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		<title>How to keep fit during pregnancy</title>
		<link>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/how-to-keep-fit-during-pregnancy/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/how-to-keep-fit-during-pregnancy/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 18 May 2013 20:00:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>anneevelyn</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health & Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mums & Pregnancy]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/?p=326654</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Love it or hate it, keeping fit is an important part of staying healthy - helping you to feel more energetic, improving your mood and generally making you glow. Here are 5 suggested ways to keep fit during pregnancy.</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/how-to-keep-fit-during-pregnancy/">How to keep fit during pregnancy</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>Love it or hate it, it is important to keep fit during pregnancy and is a part of staying healthy &#8211; helping you to feel more energetic, improving your mood and generally making you glow. It can even help with pregnancy nausea and the fatigue that a lot of women experience during the first trimester.</div>
<p>Holding a lamp next to your face to achieve that glow and slouching in a chair playing tennis against Roger Federer with on your Nintendo Wii just isn’t going to cut it. It’s time to get serious.</p>
<p><strong>1. Pilates or Yoga</strong></p>
<p>Because of the gentle nature of both Pilates and Yoga and the ability to tailor it for your physical capabilities, Yoga or Pilates are perfect ways to strengthen your body all the way through pregnancy while helping to ease any aches and pains you have along the way.</p>
<p>Get along to a local class and if you start to feel self-conscious towards the latter stages of your pregnancy, there are also some great home DVDs on the market.</p>
<p><strong>2. Run</strong></p>
<p>I don’t mean run a marathon, or try to beat Usain Bolt’s record in the 100 metres &#8211; I just mean run.</p>
<p>Anything you do will help with your overall fitness, while the endorphins released during exercise will mean you feel much better on a day to day basis.</p>
<p>Do what is within your physical capabilities and run at a reasonable ratio to what you were doing prior to being pregnant. If you were doing a marathon worth of miles every week, then there is no reason why you can’t run half of that distance each week whilst pregnant.</p>
<p>Listen to your body and reduce the time spent running as you see fit and if you feel any pain at all, stop. Don’t overdo it, but do know that running can be good for you and your baby.</p>
<p><strong>3. Swim</strong></p>
<p>Unless you plan on going to the moon during your pregnancy, your only real option to get anywhere near zero gravity is to get down the local pool and swim.</p>
<p>The feeling of weightlessness is fantastic, with the water taking away the strain on your joints and back, while you keep fit in the process. The beauty is that you can enjoy the relaxing feeling and step the pace up or down as you see fit.</p>
<p><strong>4. Cycle</strong></p>
<p>Enter the Tour de France. Now that I’ve shocked you, what I’m really about to suggest is far less daunting.</p>
<p>Get an exercise bike and get peddling. Firstly, you will have the peace of mind and safety of knowing you’re not actually flying along the road looking like humpty dumpty on wheels. Secondly, you won’t even have to miss your favourite show, just pop your exercise bike in front of the TV and go for it.</p>
<p><strong>5. Walk</strong></p>
<p>If you don’t feel up to running or your physical health won’t allow it, go for a gentle stroll as often as you can. It’s a great way to get the blood pumping and release those feel good endorphins.</p>
<p><em>What things would you recommend for keeping fit during pregnancy?</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/how-to-keep-fit-during-pregnancy/">How to keep fit during pregnancy</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>21</slash:comments>
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		<title>Obsessed with baby fashion</title>
		<link>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/obsessed-with-baby-fashion/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/obsessed-with-baby-fashion/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 18 May 2013 19:00:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>anneevelyn</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Babies, Little Kids & Big Kids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mums & Pregnancy]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/?p=324488</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Baby fashion is my new obsession. Onesies, booties and itty bitty little hoodies that are just so cute you could die. I never realised just how much FUN it is to dress someone other than yourself - someone who for now has no objection to being made to look as cute as humanly possible.</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/obsessed-with-baby-fashion/">Obsessed with baby fashion</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I love hats and I love shoes and I just can’t get enough gorgeous tops and cute pants. I spend ages online looking for the hippest stuff for the best prices but I still spend waaay more money than I should on clothes that I know won’t even last that many wears.</p>
<p>The wardrobe is stuffed full and overflowing, I just don’t have room for everything. I know that three sunhats and eleven beanies is unnecessary, but there are seven days in every week and you can’t have a hat that clashes with the rest of what you’ve got on right? I actually go to bed planning tomorrow’s outfit and I look forward to outings and special occasions so that I can bring out the best stuff. I confess that it’s not at all unusual to go through three or even four different looks per day.</p>
