Sunday 14 June 2015

Luxurious CoYo Yoghurt


CO YO Coconut Vegan yoghurt alternative
A gift from the 'Tree of Life'

Mama Bee has been following the coconut journey for over a month now. More and more research show that this 'superfood' has an endless list of healing power. From the hydrating coconut water to the 'MCFA's' coconut oil containing healthy saturated fat. Researching the nutrition, it's uses and overall benefits - I can confirm I'm coconut mad!

Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Nut free, Soya Free, Egg free.


'Freshly squeezed cream from the flesh of the coconut'.
CO YO have sent me their range of vegan yoghurt alternatives. Using freshly squeezed cream from the flesh of the coconut, CO YO have produced a 'Heaven in a mouthful' range with plenty of choices to offer. I will warn you that these pots are high in calories but remember, these are good fats and a brilliant source of energy or as an indulging snack. Already using and eating coconut oil this past month this was so exciting for me to try!

'Raw Chocolate'
raw chocolate yogurt

The first yoghurt I was keen to try was the tempting 'raw chocolate'! My first impressions was that in comparison to a regular Greek yoghurt, this was a far thicker texture.
Stirring the yoghurt , the coconut blended together to a creamy texture which looked heavenly! I tried the raw chocolate goodness and it was so so delicious. You can really taste the richness and goodness with a lovely chocolate coconut kick. I would recommend this more of a dessert.
Leon loved this yoghurt too!

'Vanilla'
Moving on to trying the other yoghurt's I was really tempted to try the 'Vanilla' version. I can tell these are high quality yoghurt just from seeing the vanilla pod seeds in the pot! What a lovely combination to try coconut and vanilla pairing together for a creamy dessert! I have to say, this was my favourite flavour so far! Not as thick as the raw chocolate and very subtle in flavour so could finish the pot in no trouble at all! (Again high in calories from the natural coconut so don't go overboard!) I can honestly say it was delicious! So excited to find out Ocado stock COYO.



The next day I waited to try the other flavours: Original, Mango and Mixed Berries. I have to say, tasting these were different from yesterday's. The fruit compote layer at the bottom of the pot made the texture of the yoghurt thinner and less rich than the chocolate and vanilla. Best way to describe these yoghurt's were the freshness and fruity flavour , mmm!

Understanding the coconut and it's values I will definitely keep using this 'superfood' with my family and daily lifestyle. COYO have created a wonderful product, dedicating their love for the coconut.

Please visit COYO to find out the entire journey & range!




Thursday 11 June 2015

'Feature Wednesday' Food-Grade Perfume

Congratulations!

This week's winner is Jennifer over at 'Study At Home Mama' with her fun, sensory activity: 'Make your own perfume' post. Children get to create their own 'formula' and experiment - a great way to keep your child 'busy'. 
For the full post of 'Make your own perfume' ,please click HERE. 

Make your own child-safe perfume with food extracts - a great sensory activity for kids

Set-up for making your own perfume with kids - a great sensory activity!

Wednesday 10 June 2015

My 1 month's Hair Journey with Hairburst

My Hair Journey with Hairburst

1 month's supply

'Grow Healthy, longer hair'
Hairburst, a UK based natural health supplements company have sent Mama Bee Simple their 1 month's supply of their natural hair growth vitamins. Before I carry on I want to assure you that my hair journey is 100% followed by the instructions of the bottle. The bottle contains 60 capsules - 2 capsules per day,  promising to give you healthier, longer and stronger hair. Delivered worldwide, it seems that everyone is talking about this product! 
I'm excited to find out the results. Of course, patience is required...

I may have long hair, but it's hard to maintain giving me broken ends.

Before you start thinking, but she already has long hair. What is the point? It has taken me YEARS to grow this out. Note: I do NOT straighten my hair any more due to problems of hair breakage in the past. (This has made my hair stronger already). Another problem I suffered for was hair loss during breast feeding (literally bald spots on the front of my hairline). Naturally fine, thin hair I find that it breaks easily, or get's damaged.

Tip: If you want healthy hair, ditch the straighteners and blow dry straight using medium heat and heat protection.

Healthy diet containing plenty of nutritious food's help keep your hair in better condition and overall strength.

So why use Hairburst?
Hairburst use essential vitamins and nutrients that your hair craves for healthy, stronger and longer hair. Preventing a common problem of mine such as hair thinning, these capsules contain 'silica' which is a vital supplement for thin hair. - Restoring vitality and even hair loss!
Biotin improves the levels of keratin in the body leading to hair growth and Hairburst provide a high level for your 'hair boost'. Collagen is a type of protein which acts a barrier to dry and brittle hair. - Vitamin C helps boost the collagen (also included in the formula). BCAA's are a fuel source providing energy for hair cells and skeletal muscles (athletes favourite supplement). MSM (full of essential sulphur) providing a longer growing phase (before resting and shedding) meaning longer, fuller hair.I'm combining my healthy lifestyle with these daily capsules to see a result. So far, so good!

