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The Edenvale Perfume Sale will also be happening online in 2020. Dates are yet to be announced. Subscribe to my newsletter below as I cannot answer and notify individuals personally.

The much anticipated Fragrance Sale from African Sales (Marlboro/Kramerville in Johannesburg Fragrance Sale) is going ONLINE on the 15th of September 2020 while stocks last! Free shipping on orders over R750 within South Africa. Up to 50% off the recommended retail price. The sale will be happening on https://africansalesfragrancesale.co.za.

There seems to be some confusion, I do not work for the fragrance sale and cannot assist with delivery queries, online purchasing issues etc.

Next week is Spring and it feels like I’ve missed most of the year. I don’t remember seeing the the leaves turn in Autumn or frost on my car’s roof. I do however remember the fun road trips we’ve had the last couple of months.

Johannesburg Perfume Sale Dates 2020

I have no news yet that I can share – but it’s coming soon! The 1 fragrance sale that usually happens in Marlboro is coming people, I repeat, IT’S COMING! Get ready, make sure you are following my Facebook page or subscribed to my newsletter. Scroll for more info… Subscribe to the newsletter!

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Upside Down House, South Africa
Upside Down House South Africa

That time we went to an upside Down House…

It didn’t take much to convince hubby to get in my car with the 2 hooligans with snacks…


Little Paris & Eiffel Tower
Little Paris & Eiffel Tower

That time we saw the Eiffel Tower (in Harties)

I like to use “Paris is always a good idea” by Audrey Hepburn for this occasion – but is it still a good idea if it is Little Paris in North West province?


Have you heard that I plan, manage and write so you don’t have to curate your social media content? If you would like to find out more just pop susann@geekmedia.co.za an email.


Seriously, why haven’t you followed me on Instagram yet? I think you might enjoy seeing South Africa through my little family’s eyes. C’mon, follow my Instagram account now.


Now for something a little more serious… Did you know that hijackings and home invasions increased from last year? There are now an online courses that will teach you how to act during these situations. Visit www.ssctraining.co.za for more information.


It’s official, I got confirmation that the fragrance sale is going online in 2020! I don’t have the launch date as yet, but… as soon as I have it, you will know too.

I know that you have been waiting to hear news and that the social distancing and limit on people at a venue has thrown all our bargain hunting and shopping plans in the wind.

Please save you money for the sale – IT’S COMING!


Rietvlei Nature Reserve

Rietvlei was one of my favourite nature reserves discovered during lockdown level 3. It has an abundance of wildlife, lots of roads to drive and of course… very affordable.


Have you visited Graceland Eco Estate yet?

At Graceland Eco Retreat you will meet giraffes named Elvis, Priscilla, Lisa Marie and their children born on the farm named, Tennessee, Nashville and Phoenix. There are also Kudu, Impala, Klipspringer, Mountain Reedbuck, Bushbuck and more that you may catch a glimpse of whilst hiking.


Hiking in Fourways

Rietfontein’s hike is about 2,2km with a moderate first 1km but then over some treacherous terrain up a koppie – and I had to carry the little one the last 1km up the koppie…


I like to use “Paris is always a good idea” by Audrey Hepburn for this occasion – but is it still a good idea if it is Little Paris in North West province?

When you have kids you start seeing things differently. Your camera angles up from a much lower perspective – and that’s when the magic happens on roadtrips.

After our stop at the amazing Upside Down House we wanted to get at least the (faux) Eiffel ticked off our list for the day.

We stopped at little Paris with Littles already telling us that it was nearing her nap time, so we ordered a takeaway of French Toast (because how can you stop at a place called French Toast Café and not order that?) and made a beeline for the Eiffel behind the fountain.

We had our pink engraved locks ready and let the kids run wild to search the perfect spot to attach them to. They eventually pointed at the bench and as hubby was finalizing where and how he was going to attach the locks, the kids admired almost every lock they could reach.

We snapped a few photos while we had the Eiffel all to ourselves.

Just look at those locks! There are thousands upon thousands.

On our way out we picked up our takeaway and wolfed down the most delicious French Toast we’ve ever had. It was a bit much for me, but I didn’t let any go to waste.