<p>What doesn’t help is that my Mum is the same and she brings me all kinds of bits and pieces and even encourages me to buy things because they’re ‘good to have just in case’. She has a keen eye for what looks good so I trust her to choose for me which pieces go together. She gave me the most beautiful quality ensemble that came all the way from South Africa and yes it’s about three sizes too big but I am eagerly anticipating the day that it actually fits.</p>
<p>It may surprise you after reading that passionate outpouring that it was only two days ago that Garrett pointed out I had been wearing the same baggy t-shirt almost all week and gently suggested I put it in the wash because the milky smell of the baby’s vomit all over it was entering the room before I was.</p>
<p>Since little Rafferty’s arrival, when it comes to what I’m wearing on a daily basis, I kind of don’t give a stuff anymore. I’m no longer interested in skinny jeans and high heels&#8230; I am now obsessed with baby fashion including onesies, booties and itty bitty little hoodies that are just so cute you could die. Despite his tender age and thanks to so many wonderful friends and relatives, Rafferty actually owns more clothing than I do. And I am having a field day with all of it!</p>
<p>I just don’t know what I prefer – the red sleepsuit with the dinosaurs on it, the teeny striped shorts that look so sweet with a simple singlet and his rad little amber teething necklace or the classic blue romper that just brings out his eyes like you wouldn’t believe. I love love LOVE his green top with the Very Hungry Caterpillar on it and when his feet got too big for the socks with the foxes (Socks! With foxes!!) I actually almost cried. Folding up all the triple 0 clothes that he recently got too big for was very traumatic for me and to be honest the thought of being able to get them out again is actually my main motivation to have another child at the moment. Heaven forbid I have a girl… that would be a whole new level of baby fashion excitement for me.</p>
<p>I can’t wait until Raff is big enough for the size 1 Sesame Street overalls that are patiently waiting for 2014 to roll around and the day he steps out in his first pair of jeans is just going to kill me with glee. One day we might even have a wedding to go to and you know what that means… mini tuxedo!</p>
<p>I never realised just how much more FUN it is to dress someone, other than yourself, who for now has no objection to being made to look as cute as humanly possible.  I am going to enjoy every single moment of covering those chubby arms and legs in gorgeous baby fashion that makes me feel so intensely joyous while I have the chance. Including the bunny suit… OMG you should see him in his bunny suit!</p>
<p>What have your favourite kids outfits / clothing been since you had your little one?</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/obsessed-with-baby-fashion/">Obsessed with baby fashion</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>30</slash:comments>
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		<title>Chicken fajita recipe</title>
		<link>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/chicken-fajita-recipe/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/chicken-fajita-recipe/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 May 2013 19:20:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>hazel</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Food & Cooking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/?p=324402</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Here is a yummy chicken fajita recipe that mum can make for all the family!
</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/chicken-fajita-recipe/">Chicken fajita recipe</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3>Here is a yummy chicken fajita recipe that mum can make for all the family!</h3>
<p><em>Serves 4</em></p>
<h3>Ingredients</h3>
<p>500g skinless chicken breast fillets</p>
<p>2 red onions, sliced</p>
<p>1 tbsp oil</p>
<p>1 tsp paprika</p>
<p>1/2 tsp ground cumin</p>
<p>1/2 tsp ground coriander</p>
<p>Juice of 3 large limes or lemons</p>
<p>1/4 tsp chilli powder</p>
<p>1/2 red capsicum, diced</p>
<p>2 tomatoes, diced</p>
<p>400g can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed</p>
<p>2 tbsp chopped parsley</p>
<p>1 small red chilli, deseeded and diced</p>
<p>2 cups lettuce, shredded</p>
<p>150mg natural yoghurt</p>
<p>150g cheddar cheese, grated</p>
<p>Sea salt and fresh ground pepper</p>
<p>8 warm tortillas or pitas</p>
<h3>Method</h3>
<p>Preheat oven to 180o C.</p>
<p>Slice the chicken fillets into 1cm wide strips and place in a bowl. Combine the oil, paprika, cumin, coriander, chilli powder and 1/2 the lemon or lime juice and pour over chicken. Stir through an allow to marinate for 5 &#8211; 30 minutes.</p>
<p>Place the diced capsicum, tomatoes, chilli and cannellini beans in a bowl. Add the rest of the lemon or lime juice and parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside until ready to serve.</p>
<p>Heat a heavy based fry pan over medium to high heat. Add the chicken and any surplus marinade to the pan and cook until golden brown.</p>
<p>Warm the tortillas or pitas in the preheated oven for a few minutes then place on a plate and serve with the lettuce, chicken, bean mix, cheese and yoghurt, allowing everyone to make up their own.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/chicken-fajita-recipe/">Chicken fajita recipe</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>39</slash:comments>
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		<title>Perfection comes in all different packages</title>
