALTHY WEIGHT, BUT YESTERDAY I HEARD HER SAY, A Ringworm isn’t a “I’M FAT!” IT BROKE MY HEART! WHAT CAN I worm, but a fungal SAY TO HELP HER FEEL BETTER ABOUT HER BODY? infection of the scalp or skin. Common in the Lowveld, Every time kids open a magazine or it makes the skin itchy and red A watch a music video, they probably and creates a round, patchy see “perfect” people - girls and rash that has raised borders women with stick-thin bodies, men and a clear centre. It is fairly with huge, perfectly-formed muscles, and easy to diagnose and treat. none with so much as a blemish on their Most of the time, a doctor can faces. Be aware of the messages these images diagnose it by looking at it or are sending. It’s important to make sure your by scraping off a small sample daughter knows they’re not reality - that of the fl aky infected skin to test many of these models eat poorly, or have for the fungus a staff of make-up and hair artists, and that The doctor may recommend many of these pictures are doctored with an antifungal ointment or computer airbrushing that removes all fl aws. prescribe a syrup or pill to take But when these concerns become obsessions by mouth. Whatever treatment or begin to involve abnormal behaviours is chosen, your child should or negative thoughts about body image, take the medicine as long as it weight, and food, eating disorders can occur. is prescribed, even if the rash Someone who starts to do things that are seems to be getting better. If emotionally or physically dangerous in order not, the ringworm can come to lose weight may have an eating problem. back. If your daughter’s concerns about her weight or her body start to interfere with her regular WHAT CAN I TEACH MY KIDS TO HELP habitsQ of eating and being active, talk to your ‘Never bother dogs while Q PREVENT DOG BITES? doctor. Unbalanced fi tness and nutritional habits - and poor self-image - can lead to they’re eating, sleeping or • Always ask the owner if it’s OK to pet eating disorders, which can hurt her health A the canine. now and aff ect her long-term reproductive • Let the dog see and sniff you and bone health. taking care of puppies’ before petting it. • Do not run toward or away from it. • If an unfamiliar dog approaches you, stay THERE’S NOTHING MY SON HATES MORE MY DAUGHTER SWIMS YEAR-ROUND calm, don’t look it directly in the eye, and Q THAN GETTING A SHOT. IS THERE ANYTHING Q AND HAS RECENTLY BEEN GETTING stand still or back up slowly. I CAN DO TO LESSEN HIS FEAR? SWIMMER’S EAR. CAN THESE INFECTIONS • If a dog tries to bite you, put anything BE PREVENTED? Yes, there is. If your son is a toddler you can between you and the animal. If Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is A or younger child, try taking his mind knocked over, roll into a ball, cover your A common in kids who spend a lot off the shots by bringing a favourite face, and lie still. of time in the water. It can sit in the toy or book to the clinic. You might have • Never squeeze canines too tight, drop ear canal and lead to irritation and him count, sing a song with you, or look them, fall on them or jump on them. infection of the outer ear. • Never tease them or pull their tails or ears. The good news is that outer-ear infections away (maybe at a picture on the wall). You might even let him wear headphones and • Never bother dogs while they’re eating, often can be prevented. For starters, sleeping, or taking care of their puppies. your daughter can wear a bathing cap or listen to his favourite song during the shot. • Never take a toy or bone away from a dog removable earplugs to help keep the ear You can also try holding his hand or letting or play tug of war with one. canals dry. Or, after getting wet, she can tip him sit on your lap while he gets a shot, but her head to the side to let the water drain try not to look upset or concerned. Children • Never feed it a treat out. She also can use a hairdryer on a low can pick up on your anxiety, and it can make with your fi ngers. setting, at least 30cm away, to dry her ears. them anxious as well. Also, don’t forget to Put the treat If they still aren’t drying out, talk to your praise your child afterward. A little positive in your palm No matter how doctor about using ear drops at the end of reinforcement can make the next trip to the with your well you think you a swim to help dry up the water in her ears doctor easier. fi ngers know the dog, always and prevent infection. Swimmer’s ear can be When feasible, try to do something and thumb supervise your kids treated with antibiotics, and your daughter fun after the appointment. A trip to the held close around someone should stay out of the pool while recovering. together. else’s pet. Make sure she uses the antibiotics for as park or playground can make the overall long as the doctor says to, even if she feels immunisation experience less unpleasant. better sooner. 40 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 KI310927NL GET Parenting FUNKY GEAR A new colour combination can add innovation to a seemingly dull wardrobe and can completely transform a look from drab to fab. Now your kids can wear beautiful and colourful clothes any day of the week. Purple, green and pink are the way to go this season.

Mix a dark purple T-shirt with a bright lime-green skirt and purple pumps to get that perfect winter look 2

1

3

42 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 4

5

9 6

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8

STOCKISTS

1 Green T-shirt, R129, Kids Emporium, blue jeans, R195, Kids Emporium. 2 Puma suede wedges, R885, Gen-X, I’langa Mall: 013-742-2326 Gen-X. 3 Purple Vans shoes, R370, Gen-X. 4 Polo golfer dress, R425, green pleated skirt, R470, Gen-X. Kids Emporium, I’langa Mall: 5 Le Coq sportif shoes, R630, Gen-X. 6 Colourful baby shoes, R240, Kids Emporium. 7 Pink Babygro, R120, 061-425-4568 pink shoes, R85, Kids Emporium. 8 Green tutu, R410, Kids Emporium. 9 Polo skinny jeans, R435, Polo shirt, R480, Gen-X. 10 Nike shoes, R660, Gen-X August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 43 GET Parenting WHAT’S FOR LUNCH? For the busy on-the-go mom there is sometimes just not enough time to pack a healthy lunch box. Local dietitian, Natalie Grobler compiled four quick and healthy lunch boxes that will suit any child’s taste.

CRUNCHY SANDWICH Most parents would be amazed at how little water children take in at school. Dehydration can make kids irritable and tired; not exactly the best frame of mind for memory. Off er water at every meal and snack. Send your child with a water bottle to school and encourage them to fi ll this up again during the morning. WHAT’S INSIDE

• Wholewheat bread with peanut butter • Safari trail mix • Fresh fruit.

Try to encourage your child to make decisions about what they eat and chat with them about the importance of healthy eating. Let them choose what type of fruit, for example, or let them choose the fi lling TIP! for their sandwich.

44 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Give tuck-shop money once a week. Encourage your children to choose the heatlhy options.

YUMMY CRACKER WHAT’S INSIDE

• Peanut butter on a wholegrain cracker bread Lean beef is one of the best absorbed sources of • Droë wors and biltong kebab TIP! iron available. Therefore it will be good to add • Cherry tomatoes, cucumber sticks with low-fat some biltong or droë wors to the lunch box. cottage cheese.

HOW TO DISGUISE VEGETABLES AND SALADS Your preference as a mom is not to say DID YOU KNOW? It is always important to remember that each the same as your children’s. child has his/her own likes and dislikes. So the number-one step is to fi nd out Some kids prefer raw vegetables, some what they prefer. Then you can start cooked, some with sauces and gravies and introducing vegetables. • Make eating vegetables or salads some love raw salad ingredients. The other important step is to introduce fun. Make faces from the diff erent For others you can add it to meals like pasta veggies and salads early in life. Even if veggies or make kebabs. Get the or add it to gravies and sauces. For other kids your kids do not want to eat them. kids involved in the preparation this will greatly put them off . It must always be on the plate. You and explain to them the health For salads cut up some cucumber add some also can’t expect your children to eat benefi ts of vegetables and salads. cherry tomatoes and serve this with a tasty vegetables if they never see you eating • Always choose lunch-box snacks dip as an afternoon snack, this is always a any of them or salads. that have nutritional value. winner.