On the Little Paris premises there are a few small shops, an aquarium and even a wall with a real Paris photo where you can snap a few photos.

If you are looking for fun things to do in or near Gauteng, look no further than this list:

The one thing I learnt during lockdown is that in my house there is a real possibility of going insane with 2 toddlers. Right when the lockdown was downgraded to level 3 in South Africa, we were out exploring. We packed snack bags and blankets, changes of clothes plus toys for the kids – and off we went… We didn’t get out of the car or speak to anyone. We had 5 masks per person, liters of sanitiser.

There will never be a perfect time to travel with your children, so do it now, before the opportunity passes you by. You can’t turn back time.

AJ and Natasha, The 2 Idiots Travel Blog

We have seen so many rhinos, lions and bucks that’ve we lost track. The kids are even starting to know what they are too and Lexa is so happy when she sees Zebras! The kids have learnt to keep a little more quiet when we stop to look at animals and Lexa has even taken to snapping them with her tablet.

Having kids is reason to travel, never a reason to stop.

Unknown

So here I am at 41 with 2 kids under 4 and I’m putting mileage on my Kia Sportage – and I really don’t even mind. I do however mind when my husband wants to drive my car… He never stops when I spot something to look at and never gets the perfect angle for photos (I just don’t know how that is even possible.)

When you travel with children, you are giving away something that can never be taken away. Experience, exposure, and way of life.

Pamela T. Chandler

I was probably raised a little more nomadic than most people, so the lockdown was exceptionally hard. Who knows what will happen next year. All I know is that if we don’t keep on roadtripping now, I might swim to China and Hulk out.

Teaching kids to count is fine, but teaching them what counts is best.

Bob Talbert

One thing I have learnt during a pandemic and having toddlers is that no matter how big your house, it is not big enough for a threenager diva and one that has her mother’s temper plus just entered the terrible twos.

Life is an adventure; we get out of it what we put into it.

Richard Daly, God’s Little Book of Hope

We have visited many little nature reserves here in Gauteng and it was lovely. We saw the usual and got a little too close to rhinos – you know, the normal stuff. (Just kidding, it was spectacularly unforgettable!) We were however also limited to Gauteng…

I’ve had my eye on visiting the Upside Down House near Harties (Broederstroom) for a while. It didn’t take much to convince hubby to get in my car with the 2 hooligans with snacks…

It was fun! Lexa was in awe of the Upside Down House and Lily slapped her hands over her mouth. Hubby was impressed with my activity pick of the day.

Once inside the Upside Down House all the furniture is hanging from the floor above you. The “ceiling” you walk on is slanted… so we felt a little woozy after a few minutes. Don’t even get me started about walking upstairs – or is it downstairs up???

Entrance at the Upside Down House in South Africa is a bit steep for adults, but once you’ve seen it you probably won’t go back unless you have kids that nag you to go back. That said, I had fun and the kids had fun – it was worth it for the almost 30 minutes we were there on our very own.

Upside Down House South Africa Details

What to do with Kids in Gauteng (& North West)

(press release) At optiphi® we believe in a holistic approach to good health by increasing one’s perception of intrinsic contributing factors. Intrinsic analysis of your DNA and systems provides a roadmap on how to design your diet, supplement, lifestyle and exercise regimes. DNA analysis takes the guesswork out of what is optimal for you personally. All of these factors are tightly linked, and all need to be considered when looking at improving your overall health.

Your unique genetic results allow for actionable interventions to:

  • Improve your skin care regime
  • Decode a healthy lifestyle just for you
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  • Support your hormone metabolism
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The optiphi® Helix DNA tests include:

optiphi® Helix Skin Report

Identifies unique genetic markers which indicates your genetic predisposition to certain skin characteristics. These polymorphisms may affect the expression or function of certain genes making you more susceptible to certain skin conditions or characteristics.

Six skin categories investigated;

  • Wrinkles, volume loss and glycation
  • Dermal sensitivity and detoxification
  • Inflammation of the skin
  • Oxidative stress
  • DNA protection and repair
  • Pigmentation and sun sensitivity

optiphi® Helix Diet Report

Identifies unique genetic markers which indicate your genetic predisposition to the metabolism of certain macro- and micronutrients. It also identifies any possible food sensitivities that you may have.