		<link>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/perfection-comes-in-all-different-packages/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/perfection-comes-in-all-different-packages/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 May 2013 06:28:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>anneevelyn</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Mums & Pregnancy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/?p=326706</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>An inspirational real story from one of our beautiful mums ..."Perfection comes in all shapes and forms. And it comes in the form of my children whom I love very much."</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/perfection-comes-in-all-different-packages/">Perfection comes in all different packages</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When I pictured having children I never pictured special needs children. I didn’t think it could happen to me. That type of thing did not seem real to me.</p>
<p>When my second child was born we knew something was wrong from the start. But even then I didn’t think it could happen to us. Yet at 12 months old she was as floppy as a newborn baby. We kept getting fobbed off by the pediatricians until we moved to a country town. She took one look at this 18 month old that could barely sit up and immediately ordered an MRI.</p>
<p>I was 34 weeks pregnant with my third and last child when my world was rocked. The MRI showed an abnormality in the brain. All they could tell me? It’s a leukodystrophy. It’s hereditary. It could affect your unborn child. We don’t know much so go google it.</p>
<p>The shock put me into premature labour but they stopped it and my third child was born at 37 weeks. We thought she was fine because she reached all her milestones only slightly late. Except for talking. They started talking about autism, but decided to do an MRI to rule out Leukodystrophy given that its genetic…and they found she had an identical brain scan to her sisters</p>
<p>This happened between 2008-2010.</p>
<p>In 2010 my marriage also broke down. Probably due to the stress of it all. I thought I would never find someone. What did I have to offer? Three children, two of which had a terminal condition that required nappies, tube feeding and wheelchairs for life? I thought I would be better off getting a dog.</p>
<p>Until Terry came into my life. He saw kids, not kids with disabilities. He embraced the life of a special needs parent and learnt to nappy change and tube feed (and he had never had kids). He understood I could not have any more kids and yet didn’t faze him. He just wanted to be with me and my children. He was by my side in 2012 when both girls got diagnosed with autism (on top of leukodystrophy). And when we had to get measurements for the latest lot of wheelchairs.</p>
<p>He is by my side now as I struggle to find a car to take two wheelchairs….and struggle to actually pay for it. You see we are both on pensions and you can’t get a bank loan with them easily (plus my ex has ruined my credit history). Because of this I cannot get finance. It is sad because I desperately need a wagon to fit the chairs in or I can’t take my girls out. DSC have said this (I only have a crappy sedan). But their response when I ask how do I afford it? Get a loan….not everyone can.</p>
<p>But the question I keep getting asked is how do I do it with two highly complex special needs children? And what would my life have been like if they were “normal”?</p>
<p>Firstly, I do it because I love them and they are my life. Secondly, how the hell would I know what it would be like if they were “normal” because they wouldn’t be the same children I have today. Life might have been easier, but it could very well have been harder.</p>
<p>Perfection comes in all shapes and forms. And it comes in the form of my children whom I love very much.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/perfection-comes-in-all-different-packages/">Perfection comes in all different packages</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>40</slash:comments>
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		<title>You’re pregnant! Don’t forget to do these five things</title>
		<link>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/youre-pregnant-dont-forget-to-do-these-five-things/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/youre-pregnant-dont-forget-to-do-these-five-things/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 May 2013 21:00:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jacinta</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Mums & Pregnancy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/?p=322273</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Only in retrospect after three babies can I look back with some regret and say, “I wish I had ….” So, don’t you make the same mistake! Here are five things that you might like to do, or do more of, while you are pregnant </p><p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/youre-pregnant-dont-forget-to-do-these-five-things/">You’re pregnant! Don’t forget to do these five things</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Congratulations, you’re having a baby! In the excitement of making the announcement, medical appointments and shopping for maternity wear, it’s so easy to overlook some of the most important things about being pregnant.</p>
<p>Only in retrospect after three babies can I look back with some regret and say, “I wish I had ….” So, don’t you make the same mistake! Here are five things that you might like to do, or do more of, while that bun is still in the oven.</p>
<p><b>1. Take photos </b></p>