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 45 GET Parenting

All ingredients were sponsored by Crossing SUPERSPAR. HEALTHY SANDWICH WHAT’S INSIDE Kids often crave sweets, especially when they’re feeling sluggish. Fresh fruit is a perfect add-on to the sandwich and • Low-fat cottage cheese, lettuce, TIP! nuts already in the lunch box. Always add a fresh fruit, but sliced tomato and cooked ham on leave the fruit juices and stick to water. wholewheat bread • Almond nuts • Fruit kebab of your choice.

DID YOU KNOW? TRY THIS be helpful: Try to provide fl uids in the form of water, • The lunch-box style - Your child may have an low-fat milk, sugar-free cordials, or light or issue with their container. They might prefer • Breakfast is critical for school- homemade ice tea. Avoid fi zzy drinks, sports a brown paper bag or want the latest fashion children. Research has shown that drinks like Energade or Lucozade and stay in lunch boxes to be like the other kids. It those who eat brekkie do better away from fruit juices. may be diffi cult for them to open. academically and have fewer Leave the cheese off sandwiches, unless it’s • Boredom - Try to pack a diff erent lunch behavioural problems than those low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese. Although every day. For younger kids, cut the who skip it. it provides calcium, it is the second- leading sandwiches in diff erent ways like triangles or • Not only are wholewheat breads source of artery-clogging saturated fat in squares. rich in fi bre, but also rich in folate kids’ diets. • Too dry - If they say the fi lling is too dry, try and other sources of vitamin B that Healthier sources of calcium include low-fat leaving a sandwich uncut. Some fi llings like have also been shown to improve cheese, fat-free milk and low-fat yogurt. dips or peanut butter may stay fresher this alertness and memory. Many schoolchildren bring their lunch way. • Nuts and seeds are packed with home with them at the end of the day, which • Fiddly and sticky - Make sure the foods are protein, essential fatty acids, can be frustrating. manageable and easy to eat. vitamins and minerals. It may boost There may be a number of reasons why Make every meal count by including one your mood and keep your nervous your child does not eat all their food. The nutritional snack and trust that your child will system happy. following suggestions may eat when hungry. 46 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 DID YOU KNOW?

• Include low glycaemic-index (GI) foods such as wholegrain sliced bread, wholemeal bread rolls or wholemeal pita bread, or tortilla wraps. Low GI foods help to maintain stable blood sugars through the slow release of sugar into the bloodstream and keep you satisfi ed for longer. • Try to use a canola or an olive spread or use low-fat cottage cheese on sandwiches.

Fruit is sweet and SCRUMPTIOUS WRAP tasty and is a much healthier alternative to potato crisps,

WHAT’S INSIDE biscuits, chocolate CR310132ND and sweets • Wholewheat tortilla wrap with cottage cheese, . cucumber, tomato, cooked ham and lettuce • Dried fruit and cucmber sticks.

Plan your child’s weekly lunch boxes in advance and add the ingredients to your shopping list. Try to add lettuce, cucumber and tomato to TIP! sandwiches. When you add salad you add extra vitamins, minerals and fi bre. GET Parenting

A myriadOVER extramurals are available to kids and AND parents often feel pressurised to enrol them in as many activities as possible. Although the benefi ts are undisputed, there is something as “too much”. Read on to decide what would suit your child the best. ABOVE Why extramural Learning to activities? commit Before the 1900s, teachers were skeptical Mastering the piano or being an about extracurricular shenanigans. Believing ace on the tennis court takes hours it was detrimental to academic achievement, of practice - there’s no instant it was subsequently discouraged. Although gratifi cation here. When kids join research diff ers regarding the exact benefi ts an activity or club, they commit of each individual activity, kids who become themselves for a period of time. involved in activities outside school generally If they don’t hold up their end of have better marks and higher academic the bargain, parents, coaches and aspirations. Here is a closer look at some teachers will have something to say! of the benefi ts of extracurricular activities Learning to stick to long-term for your child, and how to know when it commitments is important, and becomes too much. extramural activities can help teach your child this life lesson.

It develops diverse interests

A variety of interests makes for a more interesting individual, better equipped to deal with diff erent people and situations. It also allows them to explore and discover what their interests and talents are.

48 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Making a contribution What to choose

Whether it’s as part of Do you have a budding cricketer or opera sports team or on a stage, star in the house? Is your child artistic, extracurricular activities sporty or outdoorsy or simply needs allow your child to make a extra help with schoolwork? Play to their contribution in some way. It strengths, by choosing activities they’re steers them away from just naturally interested in or have an aptitude thinking about themselves - for. Here are some ideas: important in their growth as a person. ARTS-AND-CRAFT CLASSES Launch your young Picasso’s career by enrolling him/her for art classes or another creative pursuit, like bead- work or sewing. It’s fun, allows them to express themselves and is great for ABOVE encouraging problem-solving skills and small motor development. It also builds confi dence, as there is no doing Developing it “wrong”. Arts-and-craft education is also helpful for those who have learning people skills disabilities. Contact Mica on 013-755- 3074, The Bead Lady on 013-745-7706 Kids need to learn how to act appropriately or The Lowveld Sewing Academy on in social situations and extramurals give 013-752-3425 for ideas on how to get them a chance to do this outside of school, started. while still being supervised by adults.

DANCING Dance is a fun way to keep the kids Teens, active. Forget about a grand vision of especially, often your child as a professional performer struggle with self- - on a basic level, it’s great exercise, esteem, and creating an develops posture, fl exibility, stamina, opportunity for them balance and coordination. There’s also to shine will give overwhelming evidence to suggest that them a boost learning movement sequences improves Important facts memorisation skills and encourages a detail-orientated mindset. A company to think about like The Dance Mouse off ers just about every dance form you can think of - IT LOOKS GREAT ON APPLICATIONS start to interfere with a kid’s life, it’s too contact 082-818-0913 to fi nd out more. Most schools and institutions of learning look much. Here’s a simple litmus test: your child not only at academic achievement, but also should have ample time to do homework, at the person as a whole. They prefer kids get enough sleep (eight hours a night) and BRAIN POWER with outside interests and a variety of skills, still be able to be part of the family, play and Extra tuition in maths, languages, as they want individuals who are “out there” hang out with friends. If they can’t manage reading and spelling can really help and do more than just bookwork. one or more of these requirements, then to give your child a head start in the it’s too much. Have them pick out a couple classroom. Developed by experts in WHEN IS IT TOO MUCH? of their favourites and make sure they can the fi eld, companies like Kip McGrath But what about overscheduling? You want handle them. For small kids, you may even Education and Kumon have specialised your children to have fun, and not skulk want to limit the activities to one, until you programmes to help kids of all ages, around like the living dead, exhausted from see how they juggle it with their schoolwork. whether they’re struggling or simply their myriad activities, right? Also, you don’t They can then work up to balancing more want to improve their marks. To fi nd out want them to drop out because they simply activities if they perform well. It’s important what they do, go to www.kipmcgrath. can’t keep up with the demand. that children don’t try to do it all, but that co.za or www.kumon.co.za to see what’s Extramurals don’t all have the same they have a passion for those activities in on off er. intensity, but when afterschool activities which they’re involved.

