Confession- my fitness levels vary hugely depending on 1) Day to Day work/life and 2) What holidays are coming up. Usually alarm bells ring when my jeans are getting tight. In an ideal world, I’m active every day- walking, yoga, pilates or a fitness class of some description- usually outdoors, but sometimes life gets in the way and my fitness takes a back seat. As most of our holidays are fairly active and often at altitude, staying relatively fit is a big deal and a huge part of actually really enjoying a holiday- especially a skiing one.
With the Australian and New Zealand ski season fast approaching (Whoo-hoo!) I’ve decided to kick up my fitness to get fit to ski and do Jillian Michael’s 30 Day Shred. I’ve done this program before and really like it for several reasons:
- It is fast (takes less than 30 minutes to complete)
- It involves simple exercises (lunges, ab work, basic weight moves) so you can concentrate on correct form
- I can do it at home
- It WORKS- I never thought an at home video would really make me sweat.. and it does
I usually try to mix in a yoga class and walks too while I’m doing the program just to make sure I’m really pushing myself. I also feel more motivated when I’m doing the program to eat extra well. I tend to eat well generally but DO indulge my shocking sweet tooth and fondness for vino and a G’n'T and doing the “shred” makes me think more carefully about food choices.
So, I am tweeting my workouts everyday- it is one way to keep accountable! And I shall share some healthy recipes, and pre-ski fitness tips from experts (like these from our friends at Athleta) while we countdown to the start of the season.
Have you done the 30 Day Shred before?? How do you get fit to ski or board?? I’d love to hear!
Thredbo’s newest option for those heading to the snow this year means you will now be able to ski for as little as $84 a day. On sale until May 12th, Thredbo’s is offering a 6 Day Any Day Flexi Pass, giving you the lots of options for multiple trips ( the days do not have to be consecutive) or one cracker ski week! 
With pre- season snow falling already, we are only weeks away from the start of the 2013 season, this is a perfect opportunity to book your family ski holiday! And the prices are good… it may even make the perfect Mother’s Day gift…just a hint…to anyone reading in my house…
Adults: $499 Kids and seniors (over 65) $299.
More details at www.thredbo.com.au and get ready to go make some tracks.
The fine print…
- Is valid for the 2013 Winter Season only.
- Is Valid for Six (6) Non Consecutive Day’s Lift Access
- Any unused days are NOT transferable to the 2014 Winter Season.
- Available for sale until 12th May 2013 or sold out. Whichever comes first
- No Further Discounts Apply.
- Non Transferrable. Non Refundable.
See you on the slopes!!
After a ski trip, I’m not usually thinking of swimsuits… but I arrived back in Sydney to real beach weather- like almost 30 degrees, wearing summer dresses and shorts weather. So bikinis are on my mind. I loved Roxy since its first collection.. WAAAY back when I was a youngster.. I remember saving pocket money for a swimsuit… even thought I was no surfer chick, they epitomised to me, a life for girls that was strong, athletic and fun. A few years ago I went to Surf Diva surf camp in La Jolla- one of the most fun weeks ever…. and I wore a Roxy wetsuit…. living the dream…. I soon realised my skills would never earn me a place on the Roxy Team… but still it was an awesome week.
Today, Roxy have launched their collaboration with Diane Von Furstenberg, and I cannot think of a more perfect pairing. DVF and her iconic prints, also lives and breathes the lifestyle of a grown up ROXY girl… Her mother taught her “Fear is not an option” and she built a career and life of adventure and innovation. I am a huge fan of both DVF’s gung ho, no nonsense attitude to life as well as her iconic wrap dresses and graphic prints.
So to the collaboration… DVF’s iconic prints are being featured on an exclusive collection of Roxy swimsuits & beach coverups. I love the lines & print of the 70′s halter- flattering neckline and a not-so-skimpy bikini bottom.
The same print features on a beach dress/ coverup- which would look great with a white tank underneath too.