<p>I have only a handful of photos of my pregnancies and I wish I had more to help me remember the wonderful experience and to capture forever my glowing joy at being knocked up. If only I had been as systematic in documenting my pregnancies as I have been with photographing the growth and development of my children!!</p>
<p>Looking back at photos of your expanding bump allows you to remember the little things that mean so much when your incredible body is doing what it is designed to do &#8211; nurture your baby inside.</p>
<p>The other regret is not having a pregnancy portrait taken. Friends have shared theirs and what a lovely idea they are to formally acknowledge the event, in the same way that other milestone photos do – for weddings, birthdays and anniversaries.</p>
<p><b>2. Stop working</b></p>
<p>I worked right up to the last minute up to the arrival of each of my babies. Somehow, meeting those work deadlines seemed more important than getting more ready for baby or taking some time for myself.</p>
<p>I realise now (too late!) that’s not the case and that the few days, weeks or whatever time you make away from your paid work and for yourself is absolutely essential.</p>
<p>Time strangely evaporates after baby arrives. It’s weird how it happens, but all the time you had BC disappears into a vortex and there’s no time after the birth to reorganise your undie drawer, paint that feature wall or clean out under the kitchen sink. Do it now, while you are motivated and energised to do so!</p>
<p><b>3. Keep a journal</b></p>
<p>From the morning sickness to the full gory details of the birth, believe me that you will want to press replay in your head more than once. A journal is a great way to prompt your memory about how you feel, the reactions of others, future plans and how you are managing each of the aspects of your new bumpy existence.</p>
<p>When I was pregnant the second and thirds time round, it was interesting to compare those pregnancies with the earlier ones to see that I was “on-track”. This was particularly pertinent for the start and end dates of T1’s nausea (virtually identical in each pregnancy), my hormonally fueled emotions (that too was consistent, alas) and good old baby brain.</p>
<p>I also kept a record of my weight gain during pregnancy (all 18-20kg for each one) and then the weight loss after them. It was motivating to see it decrease following each birth (eventually) to the original start number.</p>
<p><b>4. Take time for you.</b></p>
<p>Being a mum is a selfless act with lots of sacrifice (especially in the sleep stakes) for your new arrival.</p>
<p>So, being pregnant is probably the last time you get to be a little bit selfish. Do it! Take some time to do exactly what you want to do while you still can – sleep in, see a movie, get away by yourself. What ever you want.</p>
<p>When I was pregnant with my third, I took myself off to the beach for the weekend to get some decent sleep as my second, still a baby, kept night-waking. I must have really needed it – I woke up at 9.30am the first morning, something I haven’t done since my hang-over days!</p>
<p>Taking time for you is not a treat. It is essential fuel to get you through those first few months of baby’s arrival when your world is turned up side down (and inside out!).</p>
<p><b>5. Have a shower for all your babies</b></p>
<p>A baby shower is just one of the loveliest events – a bunch of girlfriends, eating, drinking, playing silly games and all sharing in the excitement of the arrival of the babe inside.</p>
<p>And the love-filled focus is on you. It’s a bit like your wedding day, but without the groom!</p>
<p>I didn’t have a shower for babies 2 and 3, thinking it was a bit rude to ask friends to buy more gifts. What I didn’t quite get back then was that it’s not about the gifts, but the feeling in the room that can only be created by a group of friends who care about you. A simple request not to bring presents would have solved it. Doh! Isn’t retrospect a wonderful thing!</p>
<p><strong>These are my five, but what else shouldn’t we girls forget to do while we are pregnant?</strong></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/youre-pregnant-dont-forget-to-do-these-five-things/">You’re pregnant! Don’t forget to do these five things</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>39</slash:comments>
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		<title>Identifying and following your passions</title>
		<link>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/identifying-and-following-your-passions/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/identifying-and-following-your-passions/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 May 2013 20:00:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jacinta</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Mums & Pregnancy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/?p=322265</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Every one of us was put on this earth for a reason.  Being the best you can be and using your natural talents is really why we are here – that’s why discovering and following your passions is just so important.</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/identifying-and-following-your-passions/">Identifying and following your passions</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Every one of us was put on this earth for a reason.  Being the best you can be and using your natural talents is really why we are here – that’s why discovering your passion is just so important.</p>
<p>But what if you don’t KNOW what your passions are?</p>
<p>Don’t’ despair – there ARE ways. Ways I have used in the past to lead me to clarity, to uncover passions and even talents I never knew I had! Sometimes you will uncover it by asking questions, sometimes you’ll stumble upon it, and other times you will need to go within to find the answer. Meditate, use your intuition. The way forward is to seek the answers out <i>within </i>you rather than from external avenues and sometimes this takes time.</p>