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 49 Get Parenting Q&A Your child and audiology Hearing loss and related problems can seriously affect a child’s development. If these issues are detected in time, audiology can improve your little one’s life for the better. Mbombela-based audiologist, Nicole Da Rocha Field answers a few important questions related to kids and hearing.

perform tests and treat those with related Q WHAT IS HEARING LOSS? problems. ‘A total of 17 babies a By using audiometers, computers, and Hearing loss can happen when any other testing devices, they measure the A part of the ear is not working in the day are born with, or will loudness at which a person begins to hear usual way. This includes the outer sounds the ability to distinguish between ear, middle ear, inner ear, hearing develop, hearing loss’ sounds and determine the impact of hearing (accoustic) nerve, and auditory system. loss on an individual’s daily life. Hearing loss manifests differently in all children. Also look out for signs of possible hearing issues such as: Q WHAT ARE THE CHANCES THAT MY KID AT WHAT AGE AND HOW OFTEN SHOULD MAY HAVE A HEARING PROBLEM? Q I TAKE MY CHILD FOR A HEARING TEST? • Your child isn’t startled by loud noises (birth to three months) A In South Africa 6 116 babies are born All babies should have their • At three months+ your little one doesn’t per year with permanent bilateral A hearing screened just after birth. babble, smile or react hearing loss, or acquire it in the In some countries, it is actually • Your child doesn’t look up when you first weeks of life. That means 17 babies a compulsory to do so before the baby call, doesn’t have a short vocabulary of day are born with, or will develop, hearing leaves the hospital, because the sooner a between 20 and 50 words and doesn’t loss. If milder losses are included, this figure problem is detected, the sooner a diagnosis understand conversations easily (one to increases even more. and possible course of treatment can be four years) made. • Between the ages of four and six, your After the initial test, you can have your kid should be able to convey information MY CHILD HAS A HEARING PROBLEM, WHAT child’s hearing screened again before they and ask questions. Q NOW? go to primary school. If, however, your kid has had an ear infection, tuberculosis, WHAT DOES A HEARING TEST INVOLVE Never “wait and see”. Language meningitis, or has been treated for malaria Q AND WHERE SHOULD I TAKE MY CHILD TO A acquisition happens in the first with quinine-based medication, it is DO THIS? 12 months of a child’s life. If important to get their hearing screened hearing-related issues don’t receive again as soon as possible, as these diseases Audiologists are trained hearing attention, it may lead to delays in language and/or the treatment can lead to acquired A specialists. They understand development, which in turn influences hearing loss. how hearing works, know how to academic performance, literacy and social 50 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 development. Don’t give up hope - research shows that if intervention takes place within the first year, it can lead to significant improvement of language, speech and socio-emotional development.

Q WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS? Hearing problems can be quite A difficult to define, because the workings of the ear is so complex. It could be as simple as too much wax in the ears, or it could be a more serious genetic problem. An audiologist can help figure out what the exact cause is. Following on a diagnosis, they will determine a course of treatment with medical, educational and psychological experts. Depending on the nature of the problem, hearing can be amplified with aids or cochlear implants, combined with other treatments. Each case deserves individual assessment, and it is best to consult a professional team. Some options include: • Learning to communicate with sign language • Technology to help with communication DID YOU KNOW? such as hearing aids and cochlear implants • Medicine and surgery can correct some It is not a hearing problem as such, but • Listening to loud music through types of hearing loss rather a processing issue. Kids with APD headphones, or at places such as • Family support services. can detect pure tones, delivered in a quiet, concerts, cinemas and sporting events ideal environment (such as a sound-treated can pose a threat of irreversible room, during a hearing test), but they may hearing loss to your child or teenager. HOW DO HEARING AIDS WORK AND WHAT not be able to recognise the differences Avoid this by limiting the time spent Q ARE COCHLEAR IMPLANTS? between sounds in words, especially when exposed to such loud noises, and there is background noise. This is a problem, wearing earplugs. Hearing aids are tiny devices that because noise occurs in any natural listening • Recent research shows that if A have microphones and make environment such as classrooms. hearing-loss problems are identified sounds louder so that someone with APD is often confused with attention- and treated in children before they are hearing loss can hear them. The earlier deficit hyperactivity disorder, but it is six months old, language (signed or a child is fitted with a hearing aid, the quicker possible for a child to have both - making it spoken) development is on par with they can adapt to the device and sound. even harder to diagnose. APD can also only their hearing peers. A cochlear implant is an electronic device, be fully audiologically diagnosed at the age • If children have balance problems, it surgically implanted to provide a sense of of eight and later, and the exact causes are may be an indication of hearing issues. sound to a deaf or severely hard-hearing unknown - so it is essential that each kid is • It takes a few minutes to do a hearing person. It may aid those with damage to assessed individually by an expert. screening, and babies are often asleep the sensory hair cells in the cochlea, but is while it is done. unfortunately not a solution to all hearing • About one out of two cases of problems. It is a very expensive procedure, HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD IS AFFECTED hearing loss in babies is due to genetic but is covered in part by some medical aids. Q BY APD? causes and one out of four is due to maternal infections during pregnancy, If you think your little one may have complications after birth and head A a problem with processing sounds, EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT AUDITORY trauma. look out for the following symptoms: Q PROCESSING DISORDER (APD). WHAT IS IT? • Noisy environments upset my child, and his/ Children with APD can’t process her performance improves in quieter settings A the information they hear in the • It is difficult for my kid to follow simple and Get in touch same way as others, because their complicated instructions, and he/she finds it Nicole at Ear Institute Nelspruit on 013-752-6680 ears and brains don’t fully coordinate. difficult to process abstract information. August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 51 Get Parenting ROAD TRIPPING Tragic road accidents claim lives way too often, but we can change our behaviour and avoid them. Whether you’re hopping into the car with your teen for a loaf of bread or driving to the Cape with the whole family in tow, make sure you travel with care. Brakes and shocks When brakes and shocks fail, it can lead to devastating accidents. Matthys Ferreira, editor of Autodealer Lowveld, reckons you can keep your family safe by doing the following: • Check your brake pads every time you do your tyre routine (which should be every 10 000km). You can ask your service centre to show you where to find this, so you can keep an eye on it yourself too. • As soon as you feel vibrating or a lag when you brake, have it checked out. Don’t wait for them to start screeching, as this can cause permanent damage to your brake discs and put you in even greater danger. We all know • When you reach around 40 000km on a set that speed kills. of brake pads, start checking regularly that it Remember that it’s is still in a safe condition. better to be late than • Shocks can be checked and replaced about not to arrive at your every 100 000km. If you use your vehicle on destination at all. rough terrain quite a lot, this should be done more often.