Five main categories considered ;

  • Metabolism and fat sensitivity
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optiphi® Helix Health Report

Identifies unique genetic markers which indicate your genetic predisposition to certain health risks.

Eight health risk categories considered:

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optiphi® Helix Breast, Ovarian or Prostate Cancer Report

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The optiphi® test looks at an exclusive panel of higher penetrance markers across seven genes that raises the odds in breast cancer risk significantly, according to global research. For every mutation detected, the risk increases statistically.

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optiphi® Helix Hormone Report

Indicate your genetic predisposition to certain risks which could affect your hormone balance. These unique markers are known as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that occur in your genetic code. These variations may affect the expression or function of certain genes making you more susceptible to certain conditions or characteristics. Based on the variations detected, certain characteristics may be a high priority area for you.

Several areas affecting hormone metabolism and balance are considered, namely;

  • Steroid hormone metabolism
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  • Xenobiotic metabolism
  • Autoimmune thyroid disease

For further information on how to book your DNA Test, visit www.optiphi.com

Rietvlei was one of my favourite nature reserves discovered during lockdown level 3. It has an abundance of wildlife, lots of roads to drive and of course… very affordable.

Our first road trip in Rietvlei was so amazing that we returned for a second visit the very next weekend…

We thought we had left early enough on the day and arrived at the gate just to end up in a queue just after 8am. We didn’t know at the time, but during level 3 only 100 cars were allowed to enter at a time – and we were number 100 in the queue.

We drove through the gates and down a hill with a view of a dam glistening in the sun. The kids excitedly yelled ‘water’ and ‘swim’ in the back. The water was a dark blue-is/grey-ish tint with flashes of silver bursts. We drove along the water’s edge while I snapped a few pictures of the beautiful view.

We took the first right onto a dirt road and not 20m later we spotted our first animals of the day, a few zebra and ostriches. The kids started getting excited and hungry and we pulled over for a picnic in the car (as the picnic spots were closed under level 3).

A short while after we resumed our self-drive safari in Rietvlei we drove downhill to be greeted by 3 rhinos munching on short grass – very close to the road. We were so excited!

We drove through a herd of buffalo and zebra, spotted more ostriches and even a ‘hartbees’ or 5.

The kids started falling asleep after hour 3 of driving on the dirt roads of Rietvlei and we made our way back to Johannesburg.

Rietvlei Nature Reserve at a glance:

  • Adults R59, Pensioners R32, Kids up to 17 R32, 2-6 year olds R11 and 0-2 year olds free
  • 4,000 hectares or 40 km² in size
  • 14 Game Reserve Ave, Rietvallei 377-Jr, Pretoria
  • Website

What to do in Gauteng with kids – Roadtrips and Nature Reserves

It was probably not my best decision to take the kids hiking in Johannesburg at Rietfontein and insisting to hike to the top with them. Rietfontein’s hike is about 2,2km with a moderate first 1km but then over some treacherous terrain up a koppie – and I had to carry the little one the last 1km up the koppie…

“A walk in nature walks the soul back home.”

Mary Davis

The hiking trail is clearly marked at Rietfontein and if you are lucky you will spot a small buck or 2 during your hike. The view towards Woodmead and Sunninghill on the first half will be worth the hike. The 360 degree view from the koppie over Kyalalami, Fourways, Woodmead, Sunninghill and Petervale is definitely worth the effort.

You have 3 options to get to and from the top on this hiking trail in Johannesburg:

  • The trail to the left on the far side from the entrance that is more even but over quite a bit of loose gravel. It is still good exercise, but doesn’t have panoramic views.
  • The trail on the right of the entrance gate which is more scenic, but also has 2 sections where you will have to clamber a little more carefully over rocks that crumble under your shoes.
  • The secret from the lawn that passes to the left of the house passed a living quarter area which is very short but with only a short hill.

Where is Rietfontein?

Hiking in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg is amazing – and who would’ve guessed that there is such a little jewel in the middle of a residential area? Rietfontein is on Estelle road in Paulshof. You can’t miss it, it is right at the T-junction before driving to the German club to the left.