<p>‘Aaarrrghhhhhh but I’m soooooo busy!’ you say….Ah yes, I’ve heard myself and others say that so so soooo many times, honestly though, it doesn’t matter who you are, how old you are, what you do, or whether you have children or not, EVERYONE you speak to is busy! But here’s the thing – we ALL have 24 hours a day. Some will use it effectively and others don’t.</p>
<p align="center"><strong><em>‘It’s not about having enough time, it’s about MAKING enough time’</em> Rachael Bermingham</strong></p>
<p>Our lives truly are overloaded and busy.  Some will say that our responsibilities and busy lives have left little time for us to reflect on ourselves and our desires and goals and that’s the very reason why there are so many living a purposeless life without abundance in all good things. It’s the WHOLE reason why there are so many people living WITHOUT passion and ultimately without abundance too!</p>
<p>We must put ourselves at the top of the priority list in order to achieve a life of abundance through our passions and our goals. You, your loved ones and the community you live in will thank you for it – truly!</p>
<p>The happiest folks on earth are those people who are doing what they love.  They have chosen to live their lives around the things that bring them passion and joy. They believe in themselves and they believe in achieving their goals.  They are always moving forward with determination and conviction, authenticity and yes, abundance!</p>
<p>Believing that you are important and your life is meaningful is a huge step in understanding exactly “why you are here.”  When you realize all that you have to offer, nothing and no one can stop you.  Life was meant to be lived and enjoyed.  HAPPY! Yes, we will all have our moments of doubt and worry, but it is about staring down fear and self-doubt, taking a deep breath and pushing through it. All this really is, is your emotional guidance system (EGS) at play, saying ‘Hey! You’re veered off track here! See how you are not enjoying life, or not feeling good? Change direction or make a different choice right now.’</p>
<p>The people who reach above and beyond this overcome these self-depreciative moments and thrive by listening to their EGS. Doing what you love enriches your life, makes you happy.  You need to believe and have faith in what your heart is telling you. It will guide you truly.</p>
<p>We all possess special qualities. That is what makes us unique.  We all have talent in some realm and if we choose to focus on them and help them grow, success and happiness is waiting for us at the finish line.  Everyone wants to be happy.  Everyone wants to do things they love. Everyone wants a good, happy and fulfilled life.  Discovering what we are passionate about is the key to achieving that happy life.  We must believe it and know that we are deserving and if we put forth the effort, it can most certainly be within our grasp.</p>
<p>So where do you start?</p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>‘The Universe conspires to help those</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>who help themselves’</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Rachael Bermingham</strong></p>
<p>Finding our passion in life is the first step in building a pathway to abundant living. But most people either haven’t yet discovered their passion, or, aren’t using their passion to create the abundant life of their dreams.</p>
<p>Putting yourself first is an important step in the discovery process. Uncovering, clarifying and confirming the things in life that you LOVE, that make your heart sing and fulfill your soul (aaahh bliss), this is your starting point. All sounds incredibly easy doesn’t it? So why aren’t we all doing it?</p>
<p>Well the answer is simple… Most people just don’t know how and the ones that do are so busy doing the do in their everyday lives they don’t make the time to pursue their passions and give abundance a chance.</p>
<p>Living an abundant life by following your passion will open your eyes to a life of joy, happiness, immense abundance and a long list of amazing and wonderful things – it’s REALLY worth the effort in taking a chance and giving it a go!  Every part of your being will thank you for it.</p>
<p>So with PASSION in mind… Start jotting down some of the things you LOVE doing, what makes your heart sing and your soul smile?</p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>‘Once you know the REAL you and what the REAL You wants, then you just need to BELIEVE in yourself’</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Rachael Bermingham</strong></p>
<p>Find a pen and jot down your responses to these questions…</p>
<ul>
<li>What are you good at?</li>
<li>What do you enjoy doing?</li>
<li>What are you interested in?</li>
<li>What would you like to have a go at?</li>
<li>What would you LOVE to do right now if I waved a magic want and you could do ANYTHING you dreamed of?</li>
</ul>
<p>Now we need to talk goals!</p>
<p>Goals bring more purpose in our lives.  To have no goals, you may feel a sense of hopeless which doesn’t do you any favours in propelling you forward.</p>
<p>“Where do I begin?” you might ask yourself.  Think deeply about this and let’s consider some ‘dreams’ you have right now that really are your goals, only you don’t realize it just yet.  Perhaps you long for more time to wind down and meditate or spend more quality time with your family, maybe it’s to own your own home? Maybe you want to make every person you come into contact with a little better off by the encounter. That is a wonderful and fulfilling goal!  If you want to begin a new career in an industry that you love, but are scared of change or don’t know how to pursue it, that is a goal!  If you want to write the next greatest novel, do it! Nothing is beyond your reach! Trust me when I say this because 10 years ago I have a dream which became my goal to write a book. I had NO idea what I would write about other than the desire to write something inspiration, and in addition to that, I didn’t have a clue on how to start either! Now fast forward those 10 years to where we are right now and I’ve written a book, in fact 8 and all have become bestsellers. Amazing! So if I can achieve that, then I’m sure that will give you hope you can do anything you desire too!</p>