Your tyres is - strap them in and ignore that tantrum, as Check your tyres at least once a month, the alternative can lead to a serious injury or General driving behaviour considering the following: even death. • Keep your following distance. Imagine • Pressure - Make sure you inflate your tyres to at least three cars between yours and the the right pressure by checking your manual. For the long road vehicle in front of you. In wet or misty Remember to adjust pressure when the car is weather, increase this to at least four - it will loaded heavily. Keep these travel necessities in your car at all give you longer reaction and braking time. • Damage - Check for signs of irregular wear, times - breakdowns and accidents don’t only • Road rage can endanger you and your sharp objects lodged in the tread and cuts, happen when you drive far. family. Don’t set an example of aggressive tears or bulges on all four tyres on both sides • First-aid kit - Stock a small kit with an behaviour for your children - it’s a vicious of the vehicle, and on the wheel rims. assortment of Band-Aids, gauze, bandages, cycle, and the results are not worth the effort. • Wheel balancing, alignment, and tyre rota- and safety pins; disinfectant; painkillers; • Texting and driving is even worse than tion - Although the general conception is to tweezers and scissors; diarrhoea and travel- driving drunk - it’s a proven safety hazard do this every 20 000km, Matthys reckons that sickness medication. Check expiry dates on that should simply not be tolerated, it’s safer to do all of the above every the medication regularly. especially when you have kids in your 10 000km. He guarantees that you will benefit • Details of your car insurance - Have your vehicle. - as you’ll get more kilometres from a set of policy number, insurance contact number, tyres. and your ID written down somewhere. We react strangely to shock, and you might GET IN TOUCH Kids in the car forget these essential details when you need Baby seats and seat belts for kids are it most. Find Autodealer Lowveld on Facebook, absolutely non-negotiable. It’s been proven • Breakdown kit - Invest in jumper cables, a and visit www.arrivealive.co.za for more over and over again that these can save lives. small fire extinguisher, tow rope, a multi-tool, tips and information It doesn’t matter how difficult your little one torch, and a reflective warning triangle. 52 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 ROAD TRIPPING LE312732NL

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Lovely prizes for the best pizzas made. Come join us for a fun day with jumping castle and fun games.

Competition date: 22 August 2015 Entry fee: R35 per child (includes ingredients) For bookings email: [email protected] reference: KPC Closing date for entries: 17 August 2015 Age restriction 6 - 12 years

Bring the whole family - Rugby will be shown at the bar with draught beer for the dads.

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Helping you to revitalise your old with a touch of new

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June 2011 Get It • Lowveld 59 MO181932NL MO181932NL

HIGHThe best way to celebrate a special occasion is withTEA a stylish party. Belinda Erasmus of Café Kilinda’s shows us how to plan a fancy do for moms and little ones, the easy way.

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 61 Get Food s the owner of White River’s cutest cafe, Belinda knows a thing or two about putting together a party inA record time. Being a parent, she also knows how kids’ parties have the potential to break the bank. To avoid this, she suggests to not organise your event too far in advance. “The thing with planning a party for weeks on end is that you tend to overplan. You buy too many unnecessary things, and end up feeling stressed out and broke on top of that.” She recommends using what you have, finding short cuts and taking it easy. Sounds good? Read on if you want to plan the easiest, most-

Text: Dina Venter Text: relaxed high tea possible. Smart snack ideas

• Have a good combination of sweet and savoury. Guests tend to arrive hungry and are not always in the mood for cake and sweets straightaway. • Bruschetta is a go-to, easy-to-prepare snack. Simply cut a French loaf into slices, drizzle with olive oil, and top with literally anything. From pre-made pesto to tinned mussels, fresh lettuce and tomato to any kind of cheese - it all looks good and tastes even better on bruschetta. • If you’re going to bake a cake or tart, why not serve it in champagne flutes or bottles? It’ll look pretty on your snack table and double up as decor. • Play with combinations. Turn regular recipes into something special by simply adding an unexpected flavour element, for example, add a piece of Turkish delight to the centre of your red-velvet cupcakes, or top vanilla cakes with marshmallows. It all sounds very indulgent, but is actually quite simple! • Buy premixes and ready-made. There’s absolutely no shame in not making anything from scratch, it will save you time and money, and no one has to know! • Add strawberries to champagne as a pretty finishing touch.

62 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Decor tips

• A Chinese shop can be a treasure trove. Buy anything from doilies to coloured straws and fairy lights to party hats for a fraction of the price. • Fresh flowers can make anything look pretty. Buy a large bunch of fresh roses, but don’t put it all in the same vase - rather divide it into separate bottles and glasses to carry through your theme colours. • Raid your home. Use your hanging mirrors, picture frames, potted plants, carpets, and things such as empty glass bottles and candles in creative ways. Large mirrors make beautiful centrepieces on which you can place flowers, drinks and snacks. • Display your snacks on wooden chopping boards - it adds a rustic feel to your decor. • Decorate cakes and plates with fresh flower petals or berries. • Go outside! Check the weather and plan your party outdoors. A little winter sun can completely change the atmosphere of the day. For the kiddies • Keep them out of your hair with an activity. Cupcake decorating is always a big Recipes hit. Simply buy ready-made cupcakes and premix icing. You can place it on the kiddies table with utensils, sprinkles and cherries. • Children love doing what the grown-ups do. If you’re going to serve tea in pots, then serve Milo in tin teapots for the children. They’ll feel like adults doing high tea! • Fantasy cakes are the latest craze. Decide whether you want to spend more of your budget on such an item. If you can’t afford it, opt for gift boxes that you can fill with themed cupcakes, toys or trinkets instead.

Cheesecake glasses Easy spinach-and-feta dip Crumble half a packet of Tennis biscuits in Add a glug of olive oil to a pan, place it a mixing bowl, cover with 2 tablespoons on a medium heat and stir in 1½ cups of melted butter and stir through. Spoon into chopped spinach until just wilted. Remove champagne or tot glasses, or pretty jam the spinach and place in a blender or food jars. Top with a few teaspoons softened processor with ¼ cup of cream cheese, mascarpone cheese, then layer some ¼ cup of sour cream or plain yogurt, a strawberry pulp on top of that. Add a teaspoon of crushed garlic, a crack of salt squeeze of store-bought chocolate sauce and black pepper, and a cup of crumbled or a spoon of freshly melted chocolate feta cheese. Pulse in the blender until thinned with milk. Top with a dollop of smooth. Dish up in dip bowls and decorate fresh cream and decorate with grated with a sprinkling of paprika. chocolate, leftover Tennis-biscuit crumbs Serve with bread sticks or use it as a topper and fresh strawberries or mint leaves. for bruschetta with fresh olives.

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 63 Get Food

‘I do a lot of research and go to food fairs and expos to gauge what’s happening’

64 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 SpiceBehind the doors of the unassuming route Riverside Spice Emporium in Mbombela, a treasure trove awaits. To demystify this extensive selection of earthly delights, Get it meets up with owner Nadia Nomani and taps into her encyclopedic knowledge of all things spice.

elling AMC pots for many years was "real" Indian food than her Muslim in-laws. expos to gauge what’s happening,” she says. a great learning curve for Nadia. As “South African Indians don’t do authentic It’s impossible to list everything she an area manager, she had to train cooking. Methods and recipes have been stocks, but it’s all there: spices, baking salespeople on how to use the adjusted to suit local products and palates basics, oils (including sesame, mustard and productsS correctly - no problem for a die- - I do a lot of research and go to the source coconut), teas, alternative healing products hard foodie such as herself. And she’s pretty with ingredients.” (“the chemist corner”), cookbooks, snacks, versatile when it comes to food. Nadia’s customers appreciate the efforts. basmati rice, couscous, sushi ingredients, “We’re a multicultural family and anything Typically, they’re Indians living in Mozam- lentils, legumes, beauty products and hair goes. Only Fridays are Indian; on Mondays bique and her ability to find and stock dyes, the whole works. it’s French, Thursdays it’s takeaways and on unusual and rare ingredients don’t go And if Nadia doesn’t stock it, she’ll do her a Wednesday boerekos,” she smiles. Working unnoticed. level best to source it. Don’t feel shy either: for AMC also exposed her to world travel, as The shop started as a little sideline take your recipe along for advice or ask for sales excellence and meeting targets meant business to offset smaller quantities of the instructions - and if you don’t have recipe, overseas incentive trips. Nadia has been to spices her husband exported globally. From she will happily supply you with one. many culinary destinations and food excites there, it simply grew and grew. It’s no wonder customers get nostalgic her - even if only as an armchair specialist Initially a word-of-mouth shop stocking when they walk in. Some of the aromas these days. “I’m a Food Channel junkie,” basic Indian, Arabian, Moroccan and West in the shop are pretty unusual and clearly she laughs. “When Rick Stein’s India came African ingredients, the range has expanded set off deep bouts of homesickness for out I was in heaven - I PVRed every single to include almost anything - the more you customers from afar. episode.” walk around the shelves, the better it gets. “I But when you discover the little shop, the

Text: Ciska Kay Text: She jokes about knowing more about do a lot of research and go to food fairs and taste and smells of home are never far away.