Full list of ingredients and their benefits can be found HERE



Week 1, Day 1 - 64cm


Week 1 - Day 1- 64cm
Week 2 - Day 14 - 64.5cm
Week 4 - Final Day! 66cm

Conclusion:

Using Hairburst on a daily basis throughout the month was a new experience. I learnt that I needed key nutrients for my hair to be healthy and strong. I noticed less hair on my hairbrush that I would usually have whilst brushing my hair. Overall I'm happy with the hair length and noticed my hair grow much quick than usual. (My hairdresser is coming this week to re-colour and she will definitely notice!)
I highly recommend this product if you want healthy, stronger hair. This vitamins contain everything your hair needs for it's full potential. Please let me know how you get on with this product! I would love to hear from you.

You can buy this product HERE.



#Week15 'Feature Wednesday'


#Week15 of 'Feature Wednesday' has arrived!

If you have a post you would like to share live on 'Mama Bee Simple', simply add your link at the end of this post. I have selected a small group of topics to cover this week's linky party.

I do like to create a theme each week however any links related to activities, food, lifestyle & children is fine.

#Week15 Theme: #Outdoors #Nature #Play #Fun #Friends #Share

The most suited link will be chosen by the end of the day and I will feature your post at 'Mama Bee Simple' as well as all my social network sites.
Mama Bee knows that you all have some wonderful creations and spend so much time wanting to share so here is a lovely opportunity!
Mama Bee Simple


Please share my new 'Grab Button'!

Friday 5 June 2015

Poached Egg 'Hack'

Eggs are a staple ingredient in our family and are eaten almost daily. We like them poached, scrambled, boiled, fried and pickled! You try your hardest not to drop an egg and you try your hardest to cook them perfectly...

Who would have thought that watching a morning breakfast show would have changed my 'poached eggs' forever...
Usually these shows have a common family recipe however poached eggs were involved with a very handy tip!

As I watched this demonstration I couldn't believe how simple and easy this 'cheat' was. Poaching egg's the old fashioned way never came out 'perfect'. Usually ending up in stringy pieces, I need to figure out how on earth people could cook a decent poached egg!

Originally this tip claims to be from British chef 'Jamie Oliver' who has mentioned it to his viewers before. I want to share this successful tip to you all and see if you can improve and love your egg's, breakfast, lunch or dinner!

What you will need:
A small bowl
Cling film
Eggs (however many you plan to poach)
Pan of simmering water
TimerOil to grease the clingfilm

Directions:
Firstly you want your pan of water to be 'simmering' and not boiling. Next, tear off enough cling film so that your small bowl is covered (with the edges overlapping). Lightly greasing the cling film, simply crack your egg in the middle of the bowl and pick up each corner of the cling film carefully. You then twist as tightly as your can and leave to one side until you have done the desired amount of eggs.
When your happy your water is at 'simmering stage'. Next pop your eggs into the pan (I use 4 max per pan) and leave to cook. If you like your egg's runny inside then 3 minutes is perfect, and 5 is usually the maximum time. When your happy your egg's are ready, unravel your mini parcel's and serve!
Crack black pepper or tear off some cress for a finishing touch!



If you try this method please get in touch, I would love to see how this works for you and your family!

Thursday 4 June 2015

Feature Wednesday 'Teaching Kids To Count'

Congratulations!

This week's winner is Sheryl over at 'Teaching 2 to 3 Year Olds' with her playful selection of 'teaching kids to count' post. Children need to engage activities using fun and exciting concepts. We all know each individual child is unique and have their own way of understanding something new. Sheryl has provided wonderful activities for all children to get involved - whatever their level!  
teaching kids how to count
For the full post of 'Teaching Kids to Count' ,please click HERE. 

Wednesday 3 June 2015

Week #14 'Feature Wednesday'


#Week14 of 'Feature Wednesday' has arrived!

If you have a post you would like to share live on 'Mama Bee Simple', simply add your link at the end of this post. I have selected a small group of topics to cover this week's linky party.

I do like to create a theme each week however any links related to activities, food, lifestyle & children is fine.

#Week14 Theme: #Dad #Fathersday #DIY #Gift #Family #Love #Craft #Giving

The most suited link will be chosen by the end of the day and I will feature your post at 'Mama Bee Simple' as well as all my social network sites.
Mama Bee knows that you all have some wonderful creations and spend so much time wanting to share so here is a lovely opportunity!
Mama Bee Simple


Please share my new 'Grab Button'!

Tuesday 2 June 2015

Cardboard Tube Tunnel

This week has been pretty busy, especially since we have shipped most of Leon's beloved toys to a container for New Zealand! I needed to keep Leon entertained and a basic idea was using a cardboard tube we found at granddad's house.

There are always plenty of recyclable items in our house that I know with a little effort, can be turned into something fun. Cereal boxes, yoghurt pots and even toilet rolls are usually ended up in the rubbish bin waiting to be thrown out. With Leon always looking for something to do or play with, I decided to use the cardboard tube we kept from Granddad. Luckily I have also kept my masking tape (from art school), (great for sticking and removing off objects easily). I simply placed the cardboard tube on the side of my cabinet and secured with masking tape. Leon used his stickers to customise his cardboard tube before using pasta shells and plastic strips (from a different toy) to throw down the tube and catch into the box/pan. 

'Phew' , time to start dinner now! (Great frugal/quiet time game whilst you carry on your chores!) Leon loved this and it is still stuck to the cabinet waiting to be used again and again.