What you need to know about Rietfontein

  • Entrance is free
  • They have security guards patrolling with dogs
  • You park your car inside the fenced reserve

Mary Davis

Do you remember when you got your first Barbie? I do! My parents were visiting friends in Northam. I remember my mom’s face when she gave me that Barbie doll in a pink and purple jumpsuit. I remember holding her while still in that box and admiring her beautiful blue eyes, shiny blonde curls and soft pink lipstick. She was the most beautiful thing I ever owned.

Imagine if you could do the same for another little girl when you buy a Barbie for your own little girl…

Mattel South Africa recently announced that, as part of its Barbie #ThankYouHeroes programme, it will donate a Barbie doll for each eligible career doll purchased from ToysRUs stores nation-wide. This initiative taking place from the 3rd of August 2020 to the 31st of August 2020, is aiming to donate about 1500 dolls to the Children’s Hospital Trust (CHT).

The CHT is an NPO that raises funds to advance child healthcare through the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital. From upgrades to its buildings and facilities, to the implementation of several projects and programmes and upskilling of medical professionals from across Africa.

The Barbie #ThankYouHeroes programme is part of Mattel’s broader “Play it Forward” platform, which focuses on leveraging Mattel brands to give back to communities in times of need.

The ‘buy a doll, donate a doll’ initiative will see dolls handed over to the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital will then be distributed to patients diagnosed with the corona virus. The aim is to bring joy and encourage children to aspire to become whatever they would like to be in the world. 

I just wanted to check in on you. I know I don’t know (many of) you personally, but this is extraordinary times where we should be checking in on our neighbours, family and friends.

It’s been a tough few months with the kids at home, hustling like a mad boss while having my husband at home… every.single.minute.of.the.day. I am thankful to have kept busy with work and helping my clients get back on track now that all of them are trading again.

I recently also signed a new client, Usha Maharaj. She is a coach, mentor and speaker whose Youtube channel and website carries a message that more women should hear this Women’s Month.

Success is Beautiful with Usha Maharaj

This Women’s Month Usha is offering a free 90 minute session to recharge your passion for success. Jump on this opportunity and be inspired! This inspiring FREE 90 minute session is scheduled for 29 August 2020 at 11 am via Zoom. Seats are limited, so register now!

Workshops for parents, teachers & aupairs

Today is also the start of an online Autism Workshop Series with Amazing Therapy & Remedial Academy in Randburg. The owner, Ilse, will be sharing tips and learnings from owning an autism school and having a daughter with autism. Get all the information here.

A-Z of South African Leather Shoe Makers

The truth about a made in South Africa anything is that it will outlast made in China every single time.

This month I also finally have time to work on my own 2 brands. Keep an eye out on www.geekimedia.co.za and of course www.livingoursunshine.com. This month I also offer a 20% discount for all women owned businesses who sign up for one of my SLAs to write and manage for their social media, blogs or newsletters. Get in touch via susann@geekmedia.co.za or 0829445083.

A-Z of South African Handbag Makers
This is the most read article on my blog since it was published on 11 July. The picture of this article is one of my favourite South African handbags in my collection. It is made by IY Apparel in KZN.
9 Pins to help you fall in love with South Africa
I have 2 projects that I’m furiously working on. I’m quite excited about them as they are both about tourism and South Africa. In the meantime, I want you to start falling in love with our country.
LESEDI Kids Fashion
LESEDI was first dreamt about 5 years ago in the bustling streets of Mumbai by Harsha Prag.
5 Cats in guest relations (aka Hospitality Cats, South Africa)
I love cats! I’m the one walking through a strange city snapping pics of cats while my husband laughs. In this article you’ll meet 5 of South Africa’s felines that “work” in hospitality.

Who has heard EISH, THIS JOBURG?

Joburg is my city. I arrived here with my old red Opel, my childhood bed and small-town clothes with big dreams. I had to navigate the city with a map book! Read 20 cool facts about Johannesburg here.

Also just a reminder, if you want to read a bit in Afrikaans, visit www.hartskos.co.za.