Gluten Free Girl • Makeup • Food • Wine

Adoption update || It’s official! We are having a little girl 💕 and our hearts are spilling over with joy (as is evident from my consistent crying and laughing over the last few whirlwind days). . . There is a lot I finally feel I can now share about the brutal time between this post and the last, but today is not about that. Today is the day I’m just trying so hard not to break the adoption rules and share a shameless brag photo (or 20) of our beautiful, perfect little angel child! 😂 Today I just wanna to tell you how I never knew a person’s heart can break open with absolute joy and that immeasurable gratitude can flow out of you like a rushing river. . . . Our beautiful little girl will be coming home to us soon. Soon like we can actually count down the days between our two hands!! 👏🏼 . . . Thank you to every single one of you who have followed this journey, thus far, with us. To those who have prayed with us and for us, who have cried with us, stayed faithful with us, been frustrated with us! For the advice, encouragement, friendship and love - thank you! We did it!! 💕 . . . More updates to follow, but for now I have my hands full balancing daddy-to-be’s shopping sprees for his little princess. 😉 . . #adoption #adoptionrocks #adoptionjourney #adoptionstory #adoptionmom #capetownmoms #momintraining #momtobe2020 #lockdownbaby #ouradoptionstory https://www.instagram.com/p/CGrroPTpwKA/?igshid=cwpkx0pgil2

Adoption Update!! || We are “paper” PREGNANT! . . . Last week we had our legal panel, which is the last step in our legal process of adoption. Now we are vetted by God and Country (so to speak). Plainly said it means “no takesies backsies!!” now! Super exciting indeed!! . . . But it also means that now we wait....for that call, for our turn, for the love of our lives. . . . If there is one thing I’ve learned (again) over the past two weeks, it’s the challenges we will face as a mixed race family. The challenges our child (children) will face purely because of their skin colour, and the mix of their family. Already my heart brakes for my babies, for the battles I will have to fight on our behalf, the battles I will need to protect them from to give them hope in the humanity of others, but mostly I’m broken for the fights they will hide from me trying to protect me, the battles they will inevitably fight alone, and that I will not be able to protect them from because they will be shielding me. . . . And now more than ever I’m stirred and set on fire to do my part in listening about, and educating whomever I can, and denouncing racism at every turn! I am blessed with wonderful friends and family of various races, religions and backgrounds, and I want my babies to learn from and enjoy each of those personalities and cultures, and to be fearless in their pursuit of knowledge and love and equality and success! . . . This time has taught me that there is a lot of work to be done yet!!....and that I’ll be dammed if my kids aren’t protected fiercely, but also taught to be strong and soldiers against injustice and for equality. I’m hopeful and optimistic, but I’m ready and eager and passionate too. To learn, to teach, to fight and to celebrate! I’m relying on my family and friends to guide and support us and help us raise these babies. I’m happy and hopeful and expectant! ❤️ . . . #adoption #adoptionjourney #adoptionislove #adoptionrocks #adoptionstory #blendedfamily #blendedfamilylife #mixedracedmama #mixedraceadoption #adoptionmom #adoptionjourney @pierre_pressure #jaqionthego #mymomjourney #becomingamom #paperpregnant #procare #momblogger #capetownmom #capetownmomb (at Cape Town, Western Province) https://www.instagram.com/p/CBTZFdCJy__/?igshid=1oq9pop1w7pe

Adoption Update!! || We are “paper” PREGNANT! . . . Last week we had our legal panel, which is the last step in our legal process of adoption. Now we are vetted by God and Country (so to speak). Plainly said it means “no takesies backsies!!” now! Super exciting indeed!! . . . But it also means that now we wait....for that call, for our turn, for the love of our lives. . . . If there is one thing I’ve learned (again) over the past two weeks, it’s the challenges we will face as a mixed race family. The challenges our child (children) will face purely because of their skin colour, and the mix of their family. Already my heart brakes for my babies, for the battles I will have to fight on our behalf, the battles I will need to protect them from to give them hope in the humanity of others, but mostly I’m broken for the fights they will hide from me trying to protect me, the battles they will inevitably fight alone, and that I will not be able to protect them from because they will be shielding me. . . . And now more than ever I’m stirred and set on fire to do my part in listening about, and educating whomever I can, and denouncing racism at every turn! I am blessed with wonderful friends and family of various races, religions and backgrounds, and I want my babies to learn from and enjoy each of those personalities and cultures, and to be fearless in their pursuit of knowledge and love and equality and success! . . . This time has taught me that there is a lot of work to be done yet!!....and that I’ll be dammed if my kids aren’t protected fiercely, but also taught to be strong and soldiers against injustice and for equality. I’m hopeful and optimistic, but I’m ready and eager and passionate too. To learn, to teach, to fight and to celebrate! I’m relying on my family and friends to guide and support us and help us raise these babies. I’m happy and hopeful and expectant! ❤️ . . . #adoption #adoptionjourney #adoptionislove #adoptionrocks #adoptionstory #blendedfamily #blendedfamilylife #mixedracedmama #mixedraceadoption #adoptionmom #adoptionjourney @pierre_pressure #jaqionthego #mymomjourney #becomingamom #paperpregnant #procare #momblogger #capetownmom #capetownmomb (at Cape Town, Western Province) https://www.instagram.com/p/CBTZFdCJy__/?igshid=1oq9pop1w7pe