Basic curry recipe 1 cup hot water It is a great way to get started. 1 tbsp garam masala (added to curry just a few minutes before serving, and it is not to be added with spices after Ingredients braising of onions). 1kg meat - more or less one chicken 2 onions (1 grated, 1 chopped) Method 2 tomatoes (1 chopped, 1 grated) Wash the meat well and allow water to 1 tbsp tomato paste drain (skin chicken) 1 tsp salt Braise 2 medium onions with whole 1 tsp coriander spices 1 tsp jeera (cumin) Add meat - braise till dry then add ½ tsp turmeric ginger, garlic or masala paste or all 1 tsp cayenne pepper spices 1 tsp paprika Cook for 10 minutes 1 tbsp fresh ginger/garlic Add potatoes Oil Cook 5 minutes 1 tbsp whole spices (cinnamon Add tomatoes and water Get in touch stick, some cloves, star aniseed and Simmer for 10+ minutes until the Find the shop at 25 Rapid Street, Riverside Park (past cardamom, whole cumin and whole potatoes are done House of Class towards DHL) or contact Nadia on peppercorns) Garnish with garam masala. 082-415-2204 or [email protected] Potatoes

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 65 Get Busy Out-of-control hobby Crafting, Riana van Schalkwyk feels, is something everybody should get into - it’s rewarding, good for the brain and therapeutic. And at her shop out past Bee-Eaters Farm near Mbombela, you’ll find absolutely everything to get you started... and then some. hen her daughter-in-law produced a beautiful scrapbook after a family holiday, Riana was sold. “I immediately knew I also wantedW to do this,” she smiles. A crafter at heart, it didn’t take her long to not only master the hobby, but to open a craft supply and workshop on the farm she’s been living on for 16 years. The result: an unbelievably well-stocked emporium in the most unlikely of settings. A computer programmer and consultant by trade, Riana laughs about what she calls her “out-of-control hobby”. The shop, temporarily set up in an outbuilding four years ago, has expanded. When one of her sons moved out of his flat, the space was quickly commandeered and added to the existing shop. It is a veritable treasure trove, including every craft tool, bauble, trinket and sparkle you’ll ever need. And like us, most of her first-time customers are astounded at what they find. Her stock includes pewter, filani clay, tokreen, mosaic, découpage, paints (oil and PVA), scrapbooking and quilling requirements as well as beautiful handmade paper. A people person, Riana has the patience of a saint and loves teaching, especially small groups. To her, there’s no such thing as a stupid question, or “I can’t”, for that

Text: Ciska Kay Text: matter. “Everybody can,” she says. “If you 66 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 doodle while talking on a phone, you can.” rush of their everyday existence. She’s also adamant that creativity is for She’s recently become involved in the everybody. “We all need to exercise our right Vroue-Landbou-Unie and regularly holds brain,” she says. “Look at how adult colouring demonstrations and hosts workshops. books have gained popularity. Crafting is Although she prefers smaller classes where therapeutic - what you do doesn’t matter.” she can give each participant their rightful Riana’s shop allows visitors to choose their amount of attention, larger groups don’t creative weapons. faze her too much. “I enjoy teaching people She’ll run you through the many options, something new,” Riana says. She adds, but what you decide to make is entirely “Actually, I enjoy people, full stop. up to you. Her personal favourites are pewter and clay, examples of which ‘We all need to exercise our right brain. can be seen everywhere. “I don’t know what I’m Crafting is therapeutic - what going to do with all these What’s on offer pieces,” she says about you do doesn’t matter’ Pewter - repoussé her pewter works of art. Filani clay “I have told my kids that Tokreen if I ever find any of it on a dust heap after I’m So many clients have become friends.” Mosaic gone, I’ll come back from the grave to return Moms involved in home schooling Découpage it to their front stoep!” bring their kids for art classes and many Oil/PVA paint and canvas Many of her clients have asked her about of her clients are from Swaziland and opening a shop in Mbombela, but she Mozambique. Somehow word about this Scrapbooking explains that running one from her own unlikely gold mine got out. Quilling property cuts overheads and enables her to Scrapbook tools sell her products cheaper than pretty much Get in touch Embellishments anywhere else. It also allows people peace Nellie’s Scrapbook Craft Studio on Puzzles and quiet, a creative hub far away from the 082-452-9063 or [email protected] Craft books.

OUR FURNITURE IS STYLISH AND UNCONVENTIONAL. JUST LIKE OUR PEOPLE.

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WEYLANDTS NELSPRUIT – OPENING OCTOBER 2015 South Africa’s leading furniture and décor retailer is seeking passionate and ambitious individuals to join their ever-expanding team. Visit the careers page at weylandts.co.za GET Creative

What should I make? As a DIY resource, you can’t beat Pinterest, packed with an inexhaustible number of ideas. See our Get it Lowveld Pinterest page for loads of Pallet inspiration! pointers A fairy castle, a coff ee table, an aerodeck chair... there’s virtually no limit to what you can create with a stack of pallets, a few nails and a dollop of imagination. But they are notoriously tricky to work with and there are safety issues involved. Before you get started, here are a few things to consider.

he pallet craze shows no sign of chew (no toys). abating, probably because it’s such Be safety savvy a cost-eff ective way of creating Always wear gloves to avoid nail punctures original pieces of furniture. Most and splinters and wear safety glasses and a ofT them can be found for free (or for next dust mask when sanding or sawing. to nothing) behind large supermarkets and shops, but always ask before you start loading up the bakkie! Prepping a pallet Give the pallet a miss if it Great care should be taken when • Smells disassembling them - after all, you don’t • Looks oily want to bust up your hard-earned discount • Is stained wood! A few methods are less desirable • Has too many twisted nails (not worth it!) than others to break down a pallet into its • Looks suspect, period. usable components so it’s a good idea to go over the basics. Before you start Hammer, pry bar and cat’s paw2 Always be safe and scrub the wood down A small cat’s paw or pry bar, a fl at clawed with bleach and soapy water. Rinse well, hammer and a block of wood are all you and allow it to dry completely. Wood is really need to break a pallet apart without porous, however, so there’s a chance the damaging the surface of the wood. bacteria is embedded. Never use pallet Nail punch wood for anything food related Using a nail punch to drive rather than pull (vegetable gardens) or for toddlers1 who the nails free can be the preferred method MI172832AR on stubborn ring, screw, or spiral-shanked nails. Pneumatic nail punches work even better, but can cost a pretty penny. Oscillating tool By loosening up tight planks with a pry bar fi rst, you can expose the nail shank to the cutting blade of an oscillating tool and make quick work of rusty nails. Drill When the above methods won’t work and you’re stuck with a nail that won’t budge, you can always use a metal drill bit and drill to remove ancient nails. Clean cut Last but not least (and if all else fails), cut the pallet planks and leave the ends and nails still attached. Cutting, shaping, sanding and fi nishing The easiest way to get your pallet projects started off on the right foot is by shaping, sanding, fi nishing, and cutting your materials prior to assembly. Because pallets are unfi nished, they can be pretty rough - rough enough to cause a few painful splinters. But3 it’s also their rough nature that makes them so appealing, and sanding down to a smooth surface often takes away the charm of a pallet’s natural state. If you’re going for the clean look of new wood, avoid lengthy sanding and go for a quick pass through a wood planer for a clean, crisp look. However, if you like the tarnished veneer of your ancient pallet but want to make it smooth to the touch, use natural beeswax fi nishing products to highlight its well- worn fi nish without keeping the sharp and dangerous splinters hanging around. When cutting and shaping material, it’s often wise to avoid making cuts near nail holes, splits, or cracks in the wood. As wood ages, it shrinks. This makes it more susceptible to splitting and breaking during a cut. Sanding rough edges is best achieved by a hand planer.