<p align="center"><strong><i>‘A goal is a dream with a deadline’ </i>Rachael Bermingham</strong></p>
<p>We need to clarify what dreams are and what goals are. You might think they’re the same – and you wouldn’t be alone in that thought. I thought they were the same thing many years ago too! Goals are dreams with a timeframes and deadlines.  Every breathing person has wishes. We need to turn those wishes into goals and then set those deadlines that we can be accountable to and get working towards achieving them!</p>
<p>So, now understanding this, jot down 10 things you would LOVE LOVE LOVE to do before you check out of this wonderful adventure we call life!</p>
<p>Writing them down solidifies them, makes them real AND ultimately helps you to focus on what you want in life.</p>
<p>Do not let these “if only I could do this…” or “if only I had done that” stop you from missing out on the joys of everyday life.  Every day is a gift and every day holds a new adventure.  Searching for happiness is a never ending event but one that is necessary, as long as we don’t let ourselves lose out on the wonderful things that every day can bring us if we are open to what is in front of us.</p>
<p>You deserve to be happy. If you don’t think you deserve to be happy, then it is no wonder you are not!  You can’t expect happiness if you do not believe you deserve it.</p>
<p>Be happy and confident with who you are!</p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>‘There is no one who does you like YOU do you,</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>so be the best you that you can be!’</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Rachael Bermingham</strong></p>
<p>Do the best you can do in every endeavor and know that you have given it your all and your best shot.  Enjoy every day and look forward to each tomorrow and the opportunities that present themselves to you to learn and grow.</p>
<p>Be thankful for what you do have, right now.  Be happy and grateful that you have been given another day to appreciate and enjoy the beautiful life that you have been given.  Be thankful for your family and your friends and all of the things, no matter how few, that you possess.  Be thankful and happy that you are free.</p>
<p>Never be afraid to seek guidance from others.  If you need help, ask for it.  Most people who are happy are always eager to help others.  On that same note, get in the habit of doing something nice for others.  Think about how good it feels when you smile at a stranger and that stranger smiles back.  Who knows what difference you just made in that person’s life?  Knowing that for one moment, a simple smile changed the outlook of a complete stranger, can life your spirits and happiness to levels you cannot imagine.  Smile and the whole world smiles with you.  You are spreading sunshine and happiness!</p>
<p>Did you know that when you are happy, not only is the quality of your life improved, but so is the quantity.  Happy, passionate people live longer lives.  Even those with chronic health issues, depression and personal negative factors like financial problems…when they are happy, they have a much better quality and quantity of life!</p>
<p>Attaining that abundant life can be easy!  Live each day as if it were your last.  Happiness is not just being a successful person and success is not the secret to happiness.  Making each and every day count and finding a reason, a PURPOSE to be happy is true happiness.  When you are happy, you know you are living an abundant life and living life to its absolute fullest.</p>
<p align="center"><strong><i>‘Regardless of where you’ve been,<br />
it’s where you’re going that really matters’<br />
</i>Rachael Bermingham</strong></p>
<p>Live and embrace the moment you have right this second. Listen to your environment. Seek out things that wrap your heart up and make you feel warm and wonderful. Listen as the birds sing as the sun rises. Take a deeper breath of the fresh morning air.  You will be absolutely amazed at how incredibly good this feels and you can’t help but feel appreciative for another day and happy as well.  Let that good feeling carry you through the day. It will lift you and it will also help you align with what is true for your spirit so your passion can ignite.</p>
<p>Every day, it is important that you find time just for you.  If only for a half hour, take time out from everything and everyone around you.  Use this time to recharge and revitalize.  Use this time to think positive thoughts and keep your brain active.  Try yoga, meditate or burn essential oils if you feel a bit stressed.  The key to happiness is also keeping your body and your mind relaxed and stress free.</p>
<p>Listen to music, sing a song, read a book, go for a walk – do whatever it takes even if it’s for 5 minutes to help you keep lifting and focusing on what you want. Soon you’ll be so consumed by these great habits you won’t have the tolerance or desire to waste time sweating the small stuff!</p>
<p>Close your eyes and imagine the things in life you want.  Visualization is incredibly powerful and energizing.  Concentrate on your goals and then imagine how you will feel once you have reached that goal.  Feel the excitement course through your veins as you visualize having reached goals you once thought impossible!</p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>‘You must be PASSIONATE and LOVE what you do… </strong></em><br />