Yellow is my favourite colour! 💛 . . . Lockdown can cause one to feel a little low. I like to look through some old photos and remind myself of places, activities and moments that have made me happy. 1. My first @flatlayboards_sa workshop - such a fun day learning. 2. An amazing office space in Woodstock - the CEO of this business is obsessed with Star Wars. 3. My first visit to @swakopmund_namibia, and 4. My first real-life sighting of #canolaflowerfields on the west coast (western cape). . . . What is your favourite colour? #geelinsperasie #yellowinspiration #yellow #yellowismyfavoritecolor #coloursofcapetown #southafrica #namibia #colourtherapy (at City of Cape Town) https://www.instagram.com/p/B-mjwXFpLl_/?igshid=qlxb02c7myxf

Day Won?!?? . . . Uhm-ing and aaah-ing over my intention for the year ahead, and after some serious reflection and a few pretty great and inspiring conversations, I realize that 2020 is the year of, and for me. Yup, I said it! . . . My year! I am claiming it! Which also comes with so much responsibility. The year of my dreams, my second coming of age, my adventure!! But also my intention and my responsibility to myself. A year when I intend to look myself square in the eye and dare to dream a little bigger, make some life-changing promises to myself and hold myself accountable. . . Day 1 was a great start, spent relaxing and recharging with good people and setting the tone for my year. I see you 2020 and I’m ready! 💪🏼 . . . #2020vision #2020dreams #myintention #goals2020 #futureproof #me #capetownblogger #capetownlife #southafricanwomen #newbeginnings #freshstart2020 #livingwithintention #me #purposedriven #newyearnewstart (at South Africa) https://www.instagram.com/p/B6yfncApzFg/?igshid=1g623vjw4mhzb

A decade of change, adventure, and growth. . . . The last 10 years of my life has been quite a ride. I started a new job which turned in to a career, lost my home, got divorced, moved to another city, met and married the most amazing human being. I laid to rest my two beloved fur children and we went through a series of failed attempts to have a child of our own. We have been blessed with amazing new friends (some of whom have become family) and both gained new family too. We got a new fur baby and officially applied for adoption. I’ve gained and lost loved ones, reunited with family, got a wonderful sister in law and had my two other brothers get engaged (one to my best friend). . . . It’s been amazing, emotional and I wouldn’t change it! . . . Early next year I turn 40!!! And I can’t wait to see what the next decade holds! . . . To everyone who has meant something to me, to those who walked a little way alongside me and those who are still part of my journey. To old friends and new. THANK YOU, for all that you taught me and all that you have, and continue to mean to me. To my husband and partner in crime, I have no words. You are my everything. . . . May 2020 be amazing and blessed for you all. 🥂 #happynewyearsouthafrica #2019doneanddusted #adecadeoflove #2020goals #happynewyear2020 #southafrica #southafricanwomen #newfriendsmade #oldfriendships #family (at South Africa) https://www.instagram.com/p/B6vjbbmJ-ri/?igshid=1ofcbvxgr6fex