The monokini is terrific too- gorgeous Spring colours and again (and most importantly) a flattering cut)
A cute classic triangle bikini (Ps love the smiley, laughing model!)
And the prettiest rashie I’ve ever seen… These are a MUST under Australia’s harsh sun.. I wear a rashie every beach trip.
Whilst not designed for the slopes per se… you always need a swimsuit for some apres ski hot tubs and for those of us in Sydney where Summer seems to still be going strong…this collection will be gorgeous for late Summer swims! Available at www.roxy.com.au
So I had been looking at Clarisonic’s for some time now- and wondered what all the fuss was about. I thought my dry, dehydrated and ageing skin was not the right “target market” for this- I thought if I had clogged pores.. acne problems it might be.. BUT having returned from two weeks at altitude in the drying, conditions of the gorgeous Rocky Mountains… I’m a convert. What nailed it for me was not only the soft skin… but a friend saying to me ( after almost 16 hours of plane travel with 2 kids and little sleep on the plane+ 2 weeks of skiing with lots of good wine and food) that my skin looked good.. REALLY good…”Your skin looks all glowy! Did you have something done when you were away??? Suffice to say I’m a little in love with the Clarisonic Mia.
I bit the bullet after speaking to the beauty therapist at the Arrabelle Spa in Vail, who use them as part of the cleansing in every facial. I figured that they were used to dealing with dehydrated and drying skin daily and if it worked for them and their clients… it was worth a shot. I picked up the Clarisonic Mia- there were lots of options, the Mia 2, with 2 speeds, one with a body brush attachment too… but I thought that I would go with the basic Mia- 1 speed with a sensitive skin brush.
I raced home to get started, but found I had to wait patiently for 24 hours while it charged- it has a snazzy little magnetic charger and an LED light which flashes while it charges. Each “charge” gives you 20 mins or so of use. And as you only use it for 1 minute per use, you are charging infrequently. I bought mine in the US- but it does have international voltage so it can be used here in Australia
I have only used the Clarisonic Mia three times so far.. but already love it- it feels great on my forehead and cheeks, but feels a bit weird on my nose- makes me feel like I want to sneeze.. nothing major, just an unusual sensation. I’ve used it only at night- to clear off all the days accumulated gunk. I am not a huge make up wearer- but I do use Invisible Zinc sunscreen daily and it does feel heavy at the end of the day. I have used it with my regular cleanser (Lancome) but haven’t tried the gel cleanser included in the pack but shall report back if I try it. Immediately I noticed that my moisturiser seemed to sink in more effectively and my foundation has stayed on and looked better for longer.
I’ve hit the age where my skin deserves a little more attention and I’m really noticing the fine lines and change in texture, so I’m on a mission to make sure I make the most of my skin, and put the brakes on the ageing process as much as possible. I believe that what you eat and drink plays a HUGE part in skin condition (I’m a fan of green smoothies and fish oil) and I’m hoping that the Clarisonic, added to the mix will make a difference.
Tomorrow is forecast to be one of the worst bushfire danger days in Australian history. Temperatures of 43 are expected in Sydney, with higher temperatures in regional areas. Tasmania has already seen terrible bushfires along the coast near Hobart, and firefighters around the country are on high alert.
The elderly and very young are always at risk during high temperatures- it is incredibly important to keep kids hydrated and out of the sun. Some things to remember to help keep everyone cool on these hot days.
1) Make some homemade icypoles- fruit juice frozen in some home made icypole makers is a treat and easy for kids to enjoy. I have even made my green smoothie into icypoles for the kids. We have these Twistix Icypole makers- (ours from Howard’s Storage World) awesome as they minimise drips! 
If you want icypoles fast- check out the Zoku Quick Pop- which can freeze your icypoles in 7 minutes! These look amazing… would certainly improve Summer snacks when I’m not organized enough to make some icypoles for the kidlets.
2) Hydralyte icy poles- I’m a huge fan of these for keeping kids hydrated in extreme conditions or if kids are unwell. Grab a pack from the pharmacy.