MI172832AR

MI172832BR GET Shopping

Oval meat platter, R599, oval plate, R450, Poetry, Embossed plate, R129,99, Mr Price Home Scatter cushion, R99,99 Mr Price Home Shades of

Itblue is all about blue this month. The colour can be bold and Blue candle, Bowl, R145, bright or soft and soothing. R115,00, House of Spree Class Get inspired by these looks and fi nd your favourite shade for decorating.

Bath mats, Flannel R99,95, throws, Mr Price R99,95, Home Mr Price Home

70 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 How to use this trend Famously calming, blue can have very diff erent eff ects on a room. Colour experts say blue decor makes a home feel more cosier and warm. Decorators often like warm blues in social spaces, like the living room, kitchen or dining room. With a few small touches, you will be able to warm up any space in your house. Blue-printed Blue-striped cushion, R180, vase, R249, Spree House of Class

Turquoise jug, R170, Spree

Clock, R159,99, Mr Price Home

Flora bowl, R229, House of Class Soap, R29,99, face cloth, stockists R35,99, bath mat, R99,99, Mr Price Home, I’langa Mall: 013-742-2268 Mr Price Home House of Class: 013-752-8399 Spree: www.spree.co.za Poetry: 013-742-2282

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 71 GET Gardening Lovely lavender A change in season means a change in blossoms. And as winter comes to an end, we prepare for all things purple!

ften referred to as “rabbit ears”, Spanish lavender does its early blooming in spring and thereafter bursts with colour and fragrance. In fact, Spanish lavender is so fragrant that it's a favourite of butterfl ies and bees. And once it's fi nished blossoming,o it makes for an attractive green-grey shrub that lasts throughout the year. Plant essentials At last... a South African how-to for the perfect indigenous garden. Marijke Honig is a plant ecologist by training, hence her love of landscaping and design. Indigenous Plant Palettes covers more than 24 diff erent palettes from creating the perfect rooftop garden to planting feature trees. The section on cut fl owers and on edible plants is fabulous. There is something incredibly satisfying about picking your own fl owers and adding some fresh deliciousness to your favourite dish. This book provides a new approach to landscaping and is worth a read for any gardening enthusiast. Quivertree Publications, R495.

Garden tips for August • Start preparing the beds for summer annuals by digging in lots of compost. • Fertilise irises with superphosphate to encourage spring fl owering. • In dry inland areas, increase watering to once a week for most plants and even twice a week for spring fl owering bulbs. • Repot overcrowded water lilies from the middle of August, before the spring growth starts. GroWinG TiP • Trees, shrubs, perennials and creepers can all be given a Make sure it gets at least dressing of fertiliser followed by a thorough watering. Enrich the soil by digging in compost as deeply as possible. six hours of sun. Space plants • Prune hydrangeas at the end of August. Remove dead stems 30 to 36cm apart. The sturdy, bushy and spindly growth. Cut down old woody growth to as close to plants (18 to 23cm tall and 30cm the ground as possible. Cut back the previous season’s fl owering stems to the fi rst pair of healthy, fat buds which are next season’s wide) are low growing; plant near fl ower buds. the front of the border or in • Tidy up and thin out Boston ivy, honeysuckle, Virginia creeper, patio planters to enjoy the snail creeper, Chilean jasmine and Port St John’s creeper. fragrance.

72 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 THIS MONTH YOU’LL FIND THE FOLLOWING ONLINE reAsons to click-click 5There are plenty of reasons to join our online community on Facebook and Twitter, and to logon to our website at lowveld.getitonline.co.za

Find out what’s hip and happening in the Lowveld by following us on Facebook. To know SOCIAL GALLERIES the latest, follow the 5 1latest. • Lowvelders love The Bagdad Farmers’ Market. Welcome to our see if we snapped you there. new page likers • The Lowveld celebrated with the French at Bastille day held at The Courtyard Cafe at the Delicious recipes Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre. View more photos • Caribbean onion soup online. • Pesto pleasure. Three recipes 2 that include yummy pesto Keep an eye on our What’s On section… WATCH A little girl’s dance recital has taken the world Sophia Pretorius by storm with her sassy moves as she dances to 4 Aretha Franklin’s, “Respect”. See the video online. Remember to follow us on Twitter @getitlowveld. We don’t only tweet our own stories and opinions - we’ll also keep you up 3 to date with what’s happening on the shopping, lifestyle and people front in the Lowveld. Welcome to our Melissa Swart new followers Allison MacDonald Nombulelo Khoza

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 73 Get Out there

TourA group of old friends decided todes explore France through aart painting excursion. It turned into an experience of a lifetime, and a highly recommended way to travel. They talk Get it through their photographs.

74 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Cath Simpson, André Todd, Colleen Dreyer, Isabel Christie and Ann Rattray

in France!” paired with a glass of wine and a good Isabel’s niece organises tailor-made French cheese platter.” trips, and she saw it as an opportunity to take one of their outings a little further than Getting to know south-western France South Africa's borders. She suggested it to The gals settled themselves in Aubeterre her friends, and now they look back on an and Saint-Romain, because the houses unforgettable holiday. offered by their tour group couldn’t accommodate the whole group in the Art and travel same spot. According to the group, being a good artist This was a bonus - the two villages are a is not a prerequisite. “It’s just a different way few minutes’ drive apart, and they loved to experience a place and take it all in,” says having the opportunity to explore their Ann. Some mornings were spent painting, surrounds from each house. olleen Dreyer’s art studio in and learning techniques from two local Both towns are situated on the Mbombela has been a retreat for Ann experts and other days were spent visiting 201-kilometre-long Dronne River in the Rattray, Cath Simpson, Isabel Christie significant artistic sites. south-western part of France. They spent and André Todd for quite some time. Colleen says painting out in the open, away seven days based here, from where they TheyC are close-knit and find their relaxation from the comfort of a studio is a challenge explored a series of villages also situated through painting and the company of one that has done all of them good. “It’s a new on or around the Dronne. another. experience to paint what you see. We worked Colleen is jokingly referred to as hoofmeisie from photographs mostly, because the light Saint-Émilion - being their art-class mentor and the one changes constantly, and things like mist can This commune (the French equivalent of who has taken the initiative to organise change an entire scene. At the same time, it’s what we’d call a town) is a Unesco World outings in order to broaden their horizons. amazing to see how beautiful the scenery is Heritage Site. One can get lost between They’ve done trips to the Kruger, and and how it transforms from one minute to the Romanesque churches and ruins that spent a few days painting and exploring the the next.” line the steep and narrow cobblestone beautiful scenery of the artistic village of Everyone agrees that the food, wine, and streets. Saint-Émilion is also one of the Clarens in the Free State. The bunch enjoyed time spent together were as much a part principal wine areas of Bordeaux - a this trip, but complained about it being too of the experience as painting. “The art was fact that may be attributed to the vines far. “We thought we’d do the next one a little a sideline,” laughs Cath, “we used it as an planted by Roman settlers there around closer,” says Isabel, “and little did we know excuse to enjoy the sunflower fields, the the second century.