<em><strong>your enthusiasm, positivity, energy and excitement will serve to inspire, attract and engage others’ </strong></em><br />
<strong>Rachael Bermingham</strong></p>
<p>Listen to your body, if you’re tired – sleep, if you’re restless – exercise, if you’re hungry – eat, if you’re sad use an uplifting trigger to help you put a smile on your dial such as music, a chat with a friend – ANYTHING that helps you lift out of it – it’s detrimental to your health and your future so do anything you can to NOT stay in a sad or down mood.</p>
<p>Focus on your goals, plan out steps you need to take action on to achieve your goals, schedule in time to learn more, do more and have more time to experience your list of things you would like to do, are interested in, and ultimately love doing. This is food for the soul. Stick to your schedule.  Do not get distracted by the minor things.  Stay focused and in control of your dreams.  Realize that anything is possible if you truly believe in yourself and your dreams.  Nothing can stop you. You are powerful!  You are energy!</p>
<p>Passion is something that no one can teach you how to have.  You either feel it or you don’t. That’s why it’s so important these answers come from YOU! Find what it is that truly inspires you and makes you want more of it. Never underestimate your power.</p>
<p>This is it! This is your chance, you have the opportunity right now, it’s knocked at your door and is waiting for you to embrace it. Life is too short to waste time and energy on things that simply are not worth it.  If there are negative people that surround you, wean yourself from them.  Let them know you are living an ABUNDANT LIFE.</p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>‘Positive relationships bring out the best in you, makes your heart sing and leave you feeling like</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>you can do anything!’ </strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Rachael Bermingham</strong></p>
<p>If you are in a job that is making you miserable, then find a job doing whatever it is that makes you happy!  Take chances.  Be strong and be proud of who you are and all that you have accomplished and have yet to accomplish in your life.</p>
<p>Surround yourself with the people you love.  If you have no one in your life, surround yourself with animals or nature.  Recognize all of the beauty that is yours for the taking in life if you only allow yourself to reach for the stars and take it!  Know that the key to a life of abundant happiness is truly within your reach.  It takes just a little bit of planning, a little bit of self-discipline and a little bit of believing in yourself.  Figure out what it is you want from life and just go for it!  The world can indeed be your oyster!  All you have to do is want it and trust in yourself and there’s not a thing on this earth that can stop you from living the most happy and passionate life that you deserve.</p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>‘Find out who you are, what you love, what you believe in, what makes you tick – then live that as authentically as you can – that will give you happiness’</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Rachael Bermingham</strong></p>
<p>Start today! Feel the fear and do it anyway! Fear is a strong and passionate emotion.  Often perceived as a negative emotion, it does not need to be.  Often we fear things that we are not knowledgeable about or we fear things because we are scared of failure.  Learn to face your fears and grow stronger through them.  Write down what scares you or what you are fearful of and make a plan to beat that fear.  Putting the reasons down right here on paper will help you clarify and overcome blockages that are standing in your way to living your passion.</p>
<p>Say YES more time than you say no. Such a simple thing, but truly will lead you to places beyond your wildest dreams! You will be amazed at the doors that can open when you allow yourself to try new things.</p>
<p>And don’t worry about what others think – what they think is none of your business, it’s what YOU think about yourself that truly matters.<b>  </b>You are creating your abundant life, not someone else’s. Think of all your goals from YOUR space not anyone elses. It never works if you pursue a goal belonging to someone else. You need to fully resonate and be thoroughly engaged in the outcome of your goal.</p>
<p>Never stop growing as a person. Soak up and learn as much as you possibly can each and every day. You owe this to yourself and it’s a huge step in living an abundant life. Always believe in yourself and know that you are worthy, beautiful and important!  Reach for the stars and shine on!</p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>‘Miracles DO happen,</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><em><strong>don’t just believe in them, expect them!’</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Rachael Bermingham</strong></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/identifying-and-following-your-passions/">Identifying and following your passions</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Slow cooked mexican chicken recipe</title>
		<link>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/slow-cooked-mexican-chicken-recipe/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/slow-cooked-mexican-chicken-recipe/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 May 2013 19:01:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>hazel</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Food & Cooking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/?p=320201</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Enjoy this slow cooked mexican chicken recipe with all the family this winter!