That moment when the festive season feels hit you! 🎄🎅🏽🍪 . . . I have been following @thefrostedraspberry on Instagram for a while, and I thoroughly enjoy her cookie decorating videos...primarily because I find watching her decorate at 1am incredibly soothing for my insomnia (yes apparently this is what you do when you are up at 1am and over 35), and well...hello - COOKIES! 🤷🏼‍♀️ . . . A few weeks back during one of these post-midnight video binges, and no doubt on a pseudo-sugar-induced high, I promptly signed up for her Christmas Cookie Decorating Workshop. . . . Today inevitably the day of frosted reckoning arrived and off I set with no expectations other than the actual sugar high that comes from shamelessly eating one’s own handiwork (because everyone knows those calories don’t count)! I can honestly declare that if you ever find yourself on the business end of a gingerbread man, armed with piping bag and sprinkles, and you are not overcome with child-like delight....well then, you my friend are a grinch!! . . . Thank you @thefrostedraspberry for making us feel so welcome in your home, your patience and your fun approach to teaching, and sending us on our way with our yummy creations under arm and a little more creativity in pocket! 👩🏼‍🍳👩🏼‍🎨 . . . I barely made it home with all the cookies accounted for, and I can say with absolutely certainty that I am now feeling very festive indeed, and will be back for the valentines workshop! ❤️ . . . #cookiedecorating #cookiedecoratingworkshop #christmascookies2019 #capetownworkshops #capetowncreatives #cookiesforsanta #festivecollection #christmas2019🎄 #cookiesofinstagram #feelingfestive #itsbeginningtolookalotlikechristmas https://www.instagram.com/p/B47mdLtJV9v/?igshid=afxxt2f867r9

Post Polo Protein Pancakes! 🥞 . . . After a very successful Saturday of very special birthday parties and Pink Polo with @lizzyonthemoon this Sunday morn calls for a protein stack! . . . Cooking up a Sunday yum with @macromixes vanilla pancake mix, @delitedashfood vanilla custard drops and banana syrup, and @buttanuttspreads macadamia nut cinnamon. . . . Of course I decided to use the recipe instructions as a rough guideline (don’t do that) and ended up adding some more @bodybywild chocolate whey. Turns out this just maximised the boom!! 👏🏼 . . . Double servings for everyone! #pancakes #sundaybreakfast #proteinbreakfast #proteinpancakes #capetownbreakfast #checkerssimpletruth @checkers_sa @earthandcosouthafrica (at Cape Town, Western Cape) https://www.instagram.com/p/B4rP9e-plZ3/?igshid=f30wgonsf89g

ADOPTION UPDATE || Shoes and psychiatry... that’s a thing right? I kid, but today was another little milestone in our journey of becoming a family. . . • 1000 pages of forms filled in ✅ • Medical checkups ✅ and • Today our (my) first therapy session ✅ . . The medicals were quite straightforward and easy - a physical check up by our GP to make sure we’re in good health and physically (medically) ready to raise a little one. The visit with a clinical psychologist.... WHOLE OTHER THANG! First off this was my first ever solo therapy session and aside from the absolute terror that she’s going pick up on what a loon I actually am in the first 5 minutes, I also wasn’t sure what to expect from an adoption perspective. Would there be a test? What if the conversation we gave IS the test? HOW MUCH will I cry? (...cause me so obvs)... oh my word I’m going to fail!!! 😫 As it turns out it was easier than I expected. Soon @pierre_pressure and I will have our first joint therapy session to help prepare us for things like meeting the birth-mother, navigating questions and opinions of strangers, when to tell little one that he/she is adopted...and a host of other issues. . . The purpose of these sessions is not to “test” prospective adoption patents, but rather to help prepare us for the next part, which can get pretty emotional, and to guide and support us through the process. So, yes there was crying (but if you know me that’s a Tuesday or me 😂), but overall it was such a great experience and driving away after, I was absolutely overwhelmed (yes more crying) that all these people are so invested in making the process of adoption healthy and positive for everyone involved. I truly feel like we have a village of people supporting and guiding us along this path and I am more certain than ever that this our destiny as a couple. . . To celebrate this next step it seemed fitting to get bub his/her first pair of kicks, and officially kick-off our baby-prepping! . . #adoptionjourney #adoption #parentsinthemaking #mybabyshoes #herewegobaby https://www.instagram.com/p/B3pfCCTpLXU/?igshid=1vkxnlw28n4h3

Adoption Diary - Day 1. . . Today @pierre_pressure and I got to take the first, very real and very exciting step, of what I’m sure will be many many steps, on what is arguably the most important thing we’ll ever do. . . I’ve been so torn about whether we should safeguard this process and our privacy or be bold and share our journey. The more I though about it, the more this past week’s events in SA kept spilling to the front of my mind, and it dawned on me that we are so much better, stronger and courages as a community. That sharing our excitement, our fears and our vulnerability is exactly what we need to do to grow stronger. There will be days, like today, when we soar and want to shout our joy from every rooftop, and the world to celebrate with us. Then there will be days, and on this journey I have no illusion those days still lie ahead, when we will really and truly find ourselves at the feet of our family, our friends and our community seeking your strength, love and encouragement. . . I grew up with the uncanny skill to hide my fears and weaknesses, and it took me a very very long time to learn that there is strength in vulnerability and salvation on the other side of fear. . . So, whether you have been on a similar journey, or you are contemplating it, or you feel you can relate, or hell you are just keen to come along for the ride...we are sharing this because we want confide in our community and loved ones, we want to be open to wisdom and we want to walk with others who have walked this path. We are scared and anxious, and excited to join the parents club, and we are so blessed to have this opportunity to (hopefully) be hand-picked to be parents. . . We look forward to sharing this most important quest with you. https://www.instagram.com/p/B2FZ--lpRL1/?igshid=24bkqt8o1qnm