Text: Dina Venter Text: that a year later we’d find ourselves rooftops and natural scenes around us,

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 75 Bourdeilles This village sits on the edge of the Dronne, others. The Benedictine Abbey, built by and one of its main features is an old stone Charlemagne in 769, is the main historical bridge crossing the river, originally built in highlight of the town. the 14th century. There’s also a chateau, consisting of a 13th-century fortress and Villebois-Lavalette Second Renaissance-style castle. A chateau built on a former Roman settlement in the 10th century is a Brantôme prominent feature of this commune. The Brantôme is also known as the Venice chateau has been modified and fortified of the Dordogne (an administrative by the Lusignans, occupied by the English, department of France), as it is built on taken by the Protestants during the Wars an island encircled by the Dronne River. of Religion, turned into a princely castle by This mystical town is nestled in a cluster the Duke of Navaille, and served as an army of limestone caves on the Aquitaine food-storage centre and prison during the plateau, and has been inhabited by French Revolution. To date, this chateau is the Celts, the Romans, early Christians, in a restoration process to repair damage and a community of monks, among caused by a fire in 1822.

76 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 WHAT IS STOPPING YOU? DISCOVER MORE, TALK TO OUR CONSULTANTS TODAY

Tips HA239432R • The gals went last September and they recommend this time of year as the days are lovely and temperate. It’s also a great time for shopping - sales were on everywhere. • Travel light - take the basics and remember that it gets quite hot. • Everyone agreed that a package tour Périgueux was the way to go. This way you get to This town’s history will take you back to experience France the local way, and you the Roman Empire, with its architectural discover things beyond the tourist hot remains of a Roman amphitheatre. Other spots. highlights include the remains of a Gallic • Restaurants and cafes around popular temple of the goddess Vesunna, and the cathedral of Saint-Front de Périgueux. sights can be quite pricey. The group dined out, but mention the freshly prepared food and traditional French cuisine they Get in touch enjoyed at their establishment as part of The tour was organised by French the package, as a definite highlight. Escapades. • Extend your stay if you can - a few of www.gretatheron.wix.com/french- the girls went to Paris for three days, and escapades another went on to England. When you fork out the money for that plane ticket, it’s worthwhile to make the most of it.

Riverside Auto Centre Tel: 013-757-0883 email: [email protected] www.harveyworld.co.za GET To know

It’s not every day that you meet a woman who is not only an aircraft-maintenance engineer, but Mbombela’s Deborah Graham was also the fi rst runner-up in Miss Earth 2010. Get it speaks to this Beauty down-to-earth beauty about and brains her life in a man’s world.

78 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Text: Lia van Zyl demanding job. quitemaintenance aphysically It's activities. repairsemergency andkeepingrecord ofall may includescheduledmaintenance, I donow," Deborah says. Herdailyduties but theyreally do have for respect what underestimated meinthebeginning, correspondence licences inJohannesburg. Mbombela andreceived allthenecessary fi eldshe wanted to bein.Shestudiedin she was convinced that avionics was the had goneto anairshow withherdad, more thaneight years she agoandafter in theirfootsteps. started Herjourney Airfi eld. mom anddadisbasedat theNelspruit EastAvionics isowned North by Deborah's her dream. scared herfrombut that hasn't following common for females to beinthisindustry, engineer whospecialisesinavionics. not It's a namefor herselfintheLowveld asan W Aircraft-maintenance engineers work beenatough journey."It's People really hesitate toAfter follow matricshedidn't Deborah hasmanagedto make no onereally believed inher, but Avionics Earth, fresh outofMiss Easthen shewalked into North and nolongerdresses andstilettos. diff erence. Butnow it'sjeansand tekkies National Park andreally to tried makea She spent alotoftimeintheKruger closeto herheart. something that isvery - project withherrhino a causesection Deborah says. Shewon with thebeauty so Iwant to give backasmuchIcan," heritage. "Ifeel really blessedinmy life - to ofSA's combat thedestruction natural create asustainablediff erence intheplight andaplatformwith theknowledge to empower young African women South closelywiththecommunity.working enjoyed ondiff taking erent and projects environment andhercommunity. She her alleybecauseoflove ofthe was rightup Earth and thought Miss into Deborah's life.perfectly butsomehow theyseemto fiworlds apart, t mouthful. Avionics andmodellingare two managing othermaintenance staff -quite a repairslong hoursdoingemergency and involve onladdersorscaff working olds, and power tools. Jobrequirements may equipment, computers, X-ray machines with specialisedaviation tools, diagnostic Miss Earth isaprogramme that Earth aimstoMiss She's always beeninterested inmodelling making achange.making that she'spassionate aboutgiving backand in future andadopt ababy rhino. clear It's intheGreat part Wall ofChinaMarathon day," toreally seethemevery lucky shesays. honour at ourwedding three years ago. I'm especially my mom.Shewas my maidof a blessing.closeto my "I'mvery parents, love to doasafamily. iswhat they strollmorning inKaapsehoop also keepthemquite busyandaSaturday spend mostoftheirfree time. Their Yorkies the bushveld andthat's alsowhere they she hasaccomplished sofar. constantly brags abouthiswife andwhat did it." and Ibelieve inmyself more. I'mgladI great. Ihave now alotmore peopleskills was demanding at thisstage. Earth "Miss inpageants, herjobisjusttoo part taking Deborah Graham on013-741-2986 toGet know On herbucketlist?Deborah wants to take dayWorking is withmom anddadevery They share thesamelove andpassionfor asalesmanager,Husband Michael, Although sheloves dressing upand

WO308732NL GET Out there

Win! One lucky reader can win a seven-night stay for two at the lodge! For competition details, logon to lowveld.getitonline. co.za Bushveld In need of a breakaway? Longing for the bush? We have just the answer - and it’s only a stone’s throw away from home!

estled on the bank of the Crocodile has to off er, without ever leaving their conservation management of Mjejane blissRiver is Mjejane Game Reserve stoep. Each of the lodge’s 16 units boasts was placed under its authority. In essence, with a 10km river frontage and views across the river, and the likelihood Mjejane Game Reserve is an eco-extension spectacular view over the Kruger of spotting game at the water’s edge is of the KNP and it off ers the same diversity of NationalN Park (KNP). The reserve has excellent. During 2008 the fence separating game encountered in the much-acclaimed been granted an exclusive concession by Mjejane from the Kruger was removed to Biyamiti region of the Kruger. In November SANParks, allowing guests direct access allow wildlife free movement between 2011 construction on a low-level bridge via a low-level bridge across the river. It the wildlife sanctuaries on either side of linking Mjejane into the Kruger road doesn’t get much better than this. Situated the river. Almost immediately, herds of network was completed - a fi rst for the park. between the Malelane and Crocodile elephant and buff alo moved onto Mjejane Mjejane is magical. Bridge gates, the reserve’s 4000 hectares is along with predators such as lion, leopard, Breathe deeply and relax as you watch a in the heart of Big 5 country. cheetah, hyena and wild dog. Species such pride of lion strolling past your home or an Surrounded by pristine bushveld, guests as giraff e and zebra were reintroduced to inquisitive elephant herd joining you for a are likely to experience the best Africa the southern bank by SANParks and the sundowner by the river.