3) Lots and lots of water- put slices of fruit in it- ice- even a splash of cordial if it will get kids to keep drinking. Try Coconut Water or crack open an actual coconut and pop a straw in
4) Eat lots of fruit with high water content- grapes, watermelons etc if your kids aren’t great at drinking lots of water. 
5) On such an extreme day as we are expecting tomorrow- it is best to stay inside- even if the beach seems like a great option. Find some old school fun if you are not lucky enough to have a pool.. or friends with one- turn the sprinkler on in the backyard… get out the Slip n’ Slide… get out the toddlers paddling pool… or even turn the bath into a “water fun park”.
I will be avoiding the beach tomorrow… this was Bondi yesterday. Photo by Aquabumps
6) If you do go to the beach- go early (as in 7 or 8am) and get back home by 11am. The UV rays are not at their peak at this time. Cover every child in rashies, 30 plus sunscreen and hats. If you have a beach tent- use it!
7) Find an airconditioned cinema showing a kids movie- lots of good ones out at the minute including Wreck it Ralph, I suggest you buy tickets online ahead of time as LOTS of families will have the same idea. If you have babies or toddlers and are in Sydney, The Mama Club in Bondi is open and airconditioned!!!
8) Evian Facial Mist- I love these. I use them to keep kids entertained/hydrated on planes- having your face misted is apparently High-larious to the under 6′s in my care…They are great on car trips and on hot days to keep moisture on delicate little skin. Avene Thermal Mist is also great. If you don’t have one- a cold facewasher/ face cloth is excellent for keeping babies and small children’s temp’s in check. 
9)Check on an elderly neighbour- if you know of anyone who may be alone tomorrow- drop in to make sure they have fans on, airconditioning working and everything they need for the day. I have the world’s most spritely 94 year old neighbour, but check in with her to make sure all is as it should be on extreme days.
10) Under no circumstances leave your child in the car unattended..even for a minute…ever but ESPECIALLY not in this heat.
If you have any other great ideas, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Stay cool skimamas!
We have a ski trip approaching and I realised that the Ski Bunny (age 2) needs new ski gear- she has always had a mix of borrowed, hand me downs and a few gorgeous pieces of her own… but as she is wearing size 4 clothing in some things (tall girl) I will get her a new outfit all of her very own. I thought that I would do a wrap up of some of the latest and cutest gear for stylish girls on the slopes.
i’m tossing up between a one piece and a jacket/ combo for her…one pieces are better for important things like making snow angels and keeping snow out when you tip over on skis.. but a jacket can give you more options for day to day wear too if you live in a cold climate. I’ve got lots of tips on choosing ski gear for kids here if you need some ideas
One thing that I recommend you look for in any kids skiwear is the “”Grow-it” feature on most pieces- this allows you to get an extra season or 2 out of jackets and pants by lengthening the sleeves and pants- usually you just need to clip some threads and you gain an extra few inches in length- whoever came up with this feature is a genius! Today I’m looking at girls fashion- and if you are afraid of pink… look away… everything here has been selected with the Ski Bunny in mind and as in her words, “I like pink and princesses and ballerina’s”.
I’ve pulled pieces from lots of the major ski brands to share the best of 2013 girls ski fashion and had fun reviewing the looks. I’ve been super imressed with girls ski fashion this year- it borrows from the “big girls” and takes trends straight from the runways- lots of floral prints, some graphic digital print elements and bright pops of retro colours and designs.
My picks for ski season 2012-2013
Spyder Girls Bitsy Sassy Snowsuit in Sorbet/ Diva pink Size 2-7 RRP $ This also comes in 3 other colourways
Obermeyer Snoverall Bib in Bubble Pink Size 2-7 RRP $89.50
I would pair this with the Obermeyer Balance Jacket in Dippy Dots Size 2-7 RRP $119
I love this Spyder Bitsy Lola Jacket Size 2-7 RRP – the same print as before but in a jacket with a fur trim hood- the fur is removal too! 