I feel so hollow tonight. Our women and children hunted and slaughtered, our neighbours burnt alive. I have no words. (at South Africa) https://www.instagram.com/p/B19v588JYie/?igshid=10xoq245ekldc

Talking good bacteria || By now most of us are somewhat aware of the benefits of probiotics, and we have certainly seen it being punted in advertising for everything from yogurt to soy sauce, kefir and kombucha! And I mean, who doesn’t want a “good gut”, right?! . . But what do probiotics mean for skin? Well, probiotics in treatments and moisturisers can actually benefit all skin types and are not just for those who suffer from constant inflammation. Whether you have acne, or skin conditions like eczema and rosacea, these little hardworking organisms will do their best work to help calm your skin. . . Because I’m already an Esse skincare (super)fan I have so much more I want to share about this brand, but we’re not about looong unnecessary posts, so I will do my best work to share bits at time 😉 For the next few weeks I’m swapping my normal skincare routine for Essie’s sensitive range and tracking the effects on my skin as I go. . . #essesuperfan #esseskincare #beautifulskin #skincare #loveyourskin #skincareroutine #probioticskincare #skincareofthefuture #skinscience #organicbeauty #crueltyfree #crueltyfreebeauty #southafricanskincare #skinbeauty https://www.instagram.com/p/B1rYgM2JIV4/?igshid=i3vfb6kgofpj

Today I celebrate self-love by.... allowing myself to be loved exactly as I am, where I’m at in my life right now. . . . Self-love means many things but most of all it means loving you and all of who you are. Whether you value aging gracefully, body confidence, extended breastfeeding, hair extensions or getting Botox, self-love is unique and authentic. Let’s celebrate self-love this women’s day by shouting our own unique truth about who we are, what we love about ourselves and what we do for happiness from the gram. . . . Post a photo showcasing your personal self-love and tell us what you unapologetically celebrate and love about yourself every day, especially on a day celebrating women! Use the hashtag #celebrateselflovesa and tag a friend or two to do the same. Together we can celebrate ALL of we unapologetically are! . . . On women’s day 9 August, 2019, one person who posts using #celebrateselflovesa will win ALL of this (swipe to see participating brands): 1 x micro blading session incl touch up and 1 x rejuvapen incl mini booster facial by @skintonicbyjoanne 30-minute personal brand shoot by @lynnshapirophotography R500 @catrice.cosmetix hamper & 5 x @mycaribbeantan provided by @lc.and.co A spot on “Thriving as Me” online course by @caitlyndebeer R500 shopping voucher to @afrenai A hand-made vegan friendly cork make-up bag from @corkboxsa Organic Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Lotion, Body Wash & Deo by @purebeginnings 4 weeks’ worth of boot camp with @abcbootcamper . . . How to Enter - Tag friends below to join this positive movement - Use #celebrateselflovesa on your own unique post sharing how you celebrate self-love . . . T’s & C’s: Must be living in South Africa to enter. Prizes cannot be refunded or exchanged but can be gifted to another person. Note, some prizes are usable in Cape Town only. https://www.instagram.com/p/B0T9ItWJOlz/?igshid=1drua2ccghsuf

Was it a lifetime ago that your name was just a faint melody? A bell ringing in the distance. Did you hear me losing hope? Is that what drew you nearer? How did you find me in the wreckage of my life? Did you feel my longing for you? Was it my breath in the dark that drew you to me? Before I had a voice, when I knew there was nothing left you came for me . The deafening rumble of your certainty as you drew closer. The moment I stopped breathing, as you poured yourself in to me and tattooed your name inside the sleeves of my armour. A message to the world that I am not extinct. The moment I felt my breath return as you claimed me and put me in the sunlight for everyone to see. JvV . . . Happy anniversary my darling @pierre_pressure . . . #anniversary #weddinganniversary #weddinganniversarygift #ourweddinganniversary #3years #3yearanniversary #love #marriage #weddingvows #marriagevows #vows #loveyou #husband #wife #itsamarriagething #favourite #loveyou #thankyou #madein2016 (at Cape Town, Western Cape) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bu63pUdAflo/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=h4kzi4webh3z