</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/slow-cooked-mexican-chicken-recipe/">Slow cooked mexican chicken recipe</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><b>Enjoy this slow cooked mexican chicken recipe with all the family this winter!</b></h3>
<p>This slow cooker recipe is really versatile. Serve it with Burritos, Tacos, Pasta or as a Salad.</p>
<p>I serve it with Rice and steamed Broccoli for my children and there are never leftovers.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><b>INGREDIENTS</b></h3>
<p>1kg Chicken Breast –skinless</p>
<p>810g Tinned Crushed Tomatoes</p>
<p>439g Tinned Black Beans – well rinsed</p>
<p>½ cup Red Capsicum – finely chopped</p>
<p>2 Tablespoons Tomato Paste</p>
<p>1 Teaspoon crushed Garlic – I just use the jar one</p>
<p>2 Teaspoons Paprika – the “Smoked” one is not hot at all</p>
<p>Salt &amp; Pepper to taste</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>METHOD</strong></h3>
<p>Rinse off your Chicken and place in Slow Cooker with Tomatoes, Garlic, Paprika and Salt &amp; Pepper.</p>
<p>Put the Cooker on High for 3-4 hours till Chicken is tender and cooked through.</p>
<p>Take out the Chicken and shred with a knife.</p>
<p>To the Slow cooker add your chopped Capsicum and Black Beans and stir through.</p>
<p>Add the Chicken back in and stir through.</p>
<p>Leave for another two hours.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Serving is really versatile I serve with rice for the kids and for the adults I like to serve with burritos on a big serving dish heaped on top of a bed of baby spinach with slice Avocado and lots of chilli jam.</p>
<p>Enjoy</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/slow-cooked-mexican-chicken-recipe/">Slow cooked mexican chicken recipe</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>What motherhood means to me&#8230;</title>
		<link>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/what-motherhood-means-to-me/</link>
		<comments>http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/what-motherhood-means-to-me/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 May 2013 06:57:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jacinta</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Mums & Pregnancy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/?p=324601</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>In this real story one mum shares with us what motherhood means to her... "Becoming a mother is one of the most rewarding and difficult decisions a woman can ever make."</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/what-motherhood-means-to-me/">What motherhood means to me&#8230;</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Becoming a mother is one of the most rewarding and difficult decisions a woman can ever make. I cherish the time I have with my children, and no matter what happens they’ll always be my babies.</p>
<p>To me, motherhood is about promising to love and to learn on a never ending basis. Mothers don’t just rear children and flick them off on their way when they grow up. I think about the relationship I have with my own mother… even though I am now a mother, I am still my mothers baby girl. I ring her when I’m happy or sad… she shares my sorrows and my joys. I look to her for wisdom and guidance, always respecting her- even when I think she’s wrong.</p>
<p>Motherhood is about having the ability to learn as well as teach. Children are great sources of inspiration. They give us a fresh perspective when the troubles of life wear us down. The best moments in my life are the ones I spend with my family. The length of time you are able to spend with each other each day doesn’t compare to the quality of time well spent.</p>
<p>Motherhood smells like… chocolate brownies and angels kisses… sweet scented lillies and nice, warm days. Motherhood feels like… the hot warm sun on a winters day, the crisp cool air on bare-clad feet… Motherhood tastes like fresh warm honey from the bee hive, strawberry cake on a summery day…. cool lemonade on my mamas porch. Motherhood looks like… two sleeping cherubs I long to hold… tousling their hair as they lay; asleep.</p>
<p>Goodnight my sweet babies… as I watch you sleep… one day you’ll grow up but I pray I may keep your hand in mine as you stay in my heart….. xo</p>
<h6>This real story was submitted by preggiegoddess01</h6>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au/what-motherhood-means-to-me/">What motherhood means to me&#8230;</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.mouthsofmums.com.au">Mouths of Mums</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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