The Boarder is huge fan of The North Face.. and I’ve been really into their women’s range this season.. but THIS is a jacket my daughter has loved since I showed it to her… it is VERY pink.. but with enough chic features to keep the levels of sophistication.. I’d like this in black for myself!!
The North Face Toddler Girls Greenland Jacket in Razzle Pink (also available in Black ) Size 1-4 RRP $119
The North Face Girls Mountain View Triclimate Jacket is a terrific 3 in 1 jacket that provides multiple levels of warmth and 2 jackets in 1- Size 2-4 RRP $130.. again in Razzle Pink. A ski jacket shell and….
fleece jacket inner.
Columbia Girls Buga Set- a jacket and bib set in Raspberry with aqua blue lining. Size 2-4 RRP$130
The Ski Bunny has also outgrown her snow boots so I’ve narrowed down the choices to the following…
The North Face Nuptse II Snowboots. Great tread, easy to get on and off and a little bit of fur for fun Various sizes (they also come in big girls sizes too) RRP $65
Columbia Kids Powderbug II- These are currently on special at Zappos for $39.99 with free shipping
Sorel’s Toddler Snow Commander Boots in Diva Pink… but of course!! From $36.95
AND to top it all off.. the sweetest Obermeyer Pink Moose Hat!
Now if all that pink has been too much for you ( tomorrow I will be taking a look through the best looks for the season for boys!
See you on the slopes! Skimama
Dear Santa,
This year I have been super good.. well mostly. I know you are busy this time of the year, so I thought I’d give you a helping hand, with a list of little stocking stuffers. I’ve even included where to get each item (where possible) to make this handy dandy list even easier to use.
So first off:
1) A round the world airfare plus season lift tickets to all my fave resorts so I can ski all 12 months of 2013 (x 4 so I can take the whole family!!)
2) New ski jacket.. still looking for the perfect jacket….
3) Rossignol Temptations. Now I know I did get a pair of Black Pearls this year but I REALLY want to try these ones too.
4) A week at Gwinganna Health Retreat
I have been plotting a week-long getaway at Gwinganna for sometime… but it is hard to leave the 2 year old and 6 year old just now… So next year I think everyone would be OK for mama to leave for a week to recharge. Gwinganna is a beautiful health retreat tucked away in the Queensland hinterland. Here you recharge, regroup, reboot. I’m even happy to go for a long weekend Santa. (especially if owner Hugh Jackman is “in residence”)
5) A year round supply of peonies… they are my favorite flower, hands down and only in season for a few weeks in November. I’d like them flown in weekly from wherever they are in season… just like Yolanda from The Real Housewives of Beverley Hills has her tulips flown in from Holland….
6) Annual pass to PowerLiving Yoga . My new fave yoga studio… I’d also like to jump out of bed and make the 6am class EVERY MORNING… bright eyed, bushy tailed……
7) A little sparkle from Tiffany. I know this has been on my list for some time now…. and yes, I know Tiffany are no longer making this design… but Santa, I know that you know people…..
8) A Vitamix.. I’m burning out my blender making Green Smoothie’s and apparently a Vitamix will change my life! I feel healthier just looking at this picture..
9) A Banjo and Matilda travel set… for all that sleep I get on the plane travelling with my “entourage”.. a little luxury to make trans-continental travel sweeter.
10) Bobbi Brown’s “Slopes” Lip colour. Inspired by Ms Brown’s ski trips to Telluride, where skiiers lips are flushed with healthy colour, this is the perfect rosy, browny, red- makes your lips look fab. 
There are possibly a few more things on my wish list but this should hopefully get you started… Love Skimama
PS the kids have asked for a Wii, a princess Wii game, a fairy princess dress, a ballerina dress, tap shoes (don’t worry about those…) a drum kit (ditto), Lego, a science experiment book and new ski goggles.