Is it possible to fall in love with more than one person?|| This week we celebrated Valentine’s Day and for the first time in years it shook something in me. . . . For a little while now I’ve been pondering the subject of my external influences. What I discovered about me truly surprises me, and I’d like to be brave enough to share it with you. I love falling in love. It’s not a fleeting or superficial thing. I love deep and lasting connections - so I don’t waste my time with the fleeting and artificial. But I so very much enjoy that moment when I find myself being absolutely thrilled by someone and I just know this one is someone I’m going to enjoy waking a path with. That moment I fall...fall in love with someone. Isn’t it just the most thrilling feeling in the world. . . . Now, I won’t mention any specific people bar one who I feel deserves my public reverence - my beautiful husband. . . . But I do want to write my love letter to the brothers who love me fiercely and protect me. To the women who I turn to when I’m most broken and when I celebrate my victories. To those who have walked a very long road beside me and even though our conversation lulled I’ve felt you beside me every step. To those who never gave up on me, even when I was at my worst. To the ones I miss so deeply. To those who love me unconditionally. To the new loves who I excite, and who excite and teach me. To the ones who I have seemingly little in common with but accept me and embrace me anyway. To the man who centres me. . . . To you all I want to say I’m in love with you. Your energy. Yours spirit. Your beautiful heart. The way your love and friendship makes me feel safe and brave and free. Your unconditional and have spirit sets me in fire. . . . You know who you are and I see you. I love you more than I can say 😘 . #love #iseeyou #loveletter #capetown #southafrica #mywords #loveletter #frommetoyou #mylove #valentine #loveyounow #girlpower #futureisfemale https://www.instagram.com/p/Bt7Dez8gbo6/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=di8boeoze80w

French Flair || Lazy weekends would not be complete without a little indulgence, and @swancafect is the perfect place to perch for brunch. . . . Nestled in a quaint corner on Buitekant and Barrack, you step of the street and in to a Parisian crêperie. Delicate crêpes, dressed in cheeky flavours and fanciful names are complimented by aromatic coffees and speciality teas! Waiting staff in Breton stripes and bright smiles. . . . Chic sweet crêpes, attentively dressed in exciting flavours ranging from tart to devilishly chocolaty. Light and airy with just the right amount of flavour burst - I could hardly contain my excitement! . . . The #glutenfree buckwheat-based galettes (savoury crêpes) are equally delectable with no compromise on flavour and taste for guilt-free pleasure! . . . Flavours are seasonal and ingredients are locally sourced. Don’t leave without getting yourself a delicious slow French Kiss (rooibos tea scented with jasmine and marigold, laced with caramel and vanilla) oh là là!!💋 . . . Fresh fun French flair! Bon Appétit!🍴♥️ 🇫🇷 (at Swan Café) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bs2PUSonZ-U/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=k1wp6h6xtbdo

Yo Yo Yo! || It looks as though everyone is officially back at work and settling in to the routines of 2019. But summer weekends are still the best! People are out to soak up the summer sun, and restaurants and coffee shops are full of excited chattering about the plans for the year ahead. . . . One of the places you will find me this summer (okay okay this year!) is @yo_goodness_cafe on the Tablebay beach strip! The views of table mountain and the ocean are spectacular and the menu is full of exciting (almost completely) delicious Vegan dishes for your delight.....screeetch-and-halt! Say what now?! Yes, that’s right....veeeegan. And let me tell you a secret, you will love it! With Sugar-free, Gluten-free, Vegetarian and Vegan options it’s a guilt-free delight! . . . This little eatery has been open for just over 2 months now and is already quite popular with locals and visitors alike. The clean decor gives a fresh and open air feel to the space and the friendly staff are all quite knowledgeable (they walk the vegan talk) 🙌🏼 On my first visit my girl friend and I decided to try a little salt and sweet and split the nachos and gluten-free banana bread French toast (just saying the words makes my mouth water). The menu prices are reasonable, especially considering the quality ingredients and the portion sizes are bang on, so even hubby will be satisfied. I’ll be heading back soon for the gluten-free sugar-free vegan ice cream cookie....and the gluten-free snickers bar....and.... 😉 . . . Call a friend or pile your hubby and the kids in the car and head here this weekend for a little bit of beach and some Yo-Summer-Goodnassss. You can thank me later 😉 (at Yo Goodness Cafe) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bszm4GGnT_q/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1hycc6hk2pzkt