80 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 Here there are no borders and magnificent wildlife stroll around undisturbed, gracing guests with their magnificent presence. You’ll feel your senses awakening with the sights, sounds and smells of your immediate surroundings. Although you might feel compelled to stay put, the lodge offers thrilling game drives accompanied by experienced guides. There is never a guarantee but, the odds of spotting the Big 5 are stacked in your favour, as the southern part of the Kruger is heavily populated with all manner of wildlife. On your return, the comfort of the lodge welcomes you. Relax at the swimming pool and enjoy a sundowner before savouring à tantalising a la carte buffet in the dining area. This combination of wild Africa and ultimate comfort is the life - it doesn’t get much better than this.

Highlights

1. The last significant tract of pristine indigenous bush alongside the Crocodile River 2. The best of both worlds: unspoilt bushveld and luxurious bliss 3. Game walks and drives accompanied by experienced rangers 4. Unparalleled game viewing right from your stoep 5. The only residential estate boasting a private bridge into the Kruger National Park.

Get in touch To find out more, go to www.mjejaneriverlodge.co.za or contact 011-516-4367

August 2015 Get It • Lowveld 81 Education ToGET advertise hereIT call DIRECTORY Jenni on 013-754-1600

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ORIENTAL EXPRESSION BACK TO NATURE SEPTEMBER COMING UP • Fabulous fl oral fashion • Locals share their favourite Kruger spots • Spring gardening: What to do right now • We give tired home goodies a makeover

Can’t fi nd your favourite free community glossy? Go to www.getitonline.co.za for the full click-through version. lowveld.getitonline.co.za To advertise, call Jenni Semmens on 082-342-8208 or email [email protected]

Look to nature for inspiration as prints channel the art-and-crafts movement. 82 Get It • Lowveld August 2011 Beauty & Wellness GETTo advertise IT hereDIRECTORY call Jenni on 013-754-1600 DR165832ND Specializing in: Permanent Make-up 16 Years Experience • Spider Vein Treatment • Fat & Cellulite Reduction • Alexandrite Laser Hair Removal • Permanent Make-up • Heel Peel • Skin Peeling • Scar & Stretch mark Reduction • Reduce Pigmentation • Full Nail Bar

Treatments • LED Teeth Whitening • DISCOUNT on PACKAGES purchased AN163132R FR234032ND

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June 2011 Get It • LowveldDR200032ND 83 Beauty & Wellness ToGET advertise hereIT call DIRECTORY Jenni on 013-754-1600

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facetothewind.co.za 54 Suiderkruis Street, [email protected] Steiltes, Nelspruit 1213 DIANA ROUX: 072-480-6688 Specialising in Pigment, Acne, Scarred, Aging and Teenage skin conditions. Offering Day packages, Relaxation, Diet Advice, Spray tan, Special Occasion Makeup, Bio Sculpture/LCN/Acrylic Nailbar, a variety of Beauty Grooming Basics.

Everyday Special Choose any 3 treatments for R685: 60 min Facial, back & neck massage, Indian head massage, Hand & foot massage, Eyebrow wax & tint, Heel peel treatment, Gel DI236732R toenails, Mani or pedicure.

Available in our Nail bar LCN, Bio sculpture and Pedique “where we do reconstruction of LINDIE VAN STADEN: a damaged toenail.” 071-528-6232 DR169732R

New Permanent Make-up - HD Brows R880 DR239632R

NE230432ND 84 Get It • Lowveld August 2011 Beauty & Wellness GETTo advertise IT hereDIRECTORY call Jenni on 013-754-1600 HA172332ND AT234232NL

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Terms & Conditions apply

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Dr Karen Kromhout and Dr Auke van der Meulen Tandartse – Dental Surgeons Shop G4-5, Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre White River For an interview or more information 013-752-6654 • [email protected] • www.xela.co.za Tel : 013-751-3144 [email protected] | www.mysmile.co.za • Manufacturing and designing of gold and silver jewellery • Repairs and alterations to gold and silver jewellery • Supplying of diamonds, semi-precious stones and pearls • Valuations, engraving and re-stringing. Tel: 013-752-5325 Fax: 013-755-2441 Cell: 084-603-0198 Monday to Friday 08:00 - 16:30 E-Mail: [email protected] Oral hygienist now available JE213532R 54 Mostert Street, Nelspruit 86 Get It • Lowveld August 2011 Fashion GETTo advertise IT hereDIRECTORY call Jenni on 013-754-1600 QU309632R MA313432NL

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BO245832ND June 2011 Get It • Lowveld 87 Home & Décor ToGET advertise hereIT call DIRECTORY Jenni on 013-754-1600 TR233332ND

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Do you deserve a good night’s rest? Our products have stood MP213132NL BE139332R 54 years test of time! Ultimate luxury, value for money, products for the whole family. Come and see us at our warehouse in Plaston or Our White River outlet. YOUR comfort mattress to us!!

SABS Go green linen 100% cotton Upholstery Mattress and Approved Beds - no ironing pillow protectors

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XP313132NL 8 Stinkhout Crescent Nelspruit Tel: 013-755-4275 | Fax: 013-755-1787 [email protected] 88 Get It • Lowveld August 2011 Miscellaneous GETTo advertise IT hereDIRECTORY call Jenni on 013-754-1600

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Bookings: Your daily reliable, comfortable,www.lowveldlink.com on time, safe / shuttle bus between Mpumalanga013-750-1174 and / 083-778-8527 Gauteng!!! JB231632R

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June 2011 Get It • Lowveld 89 Bridal & Venue ToGET advertise hereIT call DIRECTORY Jenni on 013-754-1600 MA239232R RO310732NL FL313232ND

Hamiltons

Open 7 days a week Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Malalane Gate Road HA135032R 013-790-3421 | 082-461-4974 | [email protected] 90 Get It • Lowveld August 2011 Food & Entertainment GETTo advertise IT hereDIRECTORY call Jenni on 013-754-1600 OR225632R RI309432R

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Personality conflicts at work? Communication problems in the office? PR314332NL Cultural misunderstandings? We provide tailor-made team building activities to solve these issues. These can be incorporated into your Year End Function, find out how: Contact us for a quote - Tel: 013-737-9700 | [email protected]

For more Adventures we also partner with local providers who can offer the following at an additional cost: • Horse riding • High rope activities • Zip lines • Quad biking • White water rafting • Big Swing (solo & tandem) • Elephant rides • Abseiling • Archery • Geckoiing

+27 (0)13-737-9700 [email protected] | www.proteahotels.com/hazyview R40 Road, 7km before Hazyview June 2011 Get It • Lowveld 91 GET Spoiled

August

Jewellery that will STEAL Spoilyour heart… fancy winning yourself a gorgeous Georgini We’re always trying to stay ahead of the game when it steel fl oral pendant? Just send an email to competitions@ comes to the latest trends and thanks to GEORGINI, we getitlowveld.co.za by August 31 and you’ll be the envy of can now dress to impress with attractive pieces that every girl. are not only aff ordable but also easy to wear. The latest STEEL collection is made from ion plating, which means it won't rust or discolour and it's also hypoallergenic. The collection features bold designs from heart-shaped necklaces to solid steel rings. We especially adore the fl oral pendant… it’s super-feminine, fl irty and a must-have. All pieces are available in rose gold, yellow gold or silver. With prices from R249, get steeled this winter. For stockists and online shopping, visit www.georgini.co.za.

92 Get It • Lowveld August 2015 UF217132ND IL1817